Horizons ~ By Joe Black

July 5, 2013
`horizons1
“Horizons” by Joe Black

Today we look back at an attraction that is still a fan favorite, Horizons at Epcot. Horizons was a journey into the future, and seemed to embody of all the themes of Future World. This attraction used communication, energy, transportation, creativity and technology to showcase a better life for all of humanity in the future.  Many considered this attraction a sequel to the Carousel of Progress, and in many ways it was just that.

Upon arriving, you find yourself in Futureport, a terminal of the future. Upon boarding your vehicle, you travel past scenes depicting thoughts and ideas of the future from the past, such as Jules Verne’s spaceship. After this whimsical vision of the future, guests are whisked away to twenty-first century living, which focus on quality of life for everyone.

Guests then view desert farms, travel with energy-efficient power, undersea cities and space colonies. My personal favorite is the orange grove of the future. I can almost smell the oranges now. You can actually still smell the oranges in Soarin’, perhaps a small nod to Horizons?Before returning to the present, guests are given the option of choosing three modes of transportation, which include a personal submarine, a desert hovercraft or a space flight.  This was an attraction that actually let you choose your ending, and many people would ride it more than once so they could sample all three.

The Genie Transportation Services

Horizons has since been replaced by Mission Space, an excellent ride; however, I’ll always remember this beautiful structure that once stood prominently in Future World. I’ll also always remember the theme, which Walt Disney himself seemed to embrace…”If We Can Dream It, We Can Do It”.

`horizons
author avatar
Michele Atwood Founder & Editor-in-Chief, The Main Street Mouse
Michele Atwood is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Main Street Mouse, one of Florida's leading Disney and theme park news sources since 2010. A credentialed Disney Partner and media professional, Michele serves as a theme park contributor and insider for Fox 35 Orlando and WDBO radio covering Disney and Central Florida attractions. Michele has also contributed to the Orlando Sentinel, WESH 2, and Spectrum News 13. Michele is the published author of four books — "Moving to Main Street U.S.A.," "How Many Sleeps Till Disney?," "How Many Sleeps Till Disneyland?" and "Daydream Believing: Confessions of a Grown Up Princess" and is co-owner of the House of Mouse Expo and Lost Princess Apparel. With over a decade of hands-on coverage of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and Central Florida theme parks, Michele brings firsthand expertise and media access to every story she covers.



Mouse Fan Travel® an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, has been planning and creating magical Disney vacations since 2005. Their mission is to provide premium service and expert advice to help you get the most for your vacation time and dollar. Their Disney Travel Agents operate with the highest degree of integrity and will handle your family vacation, reunion, honeymoon, corporate incentive trip or getaway, as if it were their own. They pride themselves on expertly representing and advocating for you – their client.

The next time you and your family are planning a Disney vacation, visit Mouse Fan Travel for your no obligation quote or to answer any Disney vacation questions you may have. Are you looking for a beach vacation, tour or cruise to destinations across the globe? Visit MEI-Travel for exceptional expertise with ZERO agency fees.



Leave a Reply