Building a Monster-Sized Future
Big changes are currently sweeping through Disney’s Hollywood Studios as the park prepares for its next major expansion. While construction is a constant at Walt Disney World, the latest updates from the site of the upcoming Monstropolis land show that progress is moving at a rapid clip. Recent aerial footage and site observations reveal that the physical structure of the land’s anchor attraction is finally starting to take shape, giving us our best look yet at what to expect from this factory-inspired expansion.
For those who have visited recently, you’ve likely noticed the construction walls where the Muppets Courtyard once stood. The transformation is extensive, with large sections of the area being cleared to make way for the first-ever suspended roller coaster in a Disney park. This high-profile coaster is inspired by the iconic door factory sequence from Monsters, Inc., where Mike and Sulley swing through the air on a massive network of hanging doors.
The Steel Rises in Monstropolis
The most exciting update comes from the coaster’s foundation. Steel supports have officially begun to appear, marking a major milestone for the ride building. Looking at the current layout, the main attraction is being housed in a massive structure on the left side of the construction site. The open area adjacent to this building is expected to serve as the queue or pre-show environment, where guests will likely be recruited as new ‘scarers’ or ‘jokers’ before boarding their hanging door.
The surrounding landscape has been stripped back to dirt as crews work on the underground infrastructure and new pathways. Sadly, this means the Miss Piggy Lady Liberty fountain has been removed to accommodate the new aesthetic of the monster world. The entire flow of this section of the park is being reimagined to create a seamless transition into the streets of Monstropolis.
Dining and Entertainment Facelifts
It isn’t just new buildings going up; existing structures are getting a heavy thematic overhaul to fit the monster aesthetic. PizzeRizzo is currently undergoing a facade update. Metalwork is being added to the exterior to mimic the arched, industrial architecture seen in the films. While the signature red and green colors remain for now, it’s expected that a new color palette will be applied soon to help the building blend into its new surroundings.
Further back in the land, the spaces formerly occupied by Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano and the park’s Christmas shop are being transformed. If the concept art holds true, this area is set to become Harryhausen’s, the famous sushi restaurant Mike Wazowski visits in the movie. Additionally, the theater that once housed Muppet*Vision 3D is being rebranded as The Glob theater, a clever play on words that signals a complete takeover of the courtyard by the residents of Monstropolis.
Planning Pro-Tips for Your Visit
- Navigate the Walls: Because this construction is right in the heart of the park, expect some dead ends and narrowed pathways near Grand Avenue. Give yourself an extra five minutes to navigate around the walls when heading toward Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
- Check the App: While some dining locations like PizzeRizzo are getting facelifts, they may remain open during portions of the work. Use the My Disney Experience app to check for Mobile Order availability before you walk all the way over.
- Lightning Lane Strategy: As this land nears completion in the future, expect Lightning Lane Multi Pass demand for Hollywood Studios to skyrocket. For now, focus your strategy on Slinky Dog Dash and Rise of the Resistance while the monsters are still building their home.
The transformation of this area marks a significant shift for Hollywood Studios, moving away from the classic studio backlot feel toward more immersive, IP-driven lands. While it’s bittersweet to see the Muppets footprint change, the scale of this coaster project suggests it will be one of the most unique ride experiences in Florida. We’ll be keeping a close eye on the construction site as the factory doors get closer to opening!
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.