Review: Spaceship Earth
Spaceship Earth has been an iconic symbol of Epcot Center since its opening in 1982. It is easily one of the most recognizable structures of any theme park around the world. The 18-story geodesic sphere includes an OmniMover attraction that take guests through the history of human communication. Yes, the “huge golf ball” has a ride in it.
The 15 minute ride takes the guest from the dawn of the communication to today’s globally connected world. At the conclusion, guests can participate in a “choose your own adventure” type touch screen and select the what the future will look like with Project Tomorrow.
The ride and script has been updated various times since the 1982 opening. The most recent version is narrated by Dame Judi Dench. Hey thank the Phoenicians and go-go boot wearing scientists for the advances in mass communication.
For the 50th Celebration, Spaceship Earth has received a huge upgrade. The sphere now has LED lights that came be programmed for different events and festivals.
The Low Down:
Opened: October 1, 1982
Location: Epcot – Future World
Type: Dark Ride
Length: 15:00 minutes
FastPass: Yes, but the attraction does load quickly even when there’s a big line of guests.
Kid Factor: This is a ride that everyone and their brother hits. So the family factor is pretty high here. Not too many screaming pity parties, probably due to the fact that this is the first ride when you enter the park. Expect tons of people heading here early in the morning or late in the evening.
Highlights: You can actually smell Rome burn. Very nice touch to with the addition of the first home computer (Steve Wozniak or Steve Jobs? I can’t tell). The audio-animatronics are pure classic Disney. Look for the paper boy that seems to change positions quite often in the post Civil War scene.
Overall: This is the must see of any trip to Epcot. Not a thrill ride or break though technology but this attraction is still entertaining guests like its heyday.
Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
