Disney Parks has unveiled plans for a new attraction that will celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, with the introduction of “Soarin’ Across America.” This highly anticipated ride will debut at both Disneyland Resort’s Disney California Adventure and Walt Disney World’s Epcot, offering guests a breathtaking aerial tour of some of America’s most iconic landscapes.
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Soarin’ Across America will officially launch at Epcot on May 26, 2025, followed by its opening at Disney California Adventure on July 2, 2025. The attraction promises to take visitors on a stunning flight above a diverse array of American sights, showcasing sweeping coastlines, vibrant urban settings, and magnificent natural vistas.
At the heart of this experience is the renowned 80-foot projection dome that has defined past Soarin’ rides. The updated version is designed to offer a captivating view of various regions in the United States, including the serene New England coastline, the bustling New York Harbour, the tranquil Southern bayous, the sprawling Great Plains, sunlit shores, and the majestic Grand Canyon.
Originally introduced as Soarin’ Over California during the opening of Disney California Adventure in 2001, the Soarin’ franchise has undergone several adaptations. In 2005, the ride made its way to Epcot, retaining the California-centric imagery. However, following the successful launch of an international version in Shanghai Disneyland in 2016, the U.S. parks transitioned to the global showcase as “Soarin’ Over the World.” The latest rendition, Soarin’ Across America, enriches that legacy with a distinctly patriotic theme.
Creative director Tom Fitzgerald at Walt Disney Imagineering expressed enthusiasm for the new attraction, describing it as a reflective “portrait” of the United States that celebrates the nation’s spirit and its impressive history. Fitzgerald noted that the ride illustrates a tapestry of both urban and natural wonders, making it an ideal tribute to America’s diversity as it marks this significant anniversary.
Alongside visual innovations, Soarin’ Across America will also feature a fresh musical score. Bruce Broughton has taken on the task of reworking the beloved theme originally composed by the late Jerry Goldsmith to fit the new adventure.
Disney Parks is also looking to engage guests while they await their flight, with the introduction of a trivia game developed in collaboration with National Geographic. Titled the Soarin’ Challenge Across America, this interactive pre-ride experience will test parkgoers on their knowledge of U.S. trivia, based on intriguing facts from National Geographic’s popular titles.
This patriotic initiative, dubbed “Disney Celebrates America,” will span two years, from Veterans Day 2025 through to the July 4 weekend in 2026. The initiative aims to honour the American spirit of aspiration and creativity. Former Disney CEO Robert Iger commented on the significance of this celebration, asserting that the heart of America’s story embodies imagination and ambition—values that resonate with Disney’s foundational ideals.
As anticipation builds for the ride’s launch, visitors to Disney California Adventure and Epcot can look forward to an unforgettable experience that promises to lift them into the skies and showcase the remarkable beauty and diversity of the American landscape. Soarin’ Across America is set to become an essential part of both Disneyland and Walt Disney World, contributing prominently to this historic celebration.
