Full Breakdown
Disney Expands Avengers Campus with Two New Marvel Attractions
8/17/2026, 11:59:53 AM
Core Announcement: New Rides to Double Avengers Campus
Walt Disney Imagineering unveiled two Marvel-themed attractions—Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab—that will open in 2028 at Disney California Adventure. Both rides are part of an expansion that will double the footprint of the Avengers Campus land. The attractions were announced during the Horizons: Disney Experiences showcase at the D23 fan expo in Anaheim in August 2026.
Background & Context
Avengers Campus, introduced in 2021, already hosts the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. The 2026 announcement adds a dark-ride-style experience (Infinity Defense) and a motion-based flight-training ride (Stark Flight Lab), continuing Disney’s strategy of integrating blockbuster film properties into immersive park experiences.
Timeline
- August 2026 – Disney reveals details of the two new attractions at D23.
- 2028 – Planned opening year for both Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab, coinciding with the completion of the campus expansion.
Data & Statistics
- Size increase: The expansion will double the area of Avengers Campus.
- Attractions: Two new rides (Infinity Defense, Stark Flight Lab).
- Opening year: 2028 for both attractions.
- Returning talent: Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Anthony Mackie (Captain America), Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye), Brie Larson (Captain Marvel), and Iman Vellani as Ms. Marvel will reprise their MCU roles for the rides.
Official Statements & Responses
Disney also announced a companion documentary, *Disney Worldbuilders*, set to debut on Disney+ in August 2026, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the expansion.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our team enjoys being part of the Disney family because that means we can tell stories in so many ways that go well beyond the big screen,” — Kevin Feige, marvel studios president — Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios president
- “They will be your flight instructors as you feel what it’s like to train like an Avenger,” — Disney Imagineers — Disney Imagineers, *People* interview
- “We’re learning how does it feel to fly?” — Sara Thacher, an executive creative director for Walt Disney Imagineering — Sara Thacher, executive creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering
Why It Matters
Doubling the size of Avengers Campus positions Disney California Adventure as a premier destination for Marvel fans, reinforcing the synergy between Disney’s film franchises and its theme parks. The inclusion of original MCU actors enhances authenticity, while the blend of physical sets and advanced ride technology showcases Disney’s continued investment in next-generation attractions. The expansion also supports broader park growth strategies, potentially increasing attendance and ancillary revenue across the Disneyland Resort.
What’s Next
The *Disney Worldbuilders* documentary will premiere on Disney+ in August 2026, providing an in-depth look at the construction and creative process behind the Avengers Campus expansion. Disney has indicated that additional Marvel-related projects are in development for Hong Kong and Shanghai Disney Resorts, suggesting further global growth of the brand’s park presence.
