National Geographic & G Adventures Partner for New Signature Journeys

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September 27, 2025

New Signature Journeys from National Geographic and G Adventures

After more than a decade of joint exploration, National Geographic Expeditions and G Adventures are joining forces for a major new venture into the premium travel market: the introduction of National Geographic Signature with G Adventures.

This new travel style is designed for discerning travelers seeking more than traditional luxury, combining National Geographic’s renowned educational expertise with G Adventures’ leadership in community tourism to offer a truly immersive and socially-conscious approach to global exploration.

A New Era of Premium, Purposeful Travel

Bookings for these elevated expeditions officially launch in January 2026, with the first departures scheduled for January 2027. The Signature series carves a distinct path in the market by providing travelers with unparalleled access and a deep, transformative view of their destinations.

The collaboration will launch with 29 meticulously curated trips in breathtaking locations, including South Africa, Vietnam, Japan, Central Asia, Peru, and Jordan. Each itinerary is inspired by National Geographic’s legacy of education, science, exploration, and storytelling, promising experiences that benefit local communities and foster genuine cultural connection.

What Defines a Signature Journey?

Every National Geographic Signature with G Adventures experience is meticulously designed with premium features and unparalleled access:

World-Leading Experts: Educational talks and unique insights provided by first-in-class experts.
Signature Moments: Exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to museums and historic sites, or dining experiences in extraordinary settings that embody local culture.
Elevated Accommodations: Stunning, handpicked lodging that celebrates the unique charm and style of the destination.
Dedicated Support: A dedicated Expedition Leader, a 24/7 pre-trip concierge service, and a convenient “meet-and-greet” service.
Intimate Groups: Travel in small groups, with a maximum of 22 travelers, ensuring a personal and intimate journey.
Premium Logistics: Enjoy elevated, private transportation throughout the journey.

This expanded partnership ensures that travelers worldwide can now experience destinations through a distinct National Geographic lens, offering a greater focus on immersive, ethical, and transformative exploration.

Disney Villains Take Over Hong Kong Disneyland

By

Sara

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September 27, 2025

Disney Villains Invade Hong Kong Disneyland

The villains are taking over Hong Kong Disneyland! Now through November 2, “Disney Halloween Time” is celebrating the park’s 20th anniversary with the Villains’ “Most Wicked Party of All.” Guests can experience a brand-new Disney Villains block party and brave an eerie nighttime version of the Jungle River Cruise—don’t miss the frightening fun this Halloween season.

New Villainous Block Party Debuts

“Uninvited! A Villains Takeover Party!” is an all-new show led by Maleficent and her wicked crew. Queen of Hearts, Lady Tremaine and her daughters, Gaston, and more are storming Main Street, U.S.A. in a block party complete with evil laughter, monstrous vines, and a procession of villainous pomp.

Head to Theater in the Wild over in Adventureland where the award-winning stage show “Let’s Get Wicked” has once again returned. Featuring Ursula, Dr. Facilier, Maleficent, Mother Gothel, and Gaston, this dazzling performance combines powerful vocals, spellbinding effects, and devilish charm.

New After Dark Voyage on Jungle River Cruise

Prepare for a harrowing twist on the Jungle River Cruise, featuring eerie sounds, flickering lights, and mysterious tales. This new experience is only for those who dare to venture into the uncharted waters.

Discover Disney Duos and New Looks

Meet iconic Disney Animation pairings such as Snow White and The Queen, Jasmine and Jafar, and Aurora and Maleficent in immersive, story-driven encounters. Don’t miss The Scarlet Witch in Tomorrowland or Cruella De Vil strutting down Main Street, U.S.A.

You can also join Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni, StellaLou, CookieAnn, ‘Olu Mel, and LinaBell in their new Halloween-themed outfits over at Duffy and Friends Play House.

Meanwhile, catch Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale on Main Street, U.S.A. while Pooh, Tigger, and Eeyore bounce into Fantasy Gardens for hugs and Halloween cheer.

