Star Wars Reporter’s Visit to Disney’s Star Wars Launch Bay by Jennifer Hayman
After recently visiting Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I thought I would share some pictures and a bit of the experience.
Outside the launch bay entrance, First Order Troopers interact with the crowd, occasionally calling out random bystanders for suspicion of “rebellious activity”. From the entrance, guests can either view a short video about the making of The Force Awakens, or proceed straight on the display and photo op area.
The launch bay houses a massive amount of star wars props memorabilia from various parts and timelines of the universe. One case contains a collection of Mandolorian helmets, another the hilts of notable light-sabers. There are several rooms to explore and definitely room to display additional items, if Disney felt so inclined. My personal favorite display was the case containing Rey’s speeder bike and a BB8 replica. Also on display from The Force Awakens was a Captain Phasma helmet and full Flame Trooper armor.
Another part of the Launch Bay experience is the opportunity to have a semi-private photo-op with Chewy or Kylo. Wait times can run pretty long and we unfortunately only had time for one. Since we were there to celebrate my four year old’s birthday, who is the biggest Kylo Ren fan boy I know, there was only one choice. The photo op area is decorated to look like a room on a star destroyer and Kylo’s menacing theme is played on loop. The Disney actor was fully committed to the role, not speaking but intimidatingly gesturing at there we should stand. The whole thing was designed to be intimidating, but my four year old fan boy smiled and exclaimed “IT”S KYLO” the entire time.
Overall, I found the Star Wars Launch Bay to be a great addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a delightfully air conditioned way to spend a few hours in the Florida park.
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Jennifer Hayman
REPORTER
Jennifer Hayman is a wife, mom, and all around Star Wars fanatic living in Southwest Florida. Jennifer is also an active member of Rebel Legion, the “Good Guy” branch of the Star Wars costuming and charity group, the 501st. When she isn’t talking about Star Wars to anyone who will listen, Jennifer also loves racing sailboats, table top games, and crafting gifts for her friends and family.