In a galaxy far far away…Well, not too far. Just a short drive to Hollywood Studios actually. My boyfriend and I were lucky enough to snag a spot to visit Galaxy’s Edge before it opens later this week (August 29th to be exact) at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios! Platinum Passholders had the opportunity to visit Galaxy’s Edge, just another reason I recommend the Platinum Annual Pass. But that’s for another post. Our short trip to Batuu was out of this world! Keep reading for an overview and some tips for your next Star Tours around Galaxy’s Edge!
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you I may make a commission if you click through and purchase.
Entering Galaxy’s Edge
There are two entry points into Galaxy’s Edge. Currently, only one is in use. The first entrance is located just past Star Tours and before Muppets 3D. At some point, they will open the second entrance that connects to Toy Story Land. (Which I realize, I totally need to do a post on in and of itself). In the words of the Cast Member we asked, the walkway leads to “a strange land filled with toys”. I’m very excited to see how that walkway transforms and leads you into a new land, so stay tuned.
Opening Day Update
This just in. Disney is utilizing a new Boarding Group system to enter Galaxy’s Edge. This system can be found within the Disney Parks App. For the full rundown, click here.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
The current highlight of Galaxy’s Edge is the Millennium Falcon. It is located in the center of “Star Wars Land” and is a prime photo spot. Note: there was an extremely long line to take photos in front of the falcon when using a cast member camera. The falcon however, is just for show and not actually used as a part of the ride. There are 3 lines for Smugglers Run. Standby, Fastpass, and single rider. The wait time when we went was around 40 minutes and we didn’t have fastpasses, so we opted for the single rider line. Like every single rider line, you will probably be separated. But as I have no particular need to ride with anyone specific, the 20 minutes in single rider was the better option.
So what can I tell you about the ride without completely spoiling it? In short, it’s awesome. If you’re a fan of Star Tours you will definitely be a fan of Smugglers Run. 6 people ride in the falcon and are all assigned to a task during the run. I will say one thing: Try your best to pay attention to more than one thing. Aka: not just the flashing buttons next to you. You wouldn’t want to miss jumping into hyperspace now would you? I would probably wait a max of 60 minutes (an hour) for this ride, but no more.
The best part in my opinion of Smugglers Run were the photo-op opportunities just before you get on to the ride. It’s like you’re really in the Millennium Falcon. Who wouldn’t want to sit where C-3PO and R2-D2 sat when they learned to “Let the Wookiee win”?
Galaxy’s Edge Oga’s Cantina
Oga’s Cantina is the restaurant with all the cool adult drinks they’ve hyped up! I say they hyped it up because, I didn’t actually experience it. They should have hyped up the need for a reservation. I was under the impression that it would be like other eateries at Disney where you grab a quick bite or drink and find your own seat. I was wrong. Be sure to have a reservation. And if you see a line for it, don’t expect them to take a walk in.
The Market
This is the main shopping area within Galaxy’s Edge. You may have seen photos (like the one above) of the market from other people. It is a spectacular view to look at, I almost missed all the shops around me! Whatever your Star Wars heart desires can be found in the market (but not the build your own light-saber).
My particular favorite shops were the Creature Stall, and the Outfitters. I would not recommend wearing the Jedi robe around. It is much thicker than I anticipated so consider yourself warned. (You are in Florida after all. The state home to two seasons, spring and summer). The creature stall is unique because it actually smells like a farm. At first I thought it was just my imagination, but after talking with other people I definitely feel like Disney works their magic to make it smell like a pigsty. (Pretty cool if you ask me).
So where can you build your own Light-saber in Galaxy’s Edge? Savi’s Workshop is located just on the other side of the market and is a part of a larger network of shops called the Black Spire Outpost. It cost roughly $200 for the entire experience. Worth it? Not for me.
Galaxy’s Edge Food
I can’t even begin to tell you how authentic the food in Galaxy’s Edge was. It really felt like I was on another planet with the concoctions they came up with. Would I get some of the things I ate again? Probably not. Will I continue to try new food from there? You bet.
We tried the Green Milk and the Wrap on our first visit to Galaxy’s Edge. I enjoyed the green “milk” (it also comes in blue, but has a different flavor) from the Milk Stand. It is not milk, and doesn’t even use milk. I would call it more of a smoothie/margarita than milk. It was tasty and refreshing, but not something I would have to get every time I visit.
The wrap from Ronto Roasters was interesting to say the least. A hotdog, a slice of roast, and coleslaw are all placed within a pita bread. It looked really good. However, I couldn’t get over the fact I was eating a hotdog in a wrap. It was just weird to me. But it fit the theme very well, so creativity points for Disney. I will not be getting that wrap again, but if you’re looking for an experience (or just really like hotdogs) go for it.
Cast Members
I’ve just got to say, I feel so bad for the cast members working at Galaxy’s Edge. But they do a FANTASTIC job at making the experience real. The reason I feel bad for them is because their outfits are so elaborate. Whether they’re Chewbacca or just a pilot, they have layers upon layers on and have to be burning up. But they are just so perfect for Star Wars that I can’t imagine it any other way. My personal favorite cast member interaction is with the Storm Troopers. They are EVERYWHERE. And they have no problem coming up behind you and telling you just what’s up. So before you go, I’d seriously make sure you know where your loyalties lie. (Clearly, mine is to the all time master Anakin & Darth Vader).
May the Force Be With You
So there you have it. A quick little recap with a few little tips here and there. If you don’t get to do anything else, just soak Galaxy’s Edge up. The scenery is stunning and completely immersive. You entirely forget that you’re even in the park (minus the crowds). Now that I’ve thought about it more, I should probably do more post on areas within Disney World. Would y’all be interested in more recaps like this one for different lands and parks? I’ve done a few on Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Dapper Day at Disney, but not much else. If so, let me know in the comments and I’ll get going on those ASAP! Until then, May the Force be With You.
Shop my Classic Galaxy’s Edge Look
Also Shop these Fan Favorites: Kids Keep it Classy Darth Vader Shirt // Irregular Choice C-3PO Flats
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you I may make a commission if you click through and purchase.
