Epcot - Soarin'

Soarin' Across America

Opened: February 8, 2001, updated to Soarin' Around the World on June 17, 2016, and temporarily updated to Soarin' Across America on May 26, 2026

Ride length: 4 minutes, 51 seconds

Lightning Lane: Yes

Handicapped Accessibility: Guests in wheelchairs and ECVs must be able to transfer.

Overview/History:

As those who have ridden this unique attraction can attest, Soarin' is not your typical motion simulator ride. Located inside The Land pavilion in EPCOT's World Nature neighborhood, this fan-favorite attraction lifts guests into the air for a simulated hang-gliding journey across scenic landscapes shown on a massive projection screen.

The building itself resembles a large aviation hangar, with an interior queue that continues the airport-inspired theme. Before boarding, guests watch a short safety video featuring Patrick Warburton, who has become a familiar part of the Soarin' experience.

Soarin' Across America:

For a limited time, Soarin' Around the World has been temporarily replaced by Soarin' Across America as part of Disney Celebrates America's 250th anniversary. This updated version takes guests on an all-new flight over scenic and iconic locations across the United States, while keeping the familiar movement, music, and scents that have made Soarin' one of EPCOT's most popular attractions.

Inside the theater, guests are guided to one of three large ride vehicles. Each vehicle has three rows of seating, with the front row offering the clearest view since it rises highest and has no other row visible above it. The middle and lower rows still provide an immersive experience, especially once the vehicles lift into position in front of the screen.

The theater seats are among the most comfortable ride vehicle seats at Walt Disney World. They resemble slightly reclined lawn chairs, with a mesh seat and back. The seats are wider than many traditional ride seats, and safety is provided by a simple lap belt restraint.

At the start of the ride, the vehicles lift swiftly and smoothly forward and up, stacking each row vertically in front of the massive theater screen. Guests then begin to "fly" through sweeping aerial scenes, with the ride vehicle banking, tilting, and moving in sync with the camera. The result is a convincing sensation of hang gliding over wide-open landscapes and familiar landmarks.

The overall ride experience is not to be missed. Guests who use wheelchairs or ECVs should know that they must transfer into the ride seat. Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on the ride vehicle itself. The queue and theater area offer good accessibility, with wide, gently sloping ramps and room to maneuver before boarding.

There is a lot to like about Soarin' Across America at EPCOT. Whether you are a longtime fan of the attraction or experiencing it for the first time, this limited-time version gives guests a fresh reason to visit The Land pavilion.

Soarin' Queue:

Soarin' is known for long standby wait times. Lines often build early in the day, so guests who want to avoid a longer wait should consider using Lightning Lane when available.

DIS Tip: Since Soarin' remains one of EPCOT's most popular attractions, try to ride early in the day, later in the evening, or with Lightning Lane if you have access to it.