Kids of the 70’s and 80’s would agree the Star Wars franchise was unmatched! From the opening credits of a New Hope, kids and adults alike were captivated. The dancing Ewoks at the end of Return of The Jedi fascinated them. No doubt, the force was at work. Disney’s Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge immerses fans into childhood (and adult) imagination.
Fortunately, future generations continue to experience the creative power of Lucas Films. This is possible as more movies, series, and Star Wars lore are released through the years.
In a brilliant move by Disney, Star Wars fans around the world can now step inside those movies. They can meet some of the characters they love. Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge opened in both Disneyland and Disney World in 2019. For many of us, it reignited our enthusiasm and the “force” pulled us in, AGAIN!
First, for any Disney related travel plans, I encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional. They specialize in Disney Destinations.
Let’s discuss 3 ways Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge does in fact immerse you into a galaxy far far away.
Theming at Disney’s Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge
Let’s begin at the entrances. This land is tucked away inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World on purpose. You can’t step one foot outside Baseline Taphouse and step the other into Galaxy’s Edge. You’re not spinning around on Alien Swirling Saucers and starring at the Millennium Falcon.
Alternatively, on the opposite coast at Disneyland Resort, Galaxy’s Edge opened deep in the recesses of Disneyland Park. Disney created Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge to go beyond the typical “theme park.” The land’s slow progression creates an immersive atmosphere. All of a sudden, you have entered another space (no pun intended) and time. Recently, Disney announced a celebration of Star Wars that will run for a limited time at Disneyland.
Ultimately, Disney has utilized every Imagineering gift to create an overall feeling their guests have wandered onto another world. Next, from inside the land, you will never get a glimpse of any other area of the parks. What guests see are droid marks imprinted on the simulated sand beneath your feet.
In addition, the surrounding dessert landscape of Galaxy’s Edge is reminiscent of Tatooine. Complete with a copper-colored mountain backdrop that uses the help of forced perspective. Guests aren’t walking thru a “display” of Star Wars memorabilia. They are inside the movies!
Moreover, props inside the land are authentic. These include the X-Wing fighter outside the “hidden” Resistance camp. They were used on Star Wars movie and series sets. Visitors can shop in a “fully operational” marketplace similar to the one seen in the beginning of “Rogue One”.
Most awe inspiring of all, a full-scale Millennium Falcon in a perfectly recreated docking bay. Furthermore, guests in the land will hear space craft overhead flying in for a landing. Those nostalgic sounds reminiscent of the favorite space-based stories.
Attractions at Disney’s Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge
There are two attractions inside Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, Smuggler’s Run and Rise of The Resistance.
First, the queue for Smuggler’s Run is the most iconic Star Wars experience a fan could ask for. I’m talking about the LINE for the ride! Before ACTUALLY boarding the cockpit inside the Falcon, guests walk into and through the ship herself.
Overall, this is a simulator attraction that puts six guests in one of three roles, either pilot, gunner, or engineer. The guest work together operating the ship to outrun and outgun the First Order for a successful mission.
Rise of The Resistance, one word- WOW. It is “not a ride but an experience”. Truthfully, that is a completely fair statement. This experience uses the latest technology and Disney’s brightest minds to fully immerse guests. The story is to evade the First Order as a recruit of the Resistance. Ultimately, it is the closest thing to stepping inside the movies.
I’m not going to describe every amazing piece of this attraction. But, for a more in-depth look check out: Is Rise of The Resistance Worth All the Hype? Still, some of the highlights include zooming past full-size Imperial Walkers. You also get onto the bridge of a Star Destroyer just under the nose of Kylo Ren.
Characters
What pulls the immersion all together are the character interactions. The talent of the cast members and characters brings this place to life. You won’t meet Luke, Leia, Han Solo or even Darth Vader. You will meet Chewie, Rey, and Storm Troopers. Even Kylo Ren might appear. These characters will wipe away any doubt that you have landed inside your favorite world.
Update: April 29, 2026 Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland will expand the timeline and introduce the original trilogy to Batuu. Find more information HERE.
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
Lastly, Disney introduced a character new and specific to Galaxy’s Edge. Her name is Vi Moradi. You can meet her attempting to evade the eyes of The First Order. Multiple characters from Star Wars lore greet guests on both coasts.
Take on a Mission
Once inside Galaxy’s Edge, guests are immediately invited to join a mission through the Play Disney Parks app. By using this free download, you can then turn your mobile device into an interactive “data pad.” From there, you have the choice to align yourself with either the heroic Resistance or the formidable First Order.
Ultimately, these are just three examples of how Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge immerses guests into their favorite galactic fantasies. However, there is so much more to explore! If you have visited before, what were some of your personal favorite parts of the land? Please let me know in the comments below!
Looking for expert travel planning for your next theme park vacation? Connect with DizN Vacations with Jessica Yashin for personalized assistance and insider tips!
