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Failed Disney World Attraction Closed Down, Officially Replaced

hollywood studios night
Credit: Disney

Walt Disney World Resort has seen many colossal successes in its run of more than 50 years, but that doesn’t mean that everything has been well-received.

disney world magic kingdom cinderella castle during daytime with visitors standing in front of castle

Credit: Becky Burkett

Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios all have fan-favorite rides and attractions that must be experienced each vacation. Many Disney World guests love the iconic Magic Kingdom attractions like Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, “it’s a small world”, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Jungle Cruise. Others visit the Disney World theme parks looking for action, like on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, TRON Lightcycle / Run, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Expedition Everest.

No matter what you enjoy most, Disney World has a wide array of offerings that make a trip to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” easily one of the most memorable vacations your family can take.

rock n roller coaster Disney's hollywood studios

Credit: Becky Burkett

Star Wars fans were initially thrilled when Disney World revealed plans for an exclusive Star Wars hotel. However, the disappointment set in due to the cruise-style format, a brief 2-night stay, and the steep price tag of $5,000—making the experience financially out of reach for many.

Shocker or not, Disney decided to close the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. The Galactic Starcruiser embarked on its final voyage from September 28 to 30. Although it opened its doors in early 2021, the high cost and a niche target audience prevented the hotel from consistently filling its rooms, and as a result, Disney had to close it down to make way for a new experience.

When Disney World guests boarded the Galactic Starcruiser, they were encouraged to dress in Star Wars-inspired attire, adding to the overall immersion. The Galactic Starcruiser featured themed dining experiences, character interactions, and specially designed activities that unfold over the course of the two-night adventure. One of the highlights was the chance to engage in lightsaber training and other interactive experiences that bring the Star Wars universe to life.

galactic starcruiser

Credit: Disney

Star Wars fans and Disney World fans have shared speculations about the Galactic Starcruiser undergoing a retheme, but such a significant change would likely take time or might not happen at all. Disney World has introduced a fantastic alternative for guests to channel their inner Jedi. Positioned at the former entrance of the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, Disney Cast Members are ready with an array of lightsabers, providing the perfect opportunity for guests to capture memorable photos. To enhance the experience, attendees are encouraged to don Jedi robes or other Star Wars cosplay attire for an authentic touch.

In addition, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will have exclusive Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser merchandise available for purchase. To find this unique line and other Star Wars items, head to the Keystone Clothiers Shop. The collection includes various cosplay items that would add a playful touch to your next vacation.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

Credit: Disney

For now, Disney has not announced any other replacements for the Galactic Starcruiser or what the building might be used for when it reopens to guests in the future.

Disney Dining will keep you updated on the latest developments coming from the failed attraction, as well as all the other happenings surrounding Disney World.

About Brittni Ward

Brittni is a Disney and Universal fan; one of her favorite things at both parks is collecting popcorn buckets. While at Disney World Resort, Brittni meets the princesses and rides Kilimanjaro Safaris. At Universal, Brittni enjoys the Minions and watching Animal Actors on Location! When not at Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando, Brittni spends time with her family and pets.