Soarin' Around the World Is Officially Closed in Disney World

It’s never fun when your favorite ride closes in Disney World, but it happens all the time. Sometimes the closure is only temporary, maybe due to technical issues or weather. Sometimes a ride closes for standard maintenance and refurbishment.

However, in the case of Soarin’ Around The World in EPCOT, it’s because the ride is getting a HUGE change to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. So as of May 14th, Soarin’ Around The World is closed.

Last year, Disney announced huge changes coming to both versions of Soarin’ in EPCOT and Disney California Adventure. May 13th was the last day to ride Soarin’ in EPCOT, while the California Adventure version of the ride will close on July 1st.

Soarin’ Across America will replace Soarin’ Around the World. The new version of the ride will feature a sweeping tour across the United States, complete with scenes of iconic American landmarks and landscapes like the Grand Canyon, New England, Hawaii, Mount Rushmore, and more. The new ride will debut on May 26th, so the closure is a pretty short one, all things considered.

Sign-ups for Cast Member previews of Soarin’ Across America have already started, while previews for Disney World Annual Passholders will be held on May 19th and 20th. Everyone else will have to wait until May 26th when the ride officially reopens.