The former Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is getting a new lease on life as a space for Disney’s Imagineering department, the company recently confirmed to local media outlets. Rumors of the building’s repurposing started circulating at the end of January and have now been officially acknowledged by Disney.
The Imagineering department, responsible for designing and creating Disney’s theme parks, resorts, attractions, cruise ships, games, merchandise, and publishing projects, will be relocating to the former hotel building. This move has been in the works since October, according to reports from WESH 2, an Orlando news source.
While the exact timeline for the renovation work and the relocation of employees remains uncertain, the transition signals an exciting new chapter for the iconic structure. The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, a unique two-night immersive experience likened to a traditional cruise, opened its doors in March 2022 after facing several delays.
Guests who stayed at the Galactic Starcruiser were enveloped in an interactive storyline throughout their visit, enjoying a blend of entertainment, dining, and a special trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Despite receiving acclaim for its immersive storytelling and guest experience, the hotel faced criticism for its steep pricing structure, with rates starting at almost $5,000 for a two-person cabin and $6,000 for a four-person cabin.
In May 2023, Disney announced that the Starcruiser’s final “voyage” would take place at the end of September, leaving fans eager for news about the building’s future. Speculation grew as to whether the structure would be preserved as an attraction in some form, keeping alive the magic of the Galactic Starcruiser experience for future visitors.
Fast forward to June 2023, when Josh D’Amaro, the chairman of Disney Experiences, hinted in an interview with travel site The Points Guy that “something will happen” with the building, teasing at potential future developments without divulging specific details. Nearly six months later, in January 2024, a permit for “general construction” was filed by Disney for the site of the former Star Wars hotel, further fueling curiosity about the upcoming changes.
As the building undergoes this transformation from a galactic hotel to a hub of creative innovation for Disney’s Imagineering team, the legacy of the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser lives on in a new and unexpected way. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting evolution of a beloved Disney destination.
