Early reactions to Soarin’ Across America are divided – but Disney improved one common complaint
Disney’s new “Soarin’ Across America” attraction overlay has not officially opened to guests yet, but early reactions from cast member previews at Epcot are already pointing toward one major takeaway: many fans believe Disney may have solved one of the biggest complaints about “Soarin’ Around the World.”
The limited-time version of the attraction debuts May 26, 2026 at Epcot as part of Disney’s broader celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and the start of Disney’s Cool Kids’ Summer. The experience temporarily replaces “Soarin’ Around the World” with an updated flight path across iconic U.S. landscapes and landmarks inspired by the original California version of the attraction.
While Disney has not shared the full ride film publicly, preview reactions circulating online have focused heavily on the attraction’s visuals, transitions, and overall emotional tone.
Our summary of fan reactions does not include any major spoilers.
Fans say the new film feels more natural
One of the most common criticisms of “Soarin’ Around the World” over the years centered around its heavy use of computer-generated images (CGI) transitions and curved landmark imagery, particularly on the Eiffel Tower and Taj Mahal scenes.
Early reactions to “Soarin’ Across America” suggest the new version may feel closer to the original spirit of “Soarin’ Over California,” with more grounded aerial photography, and less exaggerated digital imagery.
Disney Food Blog specifically praised the attraction’s smoother scene transitions and scenic presentation during cast member previews, while several social media reactions described the film as feeling “more natural” and less digitally overwhelming than “Soarin’ Around the World.”
Image courtesy of Disney
However, there are still instances with CGI elements in “Soarin’ Across America,” so it is best to temper expectations. Several preview riders also described the attraction as more atmospheric than “Soarin’ Around the World,” with a stronger focus on scenic flying sensations, but the scenes do change swiftly.
Divided we fall
Not all reactions have been positive, though. Some fans online said they miss the larger global scale of “Soarin’ Around the World,” arguing the new version feels smaller in scope by comparison. Another common note we are seeing is that certain transitions between scenes still felt slightly disjointed, potentially due to the order of the film’s locations.
A return to the classics
Another recurring theme in early reactions is a return to the classic feeling of the original “Soarin'” attraction. Fans online have compared the tone to earlier versions of Soarin’, with some saying the new presentation captures the emotional feeling that made the original ride so memorable, especially the new opening scene. Others specifically praised the updated musical score and finale.
Disney’s America 250 plans continue taking shape
“Soarin’ Across America” is part of a growing slate of experiences of theme parks celebrating America250, the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
Disney first announced the attraction overlay alongside additional patriotic entertainment and seasonal offerings tied to the nationwide celebration.
The updated version of Soarin’ will operate for a limited time at Epcot and Disney California Adventure, though Disney has not announced an end date for the experience.
What we’ll be watching for
Attractions Magazine will experience “Soarin’ Across America” during media previews next week. A few details we’ll be watching closely include:
- Whether the curved-screen distortion issues have truly been reduced
- If the pacing feels noticeably different from “Soarin’ Around the World”
- Which scenes generate the biggest guest reactions
If early reactions are any indication, “Soarin’ Across America” may reconnect with that part of the attraction’s legacy in a way some guests have been hoping to see for years.
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