EPCOT – Disney World’s Experimental Community of Tomorrow

9 May 2021 by Steve Bell

EPCOT was the second theme park to be opened at Walt Disney World. It opened on 1 October 1982. It is a very large park and is almost twice the size of the Magic Kingdom.

EPCOT is like two different theme parks in one. It is comprised of the original Future World (now divided into World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature) and World Showcase. The EPCOT main entrance is at World Celebration.

See: The History of EPCOT

History and Name Changes

Historically, EPCOT stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, or, alternately, as some say, Every Person Comes Out Tired. EPCOT was Walt’s original vision for where his Florida Project would lead. After the Magic Kingdom was established, he would then begin building a community of tomorrow using all of the great technological innovations used in the theme park and many new, evolving ones. People would live and work in this community.

After Walt’s death, the Magic Kingdom and Disney World were completed, but the company floundered for direction and focused solely on theme parks and entertainment, abandoning Walt’s dream of community innovation.

When EPCOT Center opened in 1982, the name was a tip of the hat to innovation and community rather than the beginnings of an actual Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. Over the years, the park’s name was changed several times, starting out as EPCOT Center, then becoming Epcot ‘94, Epcot ’95, back to EPCOT Center, then Epcot 2000 with a fancy Mickey Hand holding a magic wand and the words Epcot 2000 over Spaceship Earth. After the year 2000 was over, they took off the 2000 and left the Epcot for a while. In 1996, it became just Epcot, and most recently, all caps returned in early 2020, making it EPCOT without the Center.

Running Joke: EPCOT also stands for Every Person Comes Out Tired… For many years, cast members and guests have been coming up with these reinterpretations of what E.P.C.O. T. stands for. This is the most famous one and the one I first heard a very long time ago from a parking lot tram host. Here are a few more:

• Every Parent Carries One Toddler
• Eating Pastries, Crepes, Or Tacos
• Every Person Comes Out Thirsty
• Every Pavilion Contains Obscure Trivia

For most of its history, EPCOT has been divided into Future World and World Showcase. But in 2019, EPCOT began a multi-year makeover for the Walt Disney World 50-year anniversary in 2021 (it was just completed in 2024!). The entirety of Future World would be broken up into 3 new lands: World Discovery, World Celebration, and World  Nature. This naming convention blends with he existing World Showcase. Each area focuses on the second word in the title.

• World Discovery – The left side of Future World
• World Celebration – The center spine of Future World
• World  Nature – The right side of Future World

World Celebration is home to Spaceship Earth, Connections Cafe and Eatery, Creations Shop, the Imagination Pavilion, and the seasonal Odyssey Pavilion.

World Discovery contains the Wonders of Xandar, Mission Space, and Test Track Pavilions as well as the long-closed Wonders of Life Pavilion.

World  Nature here you will find The Seas with Nemo and Friends and The Land Pavilions as well as Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana.

While World Showcase contains 11 Pavilions that celebrate countries of the world and their cultures:

• Mexico
• Norway
• China
• Germany
• Italy
• America
• Japan
• Morocco
• France
• The United Kingdom
• Canada

Transportation is available from the front of the World Showcase to the rear via water taxis called Friendships. There are 2 different routes served by different boats.

• From Canada near the entrance to the World Showcase to Morocco and back
• From Mexico near the entrance to the World Showcase to Germany and back (Currently not running due to staffing issues)

In this Overview I use the following Shortcuts:

Attractions

Height Restrictions – Some of the more thrilling attractions have height restrictions. If children are shorter than the set limit, they cannot experience the attraction. Disney will not bend on these restrictions as they are for safety purposes; in many cases they have to do with the attraction seating and associated restraint capability. In some cases just because your child is tall enough to ride, doesn’t mean they are mature enough.

Attractions with height restrictions will be designated like this: (H33) the H designates height restriction and the following number designates how many inches tall you must be in order to ride. In this example (H33) you must be 33 inches tall to ride. Cast members will measure those in question.

Disney’s ride policy with children. A child must be at least 14 to ride with a child 7 or older, but an adult 18 or older must be sitting with a child 6 or younger.

25 Top Disney World Rides for the Whole Family

Disney Lightning Lane Passes

Attractions that participate in Walt Disney World’s pay to skip the line system will be designated like this:

• Lightning Lane Multi Pass eligible attractions will be indicated by (LL Multi)
• Lightning Lane Single Pass eligible attractions will be indicated by (LL Single)

Read more about Lightning Land Multi and Single Passes here.

Virtual Queue

From time to time Disney uses virtual queues for new and or high demand attractions. Reservations are made via your My Disney Experience app on the day of the desired ride. Reservations open at 7 a.m. for Disney resort guests and are often all taken up soon thereafter. Indicated by (Virtual Queue).

Food

I’ll give a brief overview of the type of food available at each restaurant as well as the type of restaurant (table service, etc.), meals served, and average cost.

Restaurant types consist of counter service, grab-and-go, table service and some buffet restaurants. At least one table service restaurant in each park offers a character meal.

Look for these keys to the rough cost of restaurants and the meals they offer:

$ = Less than $15 per adult
$$ = $15 – $30 per adult
$$$ = $30 – $60 per adult
$$$$ = over $60 per adult
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner
S = Snack

Meal Abbreviations:

B – Breakfast
L – Lunch
D – Dinner
S – Snacks

See: Ranking Themed Dining in EPCOT – We know that Disney loves a good theme, and EPCOT has 3 super themed restaurants that will pull you right into their story. But which one is worth your stomach space (and money)? We’ve got you covered!

Disney World’s EPCOT Coffee Guide

Frozen Treats in EPCOT’s World Showcase

Arrival

There are two entrances to EPCOT, the Main Entrance and the International Gateway.

