Soarin’ Around the World Closing May 13 at EPCOT

Written by Joshua Posted March 12th, 2026

Earlier today, Walt Disney World announced that Soarin’ Across America will debut on May 26, 2026. Unfortunately for fans of a slightly curved Eiffel Tower, that also means Soarin’ Around the World’s ten-year run is coming to an end. The attraction’s second iteration closes at the end of the day on May 13, 2026.

Don’t worry too much, though. Disney brings back Soarin’ Over California every so often. If history is any guide, the world’s landmarks will get their turn again someday.

In the meantime, Imagineers will use the brief downtime to recalibrate EPCOT’s ride system for the new footage, which will highlight American landscapes and cityscapes. And yes, Chief Flight Attendant Patrick will still be there to get us ready for takeoff.

Disney also shared photos of crews filming the Grand Canyon, an obvious choice for one of the new scenes. The Statue of Liberty feels like a lock for another. And wouldn’t it be great if they slipped in a flyover of Walt’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri?

View from a helicopter cockpit as crews film the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon for Soarin' Across America

The update arrives just in time for America’s 250th birthday in 2026. And really, what better way to celebrate the nation than by removing a slightly bent French landmark from the ride?