Walk into Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and you’re stepping into a narrative that’s been decades in the making. Sprawled across a generous 14-acre plot in Disneyland Park, this is where fantasy meets reality.
The crowning jewels are two experiences:
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, where visitors pilot the iconic ship, and
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, a battle against the First Order.
Between dodging blaster fire and bartering with intergalactic traders, you can gorge on themed foods or snap a selfie with a roving droid, all while using the Play Disney Parks mobile app to weave into the story. Staring at the stars from Black Spire Outpost, one may ask yourself, why would you ever miss out on visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?
Exploring Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
You’ve dreamt of it, and now it’s possible—to pilot the Millennium Falcon. Here at Disneyland Star Wars, the “chess room” isn’t just a fancy set; it’s a gateway to your role as pilot, gunner, or flight engineer. The whole ride’s a thrill, each position with its own controls that affect the mission’s success. It’s interactive, it’s intense, and let’s be honest, it’s the closest you’ll get to joining Han Solo’s crew.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Across the park, you’re in a full-s
cale war between the Resistance and the First Order. The nearly 20-minute escapade in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge features characters like Kylo Ren and Rey. You’re not just riding; you’re part of the story, thanks to crafty ride systems that throw you into the fray. It’s storytelling done right—immersive enough to make you forget you’re in a Disney park.
Dining at Galaxy’s Edge
Refuel at Galaxy’s Edge with grub from Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, or chug down unique concoctions at Oga’s Cantina, the first joint in Disneyland Park to serve booze. You gotta try the Smoked Kaadu Ribs and wash it down with a colorful milk that looks straight out of a Star Wars flick. Oga’s Cantina is not just a bar; it’s a slice of Star Wars, complete with the tunes and the vibe.
Shopping and Merchandise
Merch here isn’t just souvenirs; it’s part of the story. At Black Spire Outpost, gear up in garb that screams Star Wars, cuddle with a toy porg, or handpick parts for your lightsaber or droid.
The shops, like Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, don’t just sell items; they’re packed with props and trinkets, making the shopping a legit experience. It’s not just retail; it’s part of the Disney Star Wars land adventure.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets and Reservations
We know the deal: when you come to Disneyland Park, you expect to see everything without your wallet taking a hit. So, good news, your entry to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is already part of your golden ticket.
But listen, if you want to craft your lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop or build a droid buddy at Droid Depot, you need to book ahead. They’re hot spots.
And for the bold ones, eager to jump on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance without the wait, there’s the Lightning Lane—worth every penny for the impatient. Here’s a tip: get your tickets online, sharpish, and make those reservations ASAP. This way, you can strut into the park with your day planned, leaving more time for the good stuff.
App Enhancements and Character Encounters
Now, let’s talk tech. The Play Disney Parks mobile app turns your phone into your best park buddy. It’s got games, activities, and bits to make you feel like you’re in the thick of a Star Wars adventure. Who might you bump into? Think Rey, Finn, BB-8, and everyone’s favorite walking carpet, Chewbacca. These guys aren’t just hanging around for their health; they’re part of the story.
Use the app to track them and join in on the action. It’ll steer you through Black Spire Outpost, decode alien languages, and even help you pledge your allegiance.
Experiencing Star Wars Beyond Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars Attractions in Other Disney Parks
When you step into Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you’re not just visiting a park; you’re jumping to hyperspace, landing in a beautifully familiar yet wonderfully fresh universe.
Over at Disney World in Florida, they’ve got their version of Galaxy’s Edge, nestled within Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The bones of the experience – think Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Rise of the Resistance – are the same. But don’t think it’s all twin suns and déjà vu; Florida’s got a different vibe, a different crowd, and sometimes, different weather patterns stir up the energy.
Disneyland Paris also throws its hat in the ring with Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, offering a change of scenery and accents. But the pièce de résistance is the upcoming Star Wars-themed area, promising new adventures to the European crowd.
Other parks tease with unique touches – like Hyperspace Mountain replaces Space Mountain for that Star Wars kick – making each park a different chapter in your galactic saga.
Special Events and Nights
The special events Star Wars Nite at Disneyland Resort punches in with exclusive after-hours access that makes you feel like you’ve got the whole galaxy to yourself.
These ticketed events are like finding a secret level in a game, offering unique experiences, limited-edition merch you won’t find elsewhere, and entertainment that’s as themed as it gets. We’re talking about a night when your Star Wars dreams hit lightspeed – and that’s worth every credit.
Attending events like Star Wars Nite isn’t just about bragging rights; It’s the difference between watching Star Wars on TV and feeling like you’re in the movie.
Imagine meeting characters that aren’t roaming around on your usual park day, getting first dibs on collectibles, and enjoying themed treats that make your taste buds do the Kessel Run in less than twelve parsecs.
It’s a unique slice of Star Wars heaven, making the whole escapade glow brighter than a lightsaber in a dark cave.
Bottom Line
We’ve walked the length and breadth of Disneyland Star Wars, folks, and let me tell you, Galaxy’s Edge is something to see. For anyone, young or old, it’s like stepping right into a corner of the universe far, far away – without needing to jump to lightspeed.
Take the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – you’re not just riding; you’re piloting the most famous hunk of junk in the galaxy. Or wander into Oga’s Cantina, where the vibes and drinks are out of this world.
Shopping? The place is peppered with stalls and shops that would make even the savviest Jawa jealous. And let’s not forget those sneaky residents and rebels that might pull you into a galactic mission.
The experience is a full-on plunge into the Star Wars story, crafted to a tee. Galaxy’s Edge doesn’t just tick the boxes; it creates its own. From the authentic ebb and flow of Black Spire Outpost to the adrenaline punch of Rise of the Resistance, it’s clear: If Star Wars is your thing, this is your land.
In fact, for anyone who’s ever dreamt of crossing galaxies, Galaxy’s Edge isn’t just an experience – it’s a homecoming.
Co-Founder of the OFT Blog. Mother of 2 who disguises as a 9 to 5 finance professional on most days. She loves to travel, is an amateur website builder and cook. And given her day job, she loves travel planning and saving money. Follow along!