The International Gateway is an entrance for those guests staying at Disney’s EPCOT Area Resorts, those transferring from Disney’s Hollywood Studios via boat, and those arriving via Disney’s Skyliner gondola system. This entrance is located towards the rear of the park in the World Showcase section between the UK and France Pavilions.

Guests from the Deluxe EPCOT Resorts may walk or take a water taxi to the International gateway, where they will go through a Security check and then enter the park. The water taxis run on a loop from the International gateway, to each of the Deluxe EPCOT Resorts and also to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You an also walk to Hollywood Studios from the EPCOT Resort Area.

Disney’ Skyliner gondola system transports guests from Disney’s Riviera, Caribbean Beach, Art of Animation, and Pop Century Resorts and Disney’s Hollywood Studios to the International Gateway Skyliner station.

All other guests will arrive at EPCOT at the Main Entrance.

Those driving will park and then board trams for a brief ride to the EPCOT main entrance or walk if they are parked close enough.

Both Disney and non-Disney buses arrive at the bus terminal just to the side of the EPCOT entrance.

After a security check you’ll enter the ticketing area, where you can buy tickets if you need to, and then on to the entrance area, which leads into Future World.

The Monorail, which runs to EPCOT from the Transportation and Ticket Center, also arrives here, but inside the security area as you were screened prior to boarding.

EPCOT’s Main Entrance leads into World Celebration where you will begin to explore EPCOT.

See: Your Introduction to Disney Resort Destination Security – Plus Some Tips

The EPCOT Entrances

After passing through the EPCOT Security Checkpoint or arriving via monorail you will arrive at one of the EPCOT entrances.

Disney uses touch point scanners where you will touch your Ticket Media (Magic Band, physical ticket, smartphone, or Apple watch) to the touch point. You will then place your finger on a scanner to ensure that it is you using your ticket (see Privacy Concerns). you will then be admitted.

When you scan your ticket or Magic Band to enter the theme parks, Disney World has two scanners for each line, one in front of the other about three feet apart. This is so two people can be scanning at a time. Many people have a bad habit of just using the first one you come to and ignoring the second. This slows down the line. If the second one is open, use it please, there is room to go around and do so.

If the one furthest from you opens up go around the person still using the first one. This keeps the line moving. If you are using the first one and the further one is still in use, go around!

World Celebration

World Celebration is themed around new experiences that connect people to one another and the world around them.

You’ll enter World Celebration through a remodeled green-space with a new fountain that leads towards Spaceship Earth, which dominates your view.

Spaceship Earth is the ‘Golf Ball’ looking geo-sphere, which is one of World Celebration’s attractions.

To pass further into World Celebration you’ll walk under Spaceship Earth on either the right or left. Both routes come together on the backside of the attraction on a long central plaza.

World Celebration leads towards the rear of the park and is the connection to the World Showcase. World Celebration sits between World Discovery to the left and World Nature to the right.

As you leave Spaceship Earth behind you’ll encounter a beautiful hub divided into several different gardens, with a central planter based on the five-ring EPCOT logo. Filled with ample seating and shade. Each of these gardens will have its own identity, and they’ll change along with the festivals throughout the year.

This all will surround CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza.

• CommuniCore Hall is a multi-use facility and outdoor event space that will be a flexible exhibition and gallery space, offering a wide variety of experiences that highlight art, live music, food – complete with a demonstration kitchen – and more.
• CommuniCore Plaza is an outdoor event space that will have the flexibility to host intimate musical performances that extend out into the nearby gardens, as you can see in the rendering above, as well as large-scale concerts.

Adjacent to CommuniCore Hall will be a new Mickey & Friends location where you can meet some of your favorite Disney pals.

The CommuniCore name reaches back to the origins of EPCOT. The original 2 main buildings in World Showcase were called CommuniCore East and West.

Past CommuniCore Plaza and to the right is the Imagination Pavilion, as you might imagine, this pavilion celebrates the imagination in all of us!

This pavilion contains the Journey Into Imagination with Figment attraction, an interactive play area, a theatre, and a small gift shop.

Attractions

Spaceship Earth (Lightning Lane Multi) – Ride through an audio-animatronic history of communications. Board your two to four-person vehicle for a ride through time. As your vehicle proceeds up the track into the geosphere (the Spaceship Earth “golf ball” as many describe it) you will pass many scenes of how communication has progressed from cave paintings to the printing press and on to computers. At the top, you’ll emerge into the top section of the sphere which is wide open and dark except for the huge planet Earth projected near the top. Then your car turns around for the steep backwards journey down. While descending you can answer some questions about your preferences on your vehicle screen and then see what your future might be like. My tip is to do this attraction at night for the best experience. The ride is very dark and if your eyes are used to the daytime sun some of the first scenes will be hard to see!

Journey Into Imagination with Figment (Lightning Lane Multi) – Tour the Imagination Institute on this classic ride with Figment, the original EPCOT Center Mascot. This is a look at how our senses play a part in our imagination with Dr. Nigel Channing and a cute purple dragon named Figment as your guides!!

ImageWorks: The What-If Labs – Is an interactive play/exhibit area located at the exit of Journey Into Imagination with Figment. The What-If Labs features interactive musical and digital exhibits as well as a Meet and Greet with Vanellope von Schweetz.

Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival  (Lightning Lane Multi) – Shorts from and previews for upcoming movies. Updated as needed.

Dining

Connections Café & Eatery – This new location features two distinct experiences all under one roof – an eatery on one side serving lunch and dinner menus, and a café and pastry shop on the other open all day long. Enjoy food inspired by delicious cuisines from around the world.

• Connections Café – S $ – Counter Service – Starbucks coffee, specialty beverages, and Disney-baked goods.
• Connections Eatery – LD $ – Table Service – Take your taste buds on a tour around the world with dishes inspired by Italian, French, and Asian cuisines. Serving burgers, pizzas, salads and more.

