Disney's SXSW panel, "The Future of World-Building," unveiled exciting developments for Disney Parks. Highlights included the integration of The Mandalorian and Grogu into a new Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run mission, the creation of innovative, emotionally responsive ride vehicles for Magic Kingdom's Cars attraction, and a sneak peek at the loading area and lift-off sequence for the upcoming Monsters, Inc. attraction.
Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman led the presentation, emphasizing the collaborative efforts driving these new park experiences.
Here are the key announcements:
The Mandalorian and Grogu Join Smuggler's Run
The Mandalorian and Grogu will feature in a new Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run mission, debuting alongside the *The Mandalorian & Grogu* movie on May 22, 2026. Jon Favreau, along with Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, shared concept art showcasing locations like Tatooine's Jawa Sandcrawler, the Millennium Falcon and Razor Crest near Bespin's Cloud City, and even the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor. Favreau confirmed the new story complements, rather than retells, the film's narrative.
This new mission incorporates footage captured directly from the *The Mandalorian & Grogu* set, ensuring authenticity. Additionally, the popular BDX droids, currently at Disneyland, will expand to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris, with a new Anzellan droid, Otto, joining the ranks.
Monsters, Inc. Attraction Sneak Peek
Disney shared a first look at the loading area and lift-off for the new Monsters, Inc. roller coaster at Disney World's Hollywood Studios. This attraction, Disney's first suspended coaster with a vertical lift, promises a thrilling journey through Monsters, Inc.'s door vault.
Innovative Ride Vehicles for Magic Kingdom's Cars Attraction
Pixar's Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen detailed the development of a new ride vehicle for Magic Kingdom's upcoming Cars attraction. The focus is on creating an emotional experience, requiring the invention of a vehicle that transcends simple transportation. Research involved off-road vehicle testing in the Arizona desert and building a custom dirt track to gather data on vehicle response to various terrains.
Each vehicle will feature unique personality, name, and number, adding a Disney and Pixar touch.
Robert Downey Jr. on Avengers Campus Attractions
Robert Downey Jr. joined the panel to discuss Avengers Campus' new attractions. He highlighted the Stark Flight Lab, where guests will interact with Tony Stark's technology, emphasizing the experience as a realization of Stark Enterprises' mission. The ride utilizes gyro-kinetic pods and a giant robotic arm, inspired by DUM-E, for high-speed maneuvers.
