Walking through Walt Disney World right now, it’s hard not to notice how much is happening at once. The parks are evolving in a big way, with new ideas coming in and older experiences getting a fresh look. It’s an exciting time, but it also means some longtime attractions won’t stay the same.
EPCOT is now feeling that shift again, and one of its most recognizable rides is set to shut its doors in a little over a week.
Big Changes Are Happening Everywhere
Before focusing on EPCOT, it helps to look at the bigger picture.
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has closed and is being rebuilt into a Muppets-themed attraction. Guests can expect it to return on May 26, 2026.
Magic Kingdom is also preparing for a major expansion, Villains Land, which shows Disney’s push to bring new experiences into the park.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has already moved forward with one of its biggest transformations yet. DinoLand U.S.A. is gone, and construction is underway for Tropical Americas, featuring Encanto and Indiana Jones.
With all of this happening, EPCOT’s update feels like part of the same wave.
The Countdown for a Classic Has Begun
Soarin’ Around the World is set to close on May 13, 2026, giving guests a limited window to experience it in its current form.
For many visitors, this ride has become a must-do. It lifts guests into the air and carries them across famous landmarks from around the world. The combination of motion, massive visuals, and subtle effects creates an immersive experience that feels neither intense nor overwhelming.
That balance is what makes it so popular. It works for families, first-time visitors, and longtime fans alike.
The Next Chapter Arrives Quickly
The closure is only part of the story. Disney already has a replacement ready to go.
Soarin’ Across America will take over the attraction space, focusing on landmarks and landscapes across the United States. The update connects to the country’s 250th anniversary, giving the experience a clear theme.
Disney will reopen the attraction on May 26, 2026, giving guests little time to wait and aligning the return with a broader rollout of updates across Walt Disney World.
This quick turnaround makes the change feel more like a reset than a long-term loss.
What Could Be Next for EPCOT
Soarin’ isn’t the only attraction people are watching.
Spaceship Earth continues to operate, but many guests feel it could benefit from an update, especially in areas where technology feels older.
The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros has also become part of ongoing speculation, with some wondering if it could eventually shift toward a Coco-inspired experience.
Journey Into Imagination with Figment is another ride that often comes up in these conversations. It has a loyal following, but it’s also frequently discussed as a candidate for future changes.
These ideas aren’t confirmed, but they reflect how EPCOT is viewed right now—a park that continues to evolve.
A Temporary Goodbye With Lasting Impact
Even short-term closures can leave an impression. Soarin’ Around the World has been part of the EPCOT experience for years, offering a calm and memorable break from the rest of the park.
It’s the kind of ride that doesn’t rely on intensity or speed. Instead, it focuses on creating a feeling—one that keeps guests coming back.
That’s why this change stands out, even if it’s only temporary.
EPCOT Continues to Evolve
Walt Disney World is in the middle of a major transformation, and EPCOT is right in the middle of it. The closure of Soarin’ Around the World reflects a broader shift happening across the parks.
While the attraction won’t be gone for long, its pause marks the end of a familiar version of EPCOT. And as the resort continues to evolve, moments like this are becoming more common.