Club Cool – Club Cool Hosted by Coca-Cola invites guests to taste drinks from around the world, bringing the global experience of Coca-Cola to life. Taste all kinds of odd sodas for free!

GEO-82 Lounge –  (Opening on June 4, 2025) is an adults-only retreat nestled within the iconic Spaceship Earth. With its sophisticated ambiance, inventive menu, and exclusive fireworks viewing, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day in the parks.

For over 40 years, Spaceship Earth has welcomed visitors to EPCOT as a shining beacon of optimism and hope. This just-announced lounge is inspired by the stories, shapes, and enduring legacy of this timeless icon. Taking inspiration from the geometric sphere, the zen space to gather and enjoy refreshments will be draped with rich textures and warm metallic tones, giving it a mysterious and elegant intimacy.

This lounge will be located in the old Siemens Sponsor’s lounge on the back side, second floor of Spaceship Earth with large windows featuring magnificent views of Dreamer’s Point with the World Showcase as a backdrop.

See the old Siemens lounge here

Expect this new lounge to be reservations only made through Advance Dining Reservations, just like Oga’s Cantina is in Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

Shopping

Creations Shop – One-stop shopping for Disney character gifts and park merchandise.

World Discovery

In World Discovery, stories about science, technology, and intergalactic adventure come to life.

World Discovery encompasses the eastern half of the old Future World and its 4 pavilions: Wonders of Xandar Pavilion (formerly Ellen’s Energy Adventure), the Mission Space Pavilion, the Test Track Pavilion, and the unused Wonders of Life Pavilion.

Attractions

Guardians of the Galaxy – Cosmic Rewind – (H42) (Lightning Lane Single)  – Join Rocket, Groot, Gamora, and Star-Lord on an urgent mission where you’ll rewind, rotate, and head towards the action through an exciting space pursuit. This family-thrill attraction features the first-ever reverse-launch on a Disney coaster and is one of the largest fully-enclosed coasters in the world! A new innovation from Walt Disney Imagineering—this coaster rotates 360 degrees so you can focus on the action!

Mission: SPACE (H44 – Orange; H40 Green) (Lightning Lane Multi) – Experience a simulated launch into space in this realistic simulator which NASA helped design. Centrifugal force is used to simulate periods of both high and low gravity for liftoff, space travel, and landing. Each rider is assigned a task to perform on the mission, which involves pushing a couple of buttons. The ride vehicles are a bit cramped and those with a bit of claustrophobia might not want to attempt this. You will enter the vehicle from the side and sit in one of the four seats and then pull down a roller coaster-type torso restraint. As the vehicle closes the instrument panel will tilt towards you so that it is just a couple feet from your face and the controls can be reached without moving your arms.

The method of simulating gravity on this ride has been known to make some queasy. So much so that after opening, half of the ride vehicles were dedicated to a non-motion version (the Green Version). In 2017 the Green version was totally redesigned to add some motion, but not enough to induce motion sickness (hopefully).

Today the ride has the Orange (original, full motion) and Green versions. Prior to entering you will pick which version you would like to experience.

The orange version simulates a rocket launch from Florida during which you will experience 2.5 Gs followed by a Zero-G experience. Then you on your way to Mars, with a gravity slingshot around the moon, “Hypersleep”, a meteor storm, deceleration for landing, followed by a very nerve-racking landing. While the Orange version ride is operating you should keep your head facing straight ahead at all times to help with any motion issues.

The Green version consists of a liftoff from Florida (not as intense as the Orange version), an orbital tour around the Earth, and a landing back in Florida during a thunderstorm.

Test Track (H40) (Multi LL) – Walt Disney Imagineering has collaborated with Chevrolet to push innovation forward and celebrate humanity’s enduring drive (pun intended) on the thrilling road to a brighter tomorrow. But, before we get too far down this winding road, Test Track celebrates today’s innovation while highlighting the past, present, and future. The queue features six distinct exhibits, and within each room, celebrates the vehicles – and people behind the vehicles – that push the envelope and help get people to our next chapter in our motion journey.

New show scenes have been added showcasing technological advances and how our lifestyles and relationships to mobility connect everyone. Enjoy a joy ride through scenes focusing on onboard technology, customization, and personalization. Followed by a trip through a scenic outdoor route, reminding us all of the joys of driving, taking in the world around us, and spending quality time with friends and family.

Dining

Space 220 Restaurant – L $$$, D $$$$ – Table Service – Take a visually stunning ride on the space elevator to a space station 220 miles over Central Florida. There you’ll enjoy amazing expansive views of the earth and the goings on in space all while dining on excellent and novel food and drink. The menu here is Prix Fixe, meaning there is a set price per person for the meal (lunch $55 adult/$29 child & dinner $79/$29 child). For this price, you can pick your choice of appetizer and entree from several menu items. Extras (sides, desserts, and alcoholic drinks) are extra.

Space 220 Offers a 15% Military Discount!

Space 220 Lounge – L $$$, D $$$$ – Table and Bar Service – The lounge has an a la carte menu serving light bites, some of which come from the dining room menu. Seating is at tables and the bar.

Space 220 Offers a 15% Military Discount!

Space 220’s options include salads, steak, chicken, salmon, pasta, and a burger. All items are presented in unique ways to give you that futuristic space feel.

Reservations are highly suggested at both the Space 220 venues as it is a very new and popular restaurant. Reservations often fill up 60 days prior to the date in question. It is possible to walk up and be seated, especially in the lounge, though there may be a long wait.

Shopping

Treasures of Xandar – A merchandise location operated by “The Broker,” a proud Xandarian who is bringing his locally famous shop to EPCOT. This out-of-this-galaxy shop features treasures acquired during travels across the galaxy, as well as items that pay tribute to the planet Xandar and the Guardians of the Galaxy.

World Nature

World Nature is dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty, awe, and balance of the natural world. It includes The Land and The Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilions, as well as Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana.

