Epcot: Your Ultimate Guide to an Educated Adventure

I’ve been to Epcot twice now, and I can confidently say it’s my favorite park at Disney World. As the second park built at Walt Disney World, Epcot stands out for its unique blend of education, innovation, and cultural immersion.

Epcot is where you can dive into the wonders of science, experience groundbreaking technologies, and wander through stunning pavilions representing eleven different countries, each with its own charm, food, and entertainment. It’s no wonder that my late husband went several times with his school as a kid—there’s just so much to learn and experience!

From the thrilling attractions to the immersive cultural showcases, there is something magical about this place that keeps me coming back for more. Whether you are heading to the park for the first time or haven’t been in several years, I hope this guide will help you explore all this magical land has to offer.

A Map and Explanation of Epcot

One of the first things to know about Epcot is that it’s not laid out like your typical theme park. Unlike the other parks at Walt Disney World, Epcot isn’t designed around a central hub. Instead, it’s divided into four distinct “lands”: World Discovery, World Celebration, World Nature, and World Showcase.

Spaceship Earth, the iconic geodesic sphere that is synonymous with Epcot, is located near the Main Entrance. It’s not the park’s center as some might expect, but rather the gateway to your Epcot adventure.

This is where Disney buses, the monorail, and the parking lot drop you off, making it the primary entry point for most guests.

Moving further into the park, you’ll find the World Discovery, World Celebration, and World Nature areas. Each of these lands offers unique experiences focused on innovation, science, and the natural world. We will discuss them a bit more in-depth below.

At the back of the park is the World Showcase, a vast area divided into eleven pavilions, each representing a different country. From the towering pagodas of Japan to the charming streets of France, this area is perfect for anyone who loves to explore different cultures.

The pavilions surround a large lagoon, and you can spend hours wandering through the shops, restaurants, and attractions each country has to offer.

Epcot is unique because it’s the only Walt Disney World park with two entrances. Besides the Main Entrance, the International Gateway is located between the UK and France pavilions in World Showcase. This entrance is perfect if you’re staying at one of the nearby resorts or taking the Skyliner. Boats drop off guests here as well.

Virtual Queue for Cosmic Rewind

There are two chances to join the virtual queue daily: 7 AM and 1 PM. The 7 AM virtual queue can be accessed from anywhere if you have a valid park reservation and a ticket for Epcot that day. You can try to secure your spot right from your hotel room or wherever you are, which is super convenient!

The 1 PM virtual queue is a bit different. You need to be inside Epcot to join this queue, so if you didn’t snag a spot in the morning, be ready by 1 PM while you’re in the park.

Joining the virtual queue is easy:

• Open the My Disney Experience app on your smartphone. Make sure you’re logged in and have your park reservation linked.
• Navigate to the “Virtual Queues” section of the app. You’ll see an option for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
• Tap the “Join” button at exactly 7 AM or 1 PM. Timing is key here, as the spots fill up within seconds!
• Once you’re in the virtual queue, the app will give you an estimated return time. Keep an eye on this, as it can shift slightly throughout the day. When it’s your time to ride, you’ll have an hour to check in at the attraction.

Using the virtual queue might sound complicated, but it’s a great way to maximize your time at Epcot without spending hours in line. Plus, it allows you to explore other parts of the park while you wait for your turn to experience this awesome ride (and, y’all it is really, really awesome- it ranks high for me and number two out of all Disney [World, Land, and Tokyo Sea] parks for Nevaeh).

Rope Drop Remmy’s Ride

To make the most of your Epcot (or any park) visit, rope dropping is a must. We did this at Disneyland and highly recommend it for anyone trying to get on the bigger rides without the long wait times.

So, what exactly is rope dropping? Essentially, it means being at the park before it officially opens. You’ll be among the first guests allowed into the park, giving you a head start on those popular attractions before the crowds start to roll in.

If you’re staying at a Disney resort, you have a bonus: you can get into the park a little earlier than regular guests, thanks to Early Theme Park Entry. This extra time is perfect for knocking out a couple of big rides before the day begins!

For Epcot, we suggest rope-dropping Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. It’s one of the newer attractions and can get pretty busy throughout the day. By heading there first, you can often walk right onto the ride with minimal wait, letting you enjoy it and move on to your next adventure while everyone else is just starting.

