The Mandalorian and Grogu Take the Helm
Since it first opened in 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has set a high bar for immersion in theme parks. Between the towering spires of Black Spire Outpost and the incredibly detailed architecture, it really feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. While the land itself is a masterpiece, the attractions have always sparked a bit of debate among the fan community. While Rise of the Resistance is often called one of the best rides ever made, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run has had a more varied reputation. That is all about to change in a massive way.
Starting May 22, 2026, Disney is rolling out a fully reimagined version of the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run experience at both Disneyland in California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. This isn’t just a small tweak. We’re looking at a brand-new story featuring the galaxy’s favorite duo: Din Djarin, the Mandalorian, and the adorable Grogu. The timing here is perfect, as the update coincides exactly with the theatrical release of the new film, The Mandalorian and Grogu. It is a rare moment where the theme park story and the big screen story align on the very same day.
Choosing Your Own Galaxy Adventure
The original mission, which focused on smuggling coaxium fuel for Hondo Ohnaka, is being replaced with a high-stakes hunt for ex-Imperial officers. One of the most exciting technical changes coming to the ride is how you navigate the stars. While the classic Star Tours attraction uses randomization to keep things fresh, the updated Smugglers Run is putting the power in the hands of the guests. You won’t just be along for the ride; you’ll be making choices.
The journey will always begin with a departure from the planet Batuu, followed by a trip to the iconic sands of Tatooine. From there, the crew in the cockpit will actually get to select their third destination. The options are straight out of Star Wars history: the floating Cloud City of Bespin, the forest moon of Endor, or the massive cityscape of Coruscant. This level of agency means that if you want to see a specific planet, you don’t have to hope for a lucky roll of the dice. You can coordinate with your crew and fly exactly where you want to go.
Addressing the Engineer Role
For years, the engineer role on Smugglers Run has been the subject of some friendly criticism. While the pilots get the thrill of steering and the gunners get the action, the engineers were often left just pressing buttons on the side walls. Disney has heard that feedback loud and clear. As part of this 2026 reboot, the engineer role is receiving a meaningful technological upgrade. While specific mechanics are still being kept under wraps, the goal is to make the position much more engaging and vital to the success of the mission. If you’ve spent your previous flights wishing for more to do, this update is specifically for you.
Planning Pro-Tips for Your Next Mission
If you’re planning to head to the parks to check out this new mission, here are a few things to keep in mind for your strategy:
- No Downtime Required: One of the most impressive parts of this announcement is that Disney doesn’t plan to close the ride for a long refurbishment. The switch from the old mission to the Mandalorian storyline is expected to happen overnight, meaning you won’t have to worry about the ride being down during your May 2026 trip.
- Lightning Lane Strategy: Expect wait times to skyrocket when the new content debuts. This is the perfect time to utilize the Lightning Lane Multi Pass. If you’re staying on-site, make sure you’re ready to book your window as early as possible on May 22.
- Communicate with Your Crew: Since the third destination is now a choice, talk to your fellow travelers before you enter the cockpit. Deciding between Bespin and Endor ahead of time can prevent a frantic scramble when it’s time to push the buttons.
- Single Rider Warning: While the single rider line is a great way to save time, remember that you’ll likely be placed in whatever role is left over, which is usually the engineer. Fortunately, with the new upgrades, being an engineer should be a lot more fun than it used to be.
A New Era for Galaxy’s Edge
This update represents a significant shift in how Disney manages its theme park lands. By bringing in characters from the most popular current Star Wars series and allowing for guest choice, they are breathing fresh life into an attraction that was already a fan favorite. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Mandalorian or just someone who wants to finally feel like a useful engineer, May 22 is going to be a massive day for Disney fans on both coasts. It’s time to prep for lightspeed!
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.