A piece of Disney’s Hollywood Studios history is coming down, and while it’s always exciting to see what’s next, it’s also a little bittersweet. Recent aerial photos, thanks to @bioreconstruct, show that demolition is well underway in the Muppets Courtyard area, including the removal of the Stage 1 Company Store. For many longtime fans, this part of the park holds a lot of memories and nostalgia, especially for those who grew up watching The Muppets or enjoyed browsing the quirky Muppet-themed merchandise inside the store.
Aerial photo of the demolition of Stage 1 Company Store in the Muppets Courtyard of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A structural frame for a facade also removed at top center. past the gate posts. Some pavement demolition also seen outside the former Muppet*Vision 3D theater.
Located near the now shuttered Muppet*Vision 3D attraction, the Stage 1 Company Store had a whimsical charm that perfectly captured the Muppet vibe. From the pun-filled signs outside to the chaotic set decor inside, it felt like walking into the heart of the Muppet Studios. Even if you didn’t buy anything, just stepping inside for a few minutes was part of the experience.
Construction walls and heavy equipment are surrounding the area, and windows are boarded up on many of our former favorite dining and shopping locations. While it’s always a little sad to see a beloved spot go, it’s also exciting to see the park evolve! Take a look at the artist’s rendering below to see how the remaining buildings will be renovated and re-themed to fit the new area.
This transformation is part of a larger expansion, as Disney plans to bring fans into the world of Monsters, Inc. The new land will be themed to the iconic Pixar franchise, featuring attractions, dining, and immersive experiences that include Mike, Sulley, and more. Given the popularity of the films and characters, this promises to be a playful and high-energy addition to the park.
If you visited Disney’s Hollywood Studios years ago, you might remember taking a goofy photo with the giant Miss Piggy fountain out front or picking up a silly T-shirt inside the store. These are the kinds of small moments that make the Disney theme parks special. And while it’s hard to say goodbye to familiar favorites, change is part of the Disney story, too.
Aerial photos of site preparation for the show building (gravity building) of the Monsters, Inc. roller coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Stay tuned as demolition continues and new details emerge for Monstropolis.
