Traveling through time and space.
Spaceship Earth is Epcot’s most iconic and signature ride. This giant golf ball shaped attraction is often referred to as the “Big Ball Ride” or the “Epcot Ball”. This ride is located at the entrance to the park, also known as “Future World”.
Spaceship Earth first opened on October 1st, 1982. It takes guests of all ages and sizes on a trip through time to explore the remarkable history of human communication from the Stone Age to the computer age. Riders witness the invention of papyrus (paper), the alphabet, the printed press and eventually modern age computers.
Egyptians on Spaceship Earth – Photo by Paige Zauner
Gutenberg and the Movable Type Printing Press – Photo by Paige Zauner
A great ride to start or end the day on.
Due to it’s convenient location, Spaceship Earth makes for a perfect ride to begin or end your day at Epcot. There are no age or height restrictions which makes it a great ride for the whole family. It is also wheelchair accessible. The ride moves at a very slow pace and may even lull some riders to sleep.
Radio Talk Show Hosts – Photo by Paige Zauner
An educational ride for the whole family.
Spaceship Earth is a very popular ride for school field-trips due to its educational nature. It visually demonstrates human advancements in communication. It also showcases important moments in human history and inspires us to work together toward a better future.
Spaceship Earth Family Watching Neil Armstrong land on the Moon – Photo by Paige Zauner
Spaceship Earth contains some controversial facts and opinions.
Spaceship Earth tries it’s best not to offend guests, or to take sides on religious topics. It depicts early humans as cave men, and tries to give credit where credit is due. The truth though, is that History is offensive. In order to provide a proper presentation of humankind’s history, one must be willing to be offended and embarrassed.
What does Spaceship Earth not mention? For starters, it only showcases the good side of Egyptian, Greek and Roman cultures. It does not discuss slavery, war or violence. It also tries it’s best to avoid mention of Catholicism, the Christian Bible and the Jewish Religion as a whole.
Why does avoiding these topics matter? Those who are not taught about history are doomed to repeat it. There are ways to showcase these less desirable aspects of history while still maintaining a family friendly atmosphere. I wish that Spaceship Earth would tell it like it happened, instead of censoring history.
Overall though, Spaceship Earth is a good ride. It’s fun, relaxing and family friendly. I recommend giving it a go next time you visit Epcot at Disney World.
