As the second park built at Walt Disney World, Epcot stands out for its unique blend of education, innovation, and cultural immersion. It’s not just about the rides, but it makes you feel like you can explore the world in a single day.

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. Because it’s so educational, many grade schools in the area take field trips there during the school year (Brandon made sure to point this out to the girls and me both times we went with him). 

I’ve been to Epcot three times now, and I can confidently say it’s my favorite park at Disney World. From the thrilling attractions to the immersive cultural showcases, there’s something magical about this place that keeps me coming back for more. Whether you’re here for the first time or planning your return, here’s my must-dos within the park.

Navigating Epcot: Understanding the Layout of the Park

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’s become synonymous with Epcot, is located at one end of the park, near the Main Entrance. 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 areas known as World Discovery, World Celebration, and World Nature. Each of these lands offers unique experiences focused on innovation, science, and the natural world.

• World Discovery: This area focuses on technology and space exploration. It’s where you can find attractions like Mission: SPACE and Test Track.
  
• World Celebration: Located in the heart of the park, this area celebrates human achievement and features Spaceship Earth, which houses a ride that takes you on a journey through the history of communication.
  
• World Nature: Dedicated to understanding and preserving the natural world, this area includes attractions like The Seas with Nemo & Friends and Soarin’ Around the World.
  

At the back of the park is 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 other cultures. The pavilions surround a large lagoon, and you can spend hours wandering through the shops, restaurants, and attractions each country has to offer.

What makes Epcot even more unique is that it’s the only Walt Disney World park with two entrances. Besides the Main Entrance, there’s the International Gateway, 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 also drop off guests here, making it a more scenic way to arrive at the park.

Navigating Epcot can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding its layout can help you make the most of your day. Whether you’re entering through the Main Entrance or the International Gateway, you’re in for an adventure that spans to infinity and beyond!

Rope Dropping: Your Secret Weapon for Beating the Crowds

Rope dropping. We did this at Disneyland and highly recommend it for anyone trying to avoid the long wait times for the bigger rides, say, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

So, what exactly is rope dropping? It means being at the park before it officially opens. You’ll get a head start on those popular attractions before the crowds start to roll in. 

BONUS TIP: 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 even begins!

This shift has made it one of the most popular rope drop choices, especially with Test Track closed for refurbishment until late 2025.

I recommend rope-dropping Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. In February 25, 2025, Cosmic Rewind transitioned from a virtual queue to a traditional standby line, making it accessible during Early Entry and rope drop. 

Starting your day with Cosmic Rewind allows you to experience this exhilarating ride with minimal wait times. Its innovative ride system and rotating vehicles provide a unique experience that’s hard to match. 

Afterward, you can head to other attractions like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure or Frozen Ever After, which tend to have more manageable lines later in the morning. This strategy maximizes your time and ensures you experience EPCOT’s top attractions efficiently.

A quick note for those who are prone to motion sickness: Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is a 4D ride that simulates being shrunk down to the size of a rat, scurrying through the bustling kitchen of Gusteau’s restaurant. There are 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, especially for getting on those must-do rides without spending half your day in line. So set that alarm, grab a quick breakfast, and get ready to make some early morning magic happen!

Exploring World Nature: A Celebration of Our Planet

One of the most fascinating areas of Epcot 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 dive deep into the wonders of our planet and 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 depths of the ocean, 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.

Some of the highlights of World Nature include:

• The Seas with Nemo & Friends: This attraction takes you on an underwater adventure with your favorite characters from Finding Nemo. After the ride, you can explore a massive aquarium filled with real marine life, making it both fun and educational for all ages.

• Soarin’ Around the World: One of Breanna’s favorites, this ride is a must-do at Epcot. It’s an exhilarating ride that lifts you high into the air, taking you on a hang-gliding journey over some of the most stunning natural wonders and man-made marvels across the globe. The sights, sounds, and even smells make it an incredibly immersive experience!

World Nature is perfect for those who want to take a break from the thrill rides and enjoy a more relaxed, informative experience. It’s an area of Epcot that showcases the park’s commitment to education and the environment, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and curious minds alike.

