The SXSW panel on "The Future of World-building at Disney" offered a tantalizing glimpse into the innovative projects set to enhance Disney Parks. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman kicked off the event, highlighting the synergy between their teams that promises to deliver unforgettable new experiences to park visitors. From thrilling updates on existing attractions to the unveiling of entirely new rides, the panel was a treasure trove of exciting developments for Disney enthusiasts.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Will Join Smuggler's Run in a New Mission at the Launch of The Mandalorian & Grogu Film
The integration of The Mandalorian and Grogu into the beloved Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run ride at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland is set to launch alongside the highly anticipated film on May 22, 2026. Jon Favreau, along with Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, shared intriguing details about the new storyline. They revealed concept art showcasing iconic locations such as a Jawa's Sandcrawler on Tatooine, the Millennium Falcon and Mando's Razor Crest approaching Cloud City on Bespin, and a visit to the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor. Favreau emphasized that this experience would complement the movie's narrative without retelling it, offering guests a chance to participate in an off-camera adventure.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Mission Concept Art for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run
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Adding to the excitement, the BDX droids, previously seen at Disneyland, will soon roll into Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris. A new variant, an Anzellan droid named Otto, will occasionally appear needing a tune-up, enhancing the immersive experience. These droids are also set to make an appearance in The Mandalorian & Grogu movie.
Here's a Sneak Peak at the Load Area and Lift Off of the New Monsters, Inc. Attraction at Disney World
Disney World's Hollywood Studios is gearing up for the arrival of Monsters, Inc. Land, which will feature a groundbreaking themed roller coaster. This will be the park's first-ever suspended coaster with a vertical lift, promising guests a thrilling journey through the door vault of Monsters, Inc. Disney provided an initial glimpse into the load area, setting the stage for the exhilarating experience that awaits.
Pixar and Imagineering Reveal a New Type of Ride Vehicle Had to Be Made for Magic Kingdom's Upcoming Cars Attraction
Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen unveiled fascinating details about the upcoming Cars attraction at Magic Kingdom. Hundgen emphasized the team's focus on creating an emotional experience, which necessitated the development of a unique ride vehicle. To achieve this, they ventured into the Arizona desert to gather real-world data by riding off-road vehicles. The new ride will offer a thrilling rally race through the mountains, distinct from the familiar Radiator Springs setting. In collaboration with a motocross company, they built a custom dirt track to test and develop the ride vehicle, which will feature sensors and personalized elements like names and numbers to enhance the experience.
Robert Downey Jr. Stops by Disney's SXSW Panel to Help Share More About the New Avengers Campus Attractions
Avengers Campus at Disneyland is set to expand with two new attractions, including Avengers Infinity Defense, where guests will join forces with the Avengers to battle King Thanos across multiple worlds. The spotlight, however, was on the second attraction, Stark Flight Lab, with Robert Downey Jr. making a special appearance to share insights. Returning as Tony Stark, Downey Jr. described the new experiences as embodying the Stark Enterprises mission statement, emphasizing curiosity, passion, and innovation.
In Stark Flight Lab, guests will ride in "gyro-kinetic pods" and be maneuvered by a giant robot arm, inspired by Iron Man and other Avengers. Chief Creative Officer for Walt Disney Imagineering, Bruce Vaughn, highlighted the uniqueness of this ride, where the technology itself becomes part of the story. The robotic arm, inspired by Tony Stark's DUM-E, was developed with the help of dancers and motion capture to ensure a realistic and engaging experience.
