How to Make Muppets Courtyard Better- and a Monsters Inc Land? Yes, Please!

Make a good thing even better? Does this ever happen at Walt Disney World? It arguably does at Disneyland as it is "Walt's park" and the locally based Imagineers have a responsibility to look after his dream- and fans demand it. Sometimes the fans have better ideas than the suits. This time, I think I do have some great ideas, so read on.

After our April 2024 visit, we left Disney's Hollywood Studios and were very disappointed in our day there. It was easily our least favorite theme park of the six we visited- including Universal Studios Florida. The biggest of the big "E ticket" draw attractions were two hour waits- no thank you. The theater shows were old. The restaurants we wanted to eat at were booked. Shopping seemed the same everywhere in the park except at Galaxy's Edge. I thought I wouldn't go back for several years (and yes, we did see Muppet*Vision 3D). Monsters Inc. Land will bring me back. It's two great movies filled with lovable characters. 

I say, move the soon to be replaced Mike & Sully to the Rescue from Disney California Adventure and give the littles a dark ride with no height restriction. None at all in a park that needs it badly. But build that door coaster! Bring Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor from the Magic Kingdom. New shops and restaurants. Character meet and greets. It all could be a powerful draw.

Quite the attraction poster!

Where does all this leave the Jim Henson's Muppets? In pretty good shape, actually, with some forward thinking and a little investment. 

They're already taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Move the 3D show to the theater next door, replacing Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy. Add back in the Miss Piggy Fountain to a park that needs more water features. Bring in the old Kermit statue that sits atop the former A&M Records lot in Hollywood. It's up for sale, so do it now. 

Throw in this little walk around gem (seen above) from Epcot back in 2007 time frame. Add a clever snack stand offering unique treats, and you've got yourself a mini land sure to please Muppets fans. 

Change can be a win-win if the Imagineers can bet creative with the financial backing of the suits. But that backing, my friends, is a BIG if.

(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company. Epcot photo copyright Mark Taft.)