**New ‘Monsters, Inc.’ Themed Land to Replace Muppets Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios**
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Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is set to undergo a significant transformation as it prepares to introduce a brand new area themed around the beloved film “Monsters, Inc.” This exciting development will take over the existing Muppets Courtyard, including the much cherished Jim Henson’s Muppet*Vision 3D attraction, which has delighted fans since its opening in 1991.
Disney Imagineers took to the stage at the D23 convention in Anaheim on Saturday, 15 August, to unveil the latest details about the anticipated Monsters, Inc.-themed land. Among the highlights of the announcement was the exhilarating news that the new area is expected to open earlier than originally planned — in fact, the debut is scheduled for next year.
The concept for this new land was first revealed in 2024. During the initial announcement, actor Billy Crystal, who lends his voice to the iconic character Mike Wazowski, joined Imagineers onstage to share his enthusiasm. One of the standout features of the themed environment is set to be the first suspended roller coaster featured at any Disney park, which promises to take guests on a ride through the film’s famous door factory.
At the recent D23 event, attendees were treated to animated visuals demonstrating the ride’s innovative design. Riders will be lifted from the queue a remarkable 40 feet into the air in a mere four seconds before being launched into the thrilling vault for an exhilarating experience.
As further details of the Monsters, Inc. land emerged, Imagineers unveiled a collection of additional attractions and venues within Monstropolis. Visitors can look forward to a pizza restaurant, a Monsters University area complete with its alumni club, and a Scare Emporium gift shop. Eateries will include the previously mentioned Harryhausen sushi restaurant and a theatre dubbed the Glob Theater, a witty homage to Shakespeare’s iconic venue.
Adding to the excitement, Broadway star Megan Hilty performed a lively segment of a brand new song titled “Welcome to Monstropolis,” composed by the legendary Randy Newman. This track is set to feature in a stage show designed to complement the overall theme of the land.
According to Disney’s previous updates, guests can soon anticipate the opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting sights, sounds, and flavours of Sulley and Mike’s world. The overarching narrative for this new area revolves around opening the doors of Monstropolis to humanity for the very first time, aiming to foster understanding and dispel fears between monsters and humans. This celebratory event will be known as “H.U.M.A.N. Day,” an acronym for “Humans Understand Monsters Are Nice.”
A display featured at the convention indicated further neighbourhoods within the land, with intriguing names such as Old Town Monstropolis and Frightening Heights. A marquee at the theatre showcased the welcoming message “Welcome to Monstropolis! With Sulley & Mike.”
The announcement has stirred mixed emotions among Disney fans, particularly those nostalgic for the Muppets franchise. The previous Muppet Courtyard not only included Muppet*Vision 3D but also housed the PizzeRizzo restaurant, drawing connections to the enduring legacy of Jim Henson. The closure of Muppet*Vision 3D, which was the final project Henson worked on prior to his passing, has sparked sorrow among long-time supporters of the franchise.
Confirmation of the Muppet attraction’s closure emerged in November 2024 following months of speculation regarding potential developments at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. However, Muppets enthusiasts need not feel disheartened, as the characters have found a new platform at the redesigned Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, which opened earlier this year.
As the countdown begins for the grand opening of the Monsters, Inc.-themed land, anticipation builds among guests eager to experience the innovative designs and whimsical charm that are hallmarks of Disney attractions. With its vibrant storytelling and unique ride experiences, Monstropolis is poised to capture the hearts of visitors both young and old when it officially opens its doors in 2027.