Disney Unveils New Monsters, Inc. Land Coming to Hollywood Studios

Hey Disney Vacationers! Hold onto your hard hats, because the Mouse House just dropped some major news that’s going to make your inner child scream with excitement! Disney’s Hollywood Studios is about to get a monstrous makeover, and it’s going to be one for the history books. If you’ve ever dreamed of walking the streets of Monstropolis, laughing alongside your favorite monsters, and even zooming through the famous factory doors like Mike and Sulley, then Disney’s new Monsters, Inc. Land is about to make all your dreams come true.

A Land Where Monsters Roam Free

The announcement, made by Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro, with a little help from Disney Legend Billy Crystal (the voice of Mike Wazowski himself) at D23, has officially confirmed that Disney is building a “living, breathing, and not-at-all-scary” Monsters, Inc.-inspired area within Hollywood Studios. This new land promises to immerse guests right into the heart of Monstropolis, bringing to life the vibrant, laughter-powered city that Pixar fans have cherished since the original film hit theaters.

But that’s not all — this isn’t just a stroll through the streets of Monstropolis. This new land is set to feature Disney’s first-ever suspended roller coaster! Yes, you heard that right. The world of Monsters, Inc. is about to get a whole lot more thrilling.

The First Suspended Coaster in Disney History

Construction on this incredible new land is slated to begin in 2025, and when it opens, it will feature a brand-new attraction that’s bound to become an instant classic. Picking up after the events of the beloved Pixar film, the Monsters, Inc. Land will invite humans (that’s you!) to visit the world of Monstropolis, where the monsters have one job: to make you laugh.

The centerpiece of this new land? A cutting-edge suspended roller coaster that will take you right into the heart of the action. Imagine zooming through the Monsters, Inc. factory, just like Mike and Sulley, except this time, you’re not watching it on a screen — you’re living it. The coaster, as revealed by former Walt Disney Imagineer Jim Shull, is expected to be a Vekoma suspended family coaster, model 400. With lap bar restraints and a 10-car train that seats two guests per row, this ride promises to be thrilling yet family-friendly, making it perfect for monsters of all ages.

Shull also hinted that the ride could feature up to four lift hills throughout its track, ensuring that the excitement never lets up from start to finish. And for those worried about inversions, rest easy — this ride is designed with fun in mind, not fear.

The Door Coaster That Almost Was

If this concept sounds familiar, that’s because it’s been a long time coming. Back in 2008, Jim Hill of Jim Hill Media broke the news that Disney was working on a Monsters, Inc. door coaster. The project was so far along that Disney even released a video showcasing the concept of the attraction. But then, in true Disney fashion, the video was quickly pulled, and the project was shelved. Fast forward to today, and it looks like Disney is finally ready to bring this incredible concept to life. As the saying goes, better late than never!

More Than Just a Coaster: Welcome to Monstropolis

But wait, there’s more! The new Monsters, Inc. Land isn’t just about the coaster — it’s about creating an entire world where guests can truly feel like they’ve stepped into the movie. The land is set to include shops, and at least one restaurant, possibly even a sushi spot that will recreate the iconic scene from the movie.

While Disney hasn’t officially announced where in Hollywood Studios the new land will be located, there are two leading contenders: Muppets Courtyard and Animation Courtyard. Both have their pros and cons, so let’s break it down.

Possible Locations: Muppets Courtyard vs. Animation Courtyard

Animation Courtyard is currently home to the Star Wars Launch Bay, Disney Junior, new Clubb 33 Lounge, and the upcoming Little Mermaid show, set to debut in Fall 2024. This area offers plenty of space for expansion and could seamlessly connect to other Pixar-themed areas like Toy Story Land and the Lightning McQueen Racing Academy. Plus, there’s already kitchen space available, and behind the Star Wars Launch Bay lies a parking lot (which just so happens to be the Hollywood Studios executives’ lot). This makes Animation Courtyard a prime candidate for the new land.

However, there are some challenges. Building in this area would require significant construction, and the transition from the new Little Mermaid show to Monsters, Inc. might feel a bit jarring. The thematic shift could be tricky to navigate, but if anyone can pull it off, it’s Disney’s Imagineers.

On the other hand, Muppets Courtyard already has a large building in place that could be repurposed for the roller coaster. Muppet Vision 3D and the adjacent Mama Melrose restaurant could be re-themed to fit the Monstropolis vibe. But there’s a catch: the height of the new coaster building could interfere with the sightlines of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Disney might have to get creative with blending the new building into the backdrop of Batuu to keep the immersive experience intact.

And then there’s the nostalgia factor. The Muppets have a special place in the hearts of Disney fans, and replacing their courtyard with a new land might stir up some strong emotions. Disney will need to weigh these factors carefully before making a final decision.

What’s Next?

As Disney fans, we know that patience is a virtue when it comes to new attractions, but this one feels worth the wait. Monsters, Inc. Land is shaping up to be an epic addition to Hollywood Studios, offering a perfect blend of thrills, nostalgia, and immersive storytelling that Disney does best. Whether you’re a die-hard Monsters, Inc. fan or just looking for the next big thing at Disney World, this new land is sure to be a must-visit.

So, get ready to step through the door, laugh your heart out, and experience the magic of Monstropolis like never before. As Mike Wazowski might say, “I can’t believe it! I’m on TV!” — except this time, you’ll be on the ride of your life.

Stay tuned for more updates as Disney reveals more details about this monstrous new land coming to Hollywood Studios. The future of Monstropolis is looking bright, and we can’t wait to see it come to life!

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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!