Going a bit more in-depth with each of these rides:

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is one of the newest and most exciting additions to Epcot’s World Nature. This interactive attraction is designed to bring the magic of water to life, drawing inspiration from Disney’s animated 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.

Here’s what you can expect from this experience:

• A Walk-Through Exploration: 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.

• Interactive Water Features: One of the coolest parts of this attraction is its interactive nature. Guests can engage with water in a variety of ways, from triggering fountains and streams with their movements to learning how water flows and moves through different landscapes. There are also spots where you can control the flow of water and create your own paths, making it a great hands-on learning experience.

• Thematic Elements from Moana: Throughout the attraction, you’ll find nods to the beloved characters and scenes from Moana. Look out for appearances by Moana herself, as well as symbols and motifs from the film that help tell the story of water’s journey across the Earth.

• Educational and Fun: While it’s an interactive playground, Journey of Water also serves as an educational experience, teaching guests about the importance of water conservation and the natural water cycle. It’s a great way to learn about the environment in a setting that’s both entertaining and visually stunning.

• Relaxing and Refreshing: On a hot Florida day, this attraction offers a refreshing break. The water features provide a cool mist, making it a great spot to cool down while exploring Epcot.

Living with the Land: My Favorite Ride at Epcot

This attraction is a must-visit for anyone who loves food, sustainability, and learning about innovative agricultural practices.

Living with the Land is a gentle boat ride that takes you on a journey through various ecosystems and greenhouses, showcasing how we can sustainably grow food for the future. What makes this ride truly special is that it’s not just for show—Disney World horticulturalists are doing some incredible things here!

In the greenhouses, you’ll see firsthand how Disney utilizes innovative growing techniques, such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and vertical farming, to grow crops in ways that maximize space and resources. They’re even cross-breeding high-yield crops to develop varieties that are more resistant to pests and diseases, all to help feed our growing planet.

One of the most incredible aspects of Living with the Land is that a significant portion 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. It’s incredible to think that the salad you’re eating might have been grown just a few hundred feet away!

Behind the Seeds Tour

For those of us who are real food and sustainability nerds, there’s 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 methods, and maybe even get a chance to sample some of the fresh produce!

I love it because Living with the Land isn’t just a ride; it’s an eye-opening experience that showcases the possibilities of sustainable farming and the future of food production. If you’re anything like me and enjoy learning about where our food comes from and how we can grow it more sustainably, this ride is an absolute must-do.

World Celebration: The Heart of Epcot

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.

Within 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 commitment to uniting people through storytelling and shared experiences, causing you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the wonders of the world around us.

The World of Flavor Coca-Cola booth, known as Club Cool, is located in the World Celebration section of Epcot. It is near the Creations Shop and the newly redesigned fountain area. Club Cool offers visitors a chance to sample various Coca-Cola products from around the world, making it a fun and refreshing stop during your visit to Epcot.

This area of the park also offers opportunities for relaxation and exploration. It’s all about celebrating the human spirit and the drive to innovate and explore—qualities that are at the very heart of what Epcot is all about.

Rides and Attractions I Recommend

Spaceship Earth: A Journey Through Time and Technology

One of the most iconic attractions at Epcot is Spaceship Earth, located right at the park’s entrance. You can’t miss it—this massive geodesic sphere is not only the park’s centerpiece. What some people don’t realize is that it also houses a 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. With detailed scenes and animatronics, the attraction showcases key moments in history, from ancient cave paintings and the invention of the printing press to the creation of the internet. It’s a look at how humans have shared ideas and connected with one another over thousands of years.

Beyond just being educational, Spaceship Earth also offers a glimpse into the future. As the ride comes to an end, you’ll have the opportunity to see a vision of tomorrow, personalized to your preferences, thanks to an interactive touchscreen 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. Breanna especially loves this part of the ride. 

Journey into Imagination with Figment: Embrace Your Creative Side

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! I knew of him before my first Disney World trip; by my third one, I was dressing up as him.

