Now that security checkpoints have been changed, spending time in Downtown Disney is easier and less crowded than ever before!  The themed shopping district and third entity of the Disneyland Resort is often shuffled under the rug and cast aside as a less important and interesting area, but in reality it's an incredibly unique destination with shopping, dining, and entertainment you can't find elsewhere! ​UPDATED 21 June 2021

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to build your own lightsaber? To choose your pieces and put them all together to create an elegant weapon that's all yours? The Gatherers at Savi's Workshop inside Galaxy's Edge are now here to help you do just that! It certainly is a premium experience and one that comes with a lot of questions, so peruse this complete guide so you can be ready to answer the call and head to Savi's Workshop.

Don't have a reservation for Galaxy's Edge? Or need to kill some time waiting for your boarding party to be cleared for entry? There is still plenty of Star Wars fun to be had around the Disneyland Resort even from outside Batuu - and it tends to be a lot cheaper, too! Here's every way to enjoy this far, far away galaxy with little to no planning whatsoever.

The time we've all been waiting for is almost here! Whether you're traveling in early June or later this summer, it's important that you spend every second wisely to be able to fully experience everything Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge has to offer. Here's everything we know about Galaxy's Edge so far to help you make decisions and get everything done as quickly as you can.

It's likely that you've seen a lot of people, myself included, drone on and on about the importance of arriving at the parks early. This is certainly true, but it can seem like no matter what your afternoon surely must be prone to long lines and hours in the hot California sun. Rest assured, that it certainly not the case! There are many things that are best done in the afternoon at Disneyland when many lines are at their longest - but you won't be in them! Here's what we like to do in the middle of the day.

I'll admit, I am not much of a pin trader.  That said, I do love collecting Disney pins whenever I'm in the parks.  Those that do trade can tell you how much of a Disney sub-culture it has become and how much fun they have trading with other guests and CMs as well.  For novices or others who just like to find fun pins, you should know that some stores have better pin selections than others.  If you're in the market, here are the best stores in the Disneyland Resort to find a plethora of pins!

There are many stores around the Disneyland Resort that offer more to guests than your average shopping experience creating memories that will last a lot longer than most souvenirs.  Some are interactive experiences, many allow guests to create their own souvenir, but all have a special touch that make the difference.  Traditional shopping is still great, but sprinkle some of these into your trip for something you and your family will remember. ​UPDATED 1 Feb 2018