EPCOT is a magical park at Walt Disney World that has a wide variety of experiences for guests. From high thrills to unique cultural experiences, EPCOT has something for everyone. As you prepare for your day at EPCOT, you will want to remember a few dos and don’ts.
Knowing about these experiences will give you a magical time with less stress.
Do Plan For Constructions
We love that Walt Disney World is constantly updated and changing, but with that change comes construction. EPCOT is undergoing a vast transformation. The whole front of the park (formally Future World) is being reimagined into new neighborhoods. World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature come together in the front of EPCOT.
As these neighborhoods come together, construction is taking place throughout the park. Because of this, you will want to be prepared to have some construction walls, noise, and additional walking during your visit.
We feel tremendous progress has been made over the last few months, but as work continues, be prepared for construction. Remember, it is all part of the magic that is Disney.
Don’t Skip Meet and Greets
It might surprise many to learn that EPCOT is a fantastic place to meet characters at Walt Disney World. Check out My Disney Experience for specific times and characters throughout the park.
Elsa and Anna will typically always be available as they meet guests in Norway at the Royal Sommerhus. One of our favorite characters to find is Winnie the Pooh. This adorable bear hangs out in the gardens around Imagination. A hidden gem is meeting Mickey Mouse at Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival. Only a few guests know that Mickey Mouse meets here in his traditional suit.
Throughout the World Showcase, guests will find princesses. Some princesses you can typically see include Mulan in China, Belle and Princess Aurora in France, Jasmine in Morocco, and Snow White in Germany. It is fun to see them in the countries with beautiful surroundings for pictures.
EPCOT is a fun place to meet characters and many guests don’t think about doing so during their visit.
Do Walk the World Showcase
The World Showcase is a huge part of what makes EPCOT unique. Take time during your day in EPCOT to stroll around the World Showcase. There is so much to experience in this area of the park. We have a whole post dedicated to quiet spots that we love around the World Showcase. Take a look at it here for suggestions on hidden gems.
Don’t make the mistake of focusing just on the main pathway around the World Showcase. Instead, head back into the countries to see the details and the magic they truly hold. The countries have much to offer, from great food and drinks to outstanding displays and films.
Don’t Miss Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
You will want to take advantage of the newest attraction to hit EPCOT. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a high-thrill indoor coaster that takes guests on a race through the galaxy. There are currently two ways for guests to experience this outstanding ride.
At 7:00 a.m., guests can join the virtual queue for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. They will be given a boarding group and a predicted wait time. While waiting for their boarding group to be called, guests can enjoy other parts of the park. Once called, guests head to the ride, where they will experience a slight wait before being able to board. If you can’t get into the first boarding group, try again at 1:00 p.m., but remember you need to be in EPCOT to do so.
The other option is to purchase an individual LIghtnign Lane. Also happening at 7:00 a.m., guests can select an hour window and buy the Individual Lightning Lane. This reserves their spot for that hour block and gives guests a much shorter wait.
Choose one or both options, but don’t miss out on this fantastic ride.
Do Enjoy Fantastic Food
When visiting EPCOT, you must have time to enjoy fantastic food. The park has so many outstanding restaurants that having a few meals and snacks is a must-do.
During festival time, make sure you enjoy a variety of unique cuisine from the festival booths. These are smaller plates allowing you to try several dishes.
You can also enjoy outstanding sit-down meals ranging from signature dining experiences such as Le Cellier Steakhouse in Canada or Monsieur Paul in France. There are also well-themed restaurants that are fun for the whole family. Head to space for a meal at Space220 or eat next to the aquarium at Coral Reef. Both are entertaining for everyone.
See Chip n’ Dale at Garden Grill, where you can enjoy a family-style meal of favorites. and for princess fans, visit Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, where you can dine in a castle. Families will enjoy a massive pizza at Via Napoli or a quick meal at Connections Eatry.
You will find it throughout EPCOT no matter what type of dining you are looking for.
EPCOT is a wonderful park full of magical experiences that the whole family can enjoy together. Ensure you have a great time by following these top dos and don’ts for your visit. From amazing rides to outstanding dining, EPCOT has it all; you won’t want to miss it.
