I arrive to Hollywood studios an hour before it opened. I watched as the Mickey Head turned green as I scanned my magic band at the gate. I had been to Hollywood Studios many times before today, but today was different. As the crowds headed up Hollywood Blvd toward the Chinese Theater, they all peeled right toward Toy Story Land. I went left, past the Indiana Jones Stunt Show toward Muppet Theater. I checked in at the tables underneath the massive stone archway, and it finally sunk in. I was about to see Galaxy’s Edge before everyone else. My morning in Galaxy’s edge was filled with memories that I will never forget. So let me tell you what I learned, so that you can make the most out of your visit to an outpost far far away.
General Layout
I highly recommend heading through the main archway by Muppet theater on your first visit as you immerse yourself in the amazing experience because it is more impressive than the entrance connected to Toy Story Land. As you wind your way up the path taking in the sites, shops and décor; you will notice the entrance to the Rise of the Resistance (opening in December) off to the left. Enjoy the replicas of numerous ships and appreciate the outpost as it comes into view. Buildings tower into the sky using rock formations as the foundation and you begin to truly disconnect from reality as you fade into a world of science fiction. The sound of a tie fighter flies overhead and you look up trying to catch a glimpse. As you head into Batuu the outer path curls around at the First Order Cargo and heads past Oga’s Cantina on its’ way towards the Millenium Falcon and Smuggler’s Run. Inside of that is what I have titled the market district with plenty of pathways in and out.
Shopping
There are plenty of things to experience in the area starting with the Market District area. Travel in and out of the shops and notice that none of the souvenirs and keepsakes are the same from shop to shop. From replica costumes, exotic pets for adoption (stuffed animals), décor and branded apparel; there is plenty here to experience and enjoy. The crowded, compact and fully immersive nature of this area will make you feel like you are walking through a scene from a movie.
Food
Oga’s Cantina is an amazing experience full of exotic out of this world drinks. Be cautioned that many of the drinks are suited for adults and wait times and maximum visit times may be enforced. There are amazing decorations and it is an awesome experience but be advised that younglings may not find it as enjoyable.
Docking Bay 7 is a quick service location that serves standard breakfast food with a unique twist (like the purple potatoes) and then switches to a barbeque location (again with unique twists) as the day continues.
Ronto Roasters, Kat Saka’s Kettle and the Milk Stand are all additional places to find a quick bite or, in the case of the milk stand, that famous blue or green milk.
Lightsabers
If you want the lightsaber experience I described in the podcast, you will want to visit Savi’s. Appointments here are highly recommended but you can put yourself on a waitlist once you arrive and will be taken in as space in the classes allow. It is a bit pricey, but I can say with confidence that you will not be disappointed. If making a saber isn’t your thing, be sure to visit Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities to see replica sabers, apparel and even get some additional kyber crystal to modify your handmade saber.
Droids- Custom built droids await you at the Droid Depot. Again, reservations are highly recommended. These are remote control droids that will interact with each other and some aspects of the outpost and are quite impressive to see in action. You can choose between a BB model or an R2 unit. Will you mimic a movie character or go your own way and create something unique?
Rides
Smuggler’s Run is in the Millennium Falcon and is remarkable. You get one of three roles (Pilot, Gunner, Engineer) and are immersed in the ride experience by performing tasks. The ride constantly changes and the hardest spot to man is the Pilot station because your performance can actually end the ride early if you cause the ship to take too much damage. The ride line is breathtaking and is a journey in itself, culminating in waiting for your turn in the lounge area of the millennium falcon before heading into the fabled cockpit for your shot at glory.
Rise of the Resistance will be opening in December and looks awesome. There have been some press events concerning the ride that have shown how it may be the largest scale ride Disney has ever built.
Wrap-up
Galaxy’s Edge was an amazing experience and really made me reconsider how I look at Hollywood Studios. I do recommend budgeting 3+ hours to explore and discover all that awaits you inside. I also would not recommend hoping in and out of the area as I feel that would detract from the immersive experience. Plan your dining and fastpasses for your day at Hollywood studios in a way that will let you spend a good deal of continuous time in Galaxy’s Edge for the best results.
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