A new version of an old favorite is about to become a major rope drop draw at EPCOT.
Since it opened back in 2005, Soarin’ has been one of EPCOT’s most popular rides, both in its Over California and Around the World variations. However, the ride’s latest incarnation might end up being its most popular of all… and certainly its most patriotic.
In celebration of America’s 250th birthday this coming July, EPCOT’s Soarin’ will receive an “all-new airborne adventure across the US, honoring the heart and spirit of the nation.” The refurbishment is part of the “Disney Celebrates America” campaign, a “company-wide initiative spanning programming, storytelling, and experiences across its iconic brands and businesses.”
©Disney
Disney even brought in “aviation” legend Patrick Warburton (IYKYK) to announce the overlay, which will be opening at Disney World on May 26th.
In early May, Disney confirmed some of the American landscapes guests will fly through on the ride, including the New England coastline, New York Harbor, the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, and “so many quintessentially American settings… the autumn colors of the heartland; the beauty of our bayous; the great plains of the west; the northern wilderness; and sunlit island shores.”
©Disney
According to Tom Fitzgerald, the legendary creative director and chief storytelling executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, “Each scene helps to create a portrait of what we believe makes America so special. It’s a tapestry of urban wonders, natural beauty, and iconic locations that celebrate the spirit of the nation and the 250th anniversary of the United States.”
©Disney
Soarin’ Across America will also retain the late Jerry Goldsmith’s iconic theme in a new musical arrangement by Bruce Broughton. In addition, the queue will feature The Soarin’ Challenge Across America. This game, created in collaboration with National Geographic, “invites guests to discover which state is ‘Most Likely to Reach for the Stars,’ ‘Most Likely to Lend an Ear,’ and ‘Most Likely to Strike Gold.” Featuring fun facts from beloved National Geographic titles, including 50 States, 5,000 Ideas, and stunning photography from the National Geographic archives, the challenge transforms the queue at EPCOT into a celebration of American wonder.”
Soarin’ Across America
May 26th will see the opening of Soarin’ Across America, a new version of the iconic attraction celebrating America’s 250th birthday, which is sure to bring large crowds flocking to The Land pavilion. Stay tuned to DFB for more on EPCOT’s 2026 offerings.
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