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.

In case you missed it, Figment holds a special place in my heart. I even have a Figment stuffed toy from the 90s (thanks to one of Brandon’s educational trips) and two Figment pins that I will never trade. 

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. So, buckle up and get ready for a ride that will spark your imagination in ways you never expected!

World Discovery: A Thrilling Journey into Science and Technology

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 and curious minds alike, offering a variety of attractions that immerse you in the cutting-edge world of innovation and discovery.

In World Discovery, you can experience some of Epcot’s most exciting rides. Whether you’re blasting off into the cosmos, designing and testing your virtual vehicle (currently under construction), 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 the role technology plays 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 being made in our world today. 

Rides and Attractions I Recommend

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind: A Galactic Adventure Like No Other

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is one of the newest attractions at Epcot, offering a ride experience that’s truly out of this world. 

This thrilling roller coaster combines high-speed excitement with the fun and humor of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. However, what makes it truly unique is that it features a selection of six different songs, so you may have a completely different experience each time you ride. 

When we hopped on the first time, we got “One Way or Another” by Blondie. The second time I rode it, my friend and I got “Disco Inferno”. 

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 car 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 (but much faster). This feature makes the ride feel incredibly 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!

Mission: Space: A Journey to the Stars

Mission: Space offers guests the opportunity to experience what it’s like to be an astronaut on a thrilling journey to the stars. 

This intense, simulated space mission lets 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 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 (insert: the Dramamine group).

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: From Thrilling Simulations to New Innovations

For many years, Test Track has been one of the standout attractions at Epcot, offering guests the chance to experience the adrenaline rush of testing a car’s performance through various conditions and environments. 

The original ride, which opened in 1999, took riders through a series of tests that real automotive engineers use to evaluate new vehicle designs. From handling hairpin turns to speeding down a high-speed loop, the original Test Track was all about the thrill of the ride and the science of car testing.

One of the most memorable aspects of the original Test Track was its finale, where riders would accelerate to speeds of up to 65 mph on an outdoor track, simulating a high-speed test. It was exhilarating and gave guests a taste of what goes into developing the cars we drive every day. 

The ride was not just about speed but also highlighted safety, braking, and environmental conditions, making it both exciting and educational.

However, as of June 17, 2024, Test Track has closed for an exciting new transformation. 

Disney is reimagining the ride to celebrate the spirit of innovation and to highlight the past, present, and future of transportation. This new theme will draw inspiration from the original World of Motion attraction, which once stood where Test Track is now located. World of Motion was one of Epcot’s original attractions, taking 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 approximately a year, with Test Track set to reopen in summer 2025. 

Naturally, we’ll miss the original high-speed thrills, but we’re excited to see how Disney will blend the old with the new, creating a fresh experience. For those who loved the original Test Track, this reimagining is both a farewell to an old favorite and an exciting step forward.

World Showcase: A Journey Around the Globe

World Showcase is one of the most enchanting areas of Epcot, inviting guests to embark on a cultural journey across the globe without ever leaving the park. 

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 the rich culture and traditions of its respective nation.

Strolling through World Showcase is like taking a world tour in a single afternoon. You can savor delicious cuisines, watch traditional performances, and shop for authentic goods, all while soaking up the beautiful scenery that reflects each country’s unique character. 

It’s not just about sightseeing, though; 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.

Walking the World: A Journey Through Epcot’s World Showcase

One of the best ways to experience Epcot is simply to start walking. 

Begin in Mexico and follow the World Showcase loop around the lagoon, where each pavilion invites you into a new culture through immersive architecture, cuisine, music, and storytelling. 

Here’s what to look for along the way:

🇲🇽 Mexico

Step into the majestic pyramid and find yourself in a twilight-lit Mexican marketplace.

• Greeted by imagery from Coco, you’ll immediately feel the warmth and vibrancy of Día de los Muertos come to life.
  
• Ride the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros, a lighthearted boat ride with Donald Duck and friends. It’s colorful, catchy, and one of my personal favorites.

