As part of the Walt Disney Company’s extended celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, the highly anticipated Soarin’ Across America is set to debut in Summer 2026 at both EPCOT in Walt Disney World and California Adventure in Disneyland. This initiative, part of the comprehensive Disney Celebrates America event, kicks off on Veterans Day 2025 and will run through until the Fourth of July weekend in 2026, with expectations that the Soarin’ feature will premiere in June 2026.
Disney Celebrates America aims to honor the nation’s rich historical past, celebrate its present achievements, and inspire a future full of promise. Soarin’ Across America will take center stage in this celebration, allowing both Walt Disney World and Disneyland to showcase an array of stunning landscapes and highlights from across the United States.
Fans of Soarin’ Over California and the U.S. National Parks have high hopes for the upcoming film, eager to see a representation of not only national parks but also iconic skylines, rural settings, and various other notable locations that capture the essence of what makes America unique. In creating a wish list for the Soarin’ Across America locations, certain guidelines were established to ensure a broad representation of U.S. beauty.
The first stipulation for the wish list is to exclude any locations in California, acknowledging that it is likely some scenes from Soarin’ Over California might be recycled due to licensing challenges or budget considerations. Regardless of that probability, the focus here is on presenting all new locations that celebrate the beauty of the country.
Second, the list seeks to include a diverse range of regions, recognizing that often only a few coastal areas are highlighted over the vastness of the United States. To ensure a balanced portrayal, the list encompasses locations from the downtown urban landscapes, countryside, and various park settings across all regions of the U.S.
Third, while natural beauty will reign supreme in the film, the wish list keeps an open mind to cities, agricultural areas, and various forms of biodiversity that characterize the diverse terrains of the country.
It is important to strike a balance, as while urban areas like Boston, Philadelphia, New Orleans, and Chicago are popular, only two skylines stood out as essential for an inclusion based on the writer’s vision for this film.
The following is a carefully curated selection of desired locations for Soarin’ Across America that encapsulates the variety of experiences and settings the U.S. has to offer.
Washington, D.C., naturally comes to mind as a key location for the film given its status as the nation’s capital. Iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Washington Monument will provide stunning visuals from above. The National Mall and the sprawling views from the White House will further enhance its significance, making it a distinctive representation of American history and pride.
New York City is another essential location that contributes to the cinematic journey. Celebrated as America’s quintessential city, NYC showcases the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty, the serene beauty of Central Park, and the impressive geography of the Five Boroughs alongside the iconic rivers that frame Manhattan Island. The panoramic views are sure to reflect America’s ambition and spirit perfectly.
A surprising highlight could be Thunder Over Louisville, renowned for being one of the largest firework shows in the country coinciding with the Kentucky Derby. This vibrant airshow could inject excitement, celebrating both the artistic beauty of fireworks and the community spirit that’s integral during this annual event.
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, representing Midwestern architecture and the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere, stands out as another compelling feature to include. The aerial views would capture the dynamic design and significance of the arch as an emblem of westward expansion in the U.S.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, although not as well-known, boasts stunning fall foliage and fascinating natural features like waterfalls and the historic viaducts, making it an ideal candidate for breathtaking aerial photography during seasonal changes.
Mackinac Island is valued for its historical charm, absence of automobiles, and beautiful landscapes. The visuals of horse-drawn carriages juxtaposed against natural bluffs and Victorian architecture would make for a compelling contrast to the vibrancy of urban centers like New York City, thus showcasing the diversity of American heritage.
Acadia National Park in Maine is also a prime candidate, known for its stunning coastal views and biodiversity. The dramatic scenery of Cadillac Mountain and the iconic lighthouse would elevate the film’s natural and emotional storytelling.
In contrast to the serene beauty of Acadia, Mount Rushmore offers an iconic representation of American leadership and democracy. The unique viewpoint from above could provide viewers with a fresh perspective on this monumental site.
Adding to the film’s stunning visual tapestry would be the untouched landscapes of Arches National Park in Utah, recognized for its remarkable rock formations and striking vistas. The rich colors and textures of the arches against the sunrise or sunset are perfect for creating breathtaking memories.
Yellowstone National Park remains a strong contender, offering a mesmerizing display of hydrothermal wonders and iconic landmarks such as Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring, widely regarded for its striking colors and formations.
Rocky Mountain National Park, known for its high altitude and stunning scenery, could highlight the diversity of Colorado’s natural features such as mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
To represent the Great Plains, showcasing a quintessential ranch in Texas would be fitting. This venture into America’s agricultural roots aligns with the theme of showcasing the heart and soul of America’s landscape.
The inclusion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park acknowledges its status as the most-visited national park in the country. Its milky mountains and captivating wildlife promise stunning shots that embody the beauty of the U.S.
Capturing the dramatic landscapes of Hawaiian Islands through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with visuals of lava flows and breathtaking craters, extends the film’s range to the Pacific.
While Alaska, famous for its expansive wilderness and numerous national parks, offers visuals of glaciers and diverse wildlife, incorporating Denali would bring a powerful representation of America’s majesty.
Concluding with Grand Canyon National Park is a must; it stands as one of the most recognized natural wonders of the world. The visualization of the expansive canyons and services created by nature’s design is truly awe-inspiring and worthy of being a centerpiece in the film.
Glacier National Park, often heralded as the crown jewel of American parks, boasts stunning visuals and is famed for its wildlife. Featuring the breathtaking scenery along the Going-to-the-Sun Road would bring additional beauty and complexity to the aerial experience.
Lastly, a sleeper pick for Florida could highlight either the Everglades or perhaps local wildlife, such as manatees congregating in the warmer waters during winter, emphasizing the array of experiences Florida has to offer beyond the world-known theme parks.
As anticipation builds for the debut of Soarin’ Across America, it beckons the question of which other iconic parks or cities could join this wish list. The integration of perspectives from fans will play a significant role in defining the final locations as part of this special tribute to America.
With a combination of national parks, urban environments, and cultural landmarks, the wish list for the upcoming Soarin’ film is a testament to the diverse natural and man-made beauty of the United States.
As Disney prepares for this grand celebration aimed at showcasing America’s heritage and landscapes, queries remain about how the final selections will balance between showcasing lesser-known gems and iconic tourist spots that resonate deeply with many.
In the end, Soarin’ Across America promises to be a beautiful tribute to the vastness and richness of the American landscape, celebrating the diverse experiences that define the nation as we move into a momentous anniversary year.
image source from：disneytouristblog
