Channel Your Inner Animator at The Magic of Disney Animation in Disney’s Hollywood Studios

If you have ever dreamed about working as a Disney animator there's an attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios that should be added to your "must" list.

We're talking of course about The Magic of Disney's Animation. The attraction is located in the Animation Courtyard in a building that once housed Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida.

Films including Lilo & Stitch, Mulan, and Brother Bear were all created here. But in 2003 the Disney Animators were let go and the whole operation was relocated to California.

Before heading inside the building keep an eye out for Disney characters. There's a good chance you'll bump into Mr. Incredible and Frozone, Ralph and Vanellope, or characters from other animated films. Check the times guide for the most up-to-date information.

Meet some popular Disney characters

Once you're inside The Magic of Disney Animation building, your tour will start with a brief (9 minute) film that focuses on how Disney animated characters are created. After the film a cast member and Mushu from Mulan give a brief presentation about the animation process, including the basics of creating animated characters and the importance of character development.

After the movie and presentation guests are welcome to visit the interactive activities.

These include The Sound Stage where they can play with sound effects and create a soundtrack for an animated scene, Digital Ink and Paint where you can add color to a Disney animated sequence, or You're a Character where guests can answer questions with Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast and discover which character they're most like.

Find out which animated character you are!

A fan favorite at The Magic of Disney Animation is the Animation Academy where you have the opportunity to draw a Disney character sketch with the help of a Disney Animator. These classes normally begin at 10:30 each morning and happen every 30 minutes. If you want to take a class later in the day it might be less busy.

Not only will you get to take home your version of a Disney character, but the instructor also gives away the character that he or she draws during the class and if you (or your kids) are the lucky recipient, it's a nice free souvenir.

Try your hand at drawing a Disney character

As you are leaving the building make sure you take some time to enjoy the Animation Gallery where cels, props, and awards are on display highlighting Disney's achievement in animation. And if you're looking for an animation souvenir the gift shop is the place to find animation cels, collectible artwork, limited edition reproductions, books, and more.

You'll also find two popular characters inside the Magic of Disney Animation. Sorcerer Mickey can often be found inside, and Minnie Mouse has her own meet-and-greet area in the Drawing Room.

Say 'hello' to Sorcerer Mickey at The Magic of Disney Animation

The Magic of Disney Animation often gets overlooked in favor of other shows and attractions at the Studios, but it's a great place to visit the next time you're at the park. It's fun, educational, and you'll even meet some great Disney characters.

Have you visited The Magic of Disney Animation recently? What is your favorite part of the attraction? Leave us a comment and let us know.