So Cute It’s Scary Merchandise

This season, discover the new Disney Wickies plush toys exclusive to Hong Kong Disneyland! They’re the perfect Halloween sidekicks for conjuring “so-cute-it’s-scary” fun.

Plus, over 150 Halloween-themed items await, from SouvenEAR mini hats and Zootopia-themed plush keychain blind boxes to Villain-inspired outfits and limited-edition medallions.

Seasonal Bites that Delight

Indulge in seasonal bites around Hong Kong Disneyland from Maleficent soft serve to Villains Hotdog, Jack Skellington’s Glowing Blood Bag Drink, and Wickies Gelato Basket.

Dine at River View Cafe where Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is hosting “Jack Skellington’s The Nightmare Before Dinner.” Here you can enjoy a four-course meal, Halloween Town photo ops, and exclusive souvenirs.

Over at the hotels, try savory picks at Enchanted Garden Restaurant and Ink & Plate, Disney Wickies Sweet Dumplings at Crystal Lotus, and Bloody Tofu Pudding at Dragon Wind for a devilishly sweet way to end your day.

Where will you be celebrating Halloween?

Crane Now Visible in DinoLand USA as Disney Begins World on Encantoland

By

Chris B

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September 27, 2025

Crane Now Visible in Dinoland USA as Disney Begins World on Encantoland

Tower Crane Installed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for Encanto Ride Construction

Big changes are rising at Disney’s Animal Kingdom as a massive tower crane has now been installed for construction of the upcoming Encanto attraction in the new Tropical Americas land.

Unlike the temporary mobile cranes seen in recent weeks, this tower crane is a more permanent fixture, signaling that heavy vertical construction is about to begin. Guests can already spot it from the Animal Kingdom parking lot, towering above the treeline.

The crane is positioned in the former Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama area, which permanently closed back in January as part of the phased closure of DinoLand U.S.A. That space will soon be home to a brand-new Encanto ride, transporting guests into Casita for a magical family adventure alongside the Madrigals.

Other parts of DinoLand have also reached their end. The Boneyard was recently demolished and will be replaced with a new play area, while the last phase will see DINOSAUR reimagined into an Indiana Jones attraction, officially closing in early 2026.

When complete, Tropical Americas will feature Pueblo Esperanza, a lively new village complete with a wood-carved Disney animal carousel, plus the Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions as the land’s anchors. The new land is expected to debut in 2027.

Zootopia Better Zoogether Sign Installed but Hiding at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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Chris B

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September 27, 2025

Zootopia Better Zoogether Sign Installed but Hiding at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Zootopia Better Zoogether Sign Installed but Still Covered at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one step closer to welcoming Zootopia: Better Zoogether inside the Tree of Life Theater. The attraction’s entrance sign has officially gone up on Discovery Island, but it’s not ready for its big reveal just yet. The new sign is completely wrapped in brown scrim, surrounded by construction walls and scaffolding.

This spot was once home to It’s Tough to Be a Bug, which closed earlier this year to make way for the Zootopia-inspired show. The new experience will debut on November 7, 2025, and invites guests to celebrate “Zoogether Day,” a holiday in the world of Zootopia. Expect to see a variety of animal acts take the stage, blending humor and heart in classic Disney style.

Alongside the show, a brand-new meet and greet featuring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde in their outfits from Zootopia 2 will open nearby, adding extra star power to the area. With the sequel releasing in theaters just weeks later on November 26, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.

Walls Up Around the Tree of Life for New Zootopia Better Zoogether Replacing Bugs Life

For now, guests passing by the construction site can only catch a glimpse of the covered sign, but it’s a sure sign that Animal Kingdom is gearing up for its next big adventure.

