After more than a year since its closure, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is making an unexpected return in Orlando—though not in the way guests might remember.
The Halcyon first welcomed travelers in 2022, promising a two-night adventure unlike any other. Guests stepped into their own Star Wars story, complete with interactive missions, themed dining, and live-action encounters between the Resistance and the First Order. The voyage even included a stop at Batuu inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
But the groundbreaking experience carried a steep price tag that drew widespread discussion. Despite strong early reviews praising its ambition, interest began to wane. Disney eventually introduced discounts, yet the resort officially ended operations on September 30, 2023.
Now, the story of the Starcruiser takes a new turn. The building once filled with role-play adventures will soon serve as offices for Walt Disney Imagineering, the very team behind the project. Aerial photos from Bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) reveal work trucks at the site as the facility undergoes its transformation. Online reactions have ranged from surprise to criticism, with some calling the move “cold” and even comparing the building’s appearance to a “prison.”
The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was first unveiled at D23 Expo 2017 and marketed as a groundbreaking approach to immersive entertainment. While its short life didn’t fully match the anticipation, it stood as an ambitious experiment in combining themed hospitality with narrative-driven environments.
Fans, however, can still get a taste of the Halcyon experience thanks to C & S Themed Interiors. The company has recreated a Star Wars Hotel room that replicates the cabins from Disney World’s Starcruiser. “This stunning room is an exact replica of the Star Wars Hotel at Disney. We dedicated meticulous attention to recreating every detail from the original hotel,” the company shared. Guests can explore the spaceship-inspired room, complete with mechanical systems that activate sound and video through an easy-to-use control panel.
The company added, “You won’t want to miss out on exploring this extraordinary setup. We have incorporated dimensional trim on all walls and ceilings, along with a sophisticated lighting system. The room features a bunk bed with cushioned walls, a TV vox, an intercom box, and a custom-built closet. It’s truly an amazing concept and one of our personal favorites.”
Star Wars remains a major part of Disney’s theme park story. Since acquiring Lucasfilm in 2012, Disney has introduced Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida, giving fans a chance to pilot the Millennium Falcon or battle Kylo Ren’s forces. Themed expansions tied to other franchises have followed as well, with Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure and Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris, alongside Hotel New York’s transformation into The Art of Marvel hotel.
All of this ties into the larger evolution of Walt Disney World itself. Since opening in 1971 under Roy Disney’s leadership, the resort has expanded into four theme parks, two water parks, and more than 20 hotels, cementing its place as one of the most visited destinations in the world.
How do you feel about the Galactic Starcruiser’s journey from themed hotel to Imagineering offices? Share your thoughts with us below!
