Are you ready to explore Epcot?
Rides in Epcot is an incredible theme park located in Orlando, Florida, and is a must-visit for anyone planning a trip to the sunshine state.
This theme park offers a multitude of activities that are perfect for all ages! First and foremost, don’t miss out on the thrilling rides that will take you on wild adventures.
For a more interactive experience, check out the exhibits and shows, where you can learn about different cultures, technology, and innovation. Satisfy your taste buds with the delicious international cuisine and indulge in some wine tasting. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and marvel at the unique architecture.
With so many options, Epcot is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all!
Best Rides at Epcot
One of the best things about Epcot is the variety of rides on offer, from thrilling roller coasters to slow-paced attractions that are suitable for all ages.
The first ride that should be on your Epcot to-do list is Test Track. This exhilarating ride allows guests to experience what it’s like to be in a high-speed vehicle, reaching speeds of up to 60mph. The ride is located in the Future World section of Epcot and is guaranteed to provide an adrenaline rush.
Fans of roller coasters can’t miss the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, which offers a unique ride vehicle that rotates and launches backwards. For those seeking a more relaxed ride, the Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure The newest and most popular ride in Epcot takes passengers on a trackless dark journey through the famous Gusteau’s restaurant. Finally, Frozen Ever After is a boat ride that immerses visitors in the enchanting world of the popular animated movie Frozen.
For those who prefer a more relaxing ride, Spaceship Earth is the perfect choice. This attraction takes riders on a gentle journey through time, showing the evolution of communication from the Stone Age to the present day. The ride is housed inside the iconic geodesic dome at the entrance of Epcot and is a must-see for all guests.
Mission: SPACE is another thrilling ride that takes guests on a simulated mission to Mars. Riders strap in and experience intense g-forces and other sensations associated with space travel. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s recommended to skip this one, but for thrill-seekers, it’s not to be missed.
The Seas with Nemo and Friends is a great ride for younger guests, but the whole family can enjoy it too. The ride takes guests on a journey through the ocean, where they encounter characters from the beloved Disney movie Finding Nemo.
Afterward, visitors can explore the giant aquarium which is home to more than 5,00 sea creatures, including dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles.
Finally, Soarin‘ is an attraction that simulates the sensation of flight. Guests are seated in a large theater, where they are lifted into the air and transported to various locations, such as the Great Wall of China and the African savannah. It’s an incredible experience that’s not to be missed when visiting Epcot.
Epcot (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) is a theme park located within the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The park is divided into two main sections, Future World and the World Showcase.
Future World features pavilions with attractions focused on innovation, technology, exploration, and conservation, while the World Showcase is an area that features 11 different pavilions dedicated to representing different countries from around the world.
Each pavilion offers its own unique attractions, such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment; some of the countries represented include Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Japan, Morocco, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, and the United States.
Each pavilion has been designed to help visitors learn more about the the architecture, culture, customs, and food of different parts of the world.
Immerse yourself in different cultures by visiting the international pavilions, which offer an authentic experience. Shop for souvenirs or educational items and be sure to soak up the vibrant energy of the festivals held throughout the year.
Best Restaurants in Epcot, Disney World
Epcot is home to a diverse collection of restaurants, offering a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences for guests of all ages and tastes. Here are some of the most popular and highly rated dining options in Epcot:
1. Le Cellier Steakhouse: This Canadian-inspired steakhouse is famous for its delicious steaks, poutine, and maple crème brûlée. Reservations are highly recommended.
2. Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria: This authentic Italian restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and gelato in a vibrant and casual atmosphere. Perfect for families and groups.
3. Teppan Edo: This Japanese hibachi grill restaurant features skilled chefs who cook your meal right in front of you, while entertaining you with their knife skills and humor. Great for a special occasion or a fun night out.
4. Garden Grill Restaurant: This rotating restaurant offers a character dining experience with Mickey Mouse and friends, as well as a farm-to-table menu featuring seasonal ingredients from The Land pavilion.
5. Spice Road Table: This Moroccan-inspired restaurant and lounge serves small plates, flatbreads, and cocktails with a view of the World Showcase Lagoon. A great spot for a romantic date or a relaxed evening.
Other notable best eats at epcot in Epcot include La Hacienda de San Angel (Mexican cuisine), Biergarten Restaurant (German buffet), Tokyo Dining (sushi and tempura), and Les Chefs de France (French cuisine).
Whatever your appetite and budget, you’re sure to find something delicious in Epcot!
Discover everything you need to know about Epcot with our comprehensive FAQ page. From park hours to ride information, dining options, and special events, we have all your questions covered. Plan your perfect trip to Epcot and make the most of your magical experience with our expert insights and insider tips.
