Disney reveals opening date for ‘Soarin’ Across America’ — plus first look at featured locales

Disney is bringing back a dose of Americana nostalgia to one of its most beloved rides as “Soarin’ Across America” prepares to take over Disney World ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.

The House of Mouse announced that Soarin’ Across America will officially debut at Disney California Adventure on July 2, 2026 and at EPCOT at Disney World on May 26, replacing the current “Soarin’ Around the World” film with a new coast-to-coast aerial adventure to celebrate the nation’s big birthday.

The high-tech hang glider ride, a fan favorite that depending on what Disney location you’re at, shuttles guests over the Golden Gate Bridge and Napa Valley or the Eiffel Tower and the Great Wall of China, is getting a patriotic makeover.

Travelers will now find themselves dangling over the “radiant welcome” of New York Harbor, the jagged cliffs of the New England coast, and the red rocks of the Grand Canyon.

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The new attraction promises sweeping flyovers of iconic US landmarks, natural wonders and city skylines—complete with the ride’s signature scents, giant projection dome and soaring soundtrack that have made the simulator one of Disney’s most beloved rides for more than two decades.

Disney Imagineers have reportedly been filming at more than a dozen locations across the country for the updated experience, which is being positioned as a major part of the company celebrating the land of the free and the home of the brave.

“It’s a tapestry of urban wonders, natural beauty, and iconic locations that celebrate the spirit of the nation and the 250the anniversary of the United States,” Imagineers teased in a blog post on Thursday.

To keep the vibes truly cinematic, Disney tapped composer Bruce Broughton to remix the legendary score by the late Jerry Goldsmith.

For those checking out the EPCOT version, a National Geographic-themed upgrade will keep you from getting bored with a trivia game about the 50 states.

The move comes as Disney leans heavily into America’s 250 birthday, turning its parks into a red-white-and-blue blowout.