ANAHEIM, Calif. — During my recent visit to Disneyland, I noticed that four “Star Wars“-themed attractions are now open for riders. Wait a minute…I thought Star Wars Land is still under construction. How can that be? The creative folks at Disney were able to do so by rebranding and refreshing older rides. It’s a celebration called “The Season of the Force” at Disneyland.
- Star Tours – The Adventures Continue is a 3D motion simulator attraction. It takes guests on a turbulent excursion trip across the galaxy, as droids C-3PO and R2-D2 attempt to safely return a rebel spy to the Rebel Alliance. Each vehicle holds 40 riders and the ride lasts four minutes and 30 seconds. The wait time was about 90 minutes for Star Tours during my visit to the park. I recommend getting a FastPass for this ride by entering your ticket into the machine that gives you a time to return for priority boarding.
- Star Wars: Path of the Jedi is a 10-minute retelling of the blockbuster Star Wars saga and get a peek at the future of the galaxy. This dramatic film compiles exhilarating Star Wars movie moments to tell Luke Skywalker’s heroic story. With the help of a charming rogue named Han Solo, Luke rescued Leia. The 3 heroes went on to join the Rebel Alliance and defeat the Empire. Along the way, Luke mastered the ways of the Force and became a Jedi Knight, like his father before him.
- Star Wars Launch Bay is an exhibition showcasing artwork and other materials related to the franchise. Attendees can check out replica movie props, play games, snap photos, screen exclusive videos and encounter Star Wars heroes and villains! Encounter Han Solo’s trusty sidekick, Chewbacca, for a furry embrace and—if you’re brave enough—dare to confront the menacing First Order enforcer, Kylo Ren. This attraction closes at 8 p.m. so you might want to stop here first!
- Hyperspace Mountain is a “Star Wars” themed refresh of the popular Space Mountain ride. It is basically an indoor steel roller coaster ride. Ships were replaced by ships from Star Wars, the mission has changed to Jakku, and you are now briefed by Admiral Ackbar. Passengers fly through a hyperspace jump and battle with X-Wings and TIE fighters. Hyperspace Mountain features a soundtrack with selections from John Williams‘ score of the “Star Wars” films. The wait time was about 60 minutes during my visit. I recommend getting a FastPass for this ride by entering your ticket into the machine that gives you a time to return for priority boarding.
A new Star Wars Land is currently under construction at Disneyland. It will replace the former Toontown area for kids. Star Wars Land will encompass 14 acres of Disneyland when it opens. The “Star Wars”-themed land will have two new attractions, including one that will allow riders to control the Millennium Falcon, and another that will place guests into the middle of a battle between The First Order and the Resistance, according to an article in The Los Angeles Times. No official opening date has been announced. There is no doubt that Star Wars Land and these four new attractions will boost attendance for the Anaheim, Calif. theme park.
Keep in mind, Disneyland has started its new tiered pricing program for single-day tickets. On busy days such as weekends and holidays, prices will surge to $119 per adult while slower weekdays during the off-season will cost $95 per adult.
For tickets and more information, visit disneyland.disney.go.com.
