Disney's SXSW "Future of World-Building" panel unveiled exciting updates on upcoming park experiences. Key highlights included the integration of The Mandalorian and Grogu into a new Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run mission, the development of innovative, emotionally responsive ride vehicles for the Magic Kingdom's Cars attraction, and a sneak peek at the load area and launch sequence for the new Monsters, Inc. attraction.

Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman emphasized the collaborative efforts between their teams in creating these immersive experiences.

Here's a summary of the biggest announcements:

The Mandalorian and Grogu Join Smuggler's Run

The Mandalorian and Grogu will be featured in a new mission for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run, launching alongside The Mandalorian & Grogu movie on May 22, 2026. Jon Favreau, alongside Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, shared concept art showcasing locations like a Jawa Sandcrawler on Tatooine, the Millennium Falcon and Razor Crest near Cloud City, and even the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor. Favreau emphasized that this new story complements, rather than retells, the movie's narrative.

The new mission incorporates footage captured directly from the set of The Mandalorian & Grogu, ensuring authenticity. Additionally, the popular BDX droids from Disneyland will expand to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris, with a new Anzellan droid, Otto, joining the lineup.

Monsters, Inc. Attraction Sneak Peek

Disney shared a first look at the load area and lift-off sequence 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 the Monsters, Inc. door vault.

Innovative Ride Vehicles for Magic Kingdom's Cars Attraction

Pixar and Imagineering revealed the creation of a new type of ride vehicle for the upcoming Cars attraction at Magic Kingdom. Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen emphasized the focus on creating an emotional experience. The team conducted extensive research, including off-road testing in the Arizona desert, to develop a vehicle capable of conveying the thrill of a mountain rally race. Each vehicle will have a unique personality, name, and number.

Robert Downey Jr. on Avengers Campus Attractions

Robert Downey Jr. joined the panel to discuss the new Avengers Campus attractions at Disneyland. He highlighted the Stark Flight Lab, an experience that immerses guests in Tony Stark's workshop, featuring gyro-kinetic pods and a giant robotic arm inspired by DUM-E. Chief Creative Officer Bruce Vaughn emphasized the innovative use of technology as a central element of the storytelling.