Soarin' Across America Debuts May 26 at EPCOT as Soarin' Around the World Closes May 13

Soarin’ Across America Debuts May 26 at EPCOT as Soarin’ Around the World Closes May 13

March 13, 2026

Written by Greg Gately

Disney has confirmed the transition dates for the Soarin’ attraction at EPCOT, with Soarin’ Around the World running through May 13, 2026 and Soarin’ Across America debuting May 26, 2026. The new film brings a new set of American landscapes to the ride and lands on the same day as the biggest single day of Cool Kids’ Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World.

Soarin' Across America Debuts May 26 at EPCOT as Soarin' Around the World Closes May 13
Soarin Across America Debuts May 26 at EPCOT as Soarin Around the World Closes May 13

Soarin’ Across America is an updated film for the Soarin’ attraction at EPCOT that replaces the current Soarin’ Around the World experience. The ride uses a hang glider-style theater that lifts guests in front of a large wraparound screen, combining sweeping aerial footage with synchronized wind, scent, and motion effects. The new film focuses on American landscapes rather than global destinations, taking guests over iconic locations across the country. Disney gave fans an early look at the footage, and as Fantasy Land News reported, the Grand Canyon sequence in particular looks incredible.

Soarin’ Around the World will continue running through May 13, 2026. There is a gap between May 13 and the May 26 debut of Soarin’ Across America, which suggests the attraction will be closed for a brief transition period. Disney has not announced whether any special events or previews will be scheduled during that window.

May 26 is shaping up to be a major day at Walt Disney World. Beyond the Soarin’ debut, it marks the official launch of Cool Kids’ Summer 2026, which Disney has called the biggest single day of that event.

Soarin’ Around the World replaced the original Soarin’ Over California film when it debuted in 2016. The return to an America-focused film follows years of guest feedback from fans who preferred the domestic version. Disney has not provided details on whether Soarin’ Across America is a permanent change or a limited engagement, so it is worth checking for updates closer to the debut date.

Soarin' Across America Debuts May 26 at EPCOT as Soarin' Around the World Closes May 13

Guests visiting EPCOT between May 13 and May 25 should plan around the attraction being unavailable. Anyone hoping to ride Soarin’ Around the World for the last time should target a visit on or before May 13. For guests who want to be among the first to experience Soarin’ Across America, May 26 puts them in the middle of Cool Kids’ Summer festivities across Walt Disney World, which could mean larger crowds but a more event-driven atmosphere.

Stay with Fantasy Land News for updates on Soarin’ Across America and everything coming to EPCOT this summer.

Soarin’ Across America Debuts May 26 at EPCOT as Soarin’ Around the World Closes May 13

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