Disney is set to expand the Avengers Campus within Disney’s California Adventure with the launch of two new thrilling attractions in 2024. This announcement was made during the Disney Experiences showcase at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, generating significant excitement among Marvel fans.
The forthcoming rides, titled Stark Flight Lab and Avengers Infinity Defense, are expected to double the size of the current Avengers Campus, introducing visitors to innovative experiences that draw upon the beloved Marvel Universe. Disney’s leaders hinted that these attractions will feature appearances from some of the franchise’s most recognised stars, including Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Mackie, Brie Larson, and Jeremy Renner, all reprising their iconic roles.
During the event, attendees were treated to concept art and behind-the-scenes footage, showcasing the filming of supernatural sequences for the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday in London. This glimpse behind the curtain confirms the level of commitment Disney has to creating immersive experiences for its guests. The integration of well-known characters promises to enhance the allure of the new rides for the franchise’s loyal fan base.
In terms of attraction specifics, Avengers Infinity Defense will position visitors as new recruits under the mentorship of Ms. Marvel, played by Iman Vellani. Guests will be tasked with assembling the Avengers to thwart Thanos, ensuring an interactive and engaging adventure. Meanwhile, Stark Flight Lab will have Downey Jr., Mackie, and Larson as flight instructors, allowing participants to experience the training regimen of an Avenger firsthand.
Both rides are slated for a grand opening in 2028, although this is not the first peek fans have had at the development process. In March of this year, Walt Disney Imagineers provided insights into Stark Flight Lab through their YouTube series “We Call It Imagineering.” The series revealed a prototype of the ride vehicle, which is designed to utilise advanced robotics to simulate an exhilarating flight experience.
Sara Thacher, an executive creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, described the objective of the Stark Flight Lab, detailing the incorporation of groundbreaking ride systems. “We’re learning how it feels to fly,” she stated, while emphasizing the challenge of utilizing robotic arms that would enhance the ride’s dynamics as it swings nearly 360 degrees in the air.
The upcoming expansion has also drawn attention from documentary filmmakers. Leslie Iwerks, director of Disney Worldbuilders, gained exclusive access to the project and collaborated with Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios. Her documentary will debut on Disney+ later this month and aims to provide insights into the intricate processes behind the new attractions. However, Iwerks acknowledged the complexities of revealing too much too soon, balancing transparency with maintaining the element of surprise that Disney is known for.
The additions of Stark Flight Lab and Avengers Infinity Defense will complement existing attractions within the Avengers Campus, which currently includes Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the Pym Test Kitchen, a dining experience inspired by Ant-Man and The Wasp.
As anticipation builds for these new adventures, Marvel enthusiasts and Disney patrons alike are eager to see how these developments unfold. The promising expansion signifies Disney’s unwavering commitment to delivering captivating and immersive experiences that resonate with audiences of all ages.