Soarin’ Around the World at EPCOT (Review)

If you're planning a trip to EPCOT and wondering whether Soarin' Around the World at EPCOT is worth your time, you’re in the right place! As someone who’s been on this attraction many times, I’m here to share what makes it special, along with some practical tips to make the most of your visit.

Soarin' Around the World is a flight simulator that takes you on a global adventure, soaring over iconic landmarks from the Great Wall of China to the plains of Africa.

In this guide, I’ll cover my personal experience, strategies for enjoying the ride, and a few tips to help you plan your day.

Key Tips

• Arrive early or use Lightning Lane to minimize wait times. Check out my EPCOT Rope Drop and Early Entry Strategy for more tips.
• Choose your seat wisely—front and center offer the best views.
• Be prepared for a slight sensation of motion, though it's generally mild and manageable.

Why Soarin' Around the World is a Must-Do at EPCOT

When it comes to immersive experiences, Soarin' Around the World is definitely one of the top attractions at EPCOT. It combines breathtaking visuals, subtle motion, and the thrill of flight—all while showcasing some of the most famous sights from around the world.

One of the things that sets Soarin' Around the World apart is the sensation of flying. You’re lifted off the ground in a multi-level seating system designed to mimic a hang-glider. As you soar over landscapes and iconic landmarks, the curved screen fills your vision, creating an unforgettable experience.

The ride’s immersive feel is what keeps me coming back. I love the feeling of gliding over landscapes like the Eiffel Tower or the African savanna. The combination of gentle motion and sweeping visuals is calming yet exciting—perfect for anyone looking to take a break from the more intense rides.

How to Ride Soarin' Around the World at EPCOT

Soarin' Around the World is one of EPCOT’s most popular rides, and making the most of it takes a bit of planning. Whether you’re aiming to minimize your wait time or you want the best seat, I’ve got you covered. After many visits, I’ve learned a few key strategies that make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. Let’s dive into how to get the most out of your Soarin' Around the World adventure.

Best Time to Ride Soarin'

The best times to ride Soarin' Around the World are early in the morning right at Rope Drop or later in the evening. Midday usually means longer wait times—often up to an hour or more.

One time, I made the mistake of heading there right after lunch, and the line was packed. Now, I always plan to ride it first thing or just before park closing.

If you can’t make it early or late, using Genie+ or Lightning Lane is your best bet. Booking a Lightning Lane pass right after entering the park makes a big difference. One of my most stress-free days at EPCOT was when I grabbed a pass early and had the whole afternoon free for other attractions.

Ride Duration and Location

Soarin' Around the World lasts about 5 minutes, but with boarding and pre-show, expect around 20 minutes total. It’s located in The Land Pavilion, now part of the World Nature neighborhood at EPCOT and is consistently one of the most popular rides, so planning is essential.

Genie+ and Lightning Lane

Yes, you can use Genie+ or Lightning Lane for Soarin' Around the World. In my experience, securing a pass early in the day is key. One time, I waited too long and had to take an evening slot, which didn’t fit my plans well. Prioritize this pass if Soarin' Around the World is high on your list.

Check out my full EPCOT Lightning Lane Strategy for more details.

Adding Soarin' Around the World to Your Itinerary

If you’re planning a one-day EPCOT visit, ride Soarin' Around the World in the morning or early afternoon. Pair it with nearby attractions like Living with the Land or the new Moana: Journey of Water. If you’re staying the whole day, consider riding it again in the evening when lines typically decrease.

Check out my One-Day EPCOT Itinerary for more ideas.

So, Is Soarin' Around the World Worth It?

Honestly, Soarin' Around the World is one of my favorite rides at EPCOT. It’s calming, visually impressive, and just thrilling enough to keep you engaged without feeling overwhelming. I make it a point to ride it every visit, whether I’m solo or with friends.

Pros

• Stunning, immersive visuals that take you around the world.
• Smooth and gentle motion that’s suitable for most ages.
• Family-friendly and great for a break between more intense rides.
• Unique experience that differs from typical thrill rides.

Cons

• Long wait times during peak hours.
• Lower row seating can have a partially obstructed view.
• Mild motion sickness potential for sensitive riders.
• Ride film feels a bit dated compared to newer attractions.

Tips for Riding Soarin' Around the World at EPCOT

Planning ahead can make a huge difference when it comes to enjoying Soarin' Around the World at EPCOT. After countless visits, I’ve figured out a few strategies that help minimize wait times and make the ride experience more enjoyable. H

ere are my tried-and-true tips to help you make the most of your Soarin' Around the World adventure.

Arrive Early or Use Lightning Lane

On my last visit, I made the mistake of arriving mid-morning, and the line was already an hour long. The next time, I got there right at Rope Drop and walked on without any wait! I highly recommend arriving early or using Lightning Lane to make the most of your day.

Seating Matters

I’ve tested out various seats, and the front and center spots are definitely the best. Once, I ended up in the bottom row and was distracted by the dangling feet from above. Now, I always ask to wait for the front row—it’s worth the few extra minutes.

Be Mindful of Motion Sickness

I don’t usually get motion sickness, but one time on Soarin' Around the World, I felt a little queasy during the rapid movement scenes. Sitting in the back row helps if you’re prone to motion discomfort. I also make sure to have a light snack beforehand—nothing too heavy.