New 2025 Legacy Award Recipients Announced at Disneyland

By

Sara

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September 27, 2025

The Class of 2025: Legacy Award Recipients Named at Disneyland

This year, the Walt Disney Legacy Award recognized outstanding Disneyland Resort Cast Members. Because this honor is so exclusive—reserved for only 1% of Cast Members and based on peer nominations—Disney made sure the notification was just as special. Throughout August and September, the newest recipients were surprised at their workplaces with heartfelt celebrations. Teammates, leaders, and special guests gathered to present each honoree with their iconic, newly earned blue nametag.

Jim Campbell – Entertainment

Jim has made an impact on his fellow cast members throughout his long tenure in his role as a performer and composer.

One of his nominators wrote, “Jim’s ability to mentor and share his experience of working here for over 30 years has created an environment where other cast feel encouraged to take on their own creative challenges…His mentorship has sparked a recent wave of creativity within the team.” Congratulations, Jim!

Steve Finley – Attractions Host, Main Street Attractions

To guests and cast members alike, Steve has become a staple of Main Street, U.S.A.

One of his nominators wrote, “Guests are lucky indeed if they get on Steve’s fire engine. Steve will take the time to explain the origins of the Main Street vehicles and how dear they were to Walt Disney. Steve always makes sure to share that the fire engine was Walt’s favorite and that he drove it many times. Steve is now truly the face of the fire engine!” Congratulations, Steve!

Carol Vincent – Merchandise Hostess, Company D

Carol’s kindness, inclusive nature and ability to connect with her teammates have melted the hearts of her fellow cast members.

One of her nominators wrote, “Carol embodies the ‘Aloha’ spirit in all of her actions throughout the day. She is kind and considerate, even when she has to make difficult decisions. She explains the ‘why’s’ behind her decisions to cast and guests, making them feel heard and seen.” Congratulations, Carol!

Alondra Chavez Castaneda – Main Gate Reception

An inspiration to her teammates, Alondra is always finding ways to grow and encourages those around her to grow alongside her.

One of her nominators wrote, “Alondra is a strong, caring and compassionate leader who sees the limitless potential in everyone and everything. Alondra’s continual quest for improvements has created an environment where learning and growing is not only allowed but encouraged and rewarded.” Congratulations, Alondra!

Hank Ameen – Firefighter

Another staple of the Disneyland Resort, Hank Ameen has shared a smile and true happiness with countless people over the years.

One of his nominators wrote, “He’s served in many roles – from Jungle Cruise skipper to firefighter – and in each one, he’s brought warmth, professionalism and a deep love for the Disney experience. He’s greeted thousands of guests and cast members with a smile, a handshake and a spark of joy that makes everyone feel like a friend.” Congratulations, Hank!

First Look Jazzy Holidays Menu at The Hollywood Brown Derby for Jollywood Nights

By

Chris B

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September 27, 2025

First Look Jazzy Holidays Menu at The Hollywood Brown Derby for Jollywood Nights

Menu Revealed for Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby

The holidays at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are getting a touch of class with Jazzy Holidays, a special dining-and-entertainment experience at The Hollywood Brown Derby during Disney Jollywood Nights. Disney has now revealed the full menu, and it’s packed with indulgent small plates, festive cocktails, and cozy seasonal sips.

On the food front, highlights include upscale bites like Hamachi with citrus-champagne vinaigrette, chorizo arancini with salmorejo tomato sauce, and sticky chicken wings with a sweet-and-spicy soy glaze. Heartier options feature bison and pork sliders topped with onion jam and gorgonzola, lump crab with asparagus and bone marrow hollandaise, and bao buns filled with either Korean barbecue pork belly or seared tofu for a plant-based twist.

Non-alcoholic offerings keep the seasonal magic alive with creations like the Holiday Mickey Hot Cocoa topped with brownie Mickey ears and sprinkles, the refreshing Blueberry Smash, and The Sleigh Bell mocktail, blending ginger beer with rosemary, pomegranate, and cranberry.

