Epcot is a popular, diverse, and exciting park in Disney. It offers the fun and thrilling themed rides that people have come to expect from Disney parks. Additionally, it features an extravagant World Showcase. I think World Showcase in Epcot appeals more to adults than the other Disney World parks. Ride a coaster, see sharks, and travel to Italy, Japan, and Mexico, all in one day.
The park is a little over a one mile loop, with a large lake in the middle. Around the outer loop are the various mini countries. Closer to the gates on both sides are the rides.
Epcot has many different themed festivals/events throughout the year. The landscapers really do a wonderful job making you feel you are walking through a storybook. Check out their event festival calendar to help you plan.
Rides and Exhibits:
Journey of water inspired by Moana – World Nature
An easy and refreshing `15 minute stroll through lush jungle atmosphere. There are multiple options for the kids to cool off here from water sprays and other features. There are dry paths available for those who do not wish to get wet.
Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid:
This ride is excellent for small children. Hop in the family friendly half clam cart and be slowly pulled through the ride. Full of animatronics and the songs most kids know by heart. Air conditioned and smooth, not scary at all.
The Seas with Nemo and Friends – World Nature
This family friendly florescent attraction is fun and relaxing. The best part though is when it ends and you head into the aquarium exhibit. Floor to ceiling windows envelope visitors as you walk through two floors of ocean life. It’s a huge aquarium, and worth the cool down detour.
Soarin – The Land
Fantastic and hands down my favorite “ride” at the park. The “hanglider” seat lifts you up and you are transported through many areas of the world from a bird’s eye view. A giant IMAX screen extends beyond the field of view giving a very immersive effect. Must be 40 inches tall and not for those super afraid of heights. The only drawbacks? Lines can be long and I wish the ride was longer!
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros – Mexico
This leisurely boat ride is tame for little ones. Go into the pyramid and head left through the gift shop. A giant boat meanders slowly through along a canal though a cave. Decorated with festive scenes and Mayan ruins. It is a great way to cool off after walking around the park all day.
World Showcase and Food:
Japan
For sushi and sake flights. Stop by the gift shop and grab some Totoro gifts. Hint: This is a great place to grab one of those pocket accordion hand fans. Except these are beautiful, available in over 20 colors. Best part: The cashiers offer to write your name in Japanese characters on the fan. This is a souvenir you might actually use during your trip while standing in those long hot lines. And the fan can serve as an attractive decoration item once back home.
France
Dessert crepes and champagne. Multiple French perfume shops are available. They have educated staff who can help you find that perfect French perfume souvenir. It is a delight for the senses. Need I say more?
Mexico
Tacos and Margaritas to end the day. There are walk up stands for quick bites. For adult tequila aficionados, you can’t beat the La Cava del Tequila bar. This popular bar is set in a cave within the Mexican pyramid. They offer over 200 tequilas. These drinks can get pricy but I had probably the best margarita I have ever tasted there. La Cava del Tequila – Epcot
Tips
- Consider a stroller for little ones. There are plenty of stroller parking areas.
- This park is extremely popular. Avoid weekend days and holidays if you can.
- Like all Disney parks, it has many restrooms for all those bathroom breaks. Surprisingly clean.
- Don’t forget to bring a water bottle that you can refill for free. We loved these small CamelBaks that the kids can carry on their own. We took out the bladder and put a stainless water bottle in it. Worked out great, was comfy. Also bright colors helped locate kids quickly in crowds. CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack
- You won’t be able to do all the rides and all the countries in one day. If you really want to see and do it all, consider breaking Epcot up into 2 days.
Check out my other Disney World blogs: Top Highlights of Disney’s Animal Kingdom You Can’t Miss
Did you love Epcot? Love hearing about your tips and tricks. Comment or send me an email at :
Unless otherwise stated, all photos throughout this blog are my own and cannot be printed or distributed without my permission.
Astray Fish 
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