Soarin' Around the World
Take flight on a breathtaking journey as you soar over some of the world's most awe-inspiring sights. This is your chance to experience the joy of hang gliding like never before!
Updated: 2026-01-16
Composite Review (4.8 / 5)
Based on the reviews for Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot (Walt Disney World), here is a composite review that aggregates the common sentiments, praises, and complaints from riders.
Verdict
A breathtaking flight simulation that remains a “must-do” for its exhilarating sensation of flight and beautiful score, though seat location heavily impacts visual quality.
The Experience: “Hang Gliding Over the Globe”
Guests board a “hang glider” that lifts them 40 feet into the air in front of a massive, 80-foot projection dome. The ride simulates a flight over iconic world landmarks (The Great Wall of China, The Taj Mahal, Monument Valley, etc.), complete with wind effects and scents (grass, roses, ocean breeze) that correspond to the scenes.
- The Immersion: When seated correctly, the experience is described as “magical,” “breathtaking,” and “emotional.” The sensation of your feet dangling while you swoop over mountains and oceans is unique and universally loved.
- The Score: The epic musical score by Bruce Broughton (adapting Jerry Goldsmith’s original themes) is frequently cited as a highlight that swells perfectly with the visuals.
The Good: What People Love
- “A Feast for the Senses”: Riders love the multi-sensory approach—feeling the wind in their hair and smelling the dirt of the African savannah or the jasmine of India adds a layer of realism that screens alone can’t achieve.
- Smooth & Gentle: Unlike roller coasters, this thrill ride is gentle. It offers the sensation of flight without drops or jarring movements, making it accessible for a wide range of ages and those who might be wary of more intense rides.
- The Finale: The ride ends with a flight over Epcot itself (specifically Spaceship Earth), which is always a crowd-pleaser, especially at night when it sparkles.
The Bad: Common Complaints
- “The Leaning Tower of Eiffel”: The most significant and frequent complaint is the image distortion. Because the screen is a curved dome, straight lines (like the Eiffel Tower or Taj Mahal) appear heavily curved or “bent” if you are sitting on the far left or right sides of the theater. This breaks the immersion for many.
- CGI Overload: Long-time fans of the original Soarin’ Over California often criticize the new version for relying too heavily on CGI animals (polar bears, whales) and transitions, which some feel look “fake” or “cartoony” compared to the natural beauty of the original film.
- Wait Times: Lines can get very long (often 60+ minutes), and the interactive queue games are a mixed bag in terms of entertainment value during the wait.
Top Tips from Reviewers
- Ask for Section B, Row 1 (B1): This is the “God Seat.” Reviewers universally agree that to get the best experience with minimal distortion and no feet dangling in your view, you should politely ask the Cast Member for the center section (Section B) and the top row (Row 1). You might have to wait one extra flight cycle, but it is worth it.
- Avoid the Edges: If you are prone to motion sickness or hate visual distortion, avoid the far sides (Sections A and C). The curvature is most pronounced there.
- Motion Sickness Check: While generally smooth, the massive screen can trigger nausea in those sensitive to simulators. Closing your eyes during the fast “swooping” transitions can help reset your equilibrium.
Summary
“Sit in the middle or don’t fly.” Soarin’ Around the World is a majestic, awe-inspiring attraction that defines the Epcot experience, provided you snag a center seat. If you end up on the side, just enjoy the breeze and the music, but try to ignore the bending buildings.
Reference
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/epcot/soarin-around-world/