Soarin' Over California at Epcot: A Farewell (Unless They Sneak it Back in Disguise)
Ah, Soarin' Over California, that glorious hang-gliding simulator that whisked us over the Golden State's most iconic sights. Did you feel the wind in your hair (or what little you have left) as you soared past the Golden Gate Bridge? Did you practically smell the churros at Disneyland (almost as good as the real deal, almost)?
Those were the halcyon days, my friends. Those days are gone. Let's pour one out for a ride that returned for a limited time as part of the Disney 100th-anniversary celebration (sniff). But fear not, fellow thrill-seekers, for I, your trusty internet travel guru (with a slightly dramatic flair), am here to answer the burning question:
How long will Soarin' Over California be at Epcot?
Well, buckle up, buttercup, because the answer is shorter than your patience waiting in line for those Mickey Mouse pretzels: it's not there anymore. Soarin' Over California took its final flight on February 27, 2024. As of today, May 5, 2024, you'll be soaring "Around the World" instead, which is pretty darn cool too, but it's not quite the California dreamin' we all know and love.
Did Disney give any warning?
Let's just say they weren't exactly forthcoming with the end date. They kept us guessing like a Disney trivia night gone rogue. But hey, that's the magic of Disney, keeping us on our toes and refreshing our park reservation apps like crazy.
Is there any chance Soarin' Over California will return?
Nobody knows for sure, but hey, stranger things have happened! Maybe for a special event, or a super secret California takeover of Epcot (we can dream, right?). In the meantime, we can hold onto the memories of soaring over the Redwood National Park and silently judge everyone who screams a little too loud (it's me, I'm everyone who screams).
So what now?
Here's your action plan, my friend:
- Head over to Soarin' Around the World and enjoy the sights! It's still a fantastic ride, with breathtaking views from all over the globe.
- Start a petition to bring back Soarin' Over California. I'll be the first to sign (assuming petitions take signatures in the form of churros).
- Book a trip to Disneyland Resort in California! Experience the real deal and conquer your fear of heights (or at least pretend to).
Who knows, maybe someday we'll all be soaring over California once again at Epcot. Until then, keep the dream alive and the ride photos handy for some serious Instagram nostalgia.
