Disney made two announcements today regarding its upcoming Walt Disney World Star Wars Lands the rumored Star Wars hotel.
First, Margaret Kerrison, Walt Disney Imagineering Story Editor, announced the name of the village will be Black Spire Outpost. The name will be the same for both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. As with all things Disney, there is a backstory. Kerrison explained the history and geology of the village in this statement:
"The largest settlement on the planet Batuu, Black Spire Outpost is an infamous stop for traders, adventurers, and smugglers traveling around the Outer Rim and Wild Space. Off the beaten path, this outpost has become a haven for the galaxy’s most colorful — and notorious — characters. Widely known for the petrified remains of its once towering ancient trees, the spires now stand guard across the river valleys and plains and have long captured the imagination of travelers to this planet. To the first settlers, these petrified spires became more than just landmarks; they became the heart of the outpost itself."
Second, Disney has confirmed the location of the highly anticipated immersive Star Wars hotel to be south of Hollywood Studios and east of World Drive. According to Disney, this location will allow guest to be "seamlessly connected" to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, the new land at Hollywood Studios scheduled to open in the late fall of 2019.
The excitement surrounding this hotel has been high ever since the first rumors started floating around the internet. Disney says, "This experience stands out among all of our destinations around the globe. Families visiting this destination will board a starship that comes alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during their voyage through the galaxy – and every cabin window has views of space! Guests visiting the multi-day adventure will also be welcome to participate as a resident of the Galaxy by dressing in Star Wars-inspired attire." Further details regarding a completion date and nightly rates are still forthcoming; don't expect this experience to come cheaply though.