Tag: #Disney2019constructionprojects

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway Opens March 2020

We finally have an opening date for Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway  coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios next spring!  Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens March 4, 2020 in Florida.  In more good news, the attraction will roll into Disneyland Park in 2022.

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Replacing The Great Movie Ride

When Disney originally announced that longtime favorite “The Great Movie Ride” was being replaced by a new attraction, I was heartbroken.  I don’t know about you, but I always loved The Great Movie Ride.  Granted, it desperately needed some updating.  Nonetheless, it was classic, and one of the few attractions left from the days when Disney Hollywood Studios was  focused on the “movies”.

These days, most of the “Studios” has left Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  There doesn’t seem to be much of the original focus on the “magic of the movies” left.  Hollywood Studios has continued to be a beautiful park, and feature favorite attractions like the Rock n Roll Roller Coaster and the Tower of Terror–but what the heck do either of these have to do with MOVIES?????

Disney Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror Holiday
Disney Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror Holiday

However, with the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge this year and Toy Story Land last year, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has returned to a MUST NOT MISS park after a few years of construction and many closed attractions (to make way for Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge).

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway
Disney Parks: Concept Art

Adding this new attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, is sure to add even more juice to a park that is currently fairly jam packed with must-do attractions.  Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway has no height or age restrictions.  Hopefully this new attraction will appeal to guests of all ages.

Disney released a short video featuring the new attraction.  Check it out below:

Can you believe Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be the first theme park ride to actually feature Mickey Mouse and his friends??  How crazy does that seem?  It all started with a mouse. Mickey’s all over the parks, but he’s never had his own ride before.

Disney Parks Concept Art

That all changes with Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.  And in a not-so-surprising twist, this attraction will feature more “hidden mickeys” than any other attraction in Disney history or around the world.

Modern Disney Animation

The animations in this attraction are modeled after the Mickey and Minnie cartoons currently airing on the Disney Channel.  Kids who watch cartoons on the Disney Channel today will feel VERY comfortable with these characters.

For those of us that grew up with a different style of Disney animation, the animations look a little strange; however, I’m sure we will get used to them.  They are cute, just different.  The current Disney shorts in this style have won awards and are VERY popular, so I think this newer style is here to stay.

Behind the scenes of Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway
Behind the scenes of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway    (Photo: Disney Parks)

We’ll visit the Chinese Theatre to join Mickey and Minnie on a magical adventure in the cartoon world where mouse rules apply.  We’ll ride a train with Goofy as the Engineer, and as you can imagine, hijinks ensue!

I’m always overjoyed when a new attraction comes to any of the Disney Parks.  This one promises to include new technology.  I love that it is an “all ages” attraction.  I think the best attractions are the ones that bring whole families together.  Grandma can ride, and so can the littlest of grandchildren!

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway Disney Vacation Planning Disney trip planning top reasons to visit Disney
Disney Artist Rendering Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Are you looking forward to Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway?  I suspect I will always miss The Great Movie Ride, but I’m happy to see a new attraction in Hollywood Studios.  We’ll need something to keep us busy outside of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, haha.

Are you planning to check out this new attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?  Please comment below!

Happy Dreaming,

Brooke

Disney Launches Free Dining Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!

 

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is HERE!

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

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Time Magazine Top 100
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!

Disney Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run
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.

Millenium Falcon Smugglers Run Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is HERE
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 Galaxys Edge Rise of the Resistance
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.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is here
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.

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Costumes Not Allowed
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:

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Dress for Success
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 Now Open Milk Stand
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

Disney Launches Free Dining Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
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.

Book Your Reservations NOW for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Experiences at Hollywood Studios!

Reservations are now available for select Star Wars: Galaxy Edge Experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  Opening on August 29, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the long awaited addition to Hollywood Studios, featuring an immersive guest experience in a Star Wars themed “world” like nothing Disney has done before.  (Well, except for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland, haha).  Book your reservations NOW for sure-to-be popular experiences and dining adventures at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  This will enable you to guarantee you’ll be able to take part in these experiences–if you have both the desire and the dollars to do so!

