Oga’s Cantina can be an overwhelming experience for some kids with sensory sensitivities.

My family’s first visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios was highly anticipated and took place not long after it opened. I visted first with one of my colleagues from Pure Magic Vacations, and we really enjoyed the immersive experience, special menus and character interactions throughout the land. When it came time for my son and husband to join me there, however, things didn’t go exactly as I’d hoped.

Although our son has never been diagnosed with any sort of sensory processing disorder, he has always been very sensitive to loud noises and the unexpected. Features of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge that seem to be no problem for a lot of kids were problematic for him, even though he had been to Disney’s Hollywood Studios many times. He was made very anxious by the sounds he heard, the number of people in the area and not knowing what to expect around the next corner. In the end, he enjoyed some quiet time building his droid at Droid Depot while my husband looked around on his own.

One of the places many Star Wars fans like to experience when they visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is Oga’s Cantina. Oga’s Cantina is designed to look like a bar from the Star Wars universe, with a lot of resemblance to the iconic Mos Eisley Cantina from the original Star Wars movie. On a more recent trip, I hoped our son would enjoy visiting Oga’s Cantina with us, since he was a few years older and would have a better idea of what to expect at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

What is it like to visit Oga’s Cantina?

At the cantina, guests can enjoy a highly immersive atmosphere, specialty cocktails and mocktails, limited snacks and live entertainment. There is a 45 minute limit to each guest’s visit, which allows more guests to experience this super fun Star Wars-themed experience. Disney tells guests, “This experience takes place in an enclosed space with low lighting levels and high activity.”

Reservations are highly recommended, and may be made up to 60 days prior to your desired visit. Walt Disney World Resort guests may book their reservation for the length of their stay, starting at 60 days prior to their scheduled check-in, giving them the best chance at securing a reservation on their desired date. Without a reservation, guests can expect to wait for a table.

The bar staff at Oga’s Cantina are in character, so you can expect them to behave just as bartenders might behave in another galaxy, far, far away.

The DJ in the bar is named DJ R-3X, and plays upbeat electronic and digital-sounding music with a mix of classic Star Wars melodies you might recognize, and some new, original songs.

What concerns might parents have for their children with sensory sensitivities when visiting Oga’s Cantina?

Ultimately, you know your child best. I hope this information will help you decide whether your family would enjoy visiting Oga’s Cantina during your next Walt Disney World Resort vacation.

Overstimulation–The atmosphere at Oga’s Cantina is busy, with dim lighting, musical beats and crowds. Some guests have to stand at a counter or bartop and guests shouldn’t expect that they will be able to sit at a table. For example, I’ve visited Oga’s Cantina three times, and have not yet been sat at a table with chairs.

In addition, some of the beverages include “popping pearls” which are similar to boba balls found in bubble tea, and “pop” in your mouth.

Noise Levels–Music, loud voices, sound effects and general noise level may be upsetting for kids who are sensitive to loud sounds. The room feels enclosed, so the sound stays “trapped” in the room.

Crowded Environment–Oga’s is almost always at capacity, so it can be very crowded during peak times. Guests will be in close proximity to one another, and there might be a lack of personal space.

Unpredictabiity–Some kids find it exciting when unpredictable interactive experiences take place, while others find it overwhelming. This might not be the best environment for kids who prefer a more structured activites.

Sensory Triggers–In addition to sounds, triggers for sensory sensitive kids might include lighting effects, strange fragrances and visual stimuli.

Presence of Alcohol–Oga’s Cantina is a bar/lounge that serves primarily alcoholic beverages, with limited food on the menu. Although the word “lunch” or “dinner” might appear on your reservation confirmation, this is not a restaurant where guests will consume a meal. If you’re a parent who does not like your kids being in the presence of alcohol, then you will want to skip this experience.

My Advice for Enjoying Oga’s Cantina with Children with Sensory Sensitivities

Book a reservation for an off-peak time, such as early in the day. It might be fun to visit first thing in the morning. While you may not wish to consume alcohol at that time of day, there are a few non-alcoholic beverages on the menu to try out while enjoying a look around. Bring whatever gear you think would help your child enjoy their time at Oga’s Cantina. I also recommend telling your server or bartender you’d like to pay for your drinks as soon as they arrive, so you can leave right away if necessary, for your child’s comfort.

You might also find it helpful to watch some videos on YouTube to help your child understand what to expect when entering Oga’s Cantina.

Ultimately, our son found Oga’s Cantina to be interesting, but it was too loud for his comfort and we only stayed long enough to finish our drinks and leave. I probably wouldn’t bring him there again unless it is his own idea.

Would you like assistance with planning your family’s next vacation to Walt Disney World Resort? Reach out and let’s start planning together. I’d love to learn more about your family and help you have a magical family vacation you’ll always treasure.