World Nature encompasses the western half of the old Future World and 2 of its pavilions: The Land and The Seas with Nemo and Friends Pavilions and the new Moana-based experience.

Attractions

Soarin’ Around the World  (H40) (Lightning Lane Multi) – Fly over scenic world destinations on this hang-glider simulator. Each section of this huge simulator has three long rows of seats. You will strap into your seat and then be lifted up into the air where you will be suspended in front of a huge wide screen upon which the flyover scenes are displayed. Try to notice the scents that accompany many of the scenes! Your seat will move and sway in tune with the video to strengthen the feeling of flying.

Living with the Land (Lightning Lane Multi)  – This boat ride takes you on a tour of greenhouses and other methods of food production. You will tour several greenhouses with different environments like tropical and temperate and see methods of efficiently raising crops like hydroponics and farm-raised fish. You will even see some Mickey-shaped produce.

Awesome Planet – A 4D film about the Earth’s biomes and the perils of climate change, with narration by Ty Burrell who plays Phil Dunphy on the ABC sitcom Modern Family. The first part of this film is a beautiful visual tour of the planet Earth, but the second half devolves into man-made global warming propaganda and shaming.

The Seas with Nemo and Friends (Lightning Lane Multi) – Ride your Clam-Mobile and have fun under the sea with the cast of Finding Nemo. The clam-mobiles are 2+ person continuous feed ride vehicles. After you board you will meet Mr. Ray and his class on a field trip and learn that Nemo has wandered off and you must find him. The ride deposits you in a large lofted two-story area where some of the walls are huge aquarium tanks. Explore all types of interactive exhibits all about life under the sea.

Turtle Talk with Crush (Lightning Lane Multi) – Engage in real-time questions and answers with Crush in this interactive show. This interactive show is the headliner in The Seas with Nemo and Friends. It features a computer-animated version of Crush the surfer dude turtle from Finding Nemo. He has 10-minute conversations with his visitors and interacts personally with the audience. Be sure to do this before you leave Nemo and Friends.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana – This is the first Walt Disney World theme park experience featuring Moana. This lush exploration trail invites guests to meet and play with magical, living water. Water in the experience has a personality of its own, helping guests learn how to protect the natural water cycle in a fun and engaging way.

Dining

The Garden Grill – D $$$ – Table Service – Chip n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast offers an all-you-care-to-enjoy meal served family style on platters, plus character dining with: Mickey, Chip and Dale, and Pluto. Enjoy char-grilled filet of beef, roasted turkey breast with stuffing and gravy, and sustainable fish of the day. Plus, garden vegetables, sweet potato fries, buttermilk mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, and home-style macaroni & cheese.

Sunshine Seasons – BLD $ – Counter Service – Seasonal soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts.

Coral Reef Restaurant – LD $$ – Table service – Seafood steaks, and more. Enjoy watching the Living Seas aquarium while dining.

Shopping

No major shops.

World Showcase

EPCOT’s World Showcase is a change of pace from both Future World and the other Disney theme parks. World Showcase is comprised of 11 “pavilions,” each representing a different country. The pavilions are spread out on a promenade that circles the World Showcase Lagoon. In all, it is about a 1.2-mile walk around the World Showcase.

Each pavilion is designed to be representative of that country and make you feel as if you are there. Each features entertainment, dining, and shopping unique to their culture. Some also have attractions, short tourism movies, or street performers.

The World Showcase is much beloved by military families, as many of the countries represented are ones that we have spent time in. Enjoying the sights, foods, and shopping brings back fond memories.

The countries of the World Showcase, moving clockwise around the promenade are: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, America, Japan, Morocco, France, The United Kingdom, and Canada. Each country is staffed primarily by residents of that country who are in the US to work for a period of time as a Disney intern.

As you tour the World Showcase you’ll enjoy entertainment provided by various street performers and bands in set locations. Some of the entertainers you’ll see are jugglers, mini-plays with audience participation, Japanese drummers, and a band or two.

See our post on EPCOT’s Frozen Treats

The World Showcase boasts some very good restaurants, which are not to be missed.

Transportation is available from the front of the World Showcase to the rear via water taxis called FriendShips. There are 2 different routes served by different boats.

• From to the right of the World Showcase Entrance -to Morocco and back
• From to the left of the World Showcase Entrance -to Germany and back

Note, that since reopening after the 2020 closures, only the Morocco route has been operating. 

World Showcase Pavilions

The following is a listing of the World Showcase Pavilions, or countries, working your way clockwise around the lagoon.

World Showcase Entrance

Before you start meandering your way around the World Showcase, there are a few locations that you might want to check out.

Dining

Refreshment Port – A quick little stand to order a beverage, either before you start your journey around the world or the last stop as you finish. Refreshment Port is also home to Poutine!

Refreshment Port is currently being transformed into La Poutinerie, a newly themed Canadian-inspired snack stand hosted by Air Canada.

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company – Grab a coffee or tea. Hot, cold, or frozen! Also good for a pastry fix!

Merchandise

Port of Entry – Featuring EPCOT merch and Pandora jewelry.

Disney Traders – More EPCOT and Disney merch.

Mexico Pavilion

Dominating the Mexican pavilion is a pre-Colombian pyramid. Inside you’ll enter into a nighttime scene in a Mexican shopping plaza, the Plaza de Los Amigos, with carts and shops offering Mexican jewelry, pottery, clothing, and leather goods. As you go further in you’ll find a tequila bar, restaurant, and boat ride. Look across the way at the smoking volcano in the night sky.

Outside the pyramid on the promenade are two more restaurants, one table service and one counter service as well as a frozen margarita stand.

