A Popular EPCOT Ride is Closing TODAY

Okay, it’s a lot to keep up with all the openings, closures, and construction happening in Disney World right now because there are SO many projects going on at once. We’re getting new lands, expansions, new rides, and so much more in three of Disney World’s four parks.

Soarin’ Around The World

Well, EPCOT has already had its big transformation, and things have been quiet there, but as of today, a popular ride will be closing to make way for a new version, so we wanted to remind you about it. Today is your last day to ride Soarin’ Around the World.

Last year, Disney announced that some big changes were comin’ to Soarin’ in honor of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Soarin’ will close on May 13th, TODAY, to reopen on May 26th as Soarin’ Across America. So say goodbye to the Leaning Eiffel Tower and hello to a journey that takes you on a journey above some of America’s most iconic sites.

©Disney

We visited the ride today to see how busy it was…and let’s just say Soarin’ was HOPPING! Everyone is trying to get that one last ride in on Soarin’ Around the World.

Quick crowd level check at the last day for guests to ride Soarin’ Around the World before the Soarin’ Across America overlay debuts on May 26th! pic.twitter.com/SywDWzjQk1

— Disney Food Blog (@DisneyFoodBlog) May 13, 2026

When we visited the ride, the current wait time was a whopping 55 minutes. We expect that could go even higher today.

LONG wait at Soarin’

Disney previously teased what the new version of Soarin’ will feature, including the Grand Canyon, as well as other American urban and natural landmarks. A new musical score will accompany the flight, which will also feature a new smell (bring back the orange groves!).

©Disney

We’re assuming there might even be a new flight safety introduction with your flight attendant, Patrick. Disney has not confirmed if this will be new, but the announcement for Soarin’ Across America trailer featured our favorite flight attendant front and center.

©Disney

If you’re a Disney World Annual Passholder, you can attend a preview for Soarin’ Across America on May 19th and 20th. All you need to do is show up to EPCOT and get in the ride’s regular standby queue during EPCOT’s operating hours.

We’ll be checking out the new version of Soarin’, too, as soon as we can, and let you know about all the big changes. So stay tuned to DFB for more.

Yes, You Can Eat Around EPCOT for Under $30 — If You Know What to Order

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Are you excited to ride Soarin’ Across America? Let us know in the comments!