Build a Lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop

Star Wars Galaxys Edge Build Your Own Light Saber
At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, guests will have the opportunity to customize and craft their own lightsabers. In this exclusive experience, guests will feel like a Jedi as they build these elegant weapons from a more civilized age. (Photo: Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)

I suspect Savi’s Workshop is going to be one of the most popular destinations for guests visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  What Star Wars fan hasn’t dreamed of owning their own lightsaber?  At Savi’s Workshop, you assume the role of a Jedi, and craft your own lightsaber.  You will be able to choose from different hilts, accessories and kyber crystals.

What does it cost?

While Disney says there will be walk up availability, I suspect it will be very limited, and those with advance reservations will take priority for this experience.  Purchase of a lightsaber is REQUIRED for this experience.  You must pay before the experience begins ($199.99).

The advance reservation requires a credit card deposit of $199.99.  You can cancel your reservations with no penalty by cancelling at least 24 hours in advance.  No shows will be charged the full price of the experience.  You can bring one person with you to observe your lightsaber design skills. (While kids as young as 5 can enjoy this experience, at least one member of the party must be 14 or older.)

Only 14 people at a time (and their “observer/paparazzi” member) can go through this experience at a time.  The experience is about 20 minutes in length, and full of the ceremony and mystique you’d expect from a Jedi building their first lightsaber.  The lightsaber you build at Savi’s Workshop will not be a plastic junky version, like the ones you used to be able to buy at toy stores (and at WDW!).

This lightsaber has some heft, and the hilt is made of metal.  Your hilt will be themed to one of four styles available–and based on your choice, you will be given various parts that you will use to build your lightsaber.  Each light saber will include one hilt, two sleeves, one emitter, one pommel cap and one activation plate and switch.  The completed lightsaber will light up, and your hilt will produce various sounds.  Your $199.99 purchase price includes a carrying case.  Other accessories for your lightsaber, as well as a variety of pre-built lightsabers and other treasures are available for purchase at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities.

Dok Ondar's Den of Antiquities
Concept Art for Dok Ondar’s Den of Antiquities

No refunds are available, nor are there any discounts available.

Build a Droid at the Droid Depot

Reservations to build a droid at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Now Available
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Droid Depot                                                                                Photo: Disney Parks

Another spot I think is going to be VERY popular is the Droid Depot.  I know I am not alone when I tell you that while I love Han Solo and Princess Leia, BB8 and R2D2 have a deeper hold on my heart.  At the Droid Depot, you’ll be able to build and customize your own Droid friend.  You’ll pick parts off a conveyer belt to construct one of two core model droids (BB-Series or R-Series).  After your Droid is constructed (and paid for $$!), it will be able to interact with various elements throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  How fun does THAT sound?

As with the lightsaber experience, some walk up availability will exist; however, if this is something you really want to do, advance reservations are strongly recommended.  If you have a reservation, you may bring one person with you to observe your experience.

What Does It Cost?

The base price of your Droid is $99.99 plus tax.  This includes your basic handbuilt Droid and a carrying box.  There are a lot of add-ons available–with additional price tags to match.  I suspect at minimum you’ll want to add on a personality affiliation chip for $12.99–there are six to choose from, and this is what will give your Droid its personality, and inform how it interacts with the Star Wars world around it.  Of course there are lots of other things you can add on–make sure your impulse buyer is NOT in control, or you will have a very expensive day!

Droid Depot Merchandise
Droid Depot, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge                            Photo: Disney Parks

As always, you can cancel your reservation without penalty as long as you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.  If you no-show, your credit card will be charged the full $99.99.  Kids as young as 3 can build a Droid, but at least one of the two people in the party must be at least 14.

There are no refunds and no time limits for your custom built Droid.  Your end result will be remote controlled, and will interact via bluetooth with the World.  There are no discounts offered, so no passholder or DVC discounts at this time.  (Bummer!).

