Great news today from the Walt Disney World Company! Disney has announced that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open THIS SUMMER 2024! Previously, Disney had promised that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure would open “Late 2024”–with most experts predicting an October/November opening day. However, there have been lots of signs that construction has been moving fairly quickly. One of the most exciting recent visual clues that the reimagined attraction might open sooner than expected came last week, when visitors noticed water flowing through visible areas of the attraction.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction has been in progress for just over one year so far. Splash Mountain closed on January 23, 2023 to be reimagined as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. You can read more about that closure here.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction/ Photo: Destinations to Explore
From what we’ve learned so far, the basic ride system itself will remain basically the same. This will still be a log ride on water. Guests will ride in a log through the attraction, culminating in a drop near the end of the attraction where guests will most likely get wet. What WILL change is the entire visual look and feel of the attraction. The attraction is being completely re-themed to The Princess and the Frog, featuring Princess Tiana and her friends.
External changes to the attractions that have been visible to guests include the repainted attraction/queue buildings, shown in the photo above. The primary attraction/queue building is now a bright cheerful yellow and features a mural showcasing Tiana’s jazz loving alligator friend, Louis. Other visible external changes include the additional of the Tiana’s Foods Water Tower, topped with Tiana’s crown! There’s also been a lot of changes to the greenery and vegetation on the exterior of the “mountain”.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure/ Photo: Disney Parks
Astonishing Animatronics
Disney has told us that not only will Tiana’s Bayou Adventure open this summer 2024, it will include dozens of new animatronic characters! The behind the scenes glimpses we’ve seen so far of these new animatronics shows us that as technology continues to improve, so do these amazing attraction treasures. Take a look at this video featuring Tiana herself.
Her movements look so natural, don’t they? It’s really fun to see her come alive from the concept art to this. I can’t wait to see her embedded in the attraction!
Tiana Animatronic / Photo: Disney Parks
Here’s another really short sneak peek look at an animatronic for this attraction that Disney gave us, but it doesn’t give us anywhere NEAR as good a look. But I think I might be even MORE excited to see this one in action!
Can you guess who this one will be?
Concept Art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Will Open Summer 2024 – What’s the Story?
Many Disney attractions based on a beloved Disney feature film retell the story of the film (in just a few minutes). Think ‘The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure’ for a great example of this. I’m excited that Imagineers are going a different direction with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. For this attraction, the story is picking up AFTER the movie ends!
Concept Art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
While we don’t know exactly what the story is, we DO know that this adventure is taking place in the next chapter of Tiana’s adventures. She’s successfully opened her restaurant, Tiana’s Palace. Now, she’s expanding her business with Tiana’s Foods. Tiana and her friends are throwing a big celebration during the Mardi Gras season. The attraction will be filled with fun music, characters, critters and adventure. I’m so excited that we won’t have to wait too much longer to check it out for ourselves!
Tiana’s Foods Concept Art: Disney Parks
Are YOU Excited to Ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure When it Opens This Summer 2024?
SO….Are you excited? Is this an attraction you’ve been waiting to hear about? Do you love that Disney chose to announce on Fat Tuesday an opening season for an attraction with a Mardi Gras tie-in ? Please comment below if this is an attraction you’re excited to ride!
Our big family trip is this October, so I’m VERY excited for this announcement. I’d previously been worried that the attraction would reopen AFTER our trip, and our family wouldn’t get to experience it. I know that everyone will enjoy this one, and I’m looking forward to the new theming. I loved The Princess and the Frog, and I’m really happy to see Tiana get some love in the parks.
It sounds like the Disneyland version of the attraction is going to open later than the Disney World version, most likely in the fall. I’ll be sure and keep you all posted.
Mom and I will be in the parks later this month for the Disney Princess Half Marathon (also Tiana themed–hmmm, I’m sensing a pattern here!), so I’ll be sure and come back with some construction photo updates for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. I’m excited to see what we can see from the outside!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
We are getting closer to the long awaited opening date for TRON Lightcycle/Run at the Magic Kingdom on April 4, 2023. The closer we get, the more information Disney makes available to us. In our last post about the new attraction (read here), I theorized that TRON Lightcycle/Run would open using a virtual queue. Disney has confirmed this theory. When it opens on April 4, TRON Lightcycle/Run will use a virtual queue. There will be NO standby lines for TRON Lightcycle/Run initially.
TRON Lightcycle/Run Photo: Disney Parks
How Will the TRON Lightcycle/Run Virtual Queue Work?
Disney has been using the virtual queue for all new attractions for the last several years. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure both used virtual queues when they first opened. Both stopped using the virtual queue more than a year ago. Currently, EPCOT’s newest attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is using a virtual queue. That attraction will have been open for almost ten months by the time TRON Lightcycle/Run opens. Based on the pattern Disney has set with the previous attractions, I suspect Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will stop using the virtual queue sometime in March, if not sooner.
That way, when TRON Lightcycle/Run needs to start using the virtual queue, it will be the only attraction using it. I’m assuming Disney’s system COULD allow more than one attraction to use virtual queues at a time, especially if they are at different parks. But guests might find the booking experience confusing or frustrating. If an attraction doesn’t NEED the virtual queue, why not simplify things and eliminate it?
Why will TRON Lightcycle/Run use a Virtual Queue?
Disney uses a virtual queue when a new attraction opens primarily to maximize their ability to manage crowd flow through the attraction. The virtual queue system enables them to slow boarding groups arrival times if the attraction breaks down (common with new attractions) or if there are any quirks that arise with loading or unloading that they didn’t anticipate.
Using the virtual queue also adds a bit of mystery around a new attraction. There’s no way for the average guest to really know how many guests rode an attraction on a particular day.
A virtual queue also really helps Disney control the standby line flow, especially if the standby areas might get really tight if the lines get super long. For example, the area back by Ratatouille isn’t super big. If that line got too long, it could easily extend way out into the rest of France and cause a lot of congestion. By using a virtual queue, Disney was able to control the length of the length until the “newness” of that attraction wore off enough to keep that standby line down to a manageable length.
I haven’t seen the area for the TRON standby line inside the attraction, but there isn’t much space outside the attraction. The Speedway is RIGHTTHERE. I suspect that Disney will want to the line from extending out into this area if at all possible. Using the virtual queue will help Disney control this.
TRON Lightcycle/Run will be an Individual Lightning Lane Attraction
Guests with park tickets and park reservations for the Magic Kingdom will have the opportunity to purchase an individual Lightning Lane entry (a la carte) for TRON Lightcycle/Run, based on availability. Pricing and availability for the TRON Lightcycle/Run Lightning Lane entry will vary based on the season, demand, crowd levels and demand.
