Soarin’ Around the World

At Disney California Adventure, Epcot, Shanghai Disneyland, and Tokyo DisneySea, there is a motion simulator ride called Soarin' that is also known as Soarin' Around the World, Soaring Over the Horizon, and Soaring: Fantastic Flight. It simulates a hang gliding flight over sites on six continents by using a mechanical lift system, a projected presentation on an 80 foot (24 m) concave 180-degree dome screen, artificial fragrances, and wind. It is regarded by many as the first flying theater.

Soarin' Over California, the first version of the attraction, debuted on February 8, 2001, as a part of Disney California Adventure's grand opening. Guests were flown over a number of Californian landmarks, and a pre-show on the state's aviation history was featured. In 2005, Soarin' was added to Epcot at Walt Disney World.

This hang glider-meets-IMAX-like dome experience is the kind of technical achievement that only Disney can accomplish, with a steady breeze blowing in your face and the aroma of roses floating in. The attraction simulates flying over some of the world's (or what was once California's) most stunning landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the genuine Matterhorn, all while playing a triumphant soundtrack that leaves us with a serious case of wanderlust.

Location: Grizzly Peak (Disney California Adventure)
Best seat in the house: Section B, Row 1