Even if you don’t want to build your own Droid, you will definitely want to do a walk through visit at the Droid Depot.  It’s filled with fun stuff to look at, and there are lots of audioanimatronic Droids to catch your attention.

Oga’s Cantina

Book your reservations now if you hope to spend some time at Oga’s Cantina and enjoy some “out-of-this-world” refreshments!

Book Reservations Now for Oga's Cantina at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
Oga’s Cantina, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge                                                                          Photo: Disney Parks

At Oga’s you never know when you might meet smugglers, bounty hunters or other travelers from around the galaxy.  You’ll be able to try unique, themed food and beverages at Oga’s Cantina.  If you really want to immerse yourself in the Black Spire Outpost experience, a visit to Oga’s Cantina should be high on your list.

Ogas Cantina Reservations Now Available
Oga’s Cantina, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge     (Photo: Richard Harbaugh/Disney Parks)

Some walk up guests will find availability; however, as with most Disney table service restaurants, reservations are highly recommended.

Book Your Reservations NOW!

Are you getting excited about visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?  I can’t believe opening day at Hollywood Studios is finally almost here!  If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World and want to include Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in your agenda, I suggest you make your reservations for the experiences you want to participate in as soon as you can.

Which of these experiences are you most excited about?  While I can’t wait for my first drink at Oga’s, I’m pretty psyched to build a Droid with my nephew!

Please comment below if you’re planning to try one of these experiences, and which one.

Happy Dreaming,

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

P.S. For other Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge information, please check out the following posts:

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Update January 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Updates: March 2019 PART I

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge UPDATE

Skyliner Gondolas Open September 29!

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.

Disney Skyliner to Open September 29
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.

Disney Skyliner Station Pop Century Art of Animation
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:

Excited Yet?

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!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

 

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge NOW OPEN at Disneyland

Can you believe it?  After all our anticipation, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is NOW OPEN at the Disneyland Resort.  I’ve got lots of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge news and updates for you, including information about the live streaming of the opening dedication, what you will need to know before you go, and updates on food, beverage and MERCHANDISE.  Read on, because we have lots to chat about today.

Go Inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Check out this terrific video Disney released, taking us inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland.

How amazing does that look?  I can’t WAIT to go and see for myself!

 

Are you planning a visit to Disneyland to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?  There are some things you should know BEFORE you go!

Good Morning America’s Visit

Good Morning America’s Ginger Zee got to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland a few days ago.  Lucky for us, she’s sharing a sneak peek of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with GMA viewers (and all of us!)

Here’s a quick look at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with Ginger Zee that GMA posted earlier this week:

ABC News Sneak Peek

On Wednesday, Good Morning America posted a more in depth look at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including Ginger Zee’s ride on Millenium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run!  Click the link below to check out the video and article.

GMA Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Opening Dedication LIVESTREAM

In related news, Inside Disney Parks live streamed the Opening Dedication for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort.  The live stream aired Tuesday night.  I tried to watch, but the feed keep kicking me out for some reason.

The good news is that Disney has released a link to a replay of the 40 minute livestream.  You can watch it below:

Know Before You Go: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Here’s the latest “Know Before You Go” video from Disney Parks:

Here are important things to know, whether you are visiting right away, or later in the year:

      • Reminder: Reservations are required from May 31 – June 23, 2019.  Guests without reservations will NOT be able to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge from May 31 – June 23, 2019.  The only way to get a reservation at this point is to book a resort reservation at one of the three Disneyland resorts (Disney’s Paradise Pier Resort, Disneyland Resort, or Disney’s Grand Californian Spa and Resort) during the reservation period.  Resort guests are automatically granted a reservation during their stay to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
      • Disneyland theme park admission IS required.  If you have a reservation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge but do NOT have a ticket to get into Disneyland, you will NOT be visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
      • If you have a reservation to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you may check in for your reservation up to two hours early; however, you don’t NEED to check in early.  If you have a reservation, you WILL get in.
      • If you do not have a reservation, you will NOT get in to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  There will NOT be a queue for guests without reservations to gain access.