Attractions

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros – This tour features Donald Duck, Jose Carioca and Panchito from Disney’s 1944 animated film The Three Caballeros. Search for Donald all over scenic Mexico on this slow boat ride. You and a dozen others (rarely is this ride busy, so it might be just you) will float past the volcano and through various scenes of beautiful areas of Mexico with Donald comically superimposed.

Dining

The San Angel Inn Restaurante – LD $$ – Table Service – is located within the pyramid. Regional Mexican dishes featuring beef, chicken, and seafood.

La Cava del Tequila – S$ – Table and Bar Service – The tequila bar within the pyramid. Authentic Mexican tequila in margaritas and tasting flights, plus appetizers.

La Hacienda de San Angel – D $$ – Table Service – located outside the pyramid. Authentic Mexican cuisine. Enjoy the view of the World Showcase Lagoon and Illuminations at the close of the evening.

La Cantina de San Angel – LD $ – Counter Service- Tacos, churros, tostados, Mexican beer and margaritas.

See: Unraveling the Distinctiveness of the 3 San Angel Restaurants for an overview of all 3 Mexico Restaurants.

Choza de Margarita – S$ – Walk up Stand – The Margarita Hut serves margaritas on the rocks and blended, cerveza, tacos, empanadas, and guacamole.

Shopping

The Plaza de Los Amigos – Authentic Mexican souvenirs and treasures.

Artesanias La Familia Fashions – Casual Mexican-styled clothing and jewelry.

El Ranchito del Norte – Souvenirs and gifts from Northern Mexico.

Vendors’ carts offer home décor gifts, silver jewelry, and other Mexican souvenirs such as sombreros, piñatas, pottery, and worry dolls.

Norway Pavilion

The Norway Pavilion portrays a Norwegian town square complete with its cobblestone courtyard and replicas of a 14th-century fortress and 13th-century Stave church.

Attractions

Many fans were sorry to see Norway’s Maelstrom ride close. It has been replaced by Frozen Ever After, a Frozen-themed attraction. The new attraction takes guests to Arendelle via a boat ride and immerses them in many of their favorite moments and music from the film. In addition, a Frozen character meet and greet location was also added.

Meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus – Meet the royal sisters of Arendelle in a private meet and greet.

Frozen Ever After (Lightning Lane Multi) – Board a wooden sailing ship to ride through the world of Frozen. Don’t worry, you’ll get to hear Elsa sing Let It Go! This is a high-demand FastPass!

Dining

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – BLD $$$ – Table Service – Offers “Princess Storybook Dining” character buffet meals for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. All menus are a mix of traditional Norwegian offerings and more recognizable items. Characters: Belle, Jasmine, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Mary Poppins, and occasionally Ariel in her gown.

Kringla Bakeri og Kafe – S$ – Counter Service – Open-faced sandwiches, pastries, and specialty coffees.

Shopping

The Puffin’s Roost: Curios and Collectibles – Books, silver jewelry, Norwegian clothing, perfumes, and colognes.

China Pavilion

The China Pavilion is fronted by the triple-arched ceremonial gate patterned after the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. To the right is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest which houses the movie Reflections of China. To the left is a side street with a commercial feel, here you find dining and shopping options.

Attractions

Reflections of China – a 360 Circle-Vision presentation filmed in Disney’s movie in the round style, which features multiple screens that totally surround you, giving you a 360-degree view. The movie shows footage of China including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City of Beijing, the Gobi Desert, Inner Mongolia, the Yangtze River, and the tropical rain forests of Hainan Island.

Circle-Vision is a Disney film technique invented for the theme parks in which cameras are mounted on a platform in a circle pointing outward to provide 360 degrees of coverage. The platform was then mounted on dollies, automobiles, helicopters, etc. In the attraction, huge screens are mounted in a circle around the audience, who stand with handrails for balance and are able to look all around themselves in a full circle at the scenes in the movie.

Dining

Nine Dragons Restaurant – LD $$ – Table Service – A variety of Chinese cooking, including noodles, beef, chicken, and seafood.

Lotus Blossom Cafe – LD $ – Counter Service – Orange chicken, steamed rice, egg rolls, potstickers, shrimp fried rice, and vegetarian stir fry.

Shopping

Yong Feng Shangdian Shop – A wide variety of Chinese merchandise: clothing, furniture, jade carvings, and paper fans.   

The Outpost

On your way between China and Germany, you will find two things, a drawbridge and the Outpost.

As you leave China the pathway begins to go uphill. At the top, you’ll pass over a drawbridge. At several times during the day the bridge is raised, preventing your crossing so that fireworks and other barges which are part of the Illuminations nighttime spectacular can pass from their backstage storage area into the World Showcase lagoon.

Once you cross the bridge you’ll go downhill again, and the path will curve to the right. On the outside of the curve is the Outpost. Here you’ll find a Quick Service food location, African souvenirs, as well as face painting and hair braiding.

This area was once thought to be the precursor to a full-fledged African pavilion for the World Showcase, but Disney went all out and created Disney’s Animal Kingdom instead. Nothing has ever been done with this space which could house a new pavilion.

Attractions

The Outpost has no attractions, other than some outdoor drums for the kids to bang on.

Dining

Refreshment Outpost – S $ – Quick Service – Here you’ll find drinks and snacks: hot dogs, frozen yogurt, as well as hot and cold drinks including specialty cocktails and beer. There are a few tables with umbrellas across the walkway.

World Showcase Outpost

Shopping

A variety of African trinkets are offered in an open-air setting.

Germany Pavilion

Enter the German platz (plaza), the surrounding architecture in the German Pavilion reflects a diverse cross-section of German regions, from the replica of the medieval castle to the fairy tale Bavarian-style buildings. A fountain with a statue of St. George slaying a dragon is the centerpiece of the cobblestoned platz.

Attractions

Germany has no attractions

Dining

Biergarten – L $$ D $$$ – Buffet Service – Traditional German food served in an Oktoberfest-style atmosphere. The all-you-can-eat buffet contains assorted sausages, rotisserie chicken, child’s Frankfurters, assorted salads, breads, red cabbage, wine kraut, potatoes, and spaetzle. Guests can be seated at long communal tables.

