Encounter Darth Vader at Star Wars Launch Bay (Disney World)

Darth Vader is possibly one of the most villainous characters you can meet at Walt Disney World. You’ll want to be prepared for this encounter in advance. During your meeting, he’ll likely use the force to try and turn you to the dark side.

In all seriousness, guests can experience the Darth Vader encounter daily at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This meet-and-greet is a must-do for every Star Wars fan! We recently walked through the encounter for a few updates. Below, we’ll preview photos of the meet-and-greet, what to expect, and a few tips for your next visit.

Here is the Commander on the Bridge, best known for his role as Dark Lord of the Sith in the original Star Wars trilogy, episodes 4-6. The story of his fall from grace was continued in a prequel later on, episodes 1-3. If you have plans to meet characters during your vacation, we always recommend watching a few movies before your visit for a refresh.

Darth Vader poses for a photo at Star Wars Launch Bay — Darth Vader Meet-and-Greet

We’ll go over a complete walkthrough of meeting Darth Vader below, but it’s important to note a few things before we continue:

Lightning Lane: No
Early Theme Park Entry Eligible: No
Extended Evening Eligible: No

Darth Vader meets guests at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. At the time of this update, the meet-and-greet is scheduled daily from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Remember to check the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit for the exact timing. Star Wars Launch Bay is located toward the back of the Animation Courtyard, immediately next to the Disney Junior Play and Dance.

entrance to Star Wars Launch Bay — Darth Vader’s Encounter is inside Star Wars Launch Bay.

Darth Vader typically has the longest wait time for all three characters who meet at Star Wars Launch Bay. On this afternoon, the posted wait time was 20 minutes.

posted wait times for Darth Vader meet-and-greet — Posted Wait Times

I got in line for this character meet-and-greet at 2:13 p.m. after meeting Chewbacca, who meets next door. Then, at 2:36 p.m., it was my turn to meet Darth Vader. So it took 23 minutes to meet Darth Vader.

a sign that says wait time to meet the commander on the bridge — The Commander on the Bridge Wait Times

Darth Vader isn’t necessarily what you would call a talking character. He’s more of a give-orders character. But if you think about it, what kind of conversation could you really have with him? One minute, you’re excited to meet him. Then it’s your turn, and he says, “You! come closer,” and “Let us dispense with the pleasantries.” There are also quite a few “huuuuhhhhhs” from his breathing.

Darth Vader with arms crossed at his meet-and-greet

My side of the conversation went something like, “Uh, okay.” The meet-and-greet ended when he said, “Now go.” And I was totally fine with it. Whatever you say, Darth!

Darth Vaders pretends to use the force — Darth Vader Encounter | Star Wars Launch Bay

Trust me, no matter how old you are, this meeting has a way of making you feel like you’ve gotten yourself into a bit of trouble. Remember, Darth Vader is a villain and will stay in character the entire time. When visiting with children, it’s essential to ensure they are prepared to meet this kind of character. The last thing you want is to traumatize your child. Disney World is supposed to be a magical place.

Unfortunately, a PhotoPass photographer was not present on the day of this visit. However, the cast members attending the meet were taking photos of guests with their devices.

If you have a Disney Visa card, you have another opportunity to meet Darth Vader at Star Wars Launch Bay. This is a separate queue, and you must show your Disney Visa or Disney Visa Rewards card to gain entry. This meet-and-greet is identical to the regular one, but the benefit is that you rarely have to wait in line.

a sign for Disney Visa Darth Vader meet — Disney Visa Card Darth Vader Exclusive

Wait times are generally the lowest for this character meet first thing in the morning and up to one hour before the location closes. So, if meeting Darth Vader is important to you, I recommend getting it out of the way sooner rather than later.

For other Star Wars Characters, you might enjoy the following:

For more of our experiences meeting characters at Hollywood Studios, try these:

Or you might like to browse the entire list of Disney World Character Meet-and-Greets.