Stormtroopers Will Escort You OUT…

We are in the home stretch now.  Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Disneyland on May 31, 2019, and I can’t wait to hear all the first hand accounts of visitors from those first few days!

As we’ve discussed on this blog before, Disneyland is requiring reservations for Disneyland guests that wish to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge during this first few weeks.  Guests visiting between May 31 and June 23, 2019 had to request free reservations to be awarded a four hour window within which they will be able to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  It appears that each guest with a reservation will be given a color coded wrist band to help cast members verify that the guest IS visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the appropriate time.

Here’s the fun part: If a guest “overstays their welcome” at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, they will be asked to leave BY STORMTROOPERS!  In fact, it appears that Disney is planning for Stormtroopers to escort guests that have stayed too long out of the new land entirely!!

Food and Beverages

Here’s a “Know Before You Go” video that Disney released about the food and beverage options we have to look forward to inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Here are some pictures Disney has released of the food and beverage offerings:

Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Now Open Milk Stand
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Beverages: Blue Milk and Green Milk can be found at the Milk Stand. (Photo: David Roark/Disney Parks)
Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Now Open Rontos Roasters
The Ronto Morning Wrap can be found at Ronto Roasters and is scrambled eggs, grilled pork sausage, shredded cheese and peppercorn sauce wrapped in pita. (Photo: David Nguyen/Disney Parks)
Star Wars Galaxys Edge Olgas Cantina
Left to right, non-alcoholic drinks: Carbon Freeze, Oga’s Obsession provision and Cliff Dweller can be found at Oga’s Cantina. (Photo: Kent Phillips/Disney Parks)

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Where’s the Merchandise?

There is going to be TONS of fun stuff for us all to drool over and add to our Star Wars merchandise collections.

Disney released another “Know Before You Go” video featuring the merchandise we have to look forward to.

It looks like SOME items will also be added to the Star Wars Launch Bay gift shop in Hollywood Studios and at Disneyland.  This means even if you can’t get in to the new land right away, you may still be able to get your hands on some of that limited time only merchandise.

We previously did a blog about some of the merchandise coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  If you missed it, click here.

Here’s some new pictures Disney released.

Star Wars Galaxys Edge Now Open Droid Depot
Guests visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be able to stop by the Droid Depot to build their own R-series or BB-series droids that will act as a friend throughout the village of Black Spire Outpost. (Photo: David Roark/Disney Parks)
Star Wars Galaxys Edge Build Your Own Light Saber
At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, guests will have the opportunity to customize and craft their own lightsabers. In this exclusive experience, guests will feel like a Jedi as they build these elegant weapons from a more civilized age. (Photo: Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)
Star Wars Galaxys Edge Marketplace
Guests will be able to wander the lively marketplace of Black Spire Outpost and encounter a robust collection of merchant shops and stalls filled with authentic Star Wars creations. (Photo: Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Disney Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run Extra Extra Magic Hours
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon – Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is now open, but there is only one of its two flagship attractions open at this time.  Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is open, and looks really terrific.

For all of us that have WISHED we could fly the Millennium Falcon someday, it looks like we’re going to get our chance!

Disney released this video to show us what we can expect.  We get to go through the queue and see some of the hidden treasures we can look for.  We even get to go for a quick ride (Don’t watch this if you’re avoiding spoilers!)

Star Wars Galaxys Edge Millennium Falcon
Inside Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests will take the controls in one of three unique and critical roles aboard the fastest ship in the galaxy. (Photo: Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge NOW OPEN

When are you going to visit?  Everything I’ve seen so far from the press and early visitors is VERY positive, and I cannot wait to check this place out!

How about you?  Are you excited to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?  Do you already have a trip planned?  Please like this post, and let us know below when you are going!

