Epcot’s 40th Anniversary is quickly approaching, but we’re not done yet!! Today, we are fortunate to feature author Jodi from Magical Mouse Schoolhouse. We’re Soarin’ into EPCOT 2005!
EPCOT 2005- A Year in Walt Disney World History
In 2005, to honor Disneyland Resort’s 55th Anniversary, Walt Disney World’s Epcot opened one of my very favorite attractions—Soarin’. Housed in the Land Pavilion of Future World West, this
unique ride replicates the popular Soarin’ over California at Disney’s California Adventure and shows off the stunning beauty of the Golden State.
Eighty-seven passengers can fly at one time in each of Soarin’s two identical, 80-foot domed-screen theaters. Cast Member flight attendants lead Guests to their gate for a pre-show video (featuring actor Patrick Warbuton) then into the theater to board Ferris wheel-style ride mechanisms.
After passengers have stowed all belongings in the underseat compartments and have fastened their seatbelts securely, the flight lifts off. Rows rise nearly 45 feet in the air for a simulated hang glide through fast motion Omnimax clips.
Now Boarding- Soarin’
As is their custom, Disney Imagineers did a fantastic job of totally immersing riders in the Soarin’ experience. Light breezes and gentle rocking motions authenticate a flying sensation, and at key moments in the five-minute film, scents of orange blossoms, pine forests, sagebrush, and ocean spray waft through the air. You’re almost certain to dip your toes in the
river, feel the ocean spray, plunge down ski slopes, and burst with the color of Disneyland’s celebratory fireworks. Indeed, a faint, “Ah!” may escape your lips as you soar from the Golden Gate Bridge to Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Palm Springs, San Diego harbor, Malibu, and downtown Los Angeles.
Every ride I’ve taken on Soarin’ has ended with resounding applause. Guess I’m not the only one who loves it!
40 Days to 40 Years of EPCOT
You can follow more of Jodi’s Disney knowledge from her book; MAGICAL MOUSE SCHOOLHOUSE: Learn While You Play at Walt Disney World Resort. We have a bona fide magical author in our midst!!
In case you missed our community countdown to the 50th Anniversary of Magic Kingdom, you can ‘read all about it’ HERE. (Walt Disney World 2005)
