In a galaxy far, far away—specifically at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Park—you can take control of the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy: the Millennium Falcon.
Yes, you can actually pilot it! This remarkable attraction lets guests step into the cockpit of Han Solo’s legendary ship for an interactive mission filled with action, teamwork, and stunning visuals. Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan or a newcomer to the saga, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is an absolute must-do.
Location
Disneyland Park | Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is located in the heart of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park, nestled between the towering spires of Black Spire Outpost. You’ll find it directly across from Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, near Oga’s Cantina and the Milk Stand. The life-size Millennium Falcon dominates the plaza, serving as one of the most photographed icons in all of Disneyland. Guests can enter the attraction from the winding pathways that connect Galaxy’s Edge to both Frontierland and Fantasyland.
The Queue
The experience begins even before you board. As you approach the attraction, you’ll encounter a life-size Millennium Falcon, fully detailed with battle scars, docking ports, and working lights—one of the most photographed icons in all of Disneyland.
The queue wraps around and behind the Falcon itself, giving you a close-up view before winding through a mechanic’s bay filled with ship parts, tools, and droids hard at work. From there, you’ll enter the command center, where Hondo Ohnaka—the smooth-talking pirate from Star Wars: The Clone Wars—and his droid assistant R5-P8 brief you on your mission.
Your task: take Hondo’s borrowed Falcon on a smuggling run to retrieve valuable cargo.
At the end of the briefing, you’ll step into the Falcon’s Chess Room, a perfect recreation of the ship’s common area where Luke and Chewbacca once played holochess. Here, you’ll receive your crew assignment and wait to board. Groups of fewer than six will often be paired with other travelers.
The Ride
Once you step into the cockpit, your adventure begins. The Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is a state-of-the-art motion simulator that puts you in control of the ship’s every move.
The ride vehicles—six-passenger cockpits mounted on rotating platforms—tilt, pitch, and vibrate to simulate flight through asteroid fields, First Order encounters, and daring hyperspace jumps. The seamless motion and massive projection screen create the illusion of soaring through space.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take note: the motion is not extreme, but it’s realistic enough that some guests may feel queasy during rapid movements.
Inside the cockpit, there are three roles, each critical to the mission’s success:
Pilots
Seated in the front row, one pilot controls vertical movement while the other handles horizontal steering. Together, you’ll fly the ship, dodge obstacles, and make the jump to hyperspace. This is the dream job for every Star Wars fan—there’s nothing quite like pulling that lever.
Gunners
The middle row seats belong to the gunners, who operate the Falcon’s blasters. You can choose between automatic or manual firing as you protect the ship from TIE fighters and incoming fire.
Engineers
In the back row, engineers monitor the ship’s systems and perform emergency repairs when lights flash on your console. It’s the perfect position for kids or first-timers who want to experience the action without the pressure of flying.
Scoring
What makes Smugglers Run unique is its interactive mission. Your crew’s performance determines the outcome—how much cargo you recover, how much damage you cause, and even what Hondo says at the end.
Each ride can play out differently, making this one of the most re-rideable attractions in Disneyland.
Pro Tip: The fun of this attraction depends heavily on the group you ride with. If everyone plays along and reacts in character, it feels like you’re living out a Star Wars scene. But if your crew stays silent, the experience can fall flat. Don’t be afraid to shout, cheer, and play your role!
Lightning Lane Passes
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run participates in the Lightning Lane Multi Pass system at Disneyland Resort. If you’re using the service, this is one of the best uses of a selection in Galaxy’s Edge, as standby waits can exceed 60 minutes.
Future Storyline Update
In 2026, both coasts are expected to debut an updated storyline featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu to celebrate the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu film. Details are limited, but fans can expect new dialogue, visuals, and mission elements inspired by the hit series.
Single Rider Line
A Single Rider Line is available, allowing solo travelers to fill open crew positions. It’s a great way to enjoy the attraction quickly—though you won’t be able to choose your role and may miss the full pre-show experience.
Rider Switch
Rider Switch is available for guests traveling with small children who can’t or don’t wish to ride. One adult waits with the non-rider while the other experiences the attraction, then they switch without waiting in line again.
Accessibility
Guests must transfer from a wheelchair or ECV to board. Due to the ride’s motion and enclosed cockpit design, service animals are not permitted.
Height requirement: 38 inches
Effects / Sensory Warning
::: MOTION SICKNESS ALERT :::
This simulator creates a convincing sense of flight, including acceleration, turbulence, and sudden movement. While most guests find it thrilling, those prone to motion sickness should use caution.
Wrap-Up
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Disneyland Park delivers one of the most interactive and cinematic experiences Disney has ever created. Whether you’re piloting through hyperspace or repairing systems mid-flight, every mission feels different.
For Star Wars fans, it’s not just a ride—it’s the chance to live your dream of flying the Falcon.
“Punch it, Chewie!”
This article was written by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.
Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.
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