In this last installment of our Disney World trip guides, we’re going to explore a new addition coming soon to Disney World and already out at Disneyland. This is the Star Wars-themed Galaxy’s Edge, an addition to Disneyland’s main park and to Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. Now that you know where to find it, let’s talk about what it is.
Summary
Galaxy’s Edge is a glimpse into a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. There are sets built from a number of key locations in Star Wars, but the primary design is focused on a place called the Black Spire Outpost on the Planet Batuum, frequent stopping point in some of Star Wars’ extended media outside of the main movies that’s sure to get Star Wars fans excited. This Outer Rim planet is home to the Resistance and smugglers, so there’s sure to be a few familiar faces while you’re there.
Custom Merch
There are two unique build-your-own merch shops at Galaxy’s Edge. Build your own lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop, where intergalactic travelers called the Gatherers have brought together parts to build your own lightsaber. This whole session involves a guided stage show explaining the history of lightsabers in Star Wars combined with the unique experience to build your own lightsaber under your Gatherer teachers. Or head to the Droid Depot and pick up the parts to make your own custom droid. Once booted up, your droid will interact with the rest of the park. Both of these are a bit up there in cost though, so if you’re trying to stick to a budget, skip these in favor of one of the smaller shops in the park.
There are six shops outside of the custom merch ones, all of which are filled with unique souvenirs you can pick up. Visiting any shop is already expensive, but it’s safe to say that you’ll find something to fit your trip whether it’s apparel, artwork, or plushes.
Eatery
There are five themed restaurants coming with Galaxy’s Edge, each with a space favorite. Oga’s Cantina is reminiscent of a familiar cantina on Tatooine, or at the very least they play the same music. Enjoy a unique concoction, with options for kids and adults alike. For an actual meal, the biggest sit-down option will be Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, for some inspired dishes with the closest ingredients we have on Earth. The remaining eateries in this section are limited in space, but not on flavor. The Milk Stand has a selection of frozen treats made from Luke Skywalker’s Thala-sirens. Ronto Roasters offers rancor (pork) wraps grilled over a pod racer engine and Kat Saka’s Kettle offers popcorn and novelty droid bottles for a snack.
Atmosphere
Disney as really spared no expense to bring Star Wars to life. Explore a whole village with pieces of every portion of the Star Wars franchise. There are speeders and ships all around the park, as well as smaller details like droids that come to life from other droids and cast members walking around in costume for both Storm Troopers and Resistance fighters to blend into the crowd. If you’ve ever dreamed of getting to walk on set to a Star Wars film, Disney’s delivered just about as close as we’re ever going to get to the real thing.
Attractions
There are two major attractions at Galaxy’s Edge. There is the currently available Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, which puts you into the cockpit of the titular ship of the ride. Six pilots hop in for an interactive ride through space, with the switches and levers throughout the ship affecting the results of the adventure. Everyone’s got a job aboard the Falcon, and it’ll take a whole team to succeed on this mission.
The second ride is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, a thrill ride that will be opening later this year in Orlando and early next year for Anaheim. Sneak through a First Order Star Destroyer as you navigate through a battle between the Resistance and the First Order. This ride was delayed from release, but we’re sure once it’s here, it’s going to be a ride to remember.
If you’re planning to head to Galaxy’s Edge, don’t worry about where you’re going to leave your car while you’re far, far away. Parking near DIA is expensive, and we know you’re going to need to save your credits for while you’re at Disney. ParkDIA offers affordable parking at our 24-hour surveillance offsite parking lot. Reserve your spot today and enjoy your trip to Disney.
