Earlier this summer, on May 26th to be precise, Disney unveiled its instantly beloved Animation Courtyard inside of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This area, named The Walt Disney Studios, lies between The Little Mermaid- A Musical Adventure and Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! Show. It hosts the indoor attraction ‘The Magic of Disney Animation‘ but is also the happy home to many of our favorite furry sidekicks and fuzzy movie stars!
Pua (Moana) and Thumper (Bambi)
Moana’s little pig Pua and Thumper from Bambi can be found just inside the courtyard, on the right side of the first grassy patch across from one of the courtyard’s newest additions! Thumper seems to have a lot to say, thankfully Pua (like all loyal fur balls) is a great listener.
Meeko (Pocahontas)
Meeko, loyal racoon to Pocahontas, can be found on a grass patch on the far right of the courtyard- up on the curb across from Pua and Thumper. He seems to have gotten into some popcorn and is definitely enjoying the snack.
Diablo (Sleeping Beauty) and Blue Birds (Cinderella)
While they might be difficult to see at first, Diablo from Sleeping Beauty and some of Cinderella’s bluebirds keep watch over Animation Courtyard with a bird’s eye view! These three can be found atop the gift shop next to The Little Mermaid- A Musical Adventure.
Jiminy Cricket (Pinocchio)
While hard to spot, this little guy Jiminy Cricket is beaming with joy and ready to welcome you into the Animation Courtyard and help guide you onto the right patch. He can be found perched atop the directional sign.
Oliver and Dodger (Oliver and Company)
Don’t be fooled like I was – that hot dog is definitely spoken for! Oliver and Dodger from Oliver and Company can be found on the left of the first grassy patch in the courtyard, just behind a bench. So long as you leave them the hot dog, I am sure it is a comfortable place to sit.
Fru Fru (Zootopia) and Sir Hiss (Robin Hood)
The gazebo in Animation Courtyard houses a few guests, two of which being Fru Fru from Zootopia and Sir Hiss from Robin Hood on the roof of the right side. I’m sure these two had lots to talk about – Oh my gosh!
Lucifer (Cinderella)
This devilishly cute little kitty cat is Lucifer from Cinderella, who can be found perching on the left side of the Gazebo wall. If you follow his eyes, you might just see why he looks so ready for the hunt! Don’t let his evil grin fool you, though! He certainly got lots of pets from me.
Zazu (The Lion King)
One of many birds, but certainly not any less notable, Zazu from The Lion King surveys The Pride Lands and the Animation Courtyard from the roof of the gazebo’s left side.
Abu (Aladdin)
The mischievous little Abu from Aladdin can be found inside the ‘O’ for the studio store sign. Located just next to the entrance for Art of Animation. I can’t help but wonder if he’s up to trouble again – thinking about what to steal.
Bolt (Bolt), Patch, and Penny (101 Dalmations)
My favorite new addition to Animation Courtyard features Bolt from Bolt as well as Patch and Penny from 101 Dalmatians. The three seem to be having lots of fun playing with a bone together and can be found on the grass just to the right of the Art of Animation entrance.
Little Brother (Mulan)
Fans of my favorite Disney classic might recognize this cute little guy as Little Brother from Mulan! While usually chasing a bone tied to his own head, he can be found on the wall just to the left of the Art of Animation entrance on a grassy patch to the right of the bathrooms.
Jaq, Gus (Cinderella), and Timothy (Dumbo)
You might have to squint to catch these three little mice marching along the top of the Art of Animation building on the left side of the overhang. They might not be so hard to find if you follow where Lucifer is looking! These three are Jaq and Gus from Cinderella and Timothy from Dumbo – who seem to be all marching in a line together!
Mochi (Big Hero 6)
You can find this adorable cat resting on the rooftop across from the bathrooms is Mochi from Big Hero 6. Certainly taking a long-deserved nap in the sun after all of Hiro and Baymax’s antics.
Bruni (Frozen 2)
Perched confidently on the base of a post stands Bruni from Frozen 2, Queen Elsa’s loyal companion and spirit of Fire. While he might be hard to spot – he is mighty!
I think that all these adorable little companions are just the most wonderful addition to the Animation Courtyard. The space really comes to life with all the fun and joy these little fellas bring. I could never really pick a favorite but I am so excited to see Bolt as his film was one of my favorite movies growing up! Which one is your favorite? Feel free to comment below!
