The main entrance to Spaceship Earth at EPCOT is closed, and guests are being sent to a temporary entrance on the side of the attraction.
The ride is still open. According to cast members, the change is due to safety concerns at the walkway beneath the sphere.
What’s Happening
- Both the Standby and Lightning Lane entrances under the sphere are blocked
- Guests enter through a temporary side entrance near Project Tomorrow
- A cast member scans Lightning Lanes with a portable device
- No official announcement was made before the change
Guests first noticed the closure on Thursday, October 22, though some reports suggest the main entrance may have been closed for several days.
Why It’s Closed
Cast members explained that water drips from the bottom of Spaceship Earth, mostly during rain. When that happens, the walkway beneath the sphere becomes very slippery.
That walkway is the main path guests use to enter the ride, which makes it a safety concern.
There’s no timeline yet for when the main entrance will reopen.
What the Main Entrance Looks Like Now
- A black strap between stanchions blocks the walkway
- A small sign reads “Exit Please Do Not Enter”
- Blue padded covers wrap the nearby posts
- Black mats are still on the ground
- A purple Entrance flag still hangs from the strap
- Water streaks appear visible on the underside of the sphere
How to Enter Spaceship Earth
Location: Temporary entrance along the side of the attraction, set well back from the sphere
What to look for:
- An A-frame sign directing Standby and Lightning Lane guests
- Cast Members stationed nearby
Warning sign:
The entrance is placed so guests pass a warning sign before entering. It cautions that “Those who are made uncomfortable by enclosed, dark spaces should not ride.” It also reminds guests to supervise children and includes a Must Transfer icon.
Heads up: The new route means a longer walk to the queue.
Other Spaceship Earth Projects
Exterior Panel Refresh
Started in August 2025, focusing on the flat panels along the Project Tomorrow building.
Reimagining Announced at D23
- Disney announced plans to reimagine Spaceship Earth with a focus on human connection
- An overhaul was first planned for 2019 but was shelved due to COVID-19 delays
- No closure date has been announced
- It’s unclear if Dame Judi Dench will return as narrator
It’s not known whether the reimagining will fix the dripping issue.
Tips for Your Visit
- Follow the signs. The side entrance is the only way in for now.
- Allow extra time. The walk to the queue is longer than usual.
- Have Lightning Lane ready. A cast member will scan it at the side entrance.
- Plan around rain. Dripping is mainly a problem during wet weather.
What’s Next
Spaceship Earth is still running, but guests will need to use the side entrance until the walkway issue is fixed. We’ll share updates when the main entrance reopens.