FAQ About Epcot
1. What are some must-try food items at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival?
The Epcot Food and Wine Festival features a global culinary adventure with more than 30 marketplaces showcasing appetizers, entrees, desserts, and beverages from around the world. Some of the must-try food items include the Canadian cheddar cheese soup, the German roasted bratwurst, the Chinese roasted duck bao bun, the Italian Margherita pizza, the French crème brûlée, the Brazilian cheese bread, the Greek spanakopita, the Mexican chile relleno, and the Moroccan lamb tagine.
The festival also offers a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as special events, cooking demonstrations, seminars, and concerts.
2. Can you recommend any restaurants in Epcot that offer vegetarian options?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Epcot that offer vegetarian options. The Garden Grill Restaurant in the Land Pavilion serves a family-style feast that includes harvest-inspired salads, grilled vegetables, and vegan shepherd’s pie.
The Coral Reef Restaurant in the Seas Pavilion offers a plant-based impossible burger, vegan ice cream, and a vegetarian pasta dish.
The Spice Road Table in the Morocco Pavilion serves a variety of vegetarian small plates, such as falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh. The Sunshine Seasons food court in the Land Pavilion features a grab-and-go market with salads, sandwiches, and snacks, including a vegan wrap and a plant-based burger.
3. What are the top-rated rides and attractions in Epcot that I shouldn’t miss?
The top-rated rides and attractions in Epcot that you shouldn’t miss depend on your interests and preferences. However, some of the most popular and iconic experiences include Spaceship Earth, a slow-moving trip through the history of communication; Soarin’, a simulated hang-gliding tour of the world’s wonders; Test Track, a high-speed ride that tests vehicle performance; Frozen Ever After, a boat ride through the world of Frozen; Mission: SPACE, a centrifugal ride that simulates a mission to Mars; and The Seas with Nemo & Friends, an underwater adventure featuring colorful coral reefs and sea creatures.
Other notable attractions include Living with the Land, Journey into Imagination with Figment, and IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth (which was replaced by Epcot Forever in October 2019, and will be followed by HarmonioUS in 2021).
4. Are there any child-friendly activities or attractions in Epcot?
Yes, there are several child-friendly activities and attractions in Epcot, especially in the Future World section. The Seas with Nemo & Friends is a popular ride that features characters from the Finding Nemo movie, as well as interactive exhibits, such as the Turtle Talk with Crush show and the SeaBase aquarium. The Journey into Imagination with Figment ride is a whimsical journey hosted by a furry dragon that explores the power of imagination.
The Kidcot Fun Stops provide free crafts and activities for kids to learn about different cultures and collect stamps on a personalized passport around the World Showcase.
The Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival showcases classic and new animated shorts in 4D, and the ImageWorks lab lets kids play and create with digital and musical tools.
There are also character meet-and-greets, playgrounds, and seasonal events such as the Egg-stravaganza egg hunt and the Festival of the Holidays cookie stroll.
5. What are the best souvenir shops to visit in Epcot?
The best souvenir shops to visit in Epcot depend on your interests and preferences. However, the World Showcase offers a variety of authentic and unique items that reflect the cultures and traditions of each country, such as Japanese kimonos and candies, Moroccan lamps and jewelry, French wine and perfume, Mexican pottery and artwork, and Norwegian trolls and sweaters.
Some popular shops include Mitsukoshi Department Store in Japan, La Signature in France, Karamell-Küche in Germany, The Fjording in Norway, and The Pick a Pearl in China. In Future World, you can find more Disney-themed merchandise, including apparel, toys, pins, and ears, at Mouse Gear, as well as plush toys, books, and games at The Seas with Nemo & Friends and Test Track SIMporium.
6. How much time should I allocate for exploring the World Showcase?
The amount of time you should allocate for exploring the World Showcase depends on your pace and interests. However, on average, it takes about 2-3 hours to walk around the entire World Showcase, visit each pavilion, and enjoy the attractions, shows, shopping, and dining options. If you want to experience more of the hidden details, cultural demonstrations, and entertainment offerings, you may need more time. Similarly, if you have limited time, you may want to prioritize the countries that interest you the most or align with the special events or festivals happening during your visit.
7. What are the best photo spots in Epcot for capturing memories?
The best photo spots in Epcot for capturing memories depend on your creativity and preferences. However, some popular and scenic locations include Spaceship Earth at night, the fountains and flowers in front of Spaceship Earth, the viewpoints of the World Showcase Lagoon by the Rose Garden or the bridge between France and the UK, the iconic Eiffel Tower or Leaning Tower of Pisa in the France and Italy pavilions, the stunning hanging baskets and gardens in the United Kingdom, and the colorful murals and mosaics in the Morocco and Mexico pavilions. You can also seek character meet-and-greets, entertainment shows, and seasonal decorations for unique photo opportunities.
