Get Ready to Soar in EPCOT

EPCOT at Walt Disney World has been undergoing a lot of refurbishments over the last few years. As part of EPCOT’s 40th anniversary and Walt Disney’s 100th Anniversary, EPCOT has received a massive update. As part of the Disney 100th anniversary celebration, guests can experience Soarin’ Over California again. Get ready to soar!

On January 4,  2016, Soarin’ Over California was replaced in EPCOT. The new show, Soarin’ Around the World, opened after a brief update on June 17, 2016. The new film took guests worldwide as they experienced terrific sights such as the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel Tower, and ending in EPCOT for an epic fireworks celebration.

Credit: Disney

Soarin’ Over California Returns

As part of Disney’s 100 Years of Wonder, Soarin’ Over California is back in EPCOT. Guests will once again be able to experience the original ride as they soar to California to experience unique sights from the west side of the country.

This experience includes beautiful coverage of the Golden Gate Bridge, Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, Palm Springs, San Diego harbor, Malibu at dusk, and the fantastic lights of downtown Los Angeles. The right wraps up with an incredible flight over Disneyland Park.

Disney already announced the return of Soarin’ Over California will be temporary. We weren’t provided a specific date for Soarin’ Around the World to return; however, the Disney 100th anniversary celebration will run through December 31, 2023. We anticipate this is when we could see Soarin’ Over California again take flight out of EPCOT.

Those visiting Disney California Adventure can experience Soarin Over California as well.

Credit: DisneyDining

Soarin’ Ride in EPCOT

Soarin is located in The Land Pavilion in EPCOT. This is located in the new World Nature neighborhood of EPCOT. Guests will find Soarin’ within the pavilion and a few other magical experiences.

The Land Pavilion has a huge quick service location with Sunshine Seasons, a second ride in Living with the Land, and a film called Awesome Planet.

For those wanting to experience either version of Soarin’, there are some essential facts that you need to know. The ride does have a height requirement of 40 inches. Those who are nervous about heights might wish to sit this ride out.

This 80-foot IMAX is a digital projection dome that uses aerial footage, scents, and slight movements to create the sensation of flight. The combination of these features creates a magical experience for guests.

Credit: Disney

Disney’s 100 Anniversary Celebration

Bringing back Soarin Over California is part of Disney’s 100 Anniversary Celebration in EPCOT. Guests will love taking pictures with the 100th statue featuring Mickey Mouse. Take time to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their platinum looks at the Imagination Pavilion as part of the celebration.

100 Disney characters are featured in the mural along the walkway to Word Showcase. Search for your favorite Disney characters as you make your way around EPCOT.

At the end of the evening, make your way up to Spaceship Earth. Here, you will be able to enjoy a Disney100-themed display each evening. Spaceship Earth will light up with various colors, set to the song When You Wish Upon a Star.

So much is happening to celebrate the Walt Disney Company and 100 magical years. We can’t wait to see what else might come to a Disney Park for Disney fans to enjoy.

What Soarin’ version are you a fan of?

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