Locker System for TRON Lightcycle/Run
TRON Lightcycle/Run features a new double sided, digitized locker system inside the attraction queue. These lockers will be used to store guests’ bags and loose items while they ride the attraction. These complimentary lockers will pair with the guest’s Magic Band, Magic Band+, or ticket media so that the guest can either lock or reopen their locker easily with a quick tap. Guests without a Magic Band or ticket media (like a card) will be provided with a card to access a locker. All items must be placed either in a locker before guests board their Lightcycle or inside a small compartment located on the attraction vehicle. The small compartment can hold small items like a wallet, glasses or a cell phone.
Photo: Disney Parks
Disney PhotoPass and Videos
If you’ve been following for any time at all, you know that I am a BIG fan of PhotoPass. Photos are some of the best souvenirs from your vacations. Photos will outlast the TShirts, the sweatshirts and the snacks. As any new attraction should be, TRON Lightcycle/Run is equipped with some terrific on ride video and photo offerings. (Is anyone else still surprised that there ISN’T a PhotoPass photo on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance???)
If you are wearing a Magic Band or a Magic Band+, your attraction photo and video will automatically be linked to your My Disney Experience account.
Photo: Disney Parks
If you don’t have a Magic Band or a Magic Band+, you can still have access to your ride photo and video by using the My Disney Experience app. To use the My Disney Experience app to capture your ride photo and video, follow the steps below.
Enable Bluetooth® for the My Disney Experience app before riding.
Make sure to be logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day.
Keep your device out of low power mode.
Make sure your mobile device boards the Lightcycle with you and is safely stored in the small Lightcycle compartment to use this method.
Will You Try the TRON Lightcycle/Run Virtual Queue?
Will you take your changes and try to get a boarding group for TRON Lightcycle/Run via the virtual queue? Or will you purchase an Individual Lightning Lane via Genie+ if it’s available? Individual Lightning Lane prices for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind peaked at $17-$18 last year during Thanksgiving week and again during Christmas week. How much would you be willing to pay to ride TRON Lightcycle/Run?
If you’d like to plan a trip to check TRON Lightcycle/Run out for yourself and you’d like a no obligation quote, email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com or call 630-538-1124 today!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
At long last, Disney has provided us with an update about a Toy Story Land table service restaurant announced way back in May 2019. Roundup Rodeo BBQ will be the first Toy Story Land table service restaurant. Disney now plans for Roundup Rodeo BBQ to open in Spring 2023. They aren’t committing to an exact date just yet, but I’m confident we will get an announcement in February 2023, if not sooner. I’m betting Disney will want to have this Toy Story Land table service restaurant up and running in time for spring break crowds in March and April 2023.
Concept Art for Roundup Rodeo BBQ
Roundup Rodeo BBQ
Disney originally announced that a table service restaurant was planned for Toy Story Land way back in 2019. Click here to read our original post about the announcement.
At that time, we hoped that Disney planned to open this restaurant in late 2020 or early 2021. Unfortunately, this project was one more project pushed back significantly by the pandemic and subsequent theme park closures in 2020. When the parks reopened, the halted construction projects were slow to resume. Projects that DID resume seemed to progress much more slowly than similar projects had in the past. No doubt, Disney was more cautious in light of the financial impact the park closures had on the bottom line.
Gradually, we have seen many of these projects finish and open, like Cosmic Rewind and Space 220 at Epcot. Other projects are taking longer than planned but are starting to show signs that they will be completed soon. For example, the long awaited Magic Kingdom attraction TRON Lightcycle/Run has been testing with actual people for the last week or two. (More on that coming soon).
Where is Roundup Rodeo BBQ located?
This new Toy Story Land table service restaurant will be located off to the right near the main Toy Story Land entrance. If you’ve been in the parks over the last couple of years, you may have noticed the construction walls running on the right as you approach the Toy Story Land sign and the giant Woody. (Don’t feel bad if you didn’t notice them or pay any attention–Disney doesn’t WANT you to notice them. They want you to stay in the magic and not see any construction going on until the new attraction, shop or restaurant are completed!)
Photo: Disney Photopass
Toy Story Land Table Service Restaurant: Will this be a Character Meal?
No. Disney has been VERY clear that Toy Story Land’s Roundup Rodeo table service restaurant will NOT be a character meal. It wouldn’t surprise me if there were occasional Woody or Jessie sightings at this new table service offering, but don’t count on seeing any characters in person at this restaurant.
Be Our Guest: The Beast Does a Walk Through (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
At Be Our Guest, the combination quick service and table service restaurant themed to Beauty and the Beast at the Magic Kingdom, the Beast occasionally will stroll through the dining rooms, allowing guests to catch a glimpse. Generally, he will stop and pose for a few moments to allow for photos and then he moves on.
I could see Disney doing something like that with this new Toy Story Land table service restaurant–but probably not at the beginning, and maybe not ever. It’s a great way to attract additional guests, but let’s face it: A new table service restaurant themed to Toy Story Land? That’s a guaranteed winner! I’m guessing this will quickly sell out as soon as the reservation windows open. Unless the food turns out to be terrible or something, this will likely be a very hot commodity for at least a couple of years.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Concept Art
What’s the Story for Toy Story Land Roundup Rodeo BBQ?
One of my favorite things about Disney is the Imagineers. There is a story for absolutely EVERYTHING at Walt Disney World. The details and theming are elements that keep fans coming back year after year, generation after generation.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ is no exception. The Imagineers have crafted a story that enables this new table service restaurant to fit right in to the Andy’s Backyard concept for all of Toy Story Land.
Andy has decided to build a rodeo restaurant for all his toys. He’s used his Woody’s Roundup toys, his imagination and lots of his other playthings to create a fun atmosphere for toys, kids and even grown-ups to enjoy!
Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Interior Photo: Disney Parks
Disney has released a couple of photos of the interior of Roundup Rodeo BBQ, which makes me even more optimistic that this new Toy Story Land table service restaurant really is on track to open early sprint 2023.
I love the bright colors of Toy Story Land, and was happy to see that even though Disney Imagineers are going with a Western theme for this restaurant, they are still bringing in the familiar colors, characters and elements that we all love from other parts of Toy Story land.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Interior Photo: Disney Parks
Disney promised that we will find lots of fun elements in Roudup Rodeo, including game boards featuring characters from the Toy Story films, a steam train supported by colored pencils (shown in the photo above), a cardboard box with hand drawn (by Andy of course) audience members, and comic strips featuring Woody’s adventures on the dining room ceiling!
