Epcot: A Trip To The Future And Around The World, All In Once Place

World Showcase

Visitors to the World Showcase are able to take a “trip around the world” as they meander from one pavilion to the next, enjoying the sights, sounds and tastes of various countries. The countries in the World Showcase area include Mexico, Norway, Canada, China, Germany, Italy, United States, Japan, Morocco, the United Kingdom, and France.

Each of the pavilions features restaurants that highlight the country’s cuisine. You will find both upscale restaurants and fast food options, all with an international flair. The biggest dilemma of the day just may be choosing which “country” that you want to eat in!

In addition to the dining options, there are also exhibits that allow visitors to get a feel for the country’s culture, history, art and people. There are amazing recreations of some country’s treasures, such as China’s Terracotta Army, a replica of the most important archaeological discovery in that country’s history.

After visiting all of the pavilions, you may have trouble deciding which one is your favorite. Perhaps you will enjoy the food from one country the most, and the art and music from a different country. One of the wonderful things about the World Showcase is that you can get a taste for the culture and traditions of many countries in a single afternoon!

Fun For Kids

As you visit each pavilion, let the kids take part in Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure. Participants will become agents and be issued special “Kimmunications” devices. They will have to complete missions in seven of the pavilions and find hidden rewards.

As you move from one pavilion to the next, you will be greeted by Disney characters and live performers. If there are young children in your group, be sure to stop at the Kidcot Stations. Each country’s pavilion has a Kidcot Station where young guests can create a souvenir. The projects are simple to do, so kids of all ages can participate. The Kidcot stops will not take a lot of time and they are a fun extra activity for the littlest members of your group.

IllumiNations: A Nighttime Spectacular

As darkness descends upon the World Showcase area, consider staying long enough to watch IllumiNations. This is a show featuring a variety of special effects such as fireworks, lasers ,and water works. When night falls on the pavilions, the history of the world will be remembered through the beautiful displays and moving music. This show is appropriate for all ages. Check the schedule for current show times.

Future World

Future World is the other area that is located in Epcot. Here you will find interesting attractions featuring science, space and technology.

Test Track

The Test Track is one of the longest rides in all of Disney World Resorts. Lasting a full five minutes, this ride is full of hairpin turns, special effects, and heart stopping action. You will be riding in a “test car” through a testing lab that was modeled after the facilities where General Motors tests it vehicles. Reaching speeds of about 65 miles per hour, you will ride along as the testers learn how the car reacts to extreme heat and cold and how well those brakes work during a near miss crash.

Guests must be at least 40 inches tall to ride on Test Track.

Spaceship Earth

There is no future without the past. That is why the designers of Future World included this look back at the history of man. Realistic animatronics will help to tell the story of life on earth. While in the vehicle that will take you on this journey, you can get an idea of what your life might be like in the future by using the touchscreen monitors located in each car.

Project Tomorrow

You can visit Project Tomorrow at the exit to the Spaceship Earth attraction.  Various areas of science, such as medicine, make major breakthroughs on a fairly regular basis. In Project of Tomorrow, you will get a peek  at some of the latest research and discoveries through interactive games and exhibits.

Mission: Space Pavilion

If you ever wanted to know what it felt like to head to space, this is your chance. The Mission: Space Attraction is a motion simulator that will give you all of the sensations of take-off and traveling from Earth to far away galaxies. Since there are no height requirements for this ride, even the littlest potential astronauts are welcome.  However, this is considered a thrill ride that includes tight spaces and high G-forces. 

Epcot Special Events

Disney World’s Epcot also plays host to several special events through the year – including the annual Flower and Garden Festival, Christmas Holiday Traditions from around the world, and the famous Food and Wine Festival.  Be sure to check for a current schedule of special events when planning your trip. Examples of past special events include:

3D Disney Dessert Discovery

If you love sweets, this is a perfect event for you. Sample a variety of fabulous desserts prepared by some of Disney’s master pastry chefs.

Taste and Shake and Indulge Like the French

Learn about – and sample – the various uses for the most popular liquor in France: Grand Marnier.

Mexico Tequila Tastings

Munch on Mexican food while you sample some of the best tequila and learn why this drink is so entrenched in Mexican culture.

Cheese Seminars

Learn about a variety of cheeses as well how to properly pair them with wine.
 
There is an extra charge for most of the special events and reservations are required. It is best to ask for the schedule of special events ahead of time as it is common for these events to fill up.

Epcot: A Great Place For Fun And Discovery

Epcot is full of the rides, fun, food and shows that have made Disney World Resorts the most popular place for family vacations. Be sure to set aside a day or two during your Disney vacation to enjoy all this theme park has to offer.

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  - The World Showcase is made up of several pavilions. Each one represents a particular country and features shopping, food, and other attractions intended to represent each country.