More Magic Than Ever Is Coming to Disney Parks

Disney Parks are not messing around. The new rides and expansions revealed during the D23 Expo show how committed they are to grow and innovate.

If you’re a Disney fan like I am, you probably had read about some of the rumors regarding new attractions. There was one in particular I hoped was true: a Star Wars-themed hotel. Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek confirmed it will happen! It will be a completely immersive experience, with guests choosing sides, either with the First Order or the Resistance.

AT D23 EXPO 2017, DISNEY PARKS CHAIRMAN BOB CHAPEK ANNOUNCES NEW STAR WARS-THEMED HOTEL FOR WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT — During D23 Expo 2017, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek announced plans to create the most experiential concept ever in an immersive Star Wars-themed hotel at Walt Disney World Resort. Dedicated entirely to the galaxy of Star Wars, it will be a one-of-a-kind experience where a luxury resort meets a multi-day adventure in a galaxy far, far away.

Every room will have a view of the galaxy and even the food will be inspired by the Star Wars universe. “It is 100% immersive, and the story will touch every single minute of your day, and it will culminate in a unique journey for every person who visits,” said Chapek. I can’t wait to join the resistance! There was no mention of how much this 360 experience will cost.

Earlier, he had revealed a model of what we can expect to see at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. I saw the model up close and it’s mind-blowing. Just the thought of walking around and experiencing it gave me goosebumps. I grew up venerating Star Wars, Luke Skywalker, Yoda and Princess Leia. I’ve lost count of how many times I watched the original trilogy.
My brother was obsessed with the Millennium Falcon when we were kids. When I saw it in the Galaxy’s Edge model, it brought back so many memories! Now my brother will be able to pilot one, according to the updates shared during D23. He will have to wait until 2019, when we can all see the Big Reveal. The 14 acre Star Wars land will open first in Disneyland and then at Disney World.

New rides at Epcot

AT D23 EXPO 2017, DISNEY PARKS CHAIRMAN BOB CHAPEK ANNOUNCES A NEW RESTAURANT COMING TO EPCOT — Adjacent to Mission: SPACE will be a new restaurant that will invite guests to travel high above the earth for an unforgettable dining experience.

But it’s not all about Star Wars. Epcot is finally getting some TLC. An all-new Guardians of the Galaxy ride plus Disneyland Paris’ star attraction Ratatouille will await guests.

There will also be a new family-friendly expedition at Mission: Space and a space-themed restaurant next to the attraction. There was no mention of new countries coming to the World Showcase, although many Brazilian friends have told me they are expecting a Brazil pavillion.

Great news for Pixar fans

AT D23 EXPO 2017, DISNEY PARKS CHAIRMAN BOB CHAPEK ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR PIXAR PIER AT DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE — During D23 Expo 2017, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Bob Chapek unveiled plans for Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure, where the pier will take on a brand new look as more favorite Pixar characters and stories come to life, from The Incredibles, to Inside Out to even more Toy Story.

Pixar fans are not only excited about Toy Story Land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida next year with two new rides. They’re also over the moon because California Adventure’s Paradise Pier will become Pixar Pier in 2018. You will discover whimsical neighborhoods filled with friends from “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out” and even more of your pals from “Toy Story.” Of course, at DCA there’s also the breathtaking Cars Land, a must-see, especially the stunning Ornament Valley where Radiator Spring Racers is located.

Preparing for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary

Wait, there’s more! On October 1, 2021 Disney World will celebrate its 50th anniversary and they’re already in full planning mode. You can expect a new ride, Tron, at Magic Kingdom. It will sit in an entirely new area right next to Space Mountain.

There will also be enhanced transportation options between the parks, for example, with the Minnie vehicles or vans. Some blogs have already reported seeing them at Walt Disney World Resort, but I have not been able to confirm that independently.

Rumors about the much-awaited Skyliner were also confirmed. Imagine riding to your favorite park in a cable car and you’ll get an idea of what they’re planning!
The transportation system will connect the Art of Animation, Pop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts and other locations with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. And many of the gondolas with Disney Skyliner will feature everybody’s favorite characters.

Disney Cruise Line is Growing

For Disney Cruise Line fans, Chapek announced one more new ship, so the fleet will double by 2023. Earlier he had announced two new ships, so this is great news for families thinking of a cruise vacation. Also, there will be a new Beauty and the Beast musical show on the Disney Dream starting this November.

What are you most excited about? Are you a Star Wars fan like me or are you more excited about the Guardians of the Galaxy ride?

Disclosure: I was invited by Disney on a press trip to cover D23 but did not receive compensation for my posts.