8. Can you suggest any unique food experiences that I can try in Epcot?
Yes, there are several unique food experiences that you can try in Epcot, depending on the season and availability. For example, in the Japan Pavilion, you can order a refreshing Kakigōri shaved ice dessert with your choice of syrup flavor and sweetened condensed milk, or sample various sushi rolls, ramen noodles, or green tea.
In the Italy Pavilion, you can indulge in gelato, cannoli, or tiramisu from the Tutto Italia Gelato cart, or enjoy wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes, or antipasti at the Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria.
In the Mexico Pavilion, you can savor handcrafted margaritas, tequila flights, or Mexican beers at the La Cava del Tequila lounge, or feast on guacamole, tacos, and churros at the San Angel Inn Restaurante.
The Food and Wine Festival also offers a range of exotic and innovative dishes, such as the liquid nitrogen chocolate-almond truffle with warm whiskey-caramel at the Chocolate Studio, the lamb chop with mint pesto and potato crunchies at the New Zealand booth, or the crispy chicken and cornbread biscuit sandwich with pickles and coleslaw at the Comfort Food booth.
9. What special events are held throughout the year at Epcot?
Epcot hosts several special events throughout the year, such as the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.
Each festival features unique entertainment, workshops, culinary experiences, merchandise, and displays that showcase the best of art, nature, cuisine, and culture from around the world.
The park also celebrates seasonal events, such as the Independence Day fireworks, the runDisney marathon weekend, the Egg-stravaganza egg hunt, and the New Year’s Eve Countdown to Midnight party. In addition, Epcot hosts several cultural shows and performances throughout the year, such as the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats from China, Mariachi Cobre from Mexico, Voices of Liberty from the United States, and Matsuriza Taiko Drummers from Japan.
10. Are there any cultural shows or performances that I can watch in Epcot?
Yes, there are several cultural shows and performances that you can watch in Epcot, depending on the schedule and location. In the World Showcase, each pavilion offers live entertainment that highlights the music, dance, and traditions of the respective country.
For example, in Canada, you can enjoy the O Canada Circle-Vision 360 film, which celebrates the scenic beauty and cultural diversity of the country, accompanied by Martin Short’s humorous narration.
In China, you can experience the Reflections of China film, which showcases the history and modernity of the country through stunning footage and special effects.
For those seeking a captivating tour of France’s iconic landmarks and regions, Impressions de France is a must-watch film. Set to the backdrop of classical music, this cinematic masterpiece takes audiences on a romantic journey through the charming countryside and bustling cities of the country.
Morocco’s Mo’Rockin band is a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary Moroccan music styles, imbued with jazz and Latin influences. Their music is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the country, and a must-see experience for those with an appreciation for musical diversity.
You can also enjoy acrobatics, drumming, and other performances at the Mill Stage in Canada, the Fountain Stage in Future World, and various venues in the World Showcase.
11. What is the best time of the day to visit Epcot to avoid long lines?
The best time of the day to visit Epcot to avoid long lines depends on several factors, such as the season, the day of the week, the crowd level, and the attraction popularity. However, as a general rule, the park tends to be less crowded in the morning and evening, especially during weekdays and non-holidays.
If you arrive early, you can enter the park before it opens and go straight to the most popular attractions, such as Frozen Ever After or Soarin’, before the lines build up.
Similarly, if you stay late, you can enjoy the nighttime spectacular, either IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth or Epcot Forever, and ride some of the less crowded attractions after the show. You can also use the FastPass+ system to reserve up to three attractions in advance, which can save you time and avoid lines during busy hours.
12. Can you suggest any tours or behind-the-scenes experiences in Epcot?
Yes, there are several tours and behind-the-scenes experiences that you can book in Epcot, which offer a glimpse of the park’s history, technology, and creativity. For example, the Behind the Seeds Tour in the Land Pavilion takes you on a walking tour of the greenhouses and labs, where you can learn about sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, and aquaculture.
The DiveQuest experience in the Seas Pavilion allows you to scuba dive or snorkel in the massive aquarium, surrounded by sea creatures and professional divers. The UnDISCOVERed Future World tour reveals the backstage secrets and innovations of Epcot’s iconic attractions, such as Spaceship Earth, Test Track, and The Seas with Nemo & Friends.
The World Showcase DestiNations Discovered tour provides a walking tour of the pavilions and focuses on the architecture, culture, and cuisine of different countries.