Pro- Tip: If you are prone to motion sickness, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is a 4D ride with some quick turns and jostles, so if you’re sensitive to motion, you might want to take a Dramamine beforehand to ensure a comfortable experience.

Rope dropping can be a game-changer, so set that alarm, grab a quick breakfast, and get ready to make some early morning magic happen!

World of Nature

One of Epcot’s most beautiful areas is World Nature. This section of the park is all about understanding, celebrating, and preserving the natural world. It’s a place where you can discover the incredible diversity of life that exists all around us.

World Nature is home to some of Epcot’s most immersive attractions and experiences, each designed to inspire a love for nature and a commitment to conservation. Whether you’re exploring the ocean’s depths, soaring over some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, or learning about the interconnectedness of life on Earth, there’s something here for everyone.

Here are some rides worth mentioning:

Living with the Land

If there’s one Epcot ride I can’t get enough of, it’s Living with the Land.

Living with the Land is a gentle boat ride through various ecosystems and greenhouses, showcasing how we can sustainably grow food for the future. This ride is even more special because it’s not just for show—Disney World horticulturalists are doing some incredible things here!

In the greenhouses, you’ll see firsthand how Disney uses innovative growing techniques like hydroponics, aquaponics, and vertical farming to grow crops that maximize space and resources.

They’re even cross-breeding high-yield crops to develop varieties more resistant to pests and diseases, all to help feed our growing planet.

They believe in it so much that a lot of the food grown here is used in the restaurants throughout Disney World. You’ll see tomatoes, lettuce, and even Mickey-shaped pumpkins being cultivated right before your eyes, all of which end up on the plates of hungry guests.

For those of us who are real food and sustainability nerds, they offer an even deeper dive into the magic of this attraction with the Behind the Seeds Tour.

This guided tour takes you behind the scenes of the greenhouses and fish farm, offering a closer look at the innovative techniques being used. You’ll learn about integrated pest management, advanced growing techniques, and maybe even sample some fresh produce!

Soarin’

On our list of favorite rides, this one ranks number two for Breanna. This exhilarating ride lifts you high into the air, taking you on a hang-gliding journey over some of the world’s most stunning natural and man-made wonders.

The sights, sounds, and smells make it an incredibly immersive experience!

The Sea with Nemo and Friends

This attraction takes you on an underwater adventure with your favorite characters from Finding Nemo. My favorite part is when Dude comes in and talks to guests on the ride.

Afterward, you can explore a massive aquarium filled with real marine life, which is fun and educational. See, I told you that’s what Epcot is all about!

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, is the newest and most exciting addition to Epcot’s World Nature.

This interactive attraction is designed to bring the magic of water to life, drawing inspiration from the Disney film Moana. It’s perfect for guests of all ages who are curious about the water cycle and want to explore it in a fun, hands-on way.

Journey of Water is an outdoor attraction that guides you through lush, tropical environments reminiscent of the Polynesian islands featured in Moana. As you walk through, you’ll encounter a series of interactive water features and elements that showcase the various stages of the water cycle, from rainfall to streams and the ocean.

World of Celebration

World Celebration is at the center of Epcot, serving as the park’s core where imagination, innovation, and human achievement are celebrated. This area is designed to inspire guests, showcasing the power of creativity and the limitless possibilities of the future.

In World Celebration, you’ll find a blend of beautiful gardens, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences that encourage guests to think about the future and how we can shape it. The architecture here is modern and sleek, reflecting Epcot’s focus on innovation and forward-thinking design.

One of the defining features of World Celebration is its dedication to bringing people together through storytelling and shared experiences. Whether you’re marveling at the stunning gardens, participating in interactive displays, or simply enjoying the open spaces, World Celebration is a place to pause, reflect, and appreciate the wonders of the world around us.

This area of the park also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration, making it a great place to soak in the atmosphere. It’s all about celebrating the human spirit and the drive to innovate and explore—qualities that are at the very heart of Epcot.

Some of our favorite rides include:

Spaceship Earth

When I first saw Epcot on television in seventh or eighth grade, my only memory of it was Spaceship Earth, which is unsurprising. After all, it is one of the most iconic attractions.

