The short answer: Animation Academy is a walk-up drawing class inside the Disney Animation Building in Hollywood Land. You do not need a reservation or previous drawing experience. Disney schedules classes every 30 minutes, and guests join when space is available.
An animator teaches the drawing step by step
The instructor breaks a Disney character sketch into simple steps. Everyone follows the same lesson and makes their own version. The class welcomes all ages and experience levels, so first-time sketchers can take part without preparing beforehand.
The character can vary. Disney does not publish a guaranteed character schedule on the attraction page, so treat the subject as part of the surprise.
No reservation is required
Go to the Disney Animation Building in Hollywood Land and join once space is available. Classes begin every 30 minutes. That is the cadence between scheduled sessions, not the length of each class.
| Question | What Disney publishes | How to plan |
|---|---|---|
| Reservation? | No reservation | Walk up and join when space is available |
| Experience? | All experience levels | Follow the animator one step at a time |
| Schedule? | Every 30 minutes | Check the day’s posted times before you go |
| Finished drawing? | Keep it as a souvenir | Leave room to carry the paper after class |
Before walking over
Check the current Disneyland app or the posted schedule for that day. The attraction page can show start times, but availability can change and a seat is not guaranteed.
The class is built for beginners
The lesson focuses on practical lines and shapes rather than a free-drawing assignment. Watch the animator, add each piece to your page, and keep moving. Small differences are normal; every finished sketch will look a little different.
You can keep the completed drawing as a souvenir. The character can vary, so treat the subject as part of the surprise.
The Disney Animation Building has other indoor stops
The main lobby includes the Animation Courtyard gallery, with still images and video clips showing the creative process from early pencil work to finished animation. Turtle Talk with Crush is also in the building.
Those nearby experiences have their own schedules and availability. Use them as options while you are inside, rather than assuming they line up with the next drawing class.
Official action
Check Animation Academy times before heading to Hollywood Land.
Quick answers
Do you need a reservation for Animation Academy?
No. It is a walk-up experience. Join at the Disney Animation Building when space is available.
How often are Animation Academy classes?
Classes begin every 30 minutes. That describes the schedule, not the length of each class.
Do you need drawing experience?
No. The class is intended for all ages and experience levels, and the animator provides step-by-step instruction.
Can you keep your drawing?
Yes. Guests can keep the finished character sketch as a souvenir.
Where is Animation Academy?
It is inside the Disney Animation Building in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure.