The Hidden Mickeys of MGM Hollywood Studios' Animation Courtyard & Pixar Place

Those of you that have no idea what a Hidden Mickey (HM) is need look no further then my first article which explains exactly what they are and how they came about.

Hollywood Boulevard is a great trip back to the days when movies were full of songs, dancing, and stories that weren't overly complicated. That wonderful journey back in time is culminated by the Great Movie Ride which allows guests to experience the history of movies just as if they've been a part of the industry from the very beginning. It's time to dissect things a bit though and start traveling through MGM Studi...err, Hollywood Studios and experiencing Tinsel Town in a few different ways. You're going to get the chance to flow through the different genres, learn how it is to be behind the camera, and also step right into the scenes.

As you exit The Great Movie Ride, take a left and head through the beautifully decorated arches leading into a place where animation truly comes to life. Kids will love it over here because they can visit, sing, dance, and laugh with their favorite characters from the Disney Channel's shows they watch everyday. Parents will love it because there is a lot to learn and so much beautiful artwork to peruse through. That is before heading down Mickey Avenue and into the land of Buzz, Woody, and the rest of the gang from Toy Story. So keep your eyes peeled for Hidden Mickeys and let yourself dive head first into the world of cartoons as you visit MGM Hollywood Studios' Animation Courtyard and Pixar Place.

The Voyage of the Little Mermaid

~ During the laser portion of the show, your eyes and mind will have you thinking there are Mickeys all over the place, but there truly is one. Right near the end of the laser dance and before Sebastian arrives on stage; the lasers converge in the center to make a quick traditional tri-circle HM.

Playhouse Disney - Live on Stage

~ Considering this show changes often with different characters from multiple Disney Channel series; I'm not sure if and where there are any HMs in this attraction.

The Magic Of Disney Animation

~ When Walter Cronkite is on screen, try to catch a look at his cuff links. Yep, there is Mickey's head sitting right on them.

~ I've been told that Robin actually turns into a HM for a second, but I have yet to see this one. During Robin's movie, he is a hand drawing for a while and then turns into a lumberjack at which point his shadow is that of Mickey. If someone can confirm this for me, I'd appreciate it.

Now let's head around the corner from The Little Mermaid, down Mickey Avenue, and straight into Pixar Place.

Walt Disney: One Man's Dream

~ There is a big picture in the waiting area that shows Walt Disney himself standing in front of a big map of the proposed Walt Disney World location. Many have pointed out to me an overhead view to your left of this picture that kind of forms a HM head. I'll admit that it is close, but I'm not entirely sure it can be classified as Mickey. The ears just look too oblong to me and out of shape. Make your own decisions.

The American Film Institute Showcase

~ You're going to see a ton of different characters in this attraction because it is a tribute to so many Disney films and our favorite icons. Mickey is bound to be in there somewhere and I'll find him. I've only ever been in this once so there is a challenge ahead of me for my next trip to Disney World.

Journey Into Narnia: Prince Caspian

~ I haven't found any here yet either, but chances are this attraction will change before too long as well.

Studio Backlot Tour

~ As you exit Catastrophe Canyon, take a quick look immediately to your left and into the rocks. It's very hard to see but there is an oddly shaped HM head in the rocks. It's much easier to see if you're sitting on that side of the tram.

Toy Story Mania

~ As you approach the end of the queue (standby, not Fast Pass), there is a big hand-painted mural of the United States. Nearby is a huge green Tyrannosaurus Rex and an orange fish that looks like Nemo; this is where you'll find your HM. Underneath Nemo is a small upside-down tri-circle blue Mickey head.

~ Near the end of the ride and right before you approach the area to find out your final score, look for a sign on the wall that says "Circus Fun!" The dot on the exclamation point is a HM.

There may not be a lot of Hidden Mickeys to find throughout these two areas of Hollywood Studios, but that then gives you plenty of time to enjoy the attractions for what they are while also seeing the Mouse every once in a while. Please take the time to experience all the attractions here because a lot of people like to make way for the bigger rides and thrills but then miss out on the tours. The Disney Animation tour as well as The Little Mermaid stage show are two classics at the Studios and should be appreciated by every guest that visits.

Please feel free to let me know if there are any I've missed or that you think are truly there. Oh, and for those that are brand new to the world of Hidden Mickeys? Don't let searching for them ruin your trip to the happiest place on Earth please. Always make sure that you are taking in everything and enjoying all you can while there with friends and family. Hidden Mickeys are fun to look for and find, but there really is so much to do that you don't want to be on a wild goose chase for your entire trip.