The cocktail menu, meanwhile, is where Jazzy Holidays really swings. New seasonal standouts include the Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate spiked with Stoli Vanilla Vodka and Baileys, the Poinsettia Fizz with prosecco and frozen cranberries, and the Mocha Espresso Mint-tini with peppermint schnapps and chocolate liqueur. Other options range from a classic Grey Goose vodka martini to a decadent Peanut Butter Whiskey Cream made with Skrewball and RumChata. Prices range from $16.50 to $20.50, making this one of the most premium beverage menus offered at any Disney holiday event.

Jazzy Holidays itself is an adults-oriented lounge experience that combines live jazz with a sophisticated seasonal menu, perfect for guests looking for a quieter, more upscale way to enjoy Jollywood Nights. The event requires both a Jollywood Nights ticket and a separate reservation for The Hollywood Brown Derby.

Encanto and Indiana Jones Concept Art on Display in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Chris B

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September 27, 2025

Encanto Concept Art on Display in Disney's Animal Kingdom

Indiana Jones and Encanto Concept Art Installed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The countdown to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas expansion is feeling more real than ever. Fresh concept art for the highly anticipated Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions has now been installed on the construction walls in the former DinoLand U.S.A.

The walls are hard to miss, painted bright green and decorated with playful touches like butterflies and stylized bats. Guests will spot Encanto artwork near the recently closed Boneyard, showcasing the Madrigal family in Antonio’s magical animal-filled room. This ride will bring fans into Casita, beginning on the day Antonio receives his gift to talk with animals. Interestingly, the new art matches the previously released version, except riders have now been removed from the foreground.

A stroll further along the walls reveals a transition from Encanto’s signature yellow butterflies to mysterious bat-like creatures that seem inspired by Camazotz, bat spirits from Maya mythology. These lead directly to new Indiana Jones concept art featuring a Maya temple. The ride, which will replace DINOSAUR, is expected to reuse the same ride system as Disneyland’s Indiana Jones Adventure but with a fresh story. In this version, Indy investigates a temple said to hide a mythical creature. While the bats may not be the star legend themselves, they could still play a role inside the attraction.

The story of DinoLand’s extinction is nearly complete. The Boneyard has closed, Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama has already gone extinct, and now Restaurantosaurus and DINOSAUR are both set to close for good on February 1, 2026. That final day will mark the end of the land and the beginning of a full transformation into Tropical Americas.

Disney Files New Permits for Tropical Americas at Disney's Animal Kingdom

When it opens in 2027, the reimagined land will transport guests into the lush and vibrant region, complete with Pueblo Esperanza, a colorful village anchored by a carousel of Disney animals, and Casita from Encanto. Between magical animals and Indy’s thrilling temple trek, this land promises to be one of Disney’s most adventurous expansions yet.

Daisy Holiday Pajama Party Coming to Storytellers Cafe

By

Sara

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September 27, 2025

Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party Comes to Storytellers Cafe

Get ready to put on your most festive flannel! Daisy Duck is hosting the coziest holiday event of the season, the Daisy Holiday Pajama Party, at Storytellers Cafe. This special character dining experience runs from November 17 through January 6, 2026, offering guests a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season in their coziest attire—pajamas encouraged!

Inside the warm, Craftsman-style decor of the cafe, you and your family can enjoy a homey, holiday gathering surrounded by Daisy and her best pals, all dressed in their festive colors and plaid fabrics.

Breakfast Buffet Details

Start your day with a magical morning feast available from 7:00 AM to 10:45 AM. The breakfast buffet features a wide array of flavorful favorites:

Sweet Treats & Fruit: An assortment of fresh baked goods, fresh berries, and seasonal sliced fruits.
Classic Comforts: Signature Mickey waffles served with maple syrup and Chantilly cream.
Savory Selections: Made-to-order omelets and savory pork carnitas chilaquiles.
Carving Station: Featuring grilled tri-tip steak with chimichurri and creamy horseradish, and a delicious pineapple-glazed Nueske spiral ham.
Dessert: Finish with an assortment of bakery desserts and more!

