The Guardians of the Galaxy are now in EPCOT! Debuting in the first other-world showcase pavilion at EPCOT — The Wonders of Xandar — this epic new coaster brings revolutionary technology and immersive storytelling to a whole. new. level. Featuring the first-ever reverse launch on a Disney coaster, and seats that rotate 360 degrees, there's nothing currently like it in a Disney Park — many riders call it a "story coaster." Add in the Guardians (Star-Lord, Gamora, Groot, Drax and Rocket all make appearances, of course) and a toadally awesome soundtrack, and you've got the recipe for a thrilling adventure as you help the Guardians save the galaxy.
Without further ado, here are your frequently asked questions (and our answers) about the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction. (That's your cue to press play on Awesome Mix Vol. 1 & 2!) Note that there are some light spoilers below, so proceed with caution. OK, let's do this!
Answering Your FAQs on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
What is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind?
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a roller coaster at EPCOT.
When can I ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind?
The ride officially opened May 27, 2022. Access is currently only available using a virtual queue in the My Disney Experience app (and psst ... those with access to Extended Evening Hours will have an additional chance to try.) The ride is also available as a Lightning Lane Single Pass for an additional cost. Prices will vary for the Single Pass day to day. For more tips on how to purchase, check out our blog post linked above.
How does it work with DAS or Rider Switch?
Everyone in the party who wants to ride will need to have a Boarding Group or purchased an Individual Lightning Lane, but otherwise, you can get your return time, as usual. The height requirement for Cosmic Rewind is 42 inches or taller.
What songs play during the ride?
Would it really be a Guardians ride without a signature mixtape curated by the one and only Peter Quill? You'll encounter one of six songs during your ride (much like Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: Breakout over at Disneyland!):
- "September"
- "Disco Inferno"
- "Everybody Wants to Rule the World"
- "One Way Or Another"
- "I Ran (So Far Away)"
- "Conga"
During the holidays in 2022, a mashup of seasonal tunes played as you blasted into space alongside the Guardians.
Is it a roller coaster?
Yes. The Guardians believe us Terrans call it a “roller coaster Type Ride."
How much does it spin?
The ride spins a fair amount, but it isn't free-spinning. It is controlled and timed with the ride with a purpose.
Is it 3D?
No 3D, no glasses necessary. There are huge, massive screens that show ships flying around with you!
What is the queue like?
First, you enter the Galaxarium, a large planetarium-like room highlighting the differences between Earth and Xander's galaxies. Then you head into the Xander Gallery, which has interesting models and videos displayed. Keep an eye out throughout the entire queue for fun Disney Easter eggs. You'll then enter two pre-shows and then board your ride vehicle! It can take about an hour from once you tap in at the building entrance to when you board the ride.
If utilizing the Lightning Lane, the line shortcuts through the Galaxarium but will bypass the Xandar Gallery. Both lines meet for the first pre-show. Note that the first pre-show contains a segment of flashing lights.
Are there drops or upside-down parts?
The ride has no straight drops, but there are some areas where the track is curved so you’re turning down (while the seat rotates keeping you facing the same way). It does not go upside down.
What does the ride best compare to?
The ride is a combination of Space Mountain (darkness) and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (speed), with a little of Crush's Coaster Ride from Disneyland Paris thrown in for the spins (tubular).
How scary/thrilling it is compared to other Walt Disney World rides?
It is one of the most thrilling rides at Walt Disney World — it’s a step above Space Mountain, but not as intense as Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster.
Does it have that super fast initial speed like Rock 'n' Roller Coaster but backward?
The backward launch is similar to the forward launch on Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, although Cosmic Rewind might be just a little slower of a launch. You’re also going uphill during the launch. Keep in mind that the vehicles will rotate before the backward launch, so the back ride vehicle (rows 9 and 10) will be the front vehicle for the backward launch (before it turns back around again).
Does it cause motion sickness?
Like all coasters, it depends on the individual. We would describe this as fast with intense motion. If you are like us and have a tendency to get a little green, follow your normal care protocol — you know yourself best! As our family's resident motion sickness expert (unfortunately), I popped a Dramamine before riding and did just fine. If concerned about motion sickness, we recommend sitting in the middle rows, as the front and back are more intense.
How would a 7-year-old do?
Like all coasters, it depends based on your tadpole! Here are few considerations:
- The height requirement for this one is 42 inches.
- There are no big drops.
- The coaster is in the dark and you can’t see the track at all times.
- There's a backward launch and LOTS of speed.
If your kiddo can handle Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, this one should be fine. We have a full POV of the ride so you can watch with your kiddos and decide for yourselves! This ride offers Rider Switch if your child isn't quite ready.
Do you get a ride photo?
Yes! There are two ways to get your on-ride photo, which will show up in your My Disney Experience account:
- Using your phone, enable Bluetooth for the My Disney Experience app before you ride. It should automagically show up after your ride!
- Wear a MagicBand that is linked to your My Disney Experience account while you ride — again, the photo should appear after you ride!
How was it? It looks amazing!
This coaster is truly out-of-this-world — it's unlike any other coaster we've ever been on! Even with spins, rapid turns and a backward launch, the coaster is very smooth. Fans of the "Guardians" films will enjoy the adventure mixed with funny banter and light-hearted moments. There are many fun references in the queue and ride to EPCOT and Disney in general, as well. There's so much going on throughout the "story coaster," you'll have to come back and ride again to take it all in (plus hop-fully get a different song). The Frog Fam really enjoyed it and think it's a thrilling addition to EPCOT!
I am Groot?
I am Groot.
Well, there you have it! Are you ready to ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind? What questions do you have about the ride? Be sure to share with us in the comments below!