What will we eat at this new table service restaurant?
One of the most important question that comes up whenever we talk about Disney and a new restaurant is “what is the food going to be like?”
The short answer? We aren’t really sure yet. Disney has been pretty vague so far, other than putting BBQ in the name of the restaurant. I don’t think I’m walking out too far on a limb when I say I think we can expect to have western and BBQ themed food!
Toy Story Land Table Service Restaurant Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Disney Parks
Seriously though, all Disney has told us so far is the the food will be barbeque inspired comfort foods, served family style. They’ve also said there will be platters of house-smoked meats, a roundup of sides and some miniature sweet surprises. Beyond that, Disney isn’t telling. YET.
I’m sure as we get closer to this new table service restaurant opening, we will get menus. As soon as I hear more about the food, I will update you all.
What will it cost?
The next question is of course, “what is the price point for this restaurant?” Unfortunately, Disney is also keeping quiet on this topic as well. At least for now. However, based on theming and the location, I’m fairly certain the pricing for this Toy Story Land table service restaurant will be moderate. I don’t think Disney is going for high end, white glove service for Roundup Rodeo. I’m expecting to something in line with the Regal Eagle quick service restaurant in America at Epcot. (See our article about that location here.) The Regal Eagle is quick service, so Roundup Rodeo BBQ prices will likely be a bit higher, but hopefully it will stay in this general range. Of course I will keep you all posted as I learn more.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Interior Photo: Disney Parks
What do YOU Think?
Are you excited about this new table service offering in Toy Story Land? Some of the challenges for guests in Toy Story Land are the lack of shade and lack of seating. I’m pretty happy that an air conditioned table service restaurant is coming–I like to take a little time at lunch (or dinner) to sit in the air conditioning and relax and eat. We like to recharge our batteries and since we are from the midwest, that Florida heat and humidity can really run us down sometimes. So I am ALWAYS a fan when I can make reservations as part of my planning, and guarantee my family a chance to sit down in A/C and enjoy a meal.
I’m already reworking my plan for our annual Mother/Daughter Flower & Garden Festival trip to make sure I can try and get us a reservation at Roundup Rodeo BBQ. After all, we have to do a review for all of you, don’t we?
Please let me know in the comments below if you will be adding this to your “Must Do” list or if you’ll wait and see how it turns out.
If you want to get planning on a trip for 2023 to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios and investigate this new Toy Story Land table service restaurant for yourself, please contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a no-obligation quote.
We’ve all been waiting for this announcement. Well, maybe not ALL of us. But many Walt Disney World fans HAVE been waiting and wondering and asking, “When will Splash Mountain Close?” Ever since the announcement in 2020 that Splash Mountain would close and be replaced by a Princess and the Frog themed Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, many fans have wondered WHEN? Today, we have our answer. Splash Mountain will close on January 23, 2023.
Splash Mountain PhotoPass Photo Don’t we all have at least a few of these?
If you want to make sure you ride Splash Mountain one more time before it closes, make your reservations NOW. The last day you will be able to ride is January 22, 2023. Then Splash Mountain will close forever. When the attraction at this location opens in late 2024, it will be as a new attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening 2024
What do we know about the new attraction?
We don’t know a whole lot yet about the new attraction. Here’s what we DO know. It will still be a water ride. It will still (most likely) be the same basic attraction that Splash Mountain was. It will be completely rethemed. The queue will likely get some new theming elements, but will likely remain materially the same. This refurbishment/retheming project will take 18-24 months to complete. Currently, all the promotional materials indicate the new attraction will open in 2024. I suspect it will open sometime in the fourth quarter of 2024, assuming everything goes as expected during the refurbishment/retheming. Any serious setbacks and this attraction opening will likely move to 2025.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
The new version of this water ride is going to be themed to feature the Princess and the Frog. I’m very excited about this. I loved this movie, I thought it was very fun. Tiana is a beautiful princess with a lot of spunk, and I loved many of the other characters in the movie. I love that Disney is bringing more diversity into the parks and trying to include more diversity in the attractions as well. There is still a long way to go, but I’m happy to see Disney investing some time and money in an attraction themed to this movie.
Concept Art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Disney has not yet released much concept art for this attraction. I think we will see more concept art after Splash Mountain closes. Once he actual project to refurbish and retheme the attraction has begun, Disney will want us to start getting excited about the new attraction.
One piece of concept art I’ve seen so far, above, shows Tiana in hiking clothes, across the water from her jazz loving alligator friend, Louis. From what I’m hearing this attraction will be filled jazz music and the fun of New Orleans and Mardi Gras!
Concept Art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
It sounds like Disney wants to make Tiana’s Bayou Adventure an immersive experience for guest and a tribute to the warmth, the music and the people of Louisiana. I’m really looking forward to seeing what they’re going to do with this attraction.
What about Splash Mountain at Disneyland?
Disney has not yet announced when Splash Mountain at Disneyland will close, but I don’t think it will be far behind its Florida brother. Again, if you want to make sure to get “one last ride” in on Splash Mountain before it is gone for good, make a plan to do that VERY soon.
Are you ready for Splash Mountain to Close?
You’ve had almost three years to prepare yourself. Are you ready for Splash Mountain to close forever? Remember, we’re not losing a great water ride–we will still have that. In fact, the new version MIGHT even be better. It’s always a possibility.
How do you feel? Are you excited about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
And if you want to plan that last minute trip for January to go ride Splash Mountain one more time? Remember, I’m here for you. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a no obligation quote.
Great news! Tomorrowland’s upcoming attraction, TRON Lightcycle/Run, has passed another major milestone on it’s way to completion. This week, Disney took delivery of the ride vehicles themselves.
A long awaited Magic Kingdom attraction, TRON Lightcycle/Run has been a work in progress for YEARS at this point. Originally planned to open in time for Disney World’s 50th Anniversary celebration in October 2021, TRON Lightcycle/Run was understandably delayed by the Coronavirus pandemic, the Disney World shutdown, and subsequent cost cutting measures, supply chain issues and staffing challenges.
If you’d like to review our previous stories about TRON, please visit here or here.
The Look
The big question we all have at this point: what will the TRON Lightcycle/Run Cycles look like? Here’s our first look:
TRON Lightcycle/Run Cycles Photo: Disney Parks
As you can see from looking at the photo above, these are not your typical “coaster” ride vehicles. Rather than sitting into a seat in a car or train like vehicle, riders will ride on a futuristic looking motorcycle-like vehicle. The rider will lean forward to grasp handle bar attachments.
