Something huge is coming to EPCOT next year, and longtime fans might not be ready for it. Disney has officially confirmed that two of the park’s most beloved rides are about to receive massive overhauls—changes so significant they’ll completely reshape how guests experience them.
These aren’t just touch-ups or tech upgrades. They’re full-on reinventions designed to bring new energy, fresh visuals, and cutting-edge technology to attractions that already define EPCOT’s magic.
EPCOT’s Tradition of Reinvention
EPCOT has always represented progress. Since opening, it has constantly evolved through technology, imagination, and discovery. Walt Disney envisioned a park that would never stop growing. That dream is still alive today.
From Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to the upcoming Test Track redesign, EPCOT continues to innovate. Now, two beloved attractions—one set in Arendelle and another that lets guests soar—are next in line for transformation.
A Look Back at Frozen Ever After
When Frozen Ever After debuted in 2016, it redefined what a Disney dark ride could be. Replacing Maelstrom in the Norway Pavilion, the attraction quickly became a fan favorite for families, immersing guests in the world of Frozen with detailed sets, music, and jaw-dropping technology.
What truly made it stand out were its revolutionary Audio-Animatronics. Using 3D-printed parts and electric motors instead of hydraulics, the characters moved more naturally than ever before. Elsa’s graceful hand gestures and expressive facial movements were unlike anything Disney had built before. For nearly a decade, Frozen Ever After has been a must-do for EPCOT guests of all ages.
A Frozen Upgrade on the Horizon
Disney is now ready to take things even further. In 2026, Frozen Ever After will get brand-new animatronics modeled after those in World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland. These next-generation figures are known for their film-accurate expressions and ultra-realistic motion, making guests feel as if the characters have stepped right off the screen.
Although Disney hasn’t shared the refurbishment timeline, the updated version is expected to debut in early 2026. That means the attraction will likely close temporarily next year, but fans can expect a refreshed, visually stunning experience when it reopens.
Soarin’ Takes on a New Flight Path
Across the park, Soarin’ Around the World has given guests the feeling of flying for years—gliding over landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Great Wall of China. It’s one of EPCOT’s most immersive experiences, complete with sweeping music, synchronized movement, and even scents that enhance the journey.
In 2026, the attraction will shift from a global adventure to a homegrown one. Disney has announced Soarin’ Across America, a new version that highlights breathtaking destinations across the United States. From the Grand Canyon to New York City and California’s redwood forests, this fresh take will celebrate the country’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks.
The fan-favorite pre-show host, Patrick Warburton, will return, and Disney promises that the ride’s signature details—like its soaring visuals and unforgettable score—will stay intact.
Change with Purpose
For fans, these updates may feel bittersweet. Both Soarin’ and Frozen Ever After are deeply loved, but EPCOT has always been about evolution. These rides aren’t being replaced—they’re being elevated.
Between updated technology and imaginative storytelling, Disney is showing that EPCOT’s best days are still ahead. 2026 won’t just bring change—it’ll bring a renewed sense of wonder that reminds guests why EPCOT has always been the park of the future.