Breakfast Pricing:

Adults (ages 10 and older): $69 plus tax
Children (ages 3 to 9): $39 plus tax

Daisy Holiday Pajama Party Coming to Storytellers Cafe

The Ultimate Brunch Buffet

For those who prefer a mid-day celebration, Daisy’s pajama party continues with a delicious buffet brunch available from 11:00 AM to 1:15 PM.

The brunch menu includes all the mouthwatering items available for breakfast, plus extended selections perfect for a heartier meal, such as:

Cinnamon bread French toast
Macaroni and cheese
Bread pudding
And much more!

Brunch Pricing:

Adults (ages 10 and older): $74 plus tax
Children (ages 3 to 9): $39 plus tax

Note: All prices listed are per person and do not include tax or gratuities.

Important Blockout Dates

Please note that this festive dining experience will not be available on the major holidays listed below:

Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve
Christmas

Ready to join Daisy in your jammies? Don’t miss out on this fun and unique holiday tradition!

Disney Cruise Line Notifying Guests of New Hawaii Tax

By

Sara

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September 27, 2025

Disney Cruise Line: Expect a New Hawaii Tax

Disney Cruise Line is notifying guests booked on the February 2026 Disney Wonder sailings about new taxes imposed by the State of Hawaii. These fees, which include the newly applied Transient Accommodations Tax, are increasing the total cost of the cruise for affected passengers.

The affected trip is the Disney Wonder’s 10-night, one-way sailing on February 16, 2026, which travels from Honolulu to Vancouver after the ship completes its Australia season. Disney Cruise Line contacted booked guests just three weeks before their final payment deadline to notify them of the unexpected price increase.

“We are writing to you with important information related to your upcoming cruise, which includes a visit to Hawai’i. The State of Hawai’i will be implementing an 11% Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT), as well as a 3% Local County TAT, on a portion of your cruise fare based on the time spent docked in Hawai’i,” the email explained.

Effective January 1, 2026, the new tax—approved last May—will be applied to cruise ships for the first time. All guests booked on voyages visiting Hawai’i will have their total taxes, fees, and port expenses updated to reflect this change. Specifically for the Disney Wonder itinerary, the new tax will cover the ship’s calls to Nawiliwili, Maui, and Hilo.

The final cost of the tax is tied to each guest’s individual fare rate, with some families already seeing increases of $400–450 or more. With the final payment due on October 19, 2025, guests must pay the higher total, which now includes the new taxes. For those unable to pay the unexpected “chunk” of extra money, the risk is severe: reservation cancellation and forfeiture of a highly anticipated vacation.

While the February 16 sailing is heavily impacted, the Disney Wonder’s earlier cruise—the February 2, 2026, departure from Sydney to Honolulu—will also see a fee increase, though a smaller one, covering its single port call at Nawiliwili. Starting in January 2026, this new tax will affect numerous ships across the industry, including the Ruby Princess, Carnival Radiance, and multiple vessels from Holland America Line (Zaandam and Nieuw Amsterdam) and Princess Cruises (Emerald Princess and Coral Princess).

The biggest financial burden falls on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America, which sails weekly Hawaiian itineraries year-round. This has prompted the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to file a federal lawsuit in August 2025 challenging the tax, but a resolution to the dispute may be months away.

Will you be sailing on any Hawaiian cruises next year?

Fan Fest Nights Returning to Universal Hollywood in 2026

By

Sara

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September 27, 2025

Fan Fest Nights Set to Return to Universal Hollywood in 2026

Get ready for the return of Universal Fan Fest Nights in 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood! The event will feature exciting and immersive pop culture experiences, blending a slate of brand-new and fan-favorite adventures. This year’s event will include the exclusive announcement of an innovative Scooby-Doo x Universal Monsters mash-up, which will transport guests onto Universal’s iconic backlot.