Here’s an image from the concept art showing a TRON Lightcycle/Run rider in motion.
Tron Billboard, visible from Storybook Circus
Cycle Testing
Now that the Cycles have arrived, Disney will begin testing the vehicles on the track for the new attraction. Disney Imagineers have described this phase as “push/pull” testing, where sections of the new seven vehicle trains will be moved slowly along the entire track.
Once the team has determined the track is ready, the trains will begin launching at higher speeds–eventually reaching full speed launches as the ride nears completion.
Watching TRON Lightcycle/Run Testing
One of the things I have enjoyed most about this particular project is how much of it has been visible to park guests throughout construction. TRON Lightcycle/Run is located near the back of Tomorrowland, and the project has been clearly visible from the PeopleMover throughout construction. In addition, as the large canopy has been constructed, it’s been visible from almost everywhere in Tomorrowland.
Here are a couple of pictures we took from the PeopleMover during out October visit.
TRON Lightcycle Construction, viewed from People Mover Photo: Brooke HudsonTRON Lightcycle Construction, viewed from People Mover Photo: Brooke Hudson
Now, as vehicle testing begins, observant guests will likely have the opportunity to see vehicles moving at varying speeds along the track that is visible beneath the canopy. I can’t wait to see this attraction in it’s latest phase during our upcoming trip in May!
When Will TRON Lightcycle/Run Open?
Short answer? We don’t know. Disney has been keeping even a HINT of an opening date for this attraction under wraps. I think when they had to postpone and miss the big 50th Anniversary opening, they may have gotten a little gunshy about setting guest expectations for an opening date for this attraction.
I’m sure there is a lot of work still to come. After all, I’ve seen no signs of an gift shop construction for this attraction yet, and we KNOW that Disney attractions MUST end at a gift shop whenever possible!! In all seriousness though, I suspect Disney is trying to open this attraction later this year. Magic Kingdom has needed a new “exciting” attraction for a while now. The “new” has gone from New Fantasyland, and while Seven Dwarfs Mine Train remains one of the most popular attractions in the park, it no longer has that shiny new attraction vibe.
Tron Lightcycle/Run Grid Installed at Magic Kingdom (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)
Other signs point to TRON nearing the end of it’s construction cycle (no pun intended) as well. The Walt Disney World Railroad, closed for YEARS now as the track that runs behind Tomorrowland was swallowed up by TRON construction, has begun testing at Magic Kingdom. I’m almost as excited about the return of the Walt Disney World Railroad as I am about the upcoming attraction, TRON Lightcycle/Run.
How are you feeling about TRON’s progress? Are you tired of hearing about it? Ready to ride? Or just ready for a ride around the park on the Railroad?
Happy dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
Disney World parks have now been reopened for two weeks. How it’s going seems to depend a lot on who you talk to. Now that the dust has settled a little bit on the reopening, we wanted to update you on a few announcements Disney has made since the parks reopened. Disney has announced Disney attraction closures, both temporary and permanent. There are also several highly anticipated upcoming attractions that have been put on the back burner, modified or cancelled altogether.
Resort Opening Changes
Disney has decided NOT to reopen Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Boardwalk Inn until further notice. Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter and Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resorts will both remain closed until further notice. In addition, the three All Star value resorts and Pop Century resorts remain closed at this time.
Disney has pushed back the reopening of both Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Here is the new schedule of the resorts that are scheduled to reopen this year.
July 29:Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
August 24: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
September 21: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
October 4: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
October 14: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
November 1: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
It is important to remember that all these dates are still subject to change. Disney continues to evaluate the health situation and what is happening in the state of Florida.
Spaceship Earth Refurbishment
Previously, Disney had planned to close Spaceship Earth in May 2020 for a two to three year refurbishment. Read about that here.
When the parks reopened, fans were happy to see that Spaceship Earth reopened, right along with the rest of EPCOT attractions. Shortly after reopening, Disney announced that plans to refurbish/reimagine Spaceship Earth had been paused indefinitely.
Spaceship Earth (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)
At this time, no additional information has been released. If you’ve ridden Spaceship Earth anytime over the last year or two, you’ve probably noticed that it needs refurbishment. Some areas of the ride, and many of the ride vehicles look worn.
Why the pause? In short: Money. Disney lost more than $1 billion during the first month the parks were closed, and when the next quarter’s results are released, that loss will no doubt be mind boggling large. As a result, it is likely that Disney will be scaling back on planned projects, or even canceling projects to control spending until the parks start to recover financially. This, unfortunately, is likely to take YEARS.
We suspect that Spaceship Earth will close at some point either in 2021 or 2022 for a few months for cleaning and refurbishment, but it is doubtful that the substantial refurbishment originally planned will happen at all. This is not official, this is just our opinion. On the upside, if you are planning to visit the parks over the next 18 months, most likely Spaceship Earth will be open.
Mary Poppins Attraction
For as long as Disney has been building attractions, there have been rumors that a Mary Poppins themed attraction would be built. For many, the very brief Mary Poppins scene in the now-gone Great Movie Ride was a favorite scene. When Mary Poppins Returns was released in 2018, a resurgence of interest in Mary Poppins was born. When Disney announced that at long last, a Mary Poppins themed attraction was going to land in the UK Pavilion at EPCOT, many fans were THRILLED. While very few details were ever released about the planned attraction, it was officially announced. The attraction was included in the presentation at the Epcot Experience in the Odyssey Events Pavilion. The attraction has now been removed from that presentation.
Disney officially announced that the planned Mary Poppins attraction has been “postponed”. In this case, it is likely that the attraction will never materialize. It doesn’t appear that the attraction had gotten very far down the imagineering road, and given the financial losses Disney sustained this year? It doesn’t look good for our girl Mary. Hopefully, we are wrong, and we will eventually see this attraction move ahead. It is unlikely to happen for several years, however, and we suspect other properties will be higher priorities by then.
Disney Attraction Closures
Along with announcing postponements, Disney also announced some attraction closures. For the most part, these were not surprising.
Stitch’s Great Escape
Disney has permanently closed Stitch’s Great Escape. This controversial ride was (in our opinion) a ham fisted overlay of the failed scary attraction, Alien Adventure. After many guest complained, Alien Adventure was closed and a new “story” was created to make the attraction less scary and more funny, using the same basic attraction features. Stitch was stuck into the “story”, assumably to attract younger children and families to try the new version of the attraction.
