If you're a Star Wars fan, walking into Galaxy's Edge at a Disney park is like stepping directly into the movies. It’s a living, breathing galaxy far, far away—complete with spaceships, droids, and blue milk. I had the chance to explore this immersive world, and I’m here to share the highlights, the must-dos, and yes, a couple of tiny disappointments. Buckle in, young Jedi (or Sith), because here are my 10 takeaways from the experience!

1. The Atmosphere is Pure Magic

The second you walk into Galaxy’s Edge, it feels like you’ve left Earth entirely. Batuu, the planet where the land is set, is full of gritty, lived-in details that make every corner feel authentic. You’ll see ships parked in the distance, market stalls buzzing with activity, and cast members totally in character as residents. The ambient sounds of ships flying overhead and alien chatter really pull you in.

For me, it was when I walked into Black Spire Outpost and laid eyes on the Millennium Falcon for the first time. I got actual chills. I’ve never really felt like I was “inside a movie” until then. It’s a great moment—don’t forget your camera. And speaking of, photos here are Instagram gold.

2. Riding Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run

This is one ride every Star Wars fan has to try at least once, just so you can pilot the ship that made the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs. Smuggler’s Run is part simulator, part video game. You and your group take on different roles in the cockpit—pilot, gunner, or engineer—working together on a smuggling mission.

The experience is fun, especially if you’re sitting in the pilot’s chair. (If you crash the Falcon into something… oops. That might’ve been me.) But if I’m being honest, the ride doesn’t really hold up to repeated runs for everyone in the group. The gunners and engineers don’t get to interact as much, so it can feel less thrilling if you’re not steering the ship or blasting TIE fighters. Still, it’s a Star Wars geek’s dream come true to touch those iconic controls.

3. Rise of the Resistance is Mind-Blowing

Forget Disneyland rides as you know them—Rise of the Resistance is more like being in a Star Wars movie. Unlike other attractions, it seamlessly combines massive sets, audio-animatronics, and simulation technology to create an experience with jaw-dropping surprises around every corner. Here’s a non-spoiler example: at one point, you’re face-to-face with intimidating First Order stormtroopers. The sense of scale is insane.

I’ll admit I teared up during the pre-show when Poe Dameron and BB-8 showed up. That’s how immersive it is! However, a word of caution—this ride is wildly popular, and securing your spot can feel like winning the Hunger Games. Pro tip? Try to snag a boarding pass through the app right when it becomes available. It’s worth the struggle.

4. The Food is Out of This World

No trip is complete without sampling the alien cuisine at Galaxy’s Edge. At Docking Bay 7, I ordered the Felucian Kefta and Hummus Garden Spread. It’s essentially plant-based meatballs, but something about the presentation made eating it so much cooler. For carnivores, the Braised Shaak Roast is also a hit.

And then there’s the Ronto Wrap. Friends, believe the hype. It’s the perfect mix of savory roasted sausage, tangy slaw, and a pita casing that makes it easy to eat on the go. You can grab one from Ronto Roasters while watching your meal literally being roasted on a giant podracer engine.

But, okay, here’s where my first critique comes in—that blue (and green) milk? It’s… an acquired taste. The texture is oddly slushy, and the flavor is fruity in a weird way, like melted Starbursts. Personally, I had to force myself to finish it, but hey, it’s worth trying, even just for the photos.

5. Building a Lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop

This was BY FAR the highlight of my trip. Building your own custom lightsaber is a magical experience—but prepare to shell out $250 for it. While the price might make you gulp, I think it’s worth it for the sheer theatricality of the process.

You’re taken into a secret workshop where you choose your hilt design, kyber crystal, and blade color. When it’s time to ignite your lightsaber for the first time, it’s genuinely emotional. Yes, I’m an adult who got goosebumps. Don’t judge.

The downside? The experience is short, and if you’re traveling light, carrying your newly-built weapon around the park can be a pain. Sure, they give you a carrying case, but it’s definitely something to consider.

6. Shopping in the Market is Like Time Traveling

The market area of Black Spire Outpost feels straight out of Tatooine or Maz Kanata’s castle. There are stalls selling custom droid parts, clothing styled for Resistance or First Order fans, and even an entire store with nothing but creatures from the galaxy. I picked up a Porg plush because, well, how could I not?

What’s fun is that all the merchandise sticks to the Star Wars vibe. You won’t find Mickey ears here. Instead, everything looks like it was made by the locals of Batuu. My one tiny gripe? Prices can feel steep, even by Disney standards. A small keepsake can set you back more than you’d expect.

7. The Droids are Delightful

One of the coolest things to do at Galaxy’s Edge is to build your own droid at the Droid Depot. Seeing kids (and, um, plenty of adults) walking around with their custom R-series or BB-series droid companions is ridiculously charming. The building process is hands-on, and your little buddy actually interacts with the land by responding to locations as you explore Batuu.

I skipped building one this time—I had already spent my credits on the lightsaber—but I made a mental note that this is next on my list. If you’re traveling with a Star Wars-loving kid, this is a can’t-miss activity.

8. There’s Too Much to Fit Into a Single Day

One of the best (and slightly overwhelming) things about Galaxy’s Edge is just how much there is to do. Between trying the food, checking out the shops, and experiencing the headliner attractions, you’ll be racing to fit it all in.

I kind of regret not staying longer to soak up the little details, like the hidden Resistance base or the conversations you can overhear in Aurebesh if you translate them. If you’re planning your visit, aim for at least one full day here—even then, you’ll probably want to come back.

9. Immersion Can Be a Double-Edged Lightsaber

While it’s awesome that the cast members are fully committed to their roles (calling you “traveler” and refusing to break character), it can occasionally be a bit… awkward. For instance, when I asked where the restrooms were, I got pointed to the “refresher station.” Small immersion quirks like this can confuse someone unfamiliar with Star Wars lingo.

This commitment also means you won’t find Coke bottles here in their usual packaging—you get odd orb-shaped thermal detonator bottles instead. It’s a cool touch, but not everyone will love sacrificing convenience for authenticity.

10. Star Wars Fans Will Be Overwhelmed—in the Best Way

At its core, Galaxy’s Edge is a love letter to Star Wars fans. The land is packed with references to movies, shows, and lore. From lootable crates hiding easter eggs to the sound of an X-Wing taking off in the distance, everything feels designed to reward superfans.

For kids and casual fans, it’s still fun, but some of the subtler touches might not land as hard. If you’re the kind of person who knows the difference between a Wampa and a Womp Rat (admit it, you do), it’s a bucket list-level experience.

Galaxy’s Edge is nothing short of magical. Yes, it has its flaws—lines can be long, prices can be high, and not everyone will fall in love with the drinks—but the level of detail and creativity is astounding. Whether you're piloting the Falcon, wielding a lightsaber, or just wandering the streets of Black Spire Outpost, everything feels like a dream come true for Star Wars fans.