One of the newer rides at Disney World’s Epcot is Soarin’, a flying experience that recreates a hang gliding ride along the coastline of California. What seems at first glance to be a ‘sit and watch’ attraction, Soarin’ separates itself by totally immersing the rider in a full-sensory flight over the different terrains of the west coast, from creeks and orchards to deserts all the way through to the California coast. The ride provides a wonderful simulation of the experience of flight; and not only do you feel yourself moving, but you feel the air rush by you and you can actually catch some of the scents of the terrain. Terrain like orange groves and pine forests make themselves known not only by their visual presence, but by their pleasantly distinct smells as well. The whole experience feels so real that you’ll find yourself ducking under things and picking your feet up so your toes don’t drag over anything.
The way Epcot’s Soarin’ works is by actually putting the rider ‘in’ the movie they’re watching. A large -and I mean large- array of machinery picks the ride up and places everyone in a fish-eye shaped movie screen. Computer controls rotate and tilt the seats of the ride to match the movement on the screen, while visors above the rider provide airflow, scents and even a quick spray of water. All of this, of course, is timed perfectly with the visual show in impeccable Disney World style. Once the ‘flight’ is over, the rider is smoothly and quietly set back down on the ground in the exact same spot that he or she started at. Taking a quick look around during entry or exit will give the rider a feel for the massive scale of the machinery involved in the ride, as well as the screen that provided such a pleasant ‘trip’.
While Soarin’ at Disney World’s Epcot park is billed as an ‘all ages’ ride, some thought should be given to taking very young children on this ride. Those who are uncomfortable with heights or flying may also want to put some thought into whether or not they are ready for a ‘total flight’ experience. The average rider, though, will find the ride very enjoyable. Don’t be surprised if you exit the ride asking, ‘want to go again?’
Soarin’ is one of the more popular rides at Epcot and the infamous Disney World Fastpass is available for this great ride. I would recommend to either get there early or use your Fastpass to reserve a time, as the lines build quickly. Although, even if the park says there will be over an hour wait to get on the ride, the lines do move quickly and are inside under cover, rather than standing outside in the Florida elements.
To sum it up, Soarin’ is a ‘must do’ for anyone traveling to Epcot and Disney World. While it doesn’t have the roller-coaster style of plunges and jerking movements that thrill-seekers look for, the total experience of Soarin’ will be one of your most memorable rides.
