Disney World has sad news for some guests, while some have better news for others. Here's what we know.
Disney World Removes Entire ‘Star Wars’ Location: Moves Two Big-Time Characters to New Spot
The end of an era came quietly at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this week. Guests strolling through the park discovered that Animation Courtyard and the once-bustling Star Wars Launch Bay had officially closed. For longtime visitors, the news brought a wave of nostalgia—this was the place where hugs from Chewbacca and stern stares from Darth Vader were almost guaranteed.
But while the courtyard gates are locked, the story doesn’t end there. Disney has already repositioned these fan-favorite icons into new corners of the park, and the changes could actually work in your favor if you know where to go and when.
Below, we’ll explore what’s changed, how to meet the characters now, and a few tricks from seasoned parkgoers that can help you turn these updates into advantages.
Launch Bay’s Closure Marks a Turning Point
The Star Wars Launch Bay may have lost some of its shine over the past few years, but it was still a touchstone for countless families. Yesterday’s closure, which also shuttered Animation Courtyard, clears the way for construction on the upcoming Magic of Disney Animation attraction.
Here’s a look at the updated digital map of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars Launch Bay is now closed to make way for The Magic of Disney Animation opening next year. Darth Vader is now meeting guests near Star Tours. – @ScottGustin on X
Here’s a look at the updated digital map of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars Launch Bay is now closed to make way for The Magic of Disney Animation opening next year. Darth Vader is now meeting guests near Star Tours. pic.twitter.com/rKI37GMLwl
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) September 25, 2025
What about the characters who once called it home? Disney has already revealed their next chapters:
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Chewbacca now greets guests in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, near the Millennium Falcon.
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Darth Vader has shifted over to Echo Lake, appearing near Star Tours – The Adventures Continue.
Chewbacca’s Meet-and-Greet Moves to Galaxy’s Edge
For years, Chewie could be spotted roaming Galaxy’s Edge, making every encounter feel spontaneous. Now, he has a dedicated meet-and-greet location by the Falcon, bringing a little more predictability to planning.
⏱️ Best time to visit: Earlier in the day before the land fills with crowds. Use the My Disney Experience app for live updates.
Darth Vader Relocates Near Star Tours
The Dark Lord of the Sith has taken up residence near Star Tours, giving fans a chance to pair a ride with a meet-and-greet. His intimidating presence hasn’t changed, but his queue flow has improved.
🔥 Pro tip: Lines for Vader typically ease up mid-afternoon, making it easier to catch him without the long waits.
Lightning Lane Premier Pass and App Strategies
Meeting these characters doesn’t require Lightning Lane, but using the service wisely can free up time in your day. Reserve rides like Rise of the Resistance and Slinky Dog Dash, then weave in character visits during slower hours. Always check the app for exact schedules before committing.
Hidden Hacks Only Frequent Guests Know
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Nighttime meets: Crowds thin out in the final park hours.
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PhotoPass surprises: Ask photographers in Galaxy’s Edge for “magic shots” with Star Wars digital effects.
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Character spotting: Rey and Stormtroopers still appear without notice—linger near market stalls for the best chance.
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Low-crowd entrance: Enter Galaxy’s Edge from Grand Avenue to bypass Toy Story Land bottlenecks.
Why Fans Are Divided
For many, Launch Bay symbolized the early days of Hollywood Studios’ Star Wars era. Its closure is another sign that Disney is focusing on immersive storytelling rather than stand-alone character pavilions.
Reactions online have been mixed: some celebrate the streamlined experiences in Galaxy’s Edge and Echo Lake, while others mourn the loss of a nostalgic space that had become a tradition for families. The move underscores how Disney balances progress with sentimentality.
What It Means for Your Next Disney World Trip
In the end, Chewbacca and Darth Vader aren’t disappearing—they’re simply moving to more thematic homes. If anything, this change makes the experiences feel richer, blending characters seamlessly into their stories.
So before your next trip, update your park strategy: plan your ride priorities, schedule character visits at smart times, and always leave room for the unexpected moments that Disney still does best.
The closure of Launch Bay may close one chapter, but it opens the door to more integrated, immersive character encounters across Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re Team Light Side or Dark Side, the Force is still strong—you just have to know where to find it.