The attraction was never very popular. In our opinion, it didn’t really work. The story was neither fun nor funny, and including Stitch didn’t really make much sense. The ride wasn’t as scary, it was more gross—and while that can be both fun and funny, in this case…it really wasn’t.
For the last couple of years, Stitch’s Great Escape has been closed more than it’s been opening. The attraction has opened a few times a year when crowds are particularly high to try and give people another attraction to visit. Disney’s decision to permanently close the attraction and no longer use it for overflow suggests it wasn’t really working in that capacity either. We suspect even the most loyal Stitch fan will not be sorry to see this attraction go.
We hope this space will be used for a really terrific Tomorrowland attraction at some point in the future. Unfortunately, this is unlikely to happen any time in the next 2-5 years.
Primeval Whirl
Primeval Whirl is another not-very-popular attraction that is now officially closed, per Disney’s recent announcement. Located in Dinoland at Animal Kingdom, Primeval Whirl is part of the “carnival” section of Dinoland. It’s very much an “off the shelf” attraction, similar to basic attractions you’d find at an actual carnival or very basic theme park. It certainly lacked any “Disney Magic”.
Much like Stitch’s Great Escape, Primeval Whirl has been mostly closed for the last couple of years. Disney opened Primeval Whirl occasionally, when crowds were especially high. We doubt there is a plan to replace Primeval Whirl. Likely, Disney just decided to close it permanently to reduce training and operating costs for a rarely used, unpopular attraction.
Rivers of Light
The announcement that Animal Kingdom’s nighttime show, Rivers of Light, would NOT be returning permanently was a surprise and a disappointment. Part of the Animal Kingdom expansion when Disney decided the park needed to be a full day “experience”, Rivers of Light was a unique nighttime show unlike anything else on Disney property.
Disney built a gorgeous waterside theater near the Finding Nemo the Musical theater to house Rivers of Light when it was designed. Because of the animals, nighttime entertainment at Animal Kingdom cannot include fireworks, explosions or loud pyrotechnics like we are used to seeing at most Disney nighttime shows.
Animal Kingdom’s Rivers of Light (Photo:Disney Parks)
Rivers of Light uses hauntingly beautiful music, stained glass floats, dancing waters and water projections to entertain. It’s a slower, quieter show, but very beautiful to look at and a nice way to unwind at the end of a busy day.
We are disappointed that Disney will not be bringing the show back, but we hope those beautiful floats and that theater will be used for SOMETHING in the future. Again, due to financial constraints, it is unlikely we will see anything for a few years. (SIGH).
Projects in Process
There are quite a few projects in process around Walt Disney World. Unfortunately, we don’t know the current status on most of these projects. We are assuming work is progressing, but we’ve had no announcements.
For example, the Ratatouille themed attraction originally slated to open in “Summer 2020” has not opened. The signs outside the attraction building that used to say “Summer 2020” have been removed. The attraction was in fairly good shape prior to the parks closing in March. We would have thought the attraction would be opening perhaps late summer or early fall at the latest, based on construction delays caused by Covid-19. However, Disney has not made any announcements or been talking about this attraction at all. We suspect that with the parks opened with limited capacity and the health crisis still looming, Disney has decided to save this attraction for when the parks are welcoming more guests, and they can generate positive buzz for the attraction. Just speculation on our part, but we think they may want a bigger “good news” announcement than they would likely get right now.
Space 220 Concept Art, Disney Parks
Similarly, Space 220 is a new table service restaurant, originally planned to open late 2019 and pushed back to Summer 2020. There has been no news on this restaurant for months, so we suspect it will not open this year. We hope to be wrong as we are very anxious to check this one out. Unfortunately, we doubt we are wrong.
Big Coming Attractions
The Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster and the Tron Lightcycle coaster ride are both projects scheduled for completion sometime in 2021. We’ve had no information on these, but hopefully they are still on track.
Tron Billboard, visible from Storybook Circus
We’ve also had no significant updates on the reconfiguring of EPCOT’s main entrance and future world. This is another project not expected to finish until sometime next year. This is a project that we think will be scaled WAY back from the original plans. It will be interesting to see what happens with this fairly massive project over the next 12 months.
Disney Attraction Closures: What About the PARKS???
The big question, of course, is will Walt Disney World close the parks again. We just don’t know the answer to that one. It is possible, especially considering how fast new cases are emerging in Florida every day. While we are confident that Disney will do everything in its power to keep from closing down, they also don’t want to jeopardize public health, their image or their bottom line. There are a lot of things that could (and should) factor into a decision to close the parks again. Hopefully, it will not become necessary. We will keep you posted as we learn more in the days ahead!
Are you upset or worried by any of the closures or postponements mentioned above? Please like this post and comment below.
In preparation for next year’s big 50th Anniversary celebration, construction projects are ongoing throughout Walt Disney World. I’ve been wondering what Disney had in store for my beloved Cinderella Castle. Honestly, I’ve been worried. In previous years, they have done some questionable things to the castle. But now the mystery is over. Disney has officially announced that Cinderella Castle is getting a makeover.
25th Anniversary: Cinderella Castle Becomes a Giant Birthday Cake
Here’s one of the reasons I was worried. Does anyone else remember (with horror) the “birthday cake” Cinderella Castle that Disney did for the 25th Anniversary? If they’d done if for a day or a week, I probably wouldn’t cry every time I think about it, but it stayed like this for more than a year!!! They painted the castle bright PINK. Now I like pink as much as the next girl, but not on Cinderella Castle for goodness sake! As if the pink wasn’t bad enough, they attached all these inflatable things. It was AWFUL. I mean, the concept was cute I guess. But the beautiful Cinderella Castle looked like this for more than a year. 1996 was NOT a good year for Cinderella. I think maybe she let her Fairy Godmother decorate after a few too many nightcaps!
Cinderella Castle as a giant birthday cake for the 25th Anniversary of the Magic Kingdom (Photo: Disney Parks)
50th Anniversary: Cinderella Castle is Getting a Makeover
Fortunately, it looks like I didn’t need to worry. For this anniversary, Disney has decided to go classy instead of tacky. Disney announced this week that Cinderella Castle is getting a makeover. The castle is going to be repainted and additional gold accents are being added. I’m assuming all the gold is in recognition of the golden anniversary. If you aren’t already familiar, a 50th anniversary is the golden anniversary. Magic Kingdom opened in October 1971. October 2021 will be the 50th (golden) Anniversary for the Magic Kingdom, and by extension, Walt Disney World. Magic Kingdom was the only park at Walt Disney World until Epcot opened in 1982.
Here’s the concept art that Disney has released showing what Cinderella Castle will look like after its makeover.
