Disney has shared the first official images of Soarin’ Across America, the new film replacing Soarin’ Around the World at EPCOT beginning May 26, 2026, as part of the resort’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The images show film crews capturing aerial footage over the Grand Canyon, giving the clearest look yet at what guests will experience when the attraction reopens this spring.
We first reported on Soarin’ Across America back in October when Disney confirmed the new film was in development. Our original Soarin’ Across America article has full background on the production and what was announced at that time.
The two newly released images were taken during production at the Grand Canyon. The first shows a black helicopter flying through the canyon with the Colorado River visible far below, the kind of sweeping low-altitude shot that has always made Soarin’ feel like actual flight rather than a simulation. The second is a cockpit-view shot looking out over canyon walls from inside the helicopter during filming, with camera equipment visible throughout the cabin. Both images make clear Disney is shooting this with real aerial crews rather than relying on stock footage or CGI, which is exactly how the original Soarin’ Over California was produced.
What Soarin’ Across America Will Include. The new film will highlight natural landmarks across the United States, including the Grand Canyon, alongside iconic American cityscapes. It will be accompanied by a new orchestration of the classic Soarin’ musical theme, which has been a signature of the attraction since it first opened at Disney California Adventure in 2001. The film is tied directly to America 250, the national commemoration of the country’s 250th birthday, which makes EPCOT the natural home for it, given the park’s heritage of celebrating world cultures and discovery.
Soarin’ Around the World, the current film at EPCOT, launched in 2016 and replaced the beloved Soarin’ Over California footage. The return to an America-focused film will land well with a large portion of the Soarin’ fanbase that has wanted the domestic version back for years
Opening Date! Soarin’ Across America opens May 26, 2026, at EPCOT at Walt Disney World, which is also the official start date of Cool Kids’ Summer. A version of the film is also coming to Disneyland. The May 26 date puts it arriving alongside Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live at Hollywood Studios, and The Walt Disney Studios courtyard, also at Hollywood Studios. It is one of the most coordinated multi-park launch days Disney has announced in recent memory.
Keep it locked to Fantasy Land News for more Soarin’ Across America updates as May 26 approaches. ‘Soarin’ Across America debuts May 26, 2026. Experience Soarin’ Around the World through May 13, 2026.‘
Disney Just Released the First Look at Soarin’ Across America and the Grand Canyon Footage Looks Incredible
Soarin’ Across America — Opening May 26: Take a simulated flight across the United States—from sea to shining sea—to enjoy the country’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes.
An American Journey
Buckle up and get ready for takeoff! The fan-favorite attraction Soarin’ is taking an all-new airborne adventure across the United States. Be part of this limited-time journey that honors the heart and spirit of the nation as it soars into its 250th birthday celebration.
Experience the iconic elements that make Soarin’ unforgettable: the flight, the sights, the score—even the scents!
A Triumph for the Senses
The 180-degree, 80-foot IMAX digital projection dome, spectacular aerial footage, pleasant scents and graceful motion raise the soothing sensation of flight to incredible new heights.
