Soarin’ Around the World: EPCOT’s Most Dazzling and Immersive Attraction
If you’re like me, then you probably have a travel bucket list that stretches around the world. Unfortunately, catching a quick flight to Paris or spending a week in Peru isn’t always a practical vacation option. Thankfully, Soarin’ Around the World in the Land Pavilion at EPCOT in Walt Disney World will allow you to glide by some of the world’s greatest wonders — and in less than five minutes!
From the pyramids of Egypt to the Great Wall of China, Soarin’ at EPCOT is your ultimate passport to seeing the world. Are you ready to fly?
We’re soarin’, flyin’ – there’s not a star in heaven that we can’t reach…
(Sorry, I couldn’t resist!)
Soarin’ Around the World: TSA Information
In addition to being the fastest flight around the world, Soarin’ at EPCOT also boasts an easy, breezy TSA process. There are no check-luggage weigh stations, complicated seat reservations, or fumbling for documents before this flight! Just make your way over to the Land Pavilion, and you’ll see Soarin’ is located right on the first floor. Join the queue and you’re on your way!
While the queue is known to cause flight delays due to its length, we are happy to report that it’s indoors. Even though you might be standing for a while, rest assured that it’s all in air-conditioned comfort! The waiting area for Soarin’ Around the World is designed like a municipal airport, giving you the vibe that you’re really ready to hop on a plane and travel somewhere far away.
Of course, as we all know, the airport isn’t the most riveting part of any journey — and Disney knows that, too. That’s why they made the Soarin’ Challenge! Using your cellphone, team up with family and friends to play a fun, travel-centric trivia game! It’s a great way to pass the time and create memories, even as you’re standing in line. Plus, if you get to the top of the leaderboard, you get bragging rights for the rest of the day.
Once you’ve gotten through the queue, there’s just one more step before take-off – reviewing safety information, of course! Like any reputable airline, Soarin’ Around the World has a trusty flight attendant to take you through the necessary precautions. But this isn’t just any flight attendant — it’s Patrick Warburton leading you through seatbelt safety! And if you don’t know who Patrick Warburton is, maybe you’ll recognize him by his Emperor’s New Groove identity — Kronk!
“Oh, riiight, the seat belts. The seat belts for Soarin’, the seat belts are especially chosen for Soarin’ passengers, Soarin’s seat belts.”
So, is your seat belt on? Good, because it’s time for take-off!
Adventure in the Skies
Catch a current of air and feel yourself rising into the sky as you embark on an adventure with Soarin’ Around the World!
Through the magic of IMAX and a simulated hang-glider, you’ll find your feet dangling over the tops of majestic mountains, gleaming icebergs, and national landmarks. Soarin’ is truly a “4D” style ride with the wind, gentle tilts and turns, and even subtle scents to truly transport you to each and every exotic locale.
As you sail through the harbor of Sydney, Australia, and soar through an African safari, you’ll find yourself equally whisked away by a stunning orchestral soundtrack that beautifully adapts to each new sight, wonderfully evoking the essence of the culture below.
It’s not just the landmarks like the Taj Mahal or Eiffel Tower that you’ll glide by, though! You’ll also find yourself soaring above elephants, polar bears, and even right alongside an eagle! The incorporation of wildlife makes Soarin’ a truly well-rounded production of the world’s wonders, both natural and manmade.
The aerial footage is stunning, and the transitions — accomplished by going through the mist of a waterfall or close calls with seaplanes — are creative, fun, and for the most part, pretty smooth. While some scenes contain computer-animated graphics (like many of the animals), this adds a sense of whimsy to the ride, which is what Disney is all about! Taken in good fun, the CGI is a pleasant addition rather than a distraction, and kiddos will definitely appreciate the wild friends!
Speaking of kiddos, this gentle ride is a great one for littles and adults alike. With a height requirement of only 40 inches, pretty much anyone is welcome to go soarin’!
The ride itself is both graceful and pleasant, but folks who have a fear of heights or are prone to motion sickness may want to exercise caution as they consider Soarin’ Around the World. (The simulated sensation of flight is remarkably realistic!) However, as a general rule, Soarin’ doesn’t pose a problem for most people.
Gliding Through A Grand Finale
Soarin’ Around the World exists in other Disney parks, including Disneyland in California (where it originated), Tokyo DisneySea, as well as Shanghai Disneyland. Each iteration of Soarin’ has its own unique ending, as guests “fly” over their own respective parks!
In Walt Disney World, Florida, passengers of Soarin’ airlines will glide above EPCOT, their feet just barely grazing the top of Spaceship Earth. All aglow in the midst of a fireworks show, EPCOT has never looked so magical! Even Tinkerbell makes a twinkling cameo! (Has Soarin’ been using pixie dust this whole time to make guests fly??)
The fireworks are just as spectacular as they are in real life, and there’s a special hidden Mickey to spot during the show. After all, if Mickey Mouse doesn’t count as a wonder of the world, I don’t know what does!
Once you’ve landed, grab your highlighters and bullet journal, because it’s time to start crossing things off of your travel bucket list!
Greenland’s icy mountains? Yup, been there!
Soarin’ Around the World is an absolute EPCOT favorite. While this means there’s usually a bit of a line, most folks agree the wait is worth it, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. An amazing exhibition of all there is to see and do across the globe, Soarin’ is quintessential EPCOT and very much in the spirit of world-traveler Walt Disney himself!
What’s your favorite location in Soarin’? It’s hard to beat the beautiful beaches of Fiji, but as an animal person…I’ve got to go with Kilimanjaro and the elephant herd! Let us know what you think in the comments below.
Have a nice flight!
Cover Image
Photo: Unsplash
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