Concept Art – Disney Parks
What do you think? I think it looks pretty good. This is pink, but it is not the hideous BRIGHT pink of the 25th anniversary. I think the gold accents and trip pieces look pretty, and will likely be sparkly in the Florida sunshine. There are a lot of scary things Disney could have done to the Castle for the big anniversary. I am relieved that they have chosen to go classy.
The Downside of Cinderella Castle Getting a Makeover
Unfortunately, there is a downside to Cinderella Castle getting a makeover. In all likelihood, this repair work is will last all summer and possibly into the fall. This will mean scaffolding around the castle. It could mean crane work. I’m not sure exactly what will be involved, or how dramatic the equipment and workers around the Castle will be.
I know everybody always complains when the crane is out for a couple of weeks in the fall to put the icicle lights on the castle for Christmas. People often get upset about the crane being in their pictures. I know I have a series of crane Castle pictures that I don’t love.
Nonetheless, I expected Disney was going to do something with Cinderella Castle for the big 50th Anniversary. If they’re going to do something, this is about the least offensive thing they could do. I also don’t think it’s gonna take a super long time to complete. Hopefully by the end of the summer, this will be a completed project. It’s likely they will do the work in phases. For example, they will have scaffolding on one area of the Castle at a time, so the whole Castle won’t be covered. This way, guests will be able to get pictures from certain angles without scaffolding in their photos.
It’s All About the Attitude
I recommend that if you are visiting Walt Disney World this summer, know that you are likely to see scaffolding on the castle. I understand that is disappointing. Cinderella Castle is a beautiful icon and I completely understand that you want great pictures from your vacation. Mostly likely, you were not planning to have scaffolding or other construction equipment or workers in your photos. I get it. However, keep in mind there are a TON of other locations around the parks where you will get fabulous pictures that won’t feature scaffolding.
Additionally, I suspect there will be some angles of the Castle that will still be lovely and without scaffolding. Perhaps from the rear of the Castle. The Castle is actually very lovely from the back. The Castle is also very lovely from each side. I believe there will be angles for photos where the scaffolding won’t be an issue. However, I don’t know that for sure. Disney hasn’t shared how they’re going to approach this project. They also haven’t given us a firm end date for the project. So far, they’ve just indicated the work will begin soon, and will continue throughout the summer. So, if you are visiting this summer, you are going to probably going to see the Castle in process of being painted.
Cinderella Castle at Dawn (Photo: Disney Parks)
Look on the Bright Side
On the other hand, if you have Castle scaffolding in your pictures, you are getting a very unique picture. This isn’t a common occurrence, and not many guests will see this project while its underway. So if you ARE visiting this summer, try to have as positive an attitude as possible about the project, and manage your expectations. If you expect there to be a lot of scaffolding, and when you arrive, there’s only a small amount, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I’m a big believer in your attitude determining how terrific (or not) your vacation is. Read this post for more on this topic.
The Good News
There is some good news here. Of course, first and foremost, Cinderella Castle is going to look beautiful when it’s finished. The popular daytime show, Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire, that takes place multiple times each day on the Castle Forecourt Stage, will not be disrupted according to Disney. It’s a cute show that features the Fab 5 and has a little fireworks at the end. This show will go on, which I think implies Disney is not doing major construction. They’re just putting up scaffolding and painting, primarily. This will be a relatively minor incursion into the public Castle spaces.
Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney also stated that Cinderella’s Royal Table and the Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo Boutique will not be affected. This should mean you will still be able to walk through the Castle throughout the day to access Cinderella’s Royal Table and the Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo Boutique.
Happily Ever After
Disney has also promised that Happily Ever After will not be affected by the makeover for Cinderella Castle. Happily Ever After is the nighttime fireworks spectacular choreographed to music. The show is filled with lots of intensely colorful projections of scenes and animation onto Cinderella Castle. I interpret this statement from Disney to mean that all of the projections currently shown on the Castle during the show will continue to be shown. I’m guessing that we won’t even notice any scaffolding during the show. The projections are so bright and so detailed and play such clever tricks on our eyes, I suspect they will obscure any actual construction materials. The nightly fireworks show is an integral part of any visit to the Magic Kingdom for many guests, so I am happy that the show will not be affected by the makeover project.
Happily Ever After (Photo: Disney Parks)
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Cinderella Castle getting a makeover is a good thing. I’m very happy that Disney is taking the 50th Anniversary so seriously. They’ve been sprucing up all over the parks and throughout Walt Disney World property in preparation. Epcot is getting a major update, some of which has been needed for a very long time. A number of new attractions are coming over the next year, too. The new Tron coaster at Magic Kingdom, the Guardians of the Galaxy Coaster at Epcot. We getting the Ratatouille attraction in Epcot this summer, as well as a new quick service restaurant in France. Almost every country in Epcot that has a film in their pavilion has gotten or is getting a new film. Hollywood Studios is practically bursting at the seams now with all the new stuff that has come on line in the last year!
There are a lot of really positive things going on right now. There have been some years that pretty big anniversaries were not recognized or celebrated at all. I’m happy that the 50th is a really big deal for Disney. I think the park next year, 2021, especially in the fall is going to be amazing. I really think if you can come in the fall of 2021 you’re going to see all four parks and in general Disney property in the most beautiful condition it’s ever been in. It’s all very exciting.
What Do YOU Think?
Please comment below with your thoughts. What do you think? Are are you looking forward to this makeover? Do you think the project is necessary? Were you hoping they were going to do another birthday cake? (I know there are some of you out there!)
If you haven’t started planning or 2021 trip yet, it’s time! I’d love to help you have a magical Disney vacation. Please reach out to brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
Disney’s newest attraction, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, opens March 4, 2020 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is the first attraction in Disney parks history to actually feature our beloved Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Other favorite Disney classic cartoon characters will also be making an appearance. Fast Pass+ reservations are now available for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway for rides on March 4 or later.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ Reservations Available NOW
Earlier this week, we talked about the new Fast Pass tiers for Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Significant changes were made to Tier One, removing all the rides previously in that Tier except for Slinky Dog Dash. Disney also added Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run to Tier One. Now, Disney has made another addition to Tier One. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations can now be made, but the new attraction is in Tier One, which means you will have to make a tough choice.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Queue Concept Art (Disney Parks)
Fast Pass+ Reservation Refresher
If you aren’t familiar with the two tier structure for Fast Pass+ reservations, here’s a quick refresher. You can book 3 Fast Pass+ reservations per day for each day of your trip (as long as you have a park ticket for that day). If you are staying on Disney property, you can book your Fast Pass+ reservations 60 days prior to your visit. If you’re staying off property, your window opens at 30 days prior to your visit. Your three Fast Pass+ reservations for each day must all be in the same Disney park. The system will not let you book two Fast Pass+ reservations in Magic Kingdom, and then one Fast Pass+ reservation at Animal Kingdom. Maybe someday that will be an option, but it is not at this time.
