Disneyland to Add New Star Wars Expansion

Starting 2016, Disneyland will close portions of the California park, located in Anaheim, in order to make way for their newest attraction, Star Wars Land. This theme park will be inspired by the newest Star Wars Movie, “The Force Awakens.” Construction began in April, and Disney has not released a completion date.
New rides in the expansion of the theme park will include a Millennium Falcon ride that will put guests in control of the ship, complete with Han Solo himself. The other signature ride of Star Wars Land will include a thrilling battle experience.
“We are creating a jaw-dropping new world that represents our largest single themed land expansion ever. These new lands at Disneyland and Walt Disney World will transport guests to a whole new Star Wars planet, including an epic Star Wars adventure that puts you in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance,” Bob Iger, Disney CEO, said.
This never before seen planet will transport guests to a remote trading port with “Star Wars” themed restaurants, shops, and even a cantina.
“You’ll have the chance to truly step into this amazing galaxy and take in the iconic sights and sounds, but now for the first time ever, you’ll be able to experience it with all your senses – the smells, the tastes,” Scott Trowbridge, of Disney Imagineering, said.
Star Tours and Space Mountain will also be affected by the release of the newest movie. Both rides will now include new visual effects from the latest movie. To create the the 14 acre expansion, Disneyland will permanently close Frontierland’s Big Thunder Ranch, Big Thunder Ranch Barbecue, Big Thunder Ranch petting zoo and Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree.
“I don’t really remember how the exhibit used to be, but I am a very big fan of Star Wars, so I enjoyed the new attractions. I thought it was a good way to utilize Disney’s new claim on the Star Wars franchise. I believe that a lot of people enjoy it and continue to enjoy it, and that it was a good investment on their part,” Maddie O’Donnell ‘19 said.