Pod-racing simulators? Cantina-themed cantinas? Some sort of lightsaber fighting attraction that you have to sign a waiver for because you might lose your hand? (Uh… or not.)
Universal’s already given us the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (and is set to open another in California next year), so it would only make sense for Disney to fulfill the dream of every Star Wars nerd and build a theme park centered around the beloved film franchise.
Our friends at Yahoo Travel raised our eyebrows with their report on Disney’s recent acquisition of land in California, speculating that more office space could mean new employees and, ultimately, a new park. The office theory is a little thin, but it’s worth noting that the City of Anaheim recently extended Disney’s entertainment tax exemption for the next 30 years, with the D promising to invest $1 billion in expanding its resort. The agreement requires Disney to start building something within the next two years.
Anaheim speculation aside, Theme Park Insider’s Robert Niles said something could happen on the Florida side of things soon…ish.
“My sources tell me that a contractor has been hired [in] Florida,” he wrote to Uproxx, “which should tell us that we’re getting close to at least an announcement.” Of course, the actual park will take time to build — Niles estimates at least three years. But the timing would be perfect for Disney, who acquired the rights to Lucasfilm in 2012, is set to release Star Wars: The Force Awakens this December, and is only building their massive fanbase.
Maybe a fully Star Wars-focused theme park is wishful thinking, but as one of Disney’s reigning princesses herself says, “A dream is a wish your heart makes.”
Your move, mouse.
Disney Parks and Resorts
“Guys, hold up — Luke, Han, and Leia are coming, too.”
