Confirmed: Muppets Courtyard is Monsters Inc. Land Location

Big news, Disney Vacationers! Walt Disney World has officially announced that the Monsters Inc. Land location will be none other than Muppets Courtyard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you’ve been speculating since the 2024 D23 Expo, wondering where Mike and Sulley would find their new home, the wait is over. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting transformation, why Muppets Courtyard was chosen, and what’s next for The Muppets.

Why Muppets Courtyard for Monsters Inc. Land?

When Disney’s Imagineers were determining the Monsters Inc. Land location, size and logistics were the two biggest factors. The new land’s marquee attraction, a suspended indoor coaster recreating the iconic door vault scene, requires a massive show building.

According to Jim Hill of Jim Hill Media, this show building will rival the size of EPCOT’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind coaster, though it may not be quite as large. Muppets Courtyard, situated on the south side of Hollywood Studios and tucked near Galaxy’s Edge, offers a perfect spot to “hide” such a large structure. Placing the coaster in Animation Courtyard (near the Tower of Terror) could have disrupted the iconic view of the Tower or even impacted sightlines from EPCOT’s World Showcase.

But size isn’t the only reason Muppets Courtyard was selected. The existing infrastructure already lends itself to transformation. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is prime to become a sushi-themed restaurant tied to the Monsters, Inc. story. The MuppetVision 3D theater will be reimagined as a new show space, and the courtyard’s existing bathrooms, quick-service spots, and merchandise locations all make for an easier transition.

On the November 25, 2024 episode of the Disney Dish, Hill also mentioned the Monsters Inc. Land location was chosen prior to its announcement at the 2024 D23. However, Disney chose to hold back the detail to prevent a large fan uprising. As speculation built around where the land would located, Walt Disney Imagineering did its due-diligence and evaluated the use of Animation Courtyard, before ultimately falling back on the choice of Muppets Courtyard.

What Happens to The Muppets?

Now, here’s the twist: The Muppets aren’t disappearing from the park entirely. Disney recognizes their nostalgic appeal—just look at the success of the recent runDisney Wine & Dine 5K, where the Swedish Chef stole the show (and merchandise flew off the shelves).

To keep The Muppets alive in Hollywood Studios, Disney is relocating them to a brand-new experience: The Muppets Take Over Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster. While details on when the transition will happen are still under wraps, this move ensures that Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the gang stay part of the magic, even as Muppets Courtyard transforms into the Monsters Inc. Land.

What Can You Expect from Monsters Inc. Land?

Fans are buzzing about the attractions and experiences coming to the new land. Highlights include:

• The Suspended Door Vault Coaster: Imagine zipping through the iconic door vault scene, feeling like you’re right in the movie!
• Dining and Shopping: With Mama Melrose’s potential transformation into a sushi restaurant, you’ll enjoy Monsters, Inc.-themed eats. Expect unique merchandise to match.
• A New Theater Show: Taking over the current MuppetVision 3D space, this will likely feature characters and stories from the Monsters, Inc. universe.

When Will Monsters Inc. Land Open?

While an exact opening date hasn’t been confirmed, the announcement from Disney makes it clear that development is moving full steam ahead. Expect updates at the next D23 Expo or through Disney Parks’ official channels.

One thing is certain, come spring 2025 there will be an abundance on theme park related construction teams available, as they would’ve have just wrapped up a new them park down the street.

In Summary: The Monsters Inc. Land location at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is set to take over Muppets Courtyard, bringing thrilling attractions, reimagined dining, and immersive storytelling to life. The decision makes logistical sense, considering the needs of the land’s anchor attractions, and Disney is taking steps to preserve the beloved Muppets with their move to a revamped Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster.

Get ready to step through the door—Monsters Inc. Land promises to be a scream-worthy addition to Walt Disney World!

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!