Slinky Dog Dash Fast Pass and Standby Entrance (Photo: Disney Parks)
When you go to book your Fast Pass+ reservations for a particular day, the first step will be to choose which park you plan to visit that day. Then, you will be prompted to choose which members of your party you want to book Fast Pass+ reservations. You can book Fast Pass+ reservations for your whole family at once, which is a nice time saver.
At Hollywood Studios, Epcot and Animal Kingdom, there is a Two Tier structure for Fast Pass+ reservations. The most popular attractions are generally in Tier One, and the rest of the parks’ attractions and/or shows are in Tier Two. You will be able to select ONE of your three Fast Pass+ reservations from Tier One, and the other TWO will come from Tier Two.
Example
For example, at Hollywood Studios, there are now three attractions in Tier One. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Slinky Dog Roller Coaster, and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. You can choose ONE of these three attractions for your first Fast Pass+ reservation, assuming Fast Pass+ reservations remain for these attractions. Note: If the system does not offer you any Tier One/Tier Two breakdown for Animal Kingdom, Epcot, or Hollywood Studios, it means that all the Tier One attraction Fast Pass+ are gone for that day. You will be choosing all three of your Fast Pass+ reservations from the Tier Two attractions.
Fast Pass+ Strategy Suggestions
If you are currently planning a trip for later this spring or summer, my recommendation for Fast Pass+ reservation planning at Hollywood Studios is as follows. For your Tier One Fast Pass+, I suggest you book Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway if it’s available. Traditionally, new attractions have the longest lines as EVERYONE always wants to ride the latest, newest thing. Theoretically, this attraction will be able to move a lot of guests through per hour, so the lines may move quickly, but we don’t know that yet. I may change my recommendation once the attraction has been open for a while and we’ve had a chance to see how the standby line moves. However, right now, I’m saying book your Fast Pass+ for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway if you can.
Photo: Disney Parks
If Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations are all gone by the time you are able to book, I would book Slinky Dog Dash Fast Pass+ reservations. This remains an incredibly popular attraction, and it does not move as many people per hour as a typical dark ride, so the lines tend to stay long throughout the day. I don’t think you really need to a Fast Pass+ for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run unless your trip plan requires you ride it in the morning. The lines are longest in the morning as everyone rushes to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge first thing. The ride does move a lot of people through each hour, and generally, the lines move quickly during the afternoon and evening.
If you have a trip scheduled in the next 60 days
If you’ve already booked Fast Pass+ reservations for your upcoming trip and ended up with Tier Two attractions you aren’t excited about, you may want to go in and make changes. I suspect a lot of Fast Pass+ reservations will be dropped as people replace them with Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations.
Also, if you are DYING to ride Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (and you should be, I’m hearing terrific things!), you may want to go in and re-do your Fast Pass+ reservations anyway. I say go for it!
Where is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance?
Until Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is Disney’s newest attraction. Many of you may be wondering how you’ll get a Fast Pass+ reservation for this attraction. The short answer: you won’t. At least not in the current season. Rise of the Resistance is currently using a virtual queue system. Once you are in the park, you request a Boarding Group. As long as Boarding Groups remain available, you will be added to a Boarding Group, and given a time to go to the attraction and ride.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
The good news: you don’t have to use one of your three Fast Pass+ reservations for this attraction. The bad news: Boarding Groups for Rise of the Resistance fill up fast every day, and there is no guarantee that you will get a Boarding Group at all. In addition, if you DO get a Boarding Group, but it’s a high number, there is no guarantee that you will be able to ride. Check out our Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance review for more information.
My theory is that once Disney gets all the kinks worked out, the virtual queue for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will go away, and Rise of the Resistance will be added to Tier One for Disney’s Hollywood Studios Fast Pass+ reservations. I could be wrong; they also may come up with a smoother, more reliable way for the virtual queue to operate. I will keep you posted as we learn more.
New Marquee is up at the Chinese Theater
Earlier this week, Disney unveiled the new marquee (sign) for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at the Chinese Theater. Formerly the home of the Great Movie Ride, the Chinese Theater will soon be featuring a ride in the cartoon world of Minnie and Mickey and their friends. The new marquee sign is colorful and a little reminiscent (at least to me) of the former Great Movie Ride.
The new sign is in place, but won’t light up until the ride officially opens on March 4, 2020. However, someone we know and love MAY have snuck in to try the lights out a little early. Take a look:
A little cheesy, but fun, nonetheless. Gotta love Goofy.
Take a close up look at the new marquee.
New Marquee for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Photo: Disney Parks)
Note: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is coming to Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Park in California in 2022.
Classic Dark Ride or Something Totally New?
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be something we haven’t seen before. I mean, how has Disney been in the theme park business for more than 50 years and NEVER had an attraction featuring Mickey Mouse? That seems so crazy to me.
Imagineer at Work (Photo: Disney Parks)
The new attraction IS a classic dark ride, in that it is a (mostly) constantly moving ride system (think Haunted Mansion, It’s a Small World, or Pirates of the Caribbean). However, we are entering Mickey & Minnie’s world here, and it’s not like our world at ALL. We are entering the cartoon world via a train with Goofy as the conductor. I mean, what could possibly go wrong? The animation featured throughout the attraction is modeled on the Emmy award winning Disney shorts currently airing on the Disney Channel.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
I think we can expect great special effects and lots of colorful craziness. And of course, what would any dark ride be without a memorable theme song? I am confident that Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will gift us a theme song that will haunt us the rest of the day.
All Ages and Heights Can Ride!
There are no height restrictions for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, so kids of ALL ages can ride. Like most dark rides, it initially appears that you will be leaving the strollers and/or wheelchairs behind, and transferring to the ride vehicle. Disney has not yet released specific information regarding wheelchair accommodation, so I’m basing this on most other Disney attractions.
Are you excited?
So, are you rushing to book your Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations? Are you excited to ride this new attraction? I’ve been so impressed with Disney’s new lands and attractions in recent years (Pandora, Star Wars, Flight of Passage, Rise of the Resistance), I can’t help but be excited. I’m still sad the Great Movie Ride is gone, though. I probably won’t ever get over that. (I know, I know. Change is GOOD. I’m trying!) Nonetheless, it’s gone, and I’m hoping Disney is going to knock our socks off with this newest attraction. Please comment below with your thoughts!