Many people don’t know that it also houses a captivating ride that takes you on a journey through the history of human communication.

Inside Spaceship Earth, you’ll embark on a slow-moving ride that travels through time, exploring the evolution of communication from the dawn of human civilization to the digital age.

The attraction showcases key historical moments with detailed scenes and animatronics, from ancient cave paintings and the invention of the printing press to the creation of the internet. It’s fascinating how humans have shared ideas and connected over thousands of years.

Beyond being educational, Spaceship Earth also offers a glimpse into the future. As the ride ends, you’ll have the opportunity to see a vision of tomorrow, personalized to your preferences, thanks to an interactive touch screen in your ride vehicle.

This part of the experience encourages us to think about how we might continue to innovate and communicate in the years to come, making Spaceship Earth a must-visit for anyone looking to be inspired by our past and excited for our future.

Journey into Imagination with Figment

Journey into Imagination with Figment is one of those whimsical rides at Epcot that leaves a lasting impression. If you don’t know who Figment is now, you certainly will by the end of this ride, and trust me, your life may never be the same!

For me, Figment holds a special place in my heart. I even have a Figment stuffed toy from the 90s (thanks, babe) and two Figment pins that I will never trade.

This playful purple dragon, the embodiment of imagination, guides you through a wacky and wonderful tour of the Imagination Institute, teaching us all about the power of creativity.

As you travel through the attraction, you’ll experience a series of interactive and sensory-rich scenes that engage all your senses. From delightful smells wafting through the air to bursts of color and sound, the ride is filled with surprises that bring Figment’s message of creativity to life. And don’t miss the grand finale—an explosion of color and fireworks that captures the joy and spontaneity of imagination.

This ride is all about celebrating that “figment of our imagination” and reminds us to look at the world with a bit more wonder and creativity.

World of Flavor Booth

The World of Flavor Coca-Cola booth, known as Club Cool, is near the Creations Shop and the newly redesigned fountain area.

Club Cool offers visitors a chance to sample various Coca-Cola products worldwide, making it a fun and refreshing stop that I had to add for you because we couldn’t get enough of it there.

World Discovery

World Discovery is Epcot’s gateway to the wonders of science, technology, and space exploration. This dynamic area of the park is perfect for thrill-seekers with a curious mind, offering a variety of attractions that immerse you in the cutting-edge world of innovation and discovery.

World Discovery offers some of Epcot’s most exciting rides. Whether you’re blasting off into the cosmos, designing and testing your own virtual vehicle, or embarking on a galactic adventure with some of your favorite Marvel characters, this area has something to thrill everyone. These attractions highlight the excitement and possibilities of scientific exploration, encouraging guests to think about the future and technology’s role in shaping it.

But it’s not all about high-octane thrills—World Discovery also has plenty of opportunities to learn and be inspired by the incredible advancements in our world today. They do this through interactive exhibits and educational experiences, giving us another reason to spend a little extra time here.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Ah, we’ve hit Nevaeh’s number two.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is one of the newest and most exhilarating attractions at Epcot—scratch that—Disney World as a whole, offering a truly out-of-this-world ride experience.

What makes it unique is that it features six different songs, with the track changing based on the song, so you might have a completely different experience each time you ride. We got “One Way or Another” by Blondie when we hopped on. I still can’t listen to that song without grinning ear-to-ear.

The ride uses an innovative OmniCoaster ride system, which allows the ride vehicles to rotate 360 degrees. This means that as you zoom along the track, the vehicle turns to focus your attention on the action happening all around you—similar to how the Doom Buggies in The Haunted Mansion turn to show different scenes. This feature makes the ride feel even more immersive, as if you’re truly part of a cosmic chase through space.

Cosmic Rewind is exhilarating and unlike any other ride I’ve ever been on. The combination of speed, music, and dynamic movement creates a sensory experience that’s hard to describe—it’s just pure fun! I can’t wait to go back and see which song I get next time.

Mission: SPACE

Mission: Space offers guests the chance to experience what it feels like to be an astronaut on a thrilling journey to the stars. The purpose of the ride is to let you feel the force of a rocket launch and navigate through space.

