Disney’s Hollywood Studios is actively developing its newest themed area, Monsters Inc. Land. This highly anticipated addition is taking shape in a previously unused backstage area. Recent aerial photos provide a glimpse into the ongoing work, allowing Disney enthusiasts to better understand the project’s scale and features. Here’s an overview of the construction progress and what it means for the future of the park.
Location and Initial Clearing
Repurposed Backstage Parking Lot
The construction site for Monsters Inc. Land is located in a backstage area that previously served as a cast member parking lot. Approximately 9 acres have been cleared to make way for the new attractions, with portions of the land also being used for material staging during the construction process. This area is positioned near the former Muppets Courtyard, putting it in close proximity to existing attractions like MuppetVision 3D and other Hollywood Studios landmarks.
Visual Markers for Context
Aerial photos reveal significant clearing within the designated land. Nearby reference points, such as the Stage 1 Company Store marked by Kermit the Frog’s face, help place the activity in context for those familiar with the park layout. Other visible features, including backstage roads and tree-lined areas, offer clues about the boundaries of the future themed zone.
Planned Features of Monsters Inc. Land
Indoor Door Vault Roller Coaster
One of the most anticipated attractions in Monsters Inc. Land is an indoor roller coaster themed around the door vault scene from the Monsters Inc. film. Guests will board ride vehicles inspired by the movie’s recognizable doors, immersing them in an exciting adventure through Monstropolis.
Concept art from a recent D23 Expo provides additional details about the project. The design suggests that the roller coaster’s entrance facade will align with specific points in the construction area visible in aerial photos. This allows fans to visualize how the final attraction might integrate into the park’s landscape.
Supporting Structures
While much of the focus is on the roller coaster, the cleared space will likely accommodate other themed elements, such as dining, retail, and interactive experiences. These features aim to enhance the immersion and storytelling associated with Monstropolis.
Construction Updates
Current Progress
Aerial images highlight the early stages of construction, with visible preparation work including clearing and grading. Material staging areas are being established, suggesting that foundational building efforts are on the horizon.
Nearby Impacts
The development of Monsters Inc. Land has caused temporary adjustments to parking and backstage operations. Portions of the cast member parking lot have been repurposed, which may require staff to adapt their routines until the project is complete.
Final Thoughts
The development of Monsters Inc. Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios signals another exciting chapter in the park’s history. With the transformation of backstage areas and the introduction of new attractions like the door vault roller coaster, this project leverages innovative storytelling to create new experiences.
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Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