Happy Dreaming,

Brooke

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

Disney TRON Construction Update

It’s time for another Disney TRON construction update!  If you missed our previous post on the new TRON attraction coming to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, click here to check it out.

The First Vertical Columns Are Going UP!

While construction began on the TRON “coaster” style attraction began more than a year ago, there wasn’t a whole lot of VISIBLE progress.  So much has to happen to prepare the ground to support the weight of the attraction, and even more has to happen to support the electrical needs of the attraction and the technology the ride will require.  To the casual observer,  the early phases of any attraction construction project often look like there’s not a whole lot going on.

Luckily, we’re not casual observers, right?  Disney has announced that they have begun installing the steel columns that will support the attraction.

Check out this terrific video that Disney released!

Where IS the TRON Attraction?

TRON is being built in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.  It’s going next to Space Mountain, mostly in space that was previously empty.

Disney has modified the Speedway slightly to make room for TRON.  They’ve also stopped running the Walt Disney World Railroad for the forseeable future, while construction proceeds on TRON.  I don’t know if this means the Railroad is ultimately being rerouted, or if the current track will still be in place once construction on TRON is completed.  It’s entirely possible that once it’s safe for the Railroad to resume circling the park and traveling behind Tomorrowland, we’ll be able to tell that nothing changed on the route.  However, I suspect that the Railroad track may need to move over a bit to make room for TRON.  Too soon to tell.

Regardless, we do have a pretty awesome artist rendering of what the TRON attraction is expected to look like.

Disney Tron Construction Update Artist Rendering
Disney Tron Attraction Coming to Magic Kingdom: Artist Rendering

We also got a new picture of the steel column that cast members signed.  As we discussed in the previous Disney TRON construction update post, an important milestone of the TRON project was when Disney invited cast members involved in the project to sign one of the steel columns that will become a part of TRON.

Disney TRON Construction Update
TRON Construction Milestone                                        (Photo: Disney Parks)

When Can We Ride?

While there’s no “official” opening date (it’s WAY too soon!), it looks like the expectations are that TRON will be completed in time for the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World in 2021.

Are you excited about this attraction?  From the brief glimpse we get in the video above, I think TRON looks like it will be very different from anything else we have at Disney.  I’m hoping it will be a ton of fun, and that it will absorb a lot of guests.  I’m always a fan of attractions that can swallow up a lot of the crowd.

What do you think?  Please like this post, and comment below with your thoughts!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

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Construction Update: TRON at Magic Kingdom

Today’s Construction Update focuses on Tron at Magic Kingdom.

Announced in Summer 2017, there hasn’t been a lot of activity surrounding the Tron coaster-style attraction coming to the Magic Kingdom.  I suspect this is partly because Tron doesn’t have the big fanbase that Disney once hoped it would have, and partly because so much attention has been focused on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, opening this summer at Disneyland and Hollywood Studios.

This is probably a positive thing, we haven’t all been driving Disney crazy with the equivalent of “are we there yet?” for THIS attraction…unlike we did for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  (But hey, it worked, so I’m NOT complaining!)

Shanghai Disneyland’s #1 Attraction

The Tron attraction currently under construction at Magic Kingdom is based on TRON Lightcycle Power Run at Shanghai Disneyland.  This attraction was an opening day attraction for Shanghai Disneyland.  TRON is a giant hit for Shanghai Disneyland.

Shanghai Disneyland TRON Lightcycle Power Run
Shanghai Disneyland’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run

TRON Lightcycle Power Run is a coaster-style attraction that has passengers ride a train of two wheeled Lightcycles for a race through the digital frontier.  Just like the movie, I guess.  Although both Tron movies kind of confused me…I really liked the original one, though.  Did any of you see the original Tron (1982) or it’s sequel, Tron Legacy (2010)?

TRON Lightcycle Power Run is the highest rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland.  I’m guessing that led the powers-that-be to consider if the attraction could be a good fit another park.

Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom

It makes sense right?  A popular attraction, already designed and tested.  Some changes might be necessary, but basically, the heavy lifting is already done for the attraction.  Imagineering already did the design, the creative work, choosing the materials, the budget, the schematics, the plans, even the way the queue works–all that’s been done before.   Construction even knows what problems came up during that phase, and how they were solved.

But where to put the new attraction?  It make sense in Hollywood Studios, because it’s based on a movie property…but Hollywood Studios is currently getting all the focus for Star Wars, so maybe NOT there.  Epcot Future World might be a good fit–the whole digital frontier thing is vaguely futuristic…of course the original movie is almost forty years old at this point.  AND there’s already a TON of stuff happening at Epcot (see last week’s post), so maybe it’s not the best choice either.

Disneyland in California is currently using a LOT of space for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, so maybe not there.  California Adventure just finished the whole Pixar themed update….so maybe not there.

Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World hasn’t gotten anything new in a LONG time.  And we have some room over there next to Space Mountain, on the side… WINNER!

Ok, I have no idea if that’s how the decision making process went AT ALL.  But it’s fun to think about, isn’t it?  Bottom line, they decided to bring Tron to Magic Kingdom, and they’re making room for it by basically expanding the footprint of the Magic Kingdom.  Disney is putting Tron next to Space Mountain, into some unused land between Tomorrowland and Storybook Circus.

Disney TRON Attraction Billboard
Tron Billboard, visible from Storybook Circus

Impact on Nearby Attractions

To accommodate construction on Tron at Magic Kingdom, a few other attractions ARE being affected.

  • Tomorrowland Speedway: This one is pretty short term.  The Tomorrowland Speedway closed in January 2019, and is expected to re-open mid May 2019.  Disney is moving and/or re-routing the track to make room for Tron.
  • Walt Disney World Railroad: This is painful one.  The Walt Disney World Railroad is closed for at least the next year, possibly longer.  To soften the blow, Disney plans to park the train at the Main Street station, and allow guest to explore the train and take pictures with it.  But the lovely and relaxing (one of my FAVORITE ways to take a break) ride around the circumference of the park is not possible for the foreseeable future.   They haven’t officially said, but I believe some track has to be re-routed and they don’t want the trains coming through the construction areas.  Sigh.  I’m excited about a new attraction, but very bummed about no train for a long period of time.
  • UNOFFICIAL: I haven’t been there to verify this, but there is a walking path between Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland that I suspect may be impacted by Tron construction as well.  This area is often inundated with smokers, so it’s not the quiet restful path it once was.  It’s always been a pretty good “cut-through” or short-cut.  However, the path runs right next to the train tracks for a bit, and then along the Tomorrowland Speedway track as it approaches Space Mountain.  I have a hard time believing this area has been left untouched and accessible, but I will confirm for you first chance I get.

Progress Update

Disney Tron Attraction at Magic Kingdom Construction Milestone Reached
Tron at Magic Kingdom: Milestone Reached

This week, the first steel support columns were put in place for the new attraction.   Prior to the columns being put in place, cast members and team members working on bringing Tron at Magic Kingdom to reality celebrated a major milestone.  They were invited to sign their names on one of the columns, making their “permanent mark” on the attraction.  Wouldn’t that be cool?  To know forever that a tiny piece of you, your signature, was part of that attraction?  I think that would be pretty thrilling!

Disney hasn’t been too committal on when we can expect to take our first ride on Tron at Magic Kingdom.  However, Disney is promising that the new Tomorrowland attraction WILL be open in time for the 50th Anniversary celebration in 2021.

I’m happy to see that Disney continues to invest in new attractions and expansions to our favorite parks.  As crowds continue to grow, I think it’s more important than ever that new attractions arrive to absorb more people.

How do you feel about Tron at Magic Kingdom?  Is this an attraction that you’re excited to check out?  Were you a fan of the Tron movies?

Please comment below and let me know if you’ll be eager to check this one out when it comes on line!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

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