Mission: Space offers two different experiences to cater to different thrill levels.

• The Orange Mission is the more intense of the two, simulating a journey to Mars with high-speed spins and intense G-forces that make you feel like you’re really blasting off into space.
• The Green Mission, on the other hand, provides a milder, yet still exciting, experience where you’ll orbit the Earth without the intense spinning and G-forces. It’s an excellent option for those who want to experience space travel without the extreme physical effects (again, good for those who get motion sickness easily).

The ride’s design is impressive, placing guests in a space capsule with a team of four astronauts. Each rider has a specific role—Commander, Pilot, Engineer, or Navigator—and interactive controls that add to the realism of the mission.

Test Track

Remember how I told you Bre’s second favorite ride? This is her first.

Test Track has long been a favorite at Epcot, giving guests the thrill of testing a car’s performance through various challenging conditions.

Originally opened in 1999, the ride simulated the rigorous testing processes of real-life vehicles, from sharp turns and braking tests to the exhilarating high-speed loop that took riders outside the building at speeds up to 65 mph. This blend of adrenaline and education made Test Track a unique and beloved experience at the park.

However, as of June 17, 2024, Test Track has closed for a major transformation.

Disney is reimagining the ride to celebrate the spirit of innovation and highlight transportation’s past, present, and future. This new theme will draw inspiration from the original World of Motion attraction that once stood where Test Track is now.

World of Motion was one of Epcot’s original attractions and took guests on a whimsical journey through the history of transportation, showcasing humanity’s endless drive to innovate and explore.

The re-themed Test Track will honor this legacy by incorporating elements that pay tribute to the original World of Motion while also looking ahead to the future of automotive design and technology. The new ride promises to be a celebration of innovation, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge transportation concepts.

Disney expects this reimagining to take about a year, with Test Track set to reopen in mid-2025. While we’ll miss the original high-speed thrills, we’re excited to see how Disney will blend the old with the new, creating a fresh experience that continues to captivate and inspire guests for years to come.

WORLD SHOWCASE

World Showcase invites guests to embark on a cultural journey across the globe without ever leaving the park. This is why so many people talk about “eating around the world” or “drinking around the world” in Epcot.

Situated around a picturesque lagoon, World Showcase comprises eleven unique pavilions, each representing a different country. From the architecture and décor to the food, music, and entertainment, every pavilion is designed to immerse you in its respective nation’s rich culture and traditions.

World Showcase also offers interactive experiences and educational opportunities, making it a perfect spot for those who love to learn about different cultures and their histories.

Now, let’s dig into each of the areas:

Mexico

Mexico is probably my favorite part of World Showcase.

As you enter the pyramid, you’ll be greeted with scenes from Coco, a beautiful Disney movie celebrating Mexican culture and traditions.

The pyramid’s main attraction is the Gran Fiesta Tour, Starring The Three Caballeros, a fun and whimsical boat ride through Mexican history and culture featuring Donald Duck and his friends. The colorful visuals and lively music make it a must-do for me every time I visit.

Guess what? It also has fireworks at the end (ugh… love the fireworks, Disney. Keep it up)!

Norway

where you can experience the magic of Frozen on the Frozen Ever After ride, which everyone in my group loved.

This enchanting boat ride takes you through the kingdom of Arendelle, featuring beloved characters and songs from the hit Disney movie. It’s a charming adventure that captures the essence of the film.

China

In China, the Reflections of China film is a beautiful showcase of the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. This 360-degree movie immerses you in the beauty of China, from its bustling cities to its serene countryside. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the vast diversity of this ancient culture.

Germany

Germany has a special place in our hearts, particularly because of the Biergarten Restaurant. This lively eatery serves traditional German cuisine in a festive setting, complete with live music and dancing.

Brandon loved this place during his school trips, and when we visited in December 2020, he got to share the experience with us. I could immediately see why he loved it. The atmosphere and hearty food make it a delightful stop for anyone looking to enjoy a bit of German culture and fill up before moving on to other areas.

Italy 

Inspired by the romantic streets and iconic landmarks of Venice, Rome, and Florence, this pavilion is a little slice of Italian culture and style. The food and wine selection here is outstanding, with Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria being a favorite spot. It is known for its wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh ingredients imported from Italy.

