History of Horizons at EPCOT Center

"If we can dream it, we can do it." That's the mantra of the classic Horizons attraction at the EPCOT Center of the 1980s and 1990s.

Opened in October 1983, the Horizons attraction was sponsored by GE and housed in a spaceship-like show building where Mission: SPACE sits today, at the east side of Future World.

The Omnimover ride was a bit of a cross between Spaceship Earth and the Carousel of Progress, dedicated to humanity's future in the 21st Century. Lots of animatronics, lots of funny banter, and a vision for the future characterized the ride.

GE's sponsorship of Horizons ended in September 1993, and the attraction was closed in late 1994. But it opened back up in December 1995 due to necessity -- neighboring attractions World of Motion and Universe of Energy were both closed for refurbishment. Jan. 9, 1999 marked the last day Horizons was open to park guests, and demolition began in March 2000.

According to horizons1.com, there were structural problems with the building, and possibly a sinkhole, that mandated that the building be completely demolished. Horizons1 reports that when the land was cleared, a large hole at the back left of the site was visible, into which was put metal girders.

Horizons remains a favorite attraction of those who have fond memories of EPCOT Center. Remember, "tomorrow's horizons are here, today!"

Check out the HD-quality videos below of the entire Horizons ride.

Did you ride Horizons during its heyday? Did you have a favorite scene? Leave a comment below!