Star Wars Land Model Photos & Video
The flagship booth at the D23 Expo is pavilion showcasing the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge model. In this post, we’ll share photos and video from this detailed model of Star Wars Land, along with some additional details we now know about Star Wars Land at Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
For starters, wow. We knew Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was expansive, immersive, lavish, [insert string of superlatives], but before that was all predicated upon the size of the construction sites and hype based on Imagineering’s “sales pitch” to the public. The only thing that supported all of this was vague concept art.
Now, Star Wars Land is so much more tangible. Of course, there’s still a lot we don’t know–and won’t know until stepping foot in the new lands–but what we can expect is much clearer. Frankly, what we can expect is something incredible…
Before we the hype train leaves the station never to be seen again, let’s share some photos of the Star Wars Land model featured in the ‘A Galaxy of Stories’ D23 Expo booth. (Note that the top photo in this post can be clicked to be viewed larger.)
First, the video to provide some context:
Orienting this to Disneyland, the far left of the model is where the Critter Country entrance will be located. Far right is the Frontierland (old Big Thunder Ranch) entrance.
I have no clue how this orients with Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I’m guessing the left is Muppet Courtyard?
Now, the photos…
Phew, that’s a lot to digest. There’s a ton of detail in this model, and I’m not sure I’ve done it justice. Given that there are two days left in the D23 Expo, I’ll probably return to this model many, many times, so if there’s anything else you’d like to see in better detail, please let me know and I’ll try to take additional photos.
I’m not really sure what to compare Star Wars Land to in terms of existing lands. I guess maybe like Pandora, but double the size (or so) mixed with the rock work of Cars Land (also doubled?). It’s really large, and really impressive.
I’ll also return with some commentary about this model, Star Wars Land, etc. etc., once I have a chance to see it more, and perhaps more is shared about it at the Parks & Resorts panel on Saturday. Stay tuned!
If you are planning a Walt Disney World or Disneyland trip to visit a galaxy far far away (at a time far—or not so far—away), check out our planning resources! The best place to start is our comprehensive Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide or Disneyland Trip Planning Guide to make the most of your experience!
YOUR THOUGHTS…
What do you think of the Star Wars Land model? Does its depth and detail exceed your expectations, or were you expecting more? What about the actual environment of this new planet? Do you think this will be a good addition to Disneyland and Walt Disney World? Are you excited for Star Wars Land? We love hearing from readers, so if you have other thoughts or questions (or if there’s anything else you’d like to see in terms of photos), please share in the comments!
Disappointed that Pandora only has one main ride, as expansive as Star Wars Land Is, I’m hoping for four main attractions minimum!
Tom,
A Star Wars themed hotel has been announced according to reports? Did I overlook your reporting of it? That’s BIG news; perhaps the biggest of the plethora of new announcements this weekend at D23.
THIS IS AMAZING!!!! ….and for “World” there is talk of a themed resort too, right? The ride you showcased in the photos, from the model looks like it could be on the lines of a trackless style “People Mover”. I hope the vision for this addition is much larger then what they have done for avatar, which is amazing too, btw.
Having been to Disney World many times, when we went to Disneyland we actually bought 5 day park tickets. We spent almost 2 whole days just walking around Carsland taking in all the details. Then ,of course , experiencing the rides. I’m sure Star Wars land will be more amazing with their details on the outside of the buildings and pathways.
Thanks Tom for taking so many amazing photos !!
I’d like you to photograph the entrances to Star Wars Land from Critter County and the two Big Thunder trails. Also, if you can line up the expansion slots for future development.
I expect DHS to have the furthest west side to be the back side of Star Tours. People will exit the ride into Star Wars Land. The entrance from Muppets will be where Big Thunder trails is, and Toy Story Land will have the furthest east side entrance, a new entrance like at Toontown. I expect Disneyland’s Star Wars Land to have a Toontown entrance if they expand with a third E-ticket.
Wow. This is going to break Disneyland operationally.
Yep. SIGH.
It looks to me like guests who’ve never had a chance to go to DisneySea will get a taste of the level of detail at that amazing park 🙂 Up until now, there’s been nothing comparable in the US parks (in my opinion). Looks absolutely awesome!
I’m SUPER pumped about this. I like Star Wars but my husband LOVES Star Wars… so I’m hoping this makes him get even more into future Disney trips (he loves going… but he isn’t on my level… yet). The only downside to ANY of this is just how many people this will bring in. Great for Disney of course, but thinking about the crowds is already giving me anxiety!! I also agree with Kevin… there needs to be 3 or 4 rides instead of 2!
This looks AMAZING!!! Not sure Disney has created anything like it in the past, it’s almost a park itself, minus the larger amount of rides. The one thing that is a little confusing is that there isn’t the AT-ATs in the model and up until now they have been the standout point in all of the construction updates?
I believe the AT-AT’s are located within the battle escape ride – from the construction photos, it appears that they are within the building. Not sure exactly how that will work.
In any event, I’m blown away and overwhelmed with this model. Gonna be insanely awesome.
Beautiful photos! This is going to be so amazing. Is Star Tours (in DHS) in the model? Also did they release an opening day yet?
Bob Iger announced first half of 2019 but no specific date was given,
Didn’t I read here 2019, if it doesn’t get pushed to 2020…?
I forgot in the press releasing leading up to this.. is Star Tours going to survive the remodel? Having a third ride in the area would go a long way to making it a multiple hour destination portion of the park.
Thanks for the photos. This land looks really awesome.
I dug up your photo of the Pandora model form the 2015 D23 and I think the actual land looks at least as good as the model, so this has me excited. My only wish is that for the size of the land that they had 3-4 rides instead of 2.