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Credit: DisneyWalt Disney World is preparing for a monumental transformation just in time for America’s 250th birthday. Disney has officially announced that the beloved attraction Soarin’ Around the World will soon be lifting off with a brand-new flight plan: Soarin’ Across America. This reimagined version of the classic ride will debut at both EPCOT in Walt Disney World and Disney California Adventure in Disneyland Resort in Summer 2026, just months ahead of the United States’ semiquincentennial celebration in 2026.
For longtime fans and first-time fliers alike, this is a big moment—and one with plenty to unpack.
A Fresh Flight Path for a National Milestone
Since its original debut in 2001, Soarin’ has taken guests on thrilling aerial tours—first over California, then around the globe. The attraction is a staple in both EPCOT and Disney California Adventure, delivering a gentle, breathtaking ride experience with state-of-the-art projection, synchronized movement, and iconic scents that create a deeply immersive sensation of flight.
Now, Disney Imagineers are taking that concept and grounding it firmly in American soil—literally. With Soarin’ Across America, guests will be whisked away on a sweeping journey across more than a dozen American landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural icons. Think redwoods and rivers, city skylines and snowy peaks—all part of a coast-to-coast celebration of American beauty and history.
This timely update aligns perfectly with the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026—a major milestone that Disney is embracing in both storytelling and design.
What Will You See on Soarin’ Across America?
Disney has not yet confirmed the full list of locations featured in Soarin’ Across America, but early reports suggest a blend of natural landscapes, historic monuments, and modern cityscapes—each chosen to reflect the diverse tapestry of the American experience.
While the final cut remains under wraps, don’t be surprised to fly over:
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The Statue of Liberty and New York City skyline
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The Grand Canyon and Monument Valley
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The Rocky Mountains in Colorado
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The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
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The Mississippi River winding through the heartland
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Washington D.C., likely with a finale shot of the National Mall
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Perhaps even a patriotic overlay of fireworks or Fourth of July celebrations
These are speculative, of course, but based on Disney’s approach with Soarin’ Around the World, we can expect a beautifully shot sequence of cinematic flyovers, accompanied by a newly adapted score that maintains the signature Soarin’ sound.
A Score That Soars
Speaking of music: One of the most iconic elements of Soarin’ has always been its soaring orchestral score, originally composed by the legendary Jerry Goldsmith and reworked by Bruce Broughton for the international version.
For Soarin’ Across America, Disney has confirmed that the musical foundation will remain familiar but updated to match the new visuals and emotional tone. Expect stirring patriotic undertones, but not in a way that feels heavy-handed—Disney excels at invoking national pride without losing its sense of fun and wonder.
From Global to Local: A Smart Move for EPCOT
At first glance, switching from Soarin’ Around the World to a U.S.-only version might seem like a downgrade in global scope. But in the context of EPCOT’s current evolution, it’s actually a strategic move.
EPCOT has been undergoing a massive multi-year transformation aimed at celebrating human achievement, global culture, and the spirit of innovation. Soarin’ Across America fits neatly into that mission by offering a deep dive into the American story—just in time for a significant national celebration.
More importantly, this change will not be permanent. Historically, Disney has rotated Soarin’ footage based on seasonal promotions and celebrations. For example, the original Soarin’ Over California has returned to Disney California Adventure for limited-time runs. It’s likely that Soarin’ Across America could be available seasonally or for an extended time through 2026, with flexibility to bring back the global version as needed.
Tying Into the U.S. 250th Celebration
The U.S. semiquincentennial (that’s the fancy word for 250th birthday) will be a major cultural event nationwide. Government organizations and businesses across the country are planning tributes, festivals, and exhibitions to commemorate the occasion.
Disney joining in the celebration is hardly surprising. The company has long woven American history and culture into its parks, from The American Adventure in EPCOT to Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom. This update to Soarin’ builds on that tradition in a new, dynamic way.
Expect more announcements in the coming year about how Disney plans to honor America’s 250th birthday—Soarin’ Across America is likely just the beginning.
What It Means for Guests
For vacationers planning their summer 2026 Disney trips, this news offers something fresh and exciting. Whether you’re a repeat visitor who’s already experienced Soarin’ Around the World dozens of times or a first-time flyer, Soarin’ Across America promises a new reason to revisit this fan-favorite attraction.
Disney has confirmed that the updated ride film will premiere in both Disneyland’s Disney California Adventure and EPCOT’s The Land Pavilion simultaneously—making it a true bi-coastal celebration.
Guests visiting Disney World during summer 2026 should also be aware that the attraction may undergo a brief closure ahead of the film switch, as is standard for updates of this kind. Expect temporary downtime in late spring 2026, though dates have not yet been announced.
A Flight Worth Taking
Soarin’ Across America represents more than just a new ride film—it’s a thoughtful update that connects Disney storytelling with national pride, immersive technology, and celebration.
As Walt Disney himself once said, “Our heritage and ideals… our code and standards—the things we live by and teach our children—are preserved or diminished by how freely we exchange ideas and feelings.” In that spirit, Soarin’ Across America isn’t just a theme park ride. It’s a tribute to shared dreams, to the land that inspired them, and to the skies that still call us to soar.
Stay tuned for more details as Imagineering completes filming and Disney shares sneak peeks of the new scenes. Until then, keep your flight glasses ready—and get ready to soar.