Sommerfest – LD $ – Counter Service – Bratwurst and frankfurter sandwiches, sauerkraut, soft pretzels, and apple strudel as well as German beer.

Shopping

Karamelle-Kuche – Fresh caramel corn, caramel apples, strawberries, marshmallows, and gourmet baked goods. Highly recommended!

Weinkeller – A large selection of German wines. This is one of the Secret Bars of EPCOT!

Die Weihnachtsecke – Christmas decorations of all kinds, plus the Christmas pickle.

Kunstarbeit In Kristall – Crystal jewelry and decorations.

Der Teddybar – German teddy bears, toys, and gifts.

Glaskunst – Crystal, glassware, and personally engraved steins.

Italy Pavilion

The Italy Pavilion represents various areas of the original country. It features an authentic 83-foot tall replica of the Campanile Bell Tower in St. Mark’s Square, a replica of the 14th-century pink and white Doge’s Palace, and Venice with its bridges and gondolas that are moored to striped barbershop-style poles alongside the World Showcase lagoon.

You’ll also find the “Fontana de Nettuno” a fountain inspired by Bernini’s Neptune fountain.

Attractions

Italy has no attractions

Dining

Tutto Italia Ristorante – LD $$ – Table Service – Authentic Italian cuisine is found at this full-service restaurant that uses wall murals, dark wood booths, and banquettes to make guests feel as if they’ve stepped out of the theme park and right into Italy. You will find a wide variety of Italian appetizers, entrees, and desserts including Lasagna alla Bolognese, Ravioli di Ricotta, Pollo al Forno, and Cannoli.

Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar – LD $$ – Table Service – An appetizer-type menu, with various cheeses, mini panini sandwiches, pastas, and seafood, plus more than 200 varieties of Italian wine.

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria – LD $$ – Table Service – A stone oven Italian pizzeria and restaurant. This restaurant features a big menu including many pizza varieties as well as build-your-own and a wide variety of Italian appetizers and entrees.

Gelateria Toscana – A charming scoop shop tucked beside Italy’s piazza in EPCOT’s World Showcase, and prepare to experience “la dolce vita” in frozen form. With classic gelato flavors, indulgent sorbet scoops, and unforgettable Italian-style treats, this is your refreshment destination after exploring the gardens, fountains, and piazzas of Italy.

Shopping

La Bottega Italiana – Venetian masks, cookware, decorative items and Italian foodstuffs.

Il Bel Cristallo – Italian wares including Murano glass, porcelain, crystal, handbags, clothing and accessories.

American Pavilion

The American Pavilion features a colonial-style mansion whose roots are found in the architecture of Independence Hall, Boston’s Old State House, Monticello, and Colonial Williamsburg.  Within you will find the American Adventure attraction.

Across the World Showcase promenade on the lagoon is the outdoor stage and amphitheater known as the America Gardens Theatre. Live shows such as the Candlelight Processional, Eat to the Beat, and Flower Power concerts are held here.

Attractions

American Adventure – The American Adventure is an attraction that takes audio-animatronics to the next level, coordinating them with scenes and footage, which takes place on the 72-foot wide projection behind them.

The show is narrated by the figures of Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain, each chosen to represent their century of American progress.

The pair takes us through various scenes in the development of America. The scenes are presented both in still images, animations, movies, and 35 other audio-animatronic figures.

Scenes include: the Mayflower and the Pilgrims; the Boston Tea Party; the writing of the Declaration of Independence; Valley Forge and the Revolutionary War; slavery and the Civil War; the suffering of Native Americans; the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition; the founding of Yosemite National Park; and both World Wars.

While waiting for the next showing, listen to the Voices of Liberty, an a cappella singing group, who perform American folk songs in the lobby. I love the patriotism!

Dining

Regal Eagle Smokehouse – LD $ – Counter Service – A salute to American Barbecue featuring many different styles of BBQ. Memphis Dry Rub Pork Ribs, Kansas City Smoked Chicken, Texas Brisket, and more!

Regal Eagle Smokehouse Outdoor Bar – Just outside to the left of the front doors of the Regal Eagle Smokehouse is an outdoor bar. Draft beer, hard cider, wine, and cocktails are available. They have a nice specialty cocktail menu. The Moonshine Sour is awesome!

Fife & Drum Tavern – LD $ – Counter Service – Turkey Legs, popcorn, ice cream, smoothies, and adult beverages. No seating.

The Funnel Cake Stand – S$ – Counter Service – Funnel cakes with various toppings.

Block and Hans – $ – A wide range of bottled beer.

Shopping

The Art of Disney – Collectibles, framed artwork, and sculptures.

Japan Pavilion

The Japan Pavilion is overlooked by a towering blue-roofed pagoda, which is a replica of a 7th-century Horyuji Temple. Enjoy the spectacular Japanese garden with water lilies and colorful koi fish.

Don’t miss the Japanese Taiko Drumming, which is performed several times a day. This energetic performance can be heard around the World Showcase during showtimes.

Attractions

Japan has no attractions.

Dining

Teppan Edo – LD $$ – Table Service – A Benihana-type restaurant, guests are seated around a large grill where chefs chop, prepare and cook your meal. If there are less than 8 in your party, be prepared to sit with other guests. Entrees include chicken, beef, and seafood cooked alone or in combinations with crisp vegetables served with tasty sauces, steamed rice, and salad. Sushi appetizers are also available.

Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya – LD $$ – Table Service – Enjoy an array of tantalizing dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, reflecting the flavors of each season. Sushi lovers will marvel at a first-hand look at sushi being made behind the counter.

