A major EPCOT attraction is about to look very different, and the timeline is officially locked in.

Disney has confirmed key dates for a transformation that will temporarily close Soarin’ and bring back a familiar version with a patriotic twist. If you’ve got a Disney World trip planned soon, this update could seriously impact your plans, so here’s everything you need to know.

The Current Version Is Closing Soon

If you love Soarin’ Around the World, your time to ride it is running out. According to the Disney World calendar, the last day to experience this version at EPCOT will be May 13th, with the attraction officially closing on May 14th.

That means the iconic scenes you’ve come to expect, including that slightly warped Eiffel Tower moment that fans love to point out (that has been fixed), are about to disappear for now. If it’s on your must-do list, you’ll want to prioritize it before that mid-May cutoff.

Soarin’ Across America Opens May 26th

Disney has confirmed that Soarin’ Across America will officially open on May 26th at both Disney World and Disneyland Resort.

This new version is arriving just in time to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, and it will take guests on a coast-to-coast journey featuring some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and cityscapes. Think sweeping natural beauty, recognizable skylines, and a heavy dose of Americana.

The turnaround time between closing and reopening is pretty tight, but not an overnight change, which suggests Disney is working on more than just a simple film swap.

It’s Not Just a Screen Change

At first, many of us assumed this update would be as simple as replacing the ride film, but it looks like there’s more happening behind the scenes.

A permit filed by Walt Disney Imagineering references the installation of “set elements” for the attraction. That’s a big clue that physical changes could be coming to the ride space, the queue, or even the theater itself. Right now, Disney hasn’t shared specifics, but this opens the door for new immersive details that go beyond what we’ve seen in past Soarin’ updates. It could mean enhanced theming, added props, or subtle environmental upgrades that make the experience feel fresh again.

Some Fan-Favorite Elements Are Staying

Before you panic, not everything is changing. Disney has confirmed that Soarin’ Across America will keep many of the elements we already love. That includes the ride system itself, the sweeping musical score, and even the signature scents that make each scene feel so immersive. The overall experience of gliding through the air won’t feel unfamiliar, which is good news for us longtime fans.

There’s also a strong chance that Patrick, the Chief Flight Attendant from the pre-show, will stick around. While Disney hasn’t confirmed whether a new pre-show has been filmed, he appeared in the announcement video, which is a promising sign.

What Happens to Soarin’ Around the World?

Here’s the big unknown: Disney has not announced whether Soarin’ Around the World will return in the future. This could be a temporary swap for the anniversary celebration, or it could signal a longer-term shift in the attraction’s identity. For now, all we know is that it’s going away on May 14th, and there’s no confirmed return date.

That uncertainty is part of what makes this change feel bigger than expected. It’s not just a seasonal overlay. It could reshape what guests experience at this iconic pavilion for years to come.

Why This Change Matters for Your Trip

If you’re visiting Disney World in mid to late May, timing is everything. Arrive before May 14th, and you’ll still catch Soarin’ Around the World. Visit between May 14th and May 25th, and the ride will be completely unavailable. Plan your trip after May 26th, and you’ll be among the first to experience the updated Soarin’ Across America.

That’s a pretty significant swing for one of EPCOT’s most popular attractions, so it’s worth adjusting your plans accordingly.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t just a minor update. It’s a full-on transformation with new scenes, possible physical enhancements, and a limited-time feel tied to a major national celebration. Whether you’re excited or a little nostalgic, there’s no denying that change is coming fast. If Soarin’ Around the World is on your must-ride list, your window is closing. If you’re curious about what’s next, the new version is arriving sooner than you might think.

We’ll keep an eye out for more Soarin’ updates, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

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Are you planning to ride the current version one last time, or are you holding out for Soarin’ Across America? Let us know in the comments!