In a major update to one of EPCOT’s most popular attractions, Disney has officially confirmed that Soarin’ Around the World will receive a brand-new film in 2026. Titled Soarin’ Across America, this updated experience will debut just in time for the United States’ 250th anniversary celebration and will also arrive at Disney California Adventure in Disneyland Resort.
The announcement came as part of a larger push from Walt Disney Imagineering to align with the upcoming Semiquincentennial—a milestone marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The new attraction film is scheduled to open in Summer 2026 on both coasts.
A New Chapter for a Fan-Favorite Ride
Soarin’, which first launched in 2001 at Disney California Adventure, has long been a guest favorite due to its immersive flight simulation, panoramic visuals, and iconic orchestral score. The ride originally focused on a virtual hang-gliding tour of California before receiving a worldwide makeover in 2016 with the launch of Soarin’ Around the World.
Now, nearly a decade later, Disney is ready to refresh the ride once again—this time with a focus squarely on the United States.
According to the official release, Soarin’ Across America will take guests on a sweeping journey “from sea to shining sea,” with footage featuring a wide array of American locations, both natural and man-made. Disney Imagineers are currently in production, filming across the country to capture more than a dozen iconic destinations for the new attraction.
What Can Guests Expect to See?
While Disney has yet to confirm the exact lineup of locations, the company has indicated that the new film will celebrate the beauty, diversity, and spirit of the American landscape. Viewers can expect aerial views of national parks, bustling cities, and historical landmarks. Possibilities may include:
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The Grand Canyon
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New York City
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Golden Gate Bridge
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Washington, D.C.
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Yellowstone or Yosemite National Parks
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The Mississippi River
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Mount Rushmore
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Coastal views along the Pacific and Atlantic
These are speculative, but based on the scope and production quality of Soarin’ Around the World, it’s clear that the new experience will aim for the same cinematic polish, complete with dynamic flight sequences and location-specific scents.
A Reimagined Musical Score
One of the standout elements of Soarin’ has always been its music. The original composition by Jerry Goldsmith set the emotional tone of the experience, and Bruce Broughton’s adaptation for Around the World carried that legacy forward.
For Soarin’ Across America, Disney has confirmed the new film will be accompanied by a reworked version of this now-classic soundtrack—retaining the familiar themes while weaving in new arrangements to reflect the patriotic spirit of the updated journey.
This move ensures that returning guests will still feel a strong emotional connection, even as the visuals and locations change.
A Smart Addition to Disney’s 2026 Offerings
With the U.S. semiquincentennial on the horizon, Soarin’ Across America is expected to be a major part of Disney’s domestic celebration plans. Much like the company has embraced American storytelling in attractions like The Hall of Presidents, The American Adventure, and Liberty Square, this new version of Soarin’ will spotlight the nation's heritage in a format that’s both modern and accessible.
Given its timing, the change also positions EPCOT to take center stage during the summer 2026 travel season. The park has been undergoing a substantial multi-year reimagining, with a focus on World Discovery, World Nature, and World Celebration—aimed at creating a more cohesive and story-driven experience.
By tying in Soarin’ Across America, EPCOT leans further into a theme of human achievement and cultural exploration, while delivering a unique, time-sensitive experience guests won’t want to miss.
Disneyland Gets the Update Too
The upcoming version of Soarin’ won’t be exclusive to EPCOT. Guests at Disney California Adventure will also be able to experience Soarin’ Across America when it launches on the West Coast in Summer 2026.
This marks the first time since Soarin’ Around the World debuted that both versions of the ride will feature the same updated film simultaneously. Traditionally, Disneyland has brought back Soarin’ Over California for limited-time runs during festivals, while EPCOT has retained the global version full-time. It remains to be seen whether the new Americaversion will be permanent or rotate with other films in the future.
Operational Considerations
Disney has not yet announced whether Soarin’ Around the World will be retired permanently or if it will return seasonally. Likewise, no specific downtime has been shared, but a short refurbishment window is likely in the late spring or early summer of 2026 to accommodate the installation of the new film and any minor changes to audio, scent programming, and ride calibration.
Guests planning trips in 2026 are encouraged to stay tuned for updates, as dates for previews and soft openings could be announced closer to launch.
Soarin’ Across America is more than just a refreshed attraction—it’s a tribute to the spirit and landscape of the United States at a pivotal cultural moment. For many Disney fans, the news is a welcome surprise that breathes new life into a cornerstone EPCOT experience while staying true to its immersive roots.
With just over eight months until the summer travel season kicks off, anticipation will only continue to grow. As Walt Disney Imagineering finishes production, fans can expect more information on featured locations, special previews, and maybe even behind-the-scenes looks at how this new version is being brought to life.
For now, one thing is clear: in 2026, the sky’s the limit.