Katsura Grill – LD $ – Counter Service – Japanese curry, teriyaki, sushi, udon noodles, miso soup, and Japanese beers, wines, or sake.

Takumi-Tei – D $$$ – Table Service – Takumi-Tei, means house of the celebrates the relationship between Japanese craftsmanship and the natural world, while the food is inspired by the wonderful collaboration between nature and takumi, the artisan. In addition to a prix fixe multi-course tasting menu and a chef’s table experience, the dinner menu highlights wagyu beef in a sublime setting along with sushi, sashimi, unique desserts, signature cocktails, premium sake, and much more.

Shopping

Mitsukoshi Department Store – A very large variety of Japanese gifts and souvenirs. From Hello Kitty and Tamagotchis to traditional Japanese footwear and clothing.

Morocco Pavilion

The Morocco Pavilion features a reproduction of the Koutoubia Minaret of Marrakesh, the prayer tower of the 12th-century mosque. Explore the winding alleys with stucco archways and the ever-changing exhibits of Moroccan arts, artifacts, and costumes.

Attractions

Morocco has no attractions.

Dining

Spice Road Table – LD $ – Table Service – Mediterranean small plates and specialty entrées—spicy garlic shrimp, fried calamari, beef and chicken skewers, and coriander-crusted rack of lamb.

Tangierine Cafe – LD $ – Counter Service – Mediterranean specialties, salads and desserts.

Sangria Sips – Sangria by the glass or shareable carafe. This is one of the Secret Bars of EPCOT!

Shopping

Tangier Traders – Moroccan fine jewelry, traditional clothing and shoes, Camel bone mirrors, and handmade daggers.

Brass Bazaar – features brass or silver decorative plates and mirrors.  This shop also has an Outdoor Bazaar where ceramic tiles, native instruments, and handmade baskets can be found.

Medina Arts – Moroccan crafts and ceramic plates.

Casablanca Carpets – Hand-knotted carpets and rugs.

France Pavilion

Overlooking the France Pavilion is a 1/10^th scale reproduction of the Eiffel Tower. It is placed in a way that makes it look as if it is the actual size, but off in the distance behind the alley that goes deeper into the pavilion.

Attractions

The Palais du Cinéma in EPCOT brings together French culture with a real love of Disney with 2 different films, the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along starting at 10 a.m. and ending prior to 7 p.m. each day, and Impressions de France from park open through 10 a.m. and after 7 p.m. through park close. These films are presented on a 200-degree widescreen.

Impressions de France – An 18-minute trip through France, giving guests a glimpse into the beauty of both the French countryside and the densely-populated cities.  See the Palace of Versailles, winemakers, hot air balloons, and the celebration of Bastille Day, all set to a beautiful soundtrack of French composers. Typically open 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. and 7:00 to 8:45 p.m.

Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along – Sing along with your favorite songs from the animated classic film, Beauty and the Beast while enjoying a new twist on this enchanting tale. This new version of the story paints Lefou as the hero of the story who in new footage shows how he got Belle and the Beast together behind the scenes of the original movie. While not a bad concept to put a new “theme park” spin on the story instead of just repeating the original, this is not the Lefou of the cartoon version. While animated just like the original the visual character is combined with an audio of the overly feminine Josh Gadd version of the live-action movie. Typically open from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Impressions de France and Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along are shown in the same theatre.

Tales As Old As Time: French Storytelling on Stage and Screen – Step into some of the world’s most enchanting stories. At the Palais du Cinema, you’ll explore 6 distinct gallery cases honoring the costumes, music, and artwork that brought French literature to life through cinema, theater, ballet, and opera. Catch a glimpse of how these stories inspired artists from around the globe, including those who created such timeless Disney classics as Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and—of course—Beauty and the Beast.

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (Lightning Lane Multi) – In this Disney Pixar’s “Ratatouille” inspired attraction guests “shrink” to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds, and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant.

Dining

Les Chefs de France – LD $$ – Table Service – Celebrating fresh and simple ingredients, the menu changes seasonally but may include such delicacies as beef tenderloin, classic onion soup, and roasted duck with cherries.

Monsieur Paul – D $$$$ – Table Service – Embark on a culinary journey through refined French cuisine at Monsieur Paul, an elegant dining destination located within the France Pavilion in Epcot. Named after the legendary chef Paul Bocuse, this restaurant pays homage to his culinary legacy by offering a dining experience that is both luxurious and unforgettable.

Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie – S$ – Counter Service – A traditional French bakery. Offerings include soups and salads, fresh baguette sandwiches, and pastries. Wine, champagne, beer, and gourmet coffees are also available.

Le Crêperie de Paris – Transport yourself to the charming streets of Paris with a visit to Le Crêperie de Paris, a delightful eatery within the France Pavilion in Epcot. This enchanting crêperie captures the essence of French culinary tradition, serving up a delectable array of sweet and savory crêpes that will tantalize your taste buds.

L’Artisan des Glaces – S$ – Counter Service – There are 16 flavors of handcrafted frozen treats, including ice cream and sorbet.

Shopping

La Signature – French cosmetics, fragrances, and makeup.

Plume et Palette – Designer French fragrances from Chanel, Escada, Givenchy, Lacoste and more.

La Maison du Vin – French wines can be sampled and purchased. Wine accessories, chocolates, cookies, kitchen linens, and cookware.

Souvenirs de France – French souvenirs, berets, miniature Eiffel Towers, and t-shirts.

International Gateway

Located between France and the United Kingdom is the International Gateway, which is the “back entrance” to EPCOT. Guests staying at the Deluxe EPCOT Resort area can stroll or take the boat from their hotels to the International Gateway to enter EPCOT.

Non-EPCOT Resort area guests are welcome to exit here to check out the resorts, great restaurants, and BoardWalk area that this resort area has to offer.

Disney’s Skyliner gondola station connects EPCOT with the Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, Riviera Resorts, and Disney Hollywood Studios.

