Walt Disney World offers incredible attractions, dining experiences, and entertainment. It is nearly impossible to fit everything into your itinerary.
EPCOT, as Walt Disney said, will always be in a state of becoming and is constantly evolving with new attractions and experiences. If planning a visit, prioritizing your time can help you make the most of your day.
Must-Do Attraction: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
One of EPCOT’s most thrilling attractions, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, takes guests on an intergalactic adventure. This ride remains a top priority due to its immersive storytelling and cutting-edge technology. It features a variety of classic songs, such as “September,” “Disco Inferno,” and “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” offering an exhilarating experience that’s unlike anything else at EPCOT.
As of February 25, 2025 guests no longer require a virtual queue in order to ride, which means you won’t be limited to only one space adventure per day.
Spaceship Earth vs. Living with the Land
These two opening day attractions provide a classic EPCOT experience, blending education and entertainment. If you only have time for one, here’s what to consider:
- Spaceship Earth: A journey through the history of communication featuring detailed animatronics and narration inside EPCOT’s iconic geodesic sphere. This ride delivers a nostalgic and educational experience.
- Living with the Land: A slow-moving boat ride highlighting EPCOT’s sustainability efforts and innovative farming techniques. While informative, it lacks the immersive storytelling of Spaceship Earth.
Verdict: Prioritize Spaceship Earth for its engaging storytelling and historical significance.
Soarin’ Around the World vs. Mission Space
Two of EPCOT’s most popular attractions, Soarin’ Around the World and Mission Space, often see long wait times. If you can only experience one, here’s our recommendation:
- Soarin’ Around the World: A breathtaking flight simulation that takes you on a global adventure. The ride features stunning visuals and immersive scents that transport you to different destinations.
- Mission Space: A space shuttle simulator attraction where recruits rocket into outer space, experiencing the G-forces of a spacecraft launch and reentry. While fun, this ride might be a little too intense for some families.
Verdict: Choose Soarin’ Around the World for its immersive experience and stunning visuals.
Best Dining Choice: Connections Cafe & Eatery vs. Sunshine Seasons
EPCOT is known for its diverse dining options. Both Connections Cafe & Eatery and Sunshine Seasons offer great choices, but one stands out:
- Connections Cafe & Eatery: A dining location featuring a modern design, open seating, and a well-curated menu. Guests can enjoy comfort food with globally inspired flavors.
- Sunshine Seasons: Located inside The Land pavilion, this quick-service spot offers a variety of fresh options. However, it lacks the excitement of EPCOT’s newer dining spots.
Verdict: Connections Cafe & Eatery wins for its fresh menu and inviting atmosphere.
Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival vs. Journey into Imagination with Figment
If you’re looking for a relaxing break, two options in the Imagination Pavilion allow you to sit and enjoy some air conditioning.
- Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival: This festival features a rotating selection of Disney and Pixar’s best short films. Each film carries a meaningful message and high-quality animation.
- Journey into Imagination with Figment: A whimsical dark ride starring Figment, a beloved Disney parks character and mascot for the EPCOT Festival of the Arts. Journey through the Imagination Institute, where you’ll find easter eggs from a couple of famous scientists from Disney films.
Verdict: Opt for joining Figment on this fun adventure, for most of the shorts featured at the film festival can be found on Disney+.
Additional Must-Do Experiences at EPCOT
EPCOT’s unique attractions extend beyond the rides. Be sure to add these guest-favorite experiences to your EPCOT itinerary:
- World Showcase: Stroll through 11 pavilions featuring authentic cultural experiences, dining, and entertainment worldwide.
- Creations Shop: EPCOT’s main retail location, offering exclusive Disney merchandise, including EPCOT-themed souvenirs.
- Kidcot Fun Stops: While traveling around the world showcase, don’t forget to stop by each of the pavilion’s Kidcot Fun Stops, where you’ll receive a souvenir postcard with a drawing or message handwritten by one of the international cast members in their native language.
- Festival offerings: Throughout the year, EPCOT is home to four different seasonal festivals. These include a variety of food offerings from around the world, concerts, and fun activities for the whole family.
- Luminous The Symphony of Us: EPCOT’s newest nighttime spectacular, delivering stunning visuals and a powerful soundtrack.
EPCOT continues to transform, bringing in fresh attractions, dining options, and entertainment while maintaining its classic charm. Since seeing and doing everything in one visit is impossible, prioritizing key experiences in your EPCOT itinerary ensures a memorable trip.
By focusing on must-do attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Soarin’ Around the World, and Spaceship Earth, as well as EPCOT’s standout dining and entertainment, you’ll create unforgettable Disney memories.
What’s a ride you can’t miss when visiting a Disney park?
