When Did Rise of the Resistance Open at Disneyland?

Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland officially opened to the public on January 17, 2020. This marked the arrival of the groundbreaking and immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge attraction on the West Coast, following its initial debut at Walt Disney World.

Unveiling the Galaxy Far, Far Away in California

The arrival of Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland was highly anticipated, fulfilling the promise of a complete Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge experience. While Galaxy’s Edge itself had opened months earlier, the addition of this flagship attraction solidified the land as a truly transformative and must-do experience for Disney and Star Wars fans alike.

A Complex and Ambitious Undertaking

Rise of the Resistance is not merely a ride; it’s a multi-faceted, multi-sensory adventure. Guests are thrust into the heart of a battle between the Resistance and the First Order, experiencing elements of live theater, walk-through environments, intense ride sequences, and cutting-edge technology. It’s a logistical and technological marvel, which explains the staggered openings between the two Disney parks.

Why the Wait for Disneyland?

The delay between the opening of Galaxy’s Edge and Rise of the Resistance in Disneyland stemmed from the sheer complexity of the attraction. Fine-tuning the ride’s elaborate systems, training the cast members to seamlessly blend into the narrative, and ensuring operational reliability were all paramount. Disney wanted to deliver a polished and immersive experience right from the start, and that required dedicated time and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland

Here’s a comprehensive guide to answer common questions about Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland, providing helpful information for planning your visit.

1. What exactly is Rise of the Resistance?

Rise of the Resistance is a dark ride attraction located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland. It immerses guests in a thrilling storyline where they become recruits for the Resistance, facing off against the First Order. The experience involves a combination of walk-through scenes, pre-shows with actors and droids, and a dramatic ride segment featuring advanced animatronics and special effects. It is considered one of Disney’s most technologically advanced and immersive attractions.

2. Where in Disneyland is Rise of the Resistance located?

Rise of the Resistance is situated within Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which is located on the northwest side of Disneyland Park. It’s nestled within the Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu, creating an authentic Star Wars environment. Signage within Galaxy’s Edge will guide you, but simply heading towards the rock spires and keeping an eye out for First Order stormtroopers is a good bet.

3. How do I join the virtual queue for Rise of the Resistance?

As of November 2023, Disneyland no longer uses a virtual queue system for Rise of the Resistance. Guests can access the ride through the standby queue, or they can purchase an Individual Lightning Lane entry through the Disneyland app. It’s important to check the Disneyland app on the day of your visit for the latest information, as operational procedures can change.

4. What is an Individual Lightning Lane and how does it work for Rise of the Resistance?

An Individual Lightning Lane is a paid option that allows guests to bypass the standby queue for Rise of the Resistance. You can purchase this entry through the Disneyland app on the day of your visit. Prices vary depending on the day and demand. Once purchased, you’ll be assigned a time window to return to the attraction and enter through the Lightning Lane entrance, significantly reducing your wait time.

5. Is Rise of the Resistance suitable for young children?

Rise of the Resistance features intense scenes, loud noises, and dark environments. While there is no height requirement, Disney recommends that the ride is best suited for guests ages 5 and older. Some younger children may find the experience frightening. It’s important to consider your child’s sensitivity level before deciding to ride. The ride also contains sudden drops and jerky movements, which may not be suitable for everyone.

6. How long is the Rise of the Resistance ride experience?

The entire Rise of the Resistance experience, from start to finish, typically lasts around 18-20 minutes. This includes the pre-show elements, the walk-through scenes, and the ride portion itself. It’s a substantial commitment of time, but most guests find the immersive and engaging experience well worth it.

7. What are the common issues and potential downtime for Rise of the Resistance?

Due to its complex technology and multiple components, Rise of the Resistance is known to experience occasional downtime. Technical glitches, weather-related issues, and unexpected maintenance can lead to temporary closures. It’s wise to check the Disneyland app for real-time updates on ride availability and adjust your plans accordingly. Be prepared for the possibility of encountering downtime during your visit.

8. Are there any dining options near Rise of the Resistance?

Yes, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge offers several dining options within close proximity to Rise of the Resistance. Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo provides quick-service meals with a unique Star Wars twist. Ronto Roasters is another popular spot for grab-and-go items. You can also visit Oga’s Cantina for themed drinks and snacks (reservations highly recommended).

9. Is there a single rider line for Rise of the Resistance?

No, Rise of the Resistance does not offer a single rider line. Your options for experiencing the attraction are primarily through the standby queue or by purchasing an Individual Lightning Lane entry.

10. What should I expect in terms of the storyline and ride vehicles?

The storyline of Rise of the Resistance casts you as a new recruit for the Resistance. You’ll be captured by the First Order, interrogated by Kylo Ren, and ultimately attempt a daring escape. The ride vehicles are trackless transports that move autonomously through the attraction, adding to the sense of immersion. Expect plenty of surprises, dramatic moments, and encounters with iconic Star Wars characters.

11. Is there a height requirement for Rise of the Resistance?

No, there is no height requirement for Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland. However, as mentioned previously, the ride may be too intense for very young children due to its dark scenes, loud noises, and sudden movements.

12. How has Rise of the Resistance impacted the overall Disneyland experience?

Rise of the Resistance has significantly elevated the Disneyland experience, solidifying Galaxy’s Edge as a premier destination within the park. Its immersive storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and grand scale have made it a highly sought-after attraction. The ride has become a must-do for many guests, driving attendance and reshaping how people plan their visits to Disneyland. It’s a testament to Disney’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of themed entertainment and creating unforgettable experiences.