🇳🇴 Norway

Next, explore the icy wonders of Norway.

• Frozen Ever After whisks you through the kingdom of Arendelle with animatronic versions of Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and more.
  
• The Scandinavian setting is charming, making for great photo opportunities with its wooden architecture and folklore-inspired details.

🇨🇳 China

The China pavilion is a peaceful and awe-inspiring space, featuring a stunning circular temple replica as its centerpiece.

• Don’t miss Reflections of China, a 360-degree film that takes you across sweeping mountain ranges, modern cities, and ancient landmarks.
  
• The gardens and stone bridges make this pavilion a great place to pause and take in the view.

🇩🇪 Germany

Step into the heart of a storybook village, complete with clock towers and cobbled streets.

• The Biergarten Restaurant is a personal favorite—Brandon loved it on his school trips, and when we visited in December 2020, the girls and I got to experience it as well. If you’re looking for a decent-sized meal (it’s a buffet) with entertainment, this is the way to go.
• Inside, you’ll find oompah music, hearty German fare, and communal tables that make every meal feel like a festive family gathering.

🇮🇹 Italy

This pavilion transports you to the charm of Venice and Rome.

• Stroll past beautiful replicas of Venetian architecture, including the famed St. Mark’s Campanile.
  
• Enjoy handmade pizza from Via Napoli, or sit down for pasta and wine at Tutto Italia Ristorante.
  
• Sip and savor at Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, a cozy and romantic hideaway for wine lovers.
  

🇺🇸 The American Adventure

Anchored in colonial-style architecture, this pavilion celebrates the American spirit.

• You’ll smell it before you see it: Regal Eagle Smokehouse, a full-on BBQ pit, is the centerpiece—and this Texas girl’s heart was so happy to see it (I didn’t eat it, though, because I can have that at home).
  
• You can also catch the American Adventure show, a stirring audio-animatronic journey through key moments in U.S. history. We went the last time and it was a great way to get out of the weather for a little bit.
  

🇯🇵 Japan

A stunning pavilion with cascading rooftops and peaceful gardens.

• Don’t miss the “Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture” exhibit inside the Mitsukoshi Department Store. It’s seriously adorable and showcases how “cute” culture influences fashion, toys, and even food in modern Japan.
  
• Enjoy sushi, browse delicate ceramics, or just soak in the calm energy of this thoughtfully designed space.
  

🇲🇦 Morocco

This richly detailed pavilion feels like stepping into another world—and for me, it’s pure Aladdin magic.

• The winding alleys, hand-tiled fountains, and intricate carvings make it easy to feel like you’ve stumbled into Agrabah.
  
• It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for hidden corners and authentic details.
  

🇫🇷 France

Elegant and romantic, France delivers on all the Parisian charm you’d expect.

• Ride Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a whimsical, trackless ride that shrinks you down to the size of a rat and zips you through Gusteau’s kitchen (We talked about it earlier).
  
• Don’t skip the pastries—this is the place for warm croissants, macarons, and that perfect afternoon espresso.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Charming cottages, red phone boxes, and manicured gardens set the scene here.

• You can shop for tea, Beatles merch, or even a cozy British jumper.
  
• Grab a pint and some fish and chips at Rose & Crown Pub, then relax in the lovely garden area while enjoying live music or character meet-and-greets.

🇨🇦 Canada

Finish your loop with a breath of fresh, Canadian mountain air.

• The towering Hotel du Canada and cascading waterfall create a dramatic welcome.
  
• Watch Canada Far and Wide, a sweeping 360-degree film showcasing the country’s diverse beauty.
  
• For a cozy finale, grab a meal at Le Cellier Steakhouse, where you’ll find rich Canadian dishes like cheddar soup and maple crème brûlée.

Rounding out Epcot (for now, at least)

Epcot 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 (a long single day). 

One thing is certain, though: 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 get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey!

Did You Know???

This is our VERY FIRST travel post- more coming soon.

For now- be sure to check out our wellness and home posts to get more great content. <3 So glad you’re here!