Star Wars Disneyland and Disney World will be the theme park's largest-ever single-themed expansions, featuring 14 acres of land each and a new Millennium Falcon ride.
The cult George Lucas film series has been getting a lot of extra attention lately with the opening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens fast approaching. In response to the hype, Disney CEO Bob Iger announced the Star Wars Disneyland expansion at this year's D23 Expo, the annual fan conference for devoted Disney lovers. The outer space expansion will be added to both the Disneyland park in Anaheim, California and the Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.
Star Wars Disneyland will allow visitors to interact with beloved Star Wars characters in a recreated Star Wars universe. The themed area will also house an immersive visitor participation experience and a new ride where visitors to Star Wars Disneyland will get to drive the Millennium Falcon.
Sci-Fi Amusement Parks
Star Wars Disneyland Will Transport Visitors to a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Trend Themes
1. Immersive Theme Parks - The creation of larger-than-life experiences that transport visitors to alternate universes and engage all their senses
2. Movie/tv Franchised Theme Parks - Using iconic movie and TV franchises to create immersive experiences that attract fans and families alike
3. Interactive Rides and Experiences - Moving beyond passive entertainment, incorporating active and interactive experiences that engage visitors and immerse them in a fantasy universe
Industry Implications
1. Theme Parks - Theme parks can capitalize on this trend by creating immersive and interactive experiences that transport visitors beyond the bounds of reality
2. Film/tv - Films and TV shows can extend their brands beyond the screen and create a new income stream by turning their stories into larger-than-life immersive experiences in theme parks
3. Technology - Technology firms can drive innovation in space simulation, ride mechanics, and interactive experiences to create new attractions and enhance the audience's experience