Disney has created a new realm of reality. You find yourself immersed in the Star Wars story wandering through streets and taking in the lush landscape of Planet Batuu. Mickey and Minnie aren’t around but beware of the ever-present Stormtroopers and watch for the opportunity to take a photo with Chewbacca or perhaps the evil Kylo Ren. Ingenuity abounds throughout the park and Star Wars aficionados will delight in the shops selling droids, light sabers, Star Wars creatures and so much more. 

Two rides defy imagination; the long lines are worth the wait as you become part of the crew taking flight as a member of the resistance on the Millennium Falcon. The ship is real and although it doesn’t actually fly it does put you in a cockpit with video graphics that put you in charge of the game.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is the crème de la crème of adventure, this immersive attraction takes you places other rides only dare to dream about. I rarely get excited about theme park rides but Rise of the Resistance is an over-the-top experience. I was immediately engaged as I entered the ride. My mission was to help destroy the First Order and I gladly joined in the fun. Numerous twists and turns through a realistic space frontier had me electrified as I joined Rey and BB-8 in a fight against the Stormtroopers — with an appearance by Kylo Ren. This ride is a stoke of Disney genius; it’s brilliant from start to finish.

Every important Star Wars detail has been recreated, including Oga’s Cantina. It’s a thrill to sit alongside bounty hunters and an assortment of rogues. You can order from a menu of light snacks and exotic drinks (with alcohol or without) and the various concoctions boggle the mind. A two-drink and 45-minute limit help control the crowds, and as the lines to get in can be long, reservations are an absolute must. Note that children are allowed in, but it is a busy bar setting.

George Lucas can be proud. Disney has preserved the Star Wars theme with the greatest care. This legendary brand, under Disney’s creative and watchful eye, has set a new standard for an immersive experience. It’s one I intend to visit again and again. 

Watch for the reopening and keep up with Disney through its blog, at: https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/topics/magic-moments/

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