Traveling to Galaxy's Edge
By: Kenni Rich
March 15, 2022
Have you ever wanted to pilot the Millennium Falcon, grab a Fuzzy Tauntaun at Oga’s Cantina or catch a glimpse of your favorite Star Wars character? You no longer have to fantasize what it would be like to walk the streets of Batuu when you visit Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World.
Dining
Hungry travelers can fuel up at a variety of dining options throughout the galaxy. Chef Strong “Cookie” Tuggs at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo offers an array of options. Smoked Kaadu Pork Ribs, plants-based options such as Felucian Kefta and Hummus Garden Spread and for children Fried Endorian Chicken Tip Yip.
As you explore the area with your crew, follow the delicious scent of grilled meat through the air. Ronto Roasters is considered more of a snack than a quick service meal. Known for their Ronto Wrap, a grilled pork sausage with peppercorn sauce and tangy slaw wrapped in pita bread is a Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge must! Another must try is the small outdoor drink kiosk serving the famous Blue Milk and Green Milk. I should note, although it’s called milk this beverage is not dairy based but is plant based. If you are over the age of 21, the Milk Stand also offers alcohol infused options. My family preferred the Blue Milk over the Green Milk.
If you’re looking for a taste of adventure head on over to the local cantina, Oga’s Cantina. Featuring exotic beverages for young and old, Oga’s is a refreshing stop while traveling around Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge. A friendly reminder, Oga’s Cantina requires advanced dining reservations available 60 days in advance.
Shopping
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge offers endless shopping opportunities. While in Batuu make sure you stop by Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiques. This must-see store is home to eccentric decor, flawless details , prop replicas and lifelike animatronics. Here you will also find lightsaber upgrades, offering Kyber Crystals in seven different colors! You might become the lucky owner of the rare Black Chaser crystal randomly hidden in the Red Crystal packages.
If you’re part of the First Order, make your way to Docking Bay 9 where the First Order has landed. Here you can declare your allegiance and browse for gear and other products to show your support. Maybe your faithfulness is with the Resistance. Gather with your fellow allies near the ancient ruins and stock up on needed gear for your next mission.
The Market is an open-air space with several small shops. A visit to The Market should be on your must-see list and it will make you feel like you have been dropped into a scene from Star Wars. There is so much to discover when visiting The Market, from toys at the Toydarian Toymaker, Jedi and Sith robes at Black Spire Outfitters, collectible pins and t-shirts from Jewels of Bith or “adopt” an alien species at Creature Stall. You could visit this area multiple time and always find new details.
Experiences
Within Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge there are two paid immersive experiences. I should note that both of these experiences need to be reserved 60 days prior as spots are limited.
If you are wanting to build your own droid, whether it is a replica of R2-D2 or your personal creation Droid Depot is the place for travelers to design and assemble their own sidekick. The droids are available in two different models, BB-series unit or R-series. You will select your pieces from a moving conveyor belt. Once you have collected your droid pieces you will assemble them at a work station. The droid reacts as it is being built, upon completion the droid comes to life! For further customization options, you can purchase unique personality chips.
If you have a Star Wars fan visiting Walt Disney World, a reservation at Savi’s Workshop is a must! My son experienced this on our vacation in February 2022 and it is an unforgettable extra that he continues to talk about. Before the building begins, the Gathers share the story of lightsabers and Kyber Crystals. Builders are invited to choose their style of lightsaber and Kyber Crystal. Once the builders have made their selections and the lightsabers are built all builders hold their lightsaber high in the air and at the most perfect and magical time they illuminate simultaneously. This moment gave my son the goosebumps!
Attractions
There is no spacecraft more iconic than the Millennium Falcon. Ever wonder what it would be like to fly this hunk of junk? Well, you now have the opportunity, when you experience Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Whether you are the pilot, gunner or engineer each role is vital. Will you succeed or fail? It’s up to you!
My family and I experienced what we consider the most immersive attraction within Walt Disney World and maybe any theme park in the galaxy. Your mission begins, when you join the Resistance for a secret mission. Shortly after your adventure begins, your transport is captured by the First Order! Facing a group of stormtroopers, Kylo Ren, Rey and BB-8 expect twists and turns in order to escape the First Order and give the Resistance a fighting chance. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a massive, thrilling multiple-ride system that is unlike anything you have ever experienced!
When you book your next Walt Disney World vacation with me the galaxy far, far away is closer than ever before!
Kenni Rich
kenni@wishesfamilytravel.com
775-313-6653