There are also seasonal and special tours, such as the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Dining Packages, which offer reserved seating, priority access, and exclusive menus at select restaurants.
13. What are some thrill rides that I should definitely try in Epcot?
Some of the must-try thrill rides include Test Track, which simulates a high-speed test drive with sudden turns, loops, and hills, and lets you design and customize your own car; Mission: SPACE, which offers two levels of intensity, Green for a tame tour around Earth and Orange for a more intense mission to Mars, with centrifugal forces and spacesuit simulations; and Soarin’, which lifts you up in a hanging glider and takes you on a virtual flight above landmark locations around the world. Other attractions that offer some thrills include Spaceship Earth, which includes a small drop in the dark, and Frozen Ever After, which features a backwards drop that can be surprising for some riders.
14. Can I meet any Disney characters in Epcot?
Yes, you can meet and greet several Disney characters in Epcot, depending on the schedule and location. The Character Spot in the Future World section offers a chance to meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy in their classic attire, as well as other characters such as Joy and Sadness from Inside Out and Baymax from Big Hero 6.
You can also find other characters wandering around the park, such as Alice and Mary Poppins in the United Kingdom, Belle and Beast in France, Mulan and Jasmine in Morocco, and Snow White and Dopey in Germany.
In addition, several pavilions showcase cultural demonstrations or performances that feature Disney characters, such as the drums and dragons of the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats in China, the Matsuriza Taiko Drummers in Japan, or the Mariachi Cobre in Mexico. You can use the My Disney Experience app or pick up the Times Guide to check the character locations and times for the day.
15. What are the best restaurants to try in the World Showcase area of Epcot?
The best restaurants to try in the World Showcase area of Epcot depend on your taste and budget. However, some popular and highly-rated options include Le Cellier Steakhouse in Canada, which offers Canadian cuisine, such as cheddar cheese soup, filet mignon, and poutine, in a cozy, cellar-like setting; Monsieur Paul in France, which serves upscale French cuisine, such as escargots, seared duck breast, and crème brûlée, with a view of the park’s fireworks.
Tutto Italia Ristorante in Italy, which offers classic Italian dishes, such as pasta al pesto, osso buco, and tiramisu, in an elegant, Roman-inspired ambience; La Hacienda de San Angel in Mexico, which features authentic Mexican cuisine, such as guacamole, enchiladas, and margaritas, with a waterfront view of IllumiNations.
Rose & Crown Dining Room in the United Kingdom, which serves British favorites, such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and sticky toffee pudding, along with a variety of beers and cocktails in a lively pub atmosphere.
For quick snacks or meals, you can also try the World Showcase marketplaces or counter-service restaurants, which offer a range of international flavors and cuisines.
16. What are the Easter eggs in Epcot and where can I find them?
The Easter eggs in Epcot refer to the colorful, larger-than-life eggs that are hidden throughout the park during the Springtime Egg-stravaganza event, which usually takes place from late March to mid-April.
The eggs are designed with intricate patterns and decorations inspired by Disney characters, movies, and parks, and can be spotted in designated locations in the World Showcase and Future World sections.
You can purchase a special map and stickers for the Disney World Easter egg hunt at select merchandise locations, such as Pin Central, Disney Traders, and World Traveler, or at the Port of Entry kiosk. When you find an egg, you can place the corresponding sticker on the map and return it for a surprise prize. The Easter eggs add a fun and festive touch to the park’s spring decor and offer a playful activity for families and friends.
17. Are there any seasonal decorations in Epcot and when are they put up?
Yes, there are several seasonal decorations in Epcot that reflect the holidays and events throughout the year, such as Christmas, Halloween, Fourth of July, and Epcot’s anniversaries.
The decorations include themed banners, wreaths, lights, topiaries, and special displays that enhance the park’s ambiance and immerse guests in a festive or whimsical mood. For example, during the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, which usually takes place from early March to late May, the park is adorned with hundreds of topiaries shaped like Disney characters, animals, and scenes, as well as colorful flowers, vegetable gardens, and sustainable features.
The holiday season at Epcot starts in late November and runs until early January, and features the Candlelight Processional, a retelling of the Christmas story with celebrity narrators and a choir, as well as a nightly tree-lighting ceremony, holiday kitchens, and performances by the Voices of Liberty. The seasonal decorations are usually put up a few weeks before the start of the event and taken down shortly after, depending on the schedule and availability.
18. Can I rent a wheelchair or electric scooter in Epcot?
Epcot, you can definitely rent a wheelchair or electric scooter. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability. You can rent them at the entrance to the park or online. Make sure to bring a valid ID and pay the rental fee. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can ask a Cast Member.