Attractions

The International Gateway has no attractions.

Dining

The International Gateway has no dining.

Shopping

World Traveler – EPCOT and Skyliner Merchandise.

Best Disney World Resorts for EPCOT Fans

United Kingdom Pavilion

Enter the UK and stroll by red phone booths, a neighborhood pub, and a quaint tea shop. Turn down the cobbled side street with shops, which leads to a park where you can listen to a British Rock concert.

The architecture represents the Tudor, Georgian, and Victorian influences that the United Kingdom is noted for.

Attractions

The UK has no attractions.

Dining

Yorkshire County Fish Shop – LD $ – Counter Service – Fish and chips, English cookies, soft drinks, and “draught” beer, including Bass and Harp Lager.

Rose and Crown Dining Room – LD $$ – Table Service – English favorites like cottage pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, plus a variety of beers and ales and scotch. Food service is available at the bar.

Rose & Crown Pub – Attached to the dining room is the Rose and Crown Pub! This typical English pub is one of the liveliest locations in EPCOT. Have a pint, a pub blend, scotch, Irish whiskey, or your favorite mixed drink. Pub fare from the dining room is also available.

Shopping

Crown & Crest – Beatles and Rose & Crown merchandise, get your family coat of arms on a plaque.

The Tea Caddy – Twinings tea and tea accessories.

The Queen’s Table – Irish Belleek fine Parian china, native music, and books from Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Scottish or Welsh tartans and ties.

The Sportsmans’ Shop – Offers all things rugby and soccer – Clothing, balls, hats, and books.

Canada Pavilion

The Hotel du Canada overlooks the pavilion, it was inspired by the Chateau Laurier, a historic hotel found in Ottawa. Below you’ll find log cabin trading posts, landscaped grounds, and even totem poles.

Attractions

Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360  – Explore Canada in a newly updated edition of the classic, 12-minute EPCOT Circle-Vision 360 presentation.

Dining

Le Cellier Steakhouse – LD $$$ – Table Service – One of Disney’s most popular restaurants, reservations go fast. Enjoy Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup, steaks, prime rib and salmon.

Canada Popcorn Cart – S$ – A simple snack stop in EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion serving fresh popcorn, cold drinks, and a small selection of Canadian beers.

Shopping

Northwest Mercantile – Kitras Art Glass, Hatley clothing, Roots fragrances and athletic wear, Deauville perfume, Ice Wines, body care items, and Canadian hockey gear.

The Trading Post – Maple products like syrup, candies, tea, and cookies. Handmade native jewelry, Maplefoot Babies stuffed animals, Anne of Green Gables books, BOMA totem poles, and faux raccoon and skunk skin caps.

EPCOT Entertainment

Fireworks

Luminous The Symphony of Us

Delight in a dramatic show designed to bring us all together. Marvel at a dazzling pageant of fireworks, fountains, music, and lights set to an original composition. New music, along with evocative selections from the Disney songbook, come together to remind us that we are more alike than we are different.

You can view the show anywhere throughout EPCOT that offers a clear view of the World Showcase Lagoon. Since this is an outdoor show, it is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. Entertainment is subject to change.

Parades

There currently are no parades at EPCOT.

There hasn’t been one for many years. The last parade to run at EPCOT was the Tapestry of Nations/Tapestry of Dreams parade, which ran from 1999 to 2001 as part of the millennium celebration. The parade had a unity and world peace theme and featured a variety of large puppets and massive rotating drum units. My family loved it!

Shows & Other Entertainment

One of the great impromptu performances that you might catch in Future World Is the Jaminators. These janitorial percussionists entertain crowds with their infectious beats on trash cans. You’ll find them near Innoventions.   

You will find lots of culturally specific entertainment as you tour the countries of the World Showcase. Here are a few:

In Mexico, see a Mariachi band play inside the pyramid.

In Germany, enjoy Oktoberfest Musikanten, the “oompah” band inside the Biergarten restaurant.

In the American Adventure, see the Voices of Liberty, an a capella ensemble with a full repertoire of traditional American folk songs.

In Japan, see Matsuriza the traditional Taiko Drummers. When they are playing you can hear these huge drums all across the World Showcase Lagoon.

In the United Kingdom see Command Performance. The band plays popular British music.

See more on EPCOT Entertainment here.

Final thoughts on EPCOT

EPCOT had historically been a favorite of adults, while definitely not on the top of kid’s lists. Mom and Dad enjoyed the World Showcase, “touring” other countries while enjoying adult beverages; at the time it opened and for many years EPCOT was the only one of the two parks where you could have an adult drink. While at the same time, most kids were bored.

But in recent years with the addition of a few new big “E Ticket” rides like Test Track, Soarin’ Around the World, and Mission Space, plus the Phineas and Ferb Adventure, and Frozen Ever After Disney has made EPCOT a draw for the younger crowd too.

Military families will really enjoy EPCOT’s World Showcase, I certainly do as the represented countries are many that we’ve traveled to or been stationed in. Recently a group of other military aviators and I got together on a special occasion for a day at EPCOT. There we were on a cool November day, the seven of us sitting around two tables in the sunny German Platz drinking German beer, eating brats, and telling flying stories! A good day, one of the best!

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EPCOT Overview Pages:

• World Celebration
• World Discovery
• World Nature
• World Showcase
  • Mexico Pavilion
  • Norway Pavilion
  • China Pavilion
  • The Outpost
  • Germany Pavilion
  • Italy Pavilion
  • American Adventure Pavilion
  • Japan Pavilion
  • Morocco Pavilion
  • France Pavilion
  • International Gateway
  • United Kingdom Pavilion
  • Canada Pavilion

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See all our Theme Park Pages:

• Disney World Theme Park Overview
• Magic Kingdom
• EPCOT
• Disney's Hollywood Studios
• Disney's Animal Kingdom

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