In a Galaxy Far Far Away
When it comes to theming and immersion, Disney knows how to get the job done. Their imagineers have imaginations that seem limitless and they put so much time and care into all the details so guests feel like they have stepped out of reality and into a movie. Opened in phases in 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is one of the most immersive lands I have ever been in.
Bright suns! As the story goes, guests of Galaxy’s Edge are travelers to Batuu, the thriving port of Black Spire Outpost on the outer rim of space. Around corners and through back alleys guests will encounter markets, exotic food and beverages and perhaps creatures, smugglers or bounty hunters laying low. But watch out, because the First Order has just landed and they are patrolling for Resistance supporters.
When the mood strikes and you are in need of time to unwind, then its time to check out Oga’s Cantina! Enjoy musical entertainment by DJ Rex, a former pilot droid with Star Tours while sampling some very unique concoctions. When my family and I visited Oga’s we tried a few drinks and let me tell you they were definitely out this world. I kid you not when I say the foam on the Fuzzy Tauntaun makes your lips tingle and go numb! We also tried the Batuu Bits which were crispy galaxy snacks served with a spiced chermoula dip - beware, the round wagon wheel piece is very spicy!! Reservations for Oga’s Cantina are highly recommended and can be booked 60 days in advance.
And what would an immersive land be without equally immersive rides?!? Galaxy’s Edge is home to two amazing rides - Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
On Smugglers Run, you’ll get to fly the Millennium Falcon on a thrilling smuggling mission. This ride accommodates up to 6 guests and you are all given a job. There are two pilots, two gunners and two engineers which all must work together to have a successful mission. No matter what role you get, this ride is awesomely fun!
Join the Resistance and battle the First Order on Rise of the Resistance. Available to ride only with a virtual queue pass, after an immersive and interactive queue, guests will board a trackless ride vehicle piloted by an R5 droid with the object of trying to make it to the escape pod. Along the way you never know what or who you will encounter!
While you are enjoying your time in Batuu, you’ll find many shops selling all types of merchandise. You can stop by the Milk Stand to try the famous Blue Milk and Green Milk! Make a pitstop at Ronto Roasters, a bbq joint of sorts run by a droid, for a delicious ronto wrap (roasted pork, grilled pork sausage, peppercorn sauce and a tangy slaw wrapped in pita bread). If you want a treat, head over to Kat Saka’s Kettle for their special Outpost Popcorn Mix - a colorful blend of sweet & spicy.
Lastly, while in Batuu there are two interactive experiences which are recommended to be booked 60 days in advance. These are Savi’s Workshop to build Lightsabers and the Droid Depot where you can design and assemble your own droid. While I have not personally built a lightsaber, I know that it is an experience unlike any other. And if you are interested in learning about building a droid, you may click here for a detailed post.
So are you First Order or Resistance?
Til the spire - Carrie