What are the best places to watch the nighttime spectacular in Epcot?
Epcot offers breathtaking nighttime spectaculars that you wouldn’t want to miss. There are various spots where you can watch the show. The best places to watch the nighttime spectacular in Epcot are in the Hub of the World Showcase Lagoon, the Japan Pavilion, and the Italy Pavilion. These areas offer a great view of the fireworks and light show.
20. Can I book a dessert party or dinner package for the nighttime spectacular?
Yes, you can book dessert parties or dinner packages for the nighttime spectacular. These experiences offer reserved viewing locations, plus delicious food and drinks.
The dessert party takes place in the United Kingdom Pavilion and the dinner package is hosted by select restaurants around the World Showcase Lagoon.
22. Can I order food online or through an app in Epcot?
Yes, you can order food online or through the My Disney Experience app in Epcot. This feature is especially helpful during peak season when lines are long. You can order food from select quick-service restaurants and pick it up at a designated time.
23. What are the best rides for young children in Epcot?
Epcot offers many attractions that are great for young children, such as The Seas with Nemo & Friends and Journey into Imagination with Figment. Young children may also enjoy the Kidcot Fun Stops and character meet and greets throughout the park.
24. How crowded is Epcot during peak season and how can I avoid the crowds?
Epcot can be quite crowded during peak season, especially during holidays and special events. To avoid the crowds, try visiting the park during weekdays rather than weekends. Arriving early in the day or later in the evening can also help you avoid crowds.
25. What is the best way to get around Epcot – walking, monorail or boat?
The best way to get around Epcot depends on where you’re trying to go. Walking is the easiest way to get from the entrance of the park to the World Showcase. The monorail and boat transportation options both offer scenic views and easy transportation to and from Epcot.
26. What Are The Best Epcot Attractions For Thrill-Seekers
- Mission: SPACE – Experience a simulated space mission with centrifugal force
- Soarin’ – Fly around the world on a hang-gliding simulator
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends – Explore an underwater world with a 5.7 million-gallon aquarium
- Spaceship Earth – Take a journey through time and technology in Epcot’s iconic geodesic sphere
- Frozen Ever After – Embark on a journey through the kingdom of Arendelle on a boat ride
- Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros – Join Donald, José and Panchito on a boat ride through Mexico
- Living with the Land – Learn about sustainable agriculture and take a behind-the-scenes look at Epcot’s greenhouses
- IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth – Watch Epcot’s nighttime spectacular with fireworks and lasers
- Epcot Forever – Experience the new nighttime spectacular, featuring classic Epcot music and fireworks.
27. What are the most Popular Shows At Epcot
- Experience “Soarin’ Around the World,” a simulated hang gliding experience that takes you to iconic landmarks.
- Watch the “Epcot Forever” nighttime spectacular show featuring fireworks, music, and lighting effects.
- Enjoy the “Mariachi Cobre” band performance in Mexico Pavilion.
- Catch the “JAMMitors” percussion show in Future World.Watch the “Voices of Liberty” a cappella group performance in the American Adventure Pavilion.
- Attend the “Matsuriza” drummers performance in Japan Pavilion.Experience the “British Revolution” rock band performance in the United Kingdom Pavilion.
- Watch the “Serveur Amusant” acrobatic performance in France Pavilion.
- Enjoy the “Sbandieratori Di Sansepolcro” flag throwing performance in Italy Pavilion.
It is noteworthy that levels of popularity may differ depending on individual preferences and interests.
check out this link for Epcot showtime
28. What are the Must-Try Snacks At Epcot
- Head to the Germany pavilion for a giant pretzel and a beer.
- Try the churros with chocolate sauce or the avocado margarita in the Mexico pavilion
- Don’t miss the croissant donut in the Refreshment Port
- Try the Canadian cheddar cheese soup and pretzel roll at Le Cellier Steakhouse
- Grab a macaron ice cream sandwich in France
- Try a caramel apple in Germany
- Sample the sushi at Tokyo Dining in Japan
- Grab a cronut at the Refreshment Port
- Try the School Bread in Norway
- Enjoy a funnel cake at the American Adventure pavilion
- Try the poutine in CanadaIndulge in a Belgian waffle in Belgium
- Sample the baklava at the Morocco pavilion
- Try the gelato in Italy.
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Epcot is a magical destination that offers a variety of attractions, entertainment, and dining options. Whether you are interested in exploring different cultures, indulging in delicious cuisines, or experiencing thrilling rides, Epcot has something for everyone. By following this guide of the best things to do in Epcot, you can make the most out of your visit and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, grab your mouse ears, and get ready to embark on an adventure at Epcot!