It’s finally time! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is HERE!! In just a few days, Walt Disney World guests will be able visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios. I am so excited to get in there and take a look. Even though we’ve already had lots of reports out of Disneyland visitors to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, I really want to check out the land at Hollywood Studios.
I don’t expect many differences, based on what I have heard so far, but you never know! Until we can all get in there and take a look, hear the sounds and smell the smells—anything is possible.
A View From Above
Disney release this terrific video with an aerial view of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Take a look below:
How cool is that??
TIME Magazine: World’s Greatest Places
Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2019 includes Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. (Photo: Disney Parks)
TIME Magazine has included Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in this year’s list of the World’s Greatest Places. Each year, TIME Magazine releases a list of 100 of the World’s Greatest Places, featuring destinations that offer visitors groundbreaking, unique experiences. It’s a great honor that TIME has recognized Disney’s newest theme park achievement, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
TIME Magazine took a look at a variety of factors when evaluating Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including innovation, originality, quality, influence and sustainability.
More Than 1,000,000 Smugglers Served
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at Disneyland on May 31, 2019. Already, Millenium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run has proven to be an extremely popular attraction. Already, more than 1,000,000 guests have experienced the fun of this exciting attraction!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon- Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)
The largest themed land in Disney parks history, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has astonished and amazed guests. Guests have raved about the many immersive experiences and adventures they’ve had while visiting Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu in a galaxy far, far away.
An Aerial View of the Famed Millenium Falcon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. (Photo: Disney Parks)
Rise of the Resistance
Recently, Disney announced that the second, highly anticipated attraction planned for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Rise of the Resistance, will open in Florida at Hollywood Studios in late December.
Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will join the resistance with their version of the attraction opening in late January 2020.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)
Take a look at this post-there’s a teaser trailer for Rise of the Resistance, as well as some info about the music we’ll hear throughout Black Spire Outpost.
Dressing for Success
Many guests planning to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge want to “look the part” and join in the immersive World as much as possible. For some, this means choosing outfits that might blend in with the “locals” on Black Spire Outpost.
Photo: Disney Parks
For children 13 and under, costumes ARE allowed. This can include masks, as long as the eye openings allow the eyes to be fully visible beneath the mask, and as long as the mask permits good peripheral vision.
Costumes and masks cannot be worn by adults (or children 14 or older) at any time, except in the event of special events (like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party) that specifically allow costumes and have their own rules.
While Disney encourages adult guest to dress in looks inspired by the Star Wars films, or specifically to choose outfits inspired by Batuu residents, there are some big no-nos.
There are First Order Storm Troopers patrolling Black Spire Outpost so any armor, uniforms, helmets or weapons are prohibited.
Photo: Disney Parks
Chewbacca is a frequent visitor to Black Spire Outpost, so to avoid any confusion or conflict, no other Wookiees are allowed.
Disney recommends that guests wishing to fit in with the locals choose muted earth tone colors, and consider natural fiber fabrics with a handmade or rugged look.
Here’s some Disney approved examples:
Photo: Disney Parks
Please review Disney’s guidelines for guest attire here if you have more questions.
Out of This World Grub
Are you ready to try some food from another galaxy? Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has LOTS to offer. Guest reviews of the food at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland have been great, so I’m very excited to get to Hollywood Studios and try some of this out of this world food for myself!
Check out the feedback from these visitors:
I really want to try some of that Blue Milk. Don’t you?
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Beverages: Blue Milk and Green Milk can be found at the Milk Stand. (Photo: David Roark/Disney Parks)
Bonus: Mobile Ordering will be available for Ronto Roasters, the Milk Stand, and Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo to help reduce time spent in lines!
Have You Planned Your Adventure?
I can’t believe the long awaited opening date for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios is finally here! Are you ready? Have you planned your first visit to Black Spire Outpost yet?
Please like this post and comment below with when you will be visiting a galaxy far, far away.
It’s not too late to book your adventure for this year, if you’re on the fence. Contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for more information.
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. For more information on what Cast Members will be wearing on Black Spire Outpost, check out this post.
P.P.S For more information about food and beverages coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge look here.
Great news! Disney has announced that the new Skyliner Transportation system will officially open for Disney World guests on September 29! Testing has been going on for several months now, and I don’t know about you, but I have been DYING for the official announcement of WHEN the Skyliner gondolas would be ready for passengers. And finally, we have our answer! The Skyliner gondolas will be ready for YOU to ride on September 29, 2019. Whooooooo Hoooooo!
Disney released this happy video along with the announcement:
Surprised?
I’m a teensy surprised that the Gondolas won’t be “LIVE” before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Hollywood Studios on August 29. I had thought Disney would try and open the Skyliner Transporation System before that deadline to provide additional transportation options for guests, PLUS provide another “attraction” to absorb guests. My thought was Skyliner Gondolas could help with crowd management. However, it makes sense that it opens a month later. I suspect Disney has their hands full already with making sure they are ready for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge when it opens.
Photo: Disney Parks
How gorgeous does that look? I mean, seriously! I am SUPER excited to ride one of these Gondolas through the whole route. Remember: The Skyliner Transportation System will visit four resorts, plus Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Here are the four resorts:
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s NEW Riviera Resort (opens in December)
Just the Facts, Ma’m.
TECHNICALLY, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort are sharing one Skyliner Station. The Station is located on the lake between the two resorts and is a short walk from either resort. So, one stop on the Skyliner Transportation System, but TWO resorts served. More bang for the buck, I guess. But it sounds like the line goes further than it does when I say it goes to four resorts and two theme parks, so I wanted to clarify.
Skyliner Station Pop Century/Art of Animation Photo Credit: Amy Micari
There are more than 300 gondolas on the Skyliner Transportation line. Each gondola (also being called “cabins”) can seat up to ten guests. All gondolas are wheelchair accessible, according to Disney.
I’ve done several articles about the Skyliner system previously. If you’d like to check those out, please go to any of the links below:
So, does knowing Skyliner Gondolas will officially open on September 29 have any impact on your vacation plans for this year? If you’ve been on the fence about a Fall 2019 visit to Disney World, does this push you over the edge? What about Holiday 2019 planning? Does the official opening of the Skyliner system make you MORE eager to visit Disney World for the Holidays this year?
There are still some great packages available for fall, and I’m expecting holiday 2019 packages to be released any day now. If you’re thinking about visiting Disney in 2019, NOW is the time to plan. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for more information or to get started!
