The SXSW panel on "The Future of World-building at Disney" was packed with thrilling updates and teases about the future of Disney Parks. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman led the panel, discussing the exciting collaborations between their teams that are set to bring innovative new experiences to the parks.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Will Join Smuggler's Run in a New Mission at the Launch of The Mandalorian & Grogu Film
Disney Parks enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting details on how The Mandalorian and Grogu will feature in a new story aboard Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. The new experience is set to debut alongside the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu film on May 22, 2026. Jon Favreau, the creator of The Mandalorian, along with Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, unveiled concept art that includes a Jawa's Sandcrawler on Tatooine, the Millennium Falcon and Mando's Razor Crest flying towards Cloud City on Bespin, and a glimpse at the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Mission Concept Art for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run
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Favreau clarified that the new mission won't retell the movie's plot but rather immerse guests in an off-camera adventure, enhancing the authenticity with scenes captured directly from the film's set. Additionally, the popular BDX droids from Disneyland will expand to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris, with a new Anzellan variant named Otto making appearances on BDX units needing repairs.
Excitingly, these BDX droids will also feature in The Mandalorian & Grogu film, adding to the immersive experience.
Here's a Sneak Peak at the Load Area and Lift Off of the New Monsters, Inc. Attraction at Disney World
Monsters, Inc. Land is set to open soon at Disney World's Hollywood Studios, featuring a new themed roller coaster. This attraction will be Disney Park's first-ever suspended coaster with a vertical lift, offering guests a thrilling experience through the iconic door vault of Monsters, Inc. Disney provided a first look at the load area, which promises to set the tone for the adventure ahead. More details about this attraction and its surrounding land are eagerly anticipated.
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 shared insights into the upcoming Cars attraction at Magic Kingdom. They emphasized the goal of creating an emotional experience, which necessitated the development of a new type of ride vehicle. This vehicle, designed to convey feelings during the ride, was inspired by real-world testing in the Arizona desert and collaboration with a motocross company to build a custom dirt track. These vehicles will have unique personalities, names, and numbers, enhancing the immersive nature of the ride through a thrilling mountain rally race.
Robert Downey Jr. Stops by Disney's SXSW Panel to Help Share More About the New Avengers Campus Attractions
Disneyland's Avengers Campus is set to expand with two new attractions, including Avengers Infinity Defense, where guests will join forces with the Avengers to combat King Thanos across multiple worlds. The highlight of the panel was Robert Downey Jr.'s appearance, revealing more about the Stark Flight Lab attraction. Downey Jr. will reprise his role as Tony Stark, guiding guests through his workshop and showcasing new technology. The ride will feature "gyro-kinetic pods" and a giant robotic arm inspired by Tony's DUM-E, performing high-speed maneuvers inspired by Iron Man and other Avengers.
Chief Creative Officer for Walt Disney Imagineering Bruce Vaughn highlighted the innovative approach of showcasing the technology as part of the story. The robotic arm's movements were developed with the help of dancers and motion capture, ensuring a realistic and engaging experience for guests.