United States

The United States pavilion, also known as The American Adventure, is a tribute to America’s rich history and diverse culture. Located in the heart of World Showcase, this pavilion beautifully captures the essence of the United States with its colonial-style architecture, reminiscent of classic American landmarks like Independence Hall and Monticello.

If you ask this Texas girl what makes this pavilion special, it is the Regal Eagle Smokehouse’s BBQ pit right in the middle. Yes. Thank you, Epcot, for showing others that Americans love their pit!

Adding a touch of fun to the pavilion is the Miss Piggy Statue of Liberty, a delightful nod to the Muppets and their playful take on American culture. This statue, featuring Miss Piggy dressed as Lady Liberty, is an excellent spot for photos and adds a lighthearted element to the otherwise historical theme of the pavilion.

If you're in New York City, check out the Disney Store on Times Square. They have even more Disney-NYC collab items that you can buy!

Japan

The Japan pavilion at Epcot is a beautiful blend of traditional elegance and modern charm, capturing the essence of Japanese culture. As you enter the pavilion, you’re greeted by the iconic torii gate overlooking the World Showcase Lagoon and the majestic pagoda that rises above the beautifully manicured gardens and koi ponds.

One of the highlights of the Japan pavilion is the Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture exhibit.

This delightful exhibit explores the phenomenon of kawaii, a cultural trend that celebrates all things cute in Japan. It’s filled with adorable displays of plush toys, colorful stationery, and playful fashion, showcasing how this love for cuteness permeates everyday life in Japan.

Morocco

For me, the Morocco pavilion is like stepping into the world of Disney’s Aladdin. The vibrant colors, exotic scents, and bustling market stalls make me feel like I’m walking through the streets of Agrabah, ready to discover hidden treasures or embark on a magical adventure.

It’s a place where you can quickly lose yourself in the enchanting sights and sounds. The pavilion is filled with lush gardens, beautiful fountains, and authentic architecture, creating a deeply immersive atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale.

France

In France, you can’t miss Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, which shrinks you down to the size of a rat and takes you on a wild chase through Gusteau’s restaurant. It’s a whimsical and immersive experience that film fans will adore.

I also like sitting people-watching for a bit while eating one of the desserts from the area. This is also my favorite place to shop while in Epcot. The dresses have me drooling!

In the background, you’ll often find them playing songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom pavilion at Epcot captures the charm and character of British culture, offering a delightful journey through cobblestone streets, quaint cottages, and picturesque gardens.

Walking through the pavilion, you’ll notice architectural styles from different periods of British history, from Tudor-style buildings to elegant Georgian facades. This blend of historical influences creates a charming atmosphere that feels like wandering through a classic British village.

The pavilion also offers a variety of shops filled with British goods, from fine teas and sweets to soccer jerseys and Beatles memorabilia.

Canada

The Canada pavilion at Epcot is a tribute to the Great White North’s vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

As you enter the pavilion, you’re greeted by the striking sight of the Hotel du Canada, a stunning replica of a grand Canadian chateau set against the backdrop of rugged mountains and cascading waterfalls (and y’all know I love me some waterfalls).

Inside the pavilion, you can explore the Canada Far and Wide film. This 360-degree experience takes you across Canada’s diverse regions, showcasing its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities.

For those looking to indulge in some Canadian flavors, Le Cellier Steakhouse offers a cozy, upscale dining experience with delicious dishes like the famous Canadian cheddar cheese soup and maple crème brûlée.

Final Thoughts on Epcot

Epcot truly offers a world of adventure and discovery, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves to explore, learn, and immerse themselves in new experiences. From the futuristic thrills of World Discovery to the natural wonders of World Nature, the inspiring exhibits of World Celebration, and the rich cultural tapestry of World Showcase, there’s something for everyone at this unique Disney park.

As you plan your visit, remember to take your time and enjoy all the park has to offer. Epcot is a place where you can journey from one end of the world to the other, experience the future of innovation, and celebrate the wonders of our planet—all in a single day.

No matter what brings you to Epcot, one thing is sure: you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the magic of discovery and the excitement of adventure. So grab your map, set your itinerary, and embark on an unforgettable journey!