Soarin’ to Tower — the fan-favorite attraction Soarin’ is ready to soar into a new era with Soarin’ Across America, debuting Summer 2026 at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. The new film celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States with a breathtaking aerial journey that moves from majestic natural landscapes to vibrant city skylines.
This coast-to-coast adventure marks the next evolution of one of Disney’s most beloved attractions. It blends the magic of flight, vivid cinematography, and modern technology to deliver a patriotic experience that feels new yet familiar.
Disney’s focus on authenticity makes this version especially promising. Many fans hope the film will feature only real footage, not computer-generated effects. The original Soarin’ Over California earned its emotional impact from genuine shots of pilots, skiers, surfers, and landscapes. Soarin’ Across America has the chance to capture that same realism.
The beauty of Soarin’ Over California came from its authenticity — real people, real boats, and real jet fighters. Soarin’ Across America deserves that same treatment. Fans want to see the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Golden Gate Bridge, the National Mall, Boston Harbor, and maybe even Pittsburgh. (Yes, we’re still waiting for Muppet Vision 3D!)
From Sea to Shining Sea: A New Chapter for Soarin’
“When production wrapped almost a decade ago on Soarin’ Around the World, we started thinking about where we might go next with the format,” said Tom Fitzgerald, Portfolio Executive Creative Director and Chief Storytelling Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering. “A trip across the United States felt like a natural next flight for Soarin’ to take, and the 250th anniversary of our nation provided the perfect opportunity to ‘book the flight.’”
According to Fitzgerald, Soarin’ Across America will offer a stunning, emotional tour of the country. It will combine beloved elements — the sweeping flight, iconic score, and signature scents — with new imagery that highlights the nation’s beauty and spirit.
Behind the Scenes: Filming America the Beautiful
To bring this vision to life, Disney Imagineering is capturing over a dozen breathtaking U.S. locations. From desert canyons to bustling cities, each scene highlights a different facet of the country’s landscape.
Bernice Howes, Executive Creative Media Producer for Walt Disney Imagineering, leads the production team. She oversees aerial filming with helicopters, drones, and heavy-lift camera systems.
“We used satellite maps to plan realistic visuals,” Howes explained. “Then, we mapped aerial paths to understand how each location transitions into the next.”
Her team tested lenses, cameras, and equipment to ensure consistent quality. “We packed 33 cases of gear to remote areas so we’d have backups of everything,” she added.
Crafting a Story That Connects Us All
“Our goal was to give guests a taste of America’s beauty and energy — to create an emotional portrait for the nation’s 250th celebration,” Fitzgerald said.
Howes and her team planned smooth transitions between contrasting landscapes: natural wonders, city skylines, and famous monuments. Their goal is to make viewers feel the country’s unity from the Rockies to New York City’s lights.
“The film’s creation is designed to embody America’s spirit for today’s guests and future generations,” Howes shared.
And the music? Disney rarely misses that mark. A new score will lead the experience, combining emotional orchestration with classic Americana.
Looking ahead, Imagineers could add re-ride value, similar to Star Tours, by randomizing flight paths and destinations before returning to the park where each journey began. The concept could make Soarin’ feel even more dynamic — but realism should remain its core.
The Soarin’ Experience: Classic Magic, New Horizons
Like its predecessors, Soarin’ Across America lifts guests into the air before an 80-foot curved screen. Enhanced visuals and scent effects promise seamless transitions between regions, showcasing landmarks, monuments, and America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
Every detail, from the wind’s sound to the scent of pine forests, is designed to heighten immersion. The combination of real aerial footage and advanced projection aims to create a cinematic tribute that moves and inspires.
What It Means for Disney Fans
For fans of Soarin’ Over California and Soarin’ Around the World, this new announcement feels like a return home — and a celebration of exploration and innovation. It’s also a cornerstone of the Disney Celebrates America campaign, joining coast-to-coast festivities for the 250th anniversary.
Soarin’ Across America debuts Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Get ready to take flight — and experience the magic of America from a whole new perspective.
