Disney’s EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) is the center of creativity, innovation, and cultural celebration among the Disney theme parks. Moreover, EPCOT has captivated visitors with its unique blend of futuristic technology, international flair, and imaginative storytelling.
So, let’s embark on a journey through the best that EPCOT has to offer, from its iconic attractions to its culinary delights and beyond. However, before we do, let me encourage you to use a travel professional who specializes in Disney destinations to book and help plan your trip!
Table of contents
World Celebration
When guests arrive at EPCOT, the first neighborhood beyond the gates is World Celebration. This recently reimagined area of the park features multiple gardens, centerpieces, water features and seating. The most notable new addition to this section is the “Dreamers Statue”. A true to life bronze figure of Walt Disney sitting on a bench looking out over the park.
The most iconic symbol of EPCOT, Spaceship Earth, is inside the World Celebration neighborhood. The opening day attraction takes guests on a captivating journey through the history of communication and innovation. Housed within the iconic geodesic sphere, this omni mover dark ride seamlessly combines cutting-edge technology with timeless storytelling, making it a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Next, the Imagination Pavilion, a colorful triangular shaped building is inside World Celebration. Home to the attraction “Journey into Imagination”, guests can strengthen that imagination muscle with interactive play features at Image Works including a dancing fountain outside.
Lastly, it was announced at the D23 Expo 2024 that EPCOT would be home to a Spaceship Earth themed lounge in the near future. Find all the details on the D23 announcements HERE.
World Discovery
The next neighborhood is where innovation takes center stage! This section is home to Mission Space where guests embark on a daring space mission to Mars or orbit Earth. Kids can burn off energy inside Space Base, a play yard themed to space travel. This area is home to Test Track as well. Test Track, which will re-open in 2025, offers an exhilarating experience of designing and driving a car up to 60mph on, you guessed it- a test track!
In spring of 2022, this area added the latest and greatest attraction in Disney World- Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind. The ride technology on this attraction utilized all the best innovation including:
- Reverse Launch
- Omni Mover ride vehicle with 360 degree turns.
- Trackless technology
Like the movies, this ride has a great soundtrack!
World Nature
The third neighborhood of EPCOT invites guests to venture around the world with an emphasis on nature. World Nature includes the Land Pavilion, The Seas, and Journey of Water.
Inside the Land Pavilion, visitors are invited to fly high above the world’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders on Soarin’ Around the World. Next, take a boat ride through innovative advancements on Living with the Land.
Disney parks strive for sustainability and conservation. Both the Land and Seas pavilions feature an edutainment opportunity for those efforts. The Seas is home to the 2nd largest aquarium in the United States. The animal care team goes to great lengths to educate the public about dangers to aquatic environments and more.
Lastly, in 2023, Journey of Water opened as a walk-through exhibit inspired by the story of Moana. This interactive attraction features the stages of the water cycle.
World Showcase
Finally, beyond those neighborhoods, at the back of the park is World Showcase. This area of the park is a global celebration of culture and cuisine. Travel around the world visiting distant nations in an afternoon. Ambassadors for each nation work in their respective country’s pavilion as cast members. Each section is authentically designed.
Furthermore, guests are welcome to meet Disney characters in their respective countries around the World Showcase. For example, Snow White and Rapunzel greet guests in Germany. Alice, Mary Poppins, and Winnie the Pooh are all found in the UK. Use the My Disney Experience app to keep track of when characters meet and greets are available around the park.
Attractions in World Showcase
Some countries around World Showcase are home to popular rides in EPCOT:
- Frozen Ever After (Norway): Journey to the kingdom of Arendelle and join Anna, Elsa, and Olaf on a magical boat ride through scenes inspired by Disney’s Frozen.
- Gran Fiesta Tour (Mexico): Embark on a festive journey through Mexico with Donald Duck and his friends in this charming boat ride.
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (France): Shrink down to the size of a rat and race through Gusteau’s kitchen on a 4D, trackless, dark ride adventure.
Beyond the Attractions
EPCOT International Festivals
Throughout the year, EPCOT plays host to a series of seasonal festivals celebrating art, gardens, food and the holiday season from around the world. These events offer guests the opportunity to indulge their senses and immerse themselves in new experiences. Reserve a festival dining package for a delicious meal and a front row seat to the entertainment.
Interactive Exhibits and Pavilions
Explore the wonders of science, technology, and innovation in EPCOT’s interactive exhibits. In addition, from each section of the park there are countless opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
For guests looking to delve deeper into the magic of EPCOT, behind-the-scenes tours offer a unique glimpse behind the curtain. From guided tours of the greenhouses at Living with the Land to Dolphin Encounters and more, these tours provide an insider’s perspective on the creation and operation of the park.
Disney’s EPCOT offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the best of human creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of World Discovery or sampling cuisine from around World Showcase, EPCOT invites guests to embark on a journey of discovery and imagination that will leave a lasting impression for years to come.
If you’re thinking about a vacation to Disney World or any Disney destination, submit a free no-obligation quote request to start making your plans right away. Alternatively, you can reach out to DizN Vacations. Their team of expert travel professionals will personalize and book a bigger and better adventure for you and your loved ones.
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