Universal Fan Fest Nights is an immersive, separately ticketed, after-hours event celebrating the world of fandom. The experience is brought to life by the theme park’s highly creative entertainment team, working in collaboration with esteemed industry experts to create dynamic and interactive in-world experiences.

The festival embraces a spectrum of popular culture categories, including sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and anime. Guests are invited to dive into eclectic worlds that celebrate and elevate fandom favorites. The event also features live entertainment, character interactions, cosplay, unique photo opportunities, and curated selections of themed food, beverages, and merchandise.

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“The debut of our second annual Universal Fan Fest Nights event is just months away and Universal Studios Hollywood is knee-deep in its development, fine-tuning the very details that we know make a difference for fans,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood. “We are passionate about creating a top-notch fan event for our guests and can’t wait to share how incredible year two will be. And as we prep for opening night on April 23, we are pleased to be able to offer presale tickets to our guests that include a very cool, complimentary Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026 collectible medallion that we think will become another fan favorite.”

Presale tickets include Universal Fan Fest Nights General Admission and Universal Fan Fest Nights Ultimate Fandom Pass and include a complimentary limited edition collectible medallion. Restrictions apply. Click here to purchase presale tickets and for full Terms and Conditions.

Jimmy Kimmel Returning to Sinclair ABC Stations

By

Sara

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September 27, 2025

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Sinclair Brings Back Jimmy Kimmel’s Late-Night Show

Sinclair Broadcast Group, which owns and operates nearly 40 ABC stations, has given in to pressure and reversed its decision and will stop preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Sinclair announced it will bring the show back to its ABC stations starting Friday, September 26, according to CNBC.

In a public statement, Sinclair noted, “Over the last week, we have received thoughtful feedback from viewers, advertisers, and community leaders representing a wide range of perspectives. We have also witnessed troubling acts of violence, including the despicable incident of a shooting at an ABC affiliate station in Sacramento. These events underscore why responsible broadcasting matters and why respectful dialogue between differing voices remains so important.”

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Despite the return of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to the air on Tuesday, Sinclair initially stated it would continue to preempt the show. The program had been suspended indefinitely by the broadcaster starting September 17, 2025, following a comment made by host Jimmy Kimmel. During the show, Kimmel stated, “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

Nexstar, which owns about 30 ABC stations, continues to preempt the show.

Construction has Begun on Former Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

By

Sara

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September 26, 2025

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What’s Next? Construction Underway at the Former Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Hotel

Construction materials have officially arrived at the site of the former Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel at Walt Disney World. The building is now set to be transformed into a new Walt Disney Imagineering office space.

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Aerial photographer bioreconstruct shared new photos of the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser building taken on September 20th, showing the start of work. The images reveal new dumpsters on the right side of the building, alongside wood panels used to place equipment. A row of portable toilets can also be seen a few yards away from the dumpsters.

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Bioreconstruct also observed markings in a paved area located next to the fire lane, which runs between the former hotel and a backstage building. These markings likely indicate plans for future excavation or other underground construction work.

About a month ago, Disney filed a construction permit for the former Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser space, contracting Balfour Beatty Construction for “general construction.” As previously announced, this facility will be converted into Walt Disney Imagineering offices to support ongoing projects at Walt Disney World. These projects include the new Tropical Americas land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Cars expansion and Disney Villains land at Magic Kingdom, and the Monsters, Inc. land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Aerial photos of the former Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser hotel.
Second photo seems to have markings for underground utilities. pic.twitter.com/wTFqxK7tZP
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) September 21, 2025

The immersive, cruise-style Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experience officially opened on March 1, 2022. While it received mixed reviews—which often praised the magical live entertainment and its positive, industry-changing aspects—most agreed that the experience was overpriced. The Galactic Starcruiser ultimately closed permanently on September 30, 2023.