Epcot World Showcase

Those who have dreamed of traveling around the world can get a taste of such an adventure by visiting the Epcot World Showcase. This is part of Epcot, a 300 acre park that is divided into two general areas: Future World and World Showcase.

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.

Epcot Theme Park allows visitors the chance to stroll leisurely from country to country, getting a feel for the customs and becoming familiar with the foods of each. Below is a brief description of each pavilion.

Mexico Pavilion

You will feel as though you are walking into an Aztec temple. Once inside, you will be greeted by wonderful scents from the restaurants  where you can try authentic Mexican dishes. The adults in your group (21 and up) can participate in a lesson about tequila and sample some of the same. Shop for mementos such as baskets, silver jewelry and, yes, bottles of tequila.

Norway Pavilion

Those interested in history will appreciate a stop to this pavilion. Inside, you will have the chance to see authentic Viking weapons and other tools. You will be able to learn about this fascinating group of people while dining at the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, taking a ride on the Maelstrom Adventure Cruise – when you encounter an animatronic three-headed troll!  You can also enjoy shopping for books, perfumes, and Norse toys.

China Pavilion

Take a few minutes to sit down in the gorgeous gardens before heading to the exhibit called Tomb Warriors Guardian Spirits of Ancient China. This exhibit is a replica of an actual excavation site in China where many fascinating artifacts have been discovered. You can also sample authentic Chinese food in the Nine Dragons Restaurant.

Tranquil gardens, restaurants, shops, and films make a visit to the China Pavilion a must see.
Tranquil gardens, restaurants, shops, and films make a visit to the China Pavilion a must see.

At the Beirgarten Restaurant you can try German cuisine as well as beer. Enjoy the sounds of a traditional German band with your meal.  There are wine tastings offered and the chance to purchase a wonderful memento of your time at Epcot World Showcase such as a German stein.

Enjoy a German beer and listen to a traditional band.
Enjoy a German beer and listen to a traditional band.

Because food is so important to the Italian culture, it is no surprise that there are plenty of dining options in this pavilion. Grab a quick treat at Delizie Italiane or enjoy a sit-down dinner at Via Napoli or Tutto Italia Ristorante. Modeled after the city of Venice, this pavilion features a piazza where you can stroll while enjoying the entertainers who wander the area.

From wine to pizza, you can get a taste of Italy without opening your passport.
From wine to pizza, you can get a taste of Italy without opening your passport.

This pavilion was modeled after some of the most well-known American architecture including Virginia’s Monticello and Boston’s Old State House. Grab a bite in the Liberty Inn Restaurant and enjoy the show put on by the Spirit of American Fife and Drum Corps.   You can also see the dramatic Broadway-styled performance titled “The American Adventure” where the history of the United States unfolds in film, music, and animatronics.

The history of America comes to life in The American Adventure.
The history of America comes to life in The American Adventure.

Enjoy the tranquility of rock gardens and koi ponds, nestled among Japanese maple trees. Dine in one of the restaurants where you can learn about authentic Japanese food. Learn about Japan’s many World Heritage Sites and the exhibit titled Visions of Beauty: World Heritage Sites of Japan. Grab a souvenir, such as a bonsai tree, at Mitsukoshi Department Store.

Calm and beautiful, the Japan Pavilion is a great place to explore.
Calm and beautiful, the Japan Pavilion is a great place to explore.

You can get a taste of both old and new Morocco in this pavilion as it is divided into two sections to give visitors a look at both the ancient and more modern cities. Dine in the Restaurant Marrakesh while belly dancers stroll among tables, providing entertainment. Visit the Gallery of Arts and History Exhibit where you can see authentic artifacts.

Often overlooked, the Morocco Pavilion has many hidden alleys and stores to explore.
Often overlooked, the Morocco Pavilion has many hidden alleys and stores to explore.

France is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the world. You can see some of these lovely landscapes by viewing the film Impressions de France. Eat some fabulous French food at the Bistro de Paris or Les Chefs de France. Spend a little time shopping so that you can bring home some authentic French perfume, wine, or other goods.

You can take in plenty of French food and culture in the France Pavilion.
You can take in plenty of French food and culture in the France Pavilion.

The cobblestone streets and gorgeous architecture will make you feel as though you are strolling down a street in Old London. Enjoy the sounds of the Beatles and other British groups via a tribute band that entertains visitors. Pick up some Beatles memorabilia, perfume, tea, and other items to remind you of your visit.

The streets of jolly old England come to life in the United Kingdom Pavilion.
The streets of jolly old England come to life in the United Kingdom Pavilion.

Learn about our “neighbors to the North” by exploring this gorgeous pavilion featuring gardens and waterfalls. Listen to a Celtic rock band, shop for Canadian folk art and grab a bite to eat in the upscale and very popular Le Cellier Steakhouse.

A trip to the Canada Pavilion is like a trip up north, but without the snow.
A trip to the Canada Pavilion is like a trip up north, but without the snow.

It is not possible to include information about all of what each of the pavilions has to offer, and there are so many features and shows at Epcot World Showcase, that it is not possible to visit them all in one day. In addition to those that are based on the cultures of various countries, there are also exhibits based around popular characters and entertainers, such as Kim Possible World Showcase and EO Starring Michael Jackson.

Disney Characters

As guests stroll between pavilions, Disney characters meander around to greet and visit with them. You might run into Aladdin in Morocco or Belle while in France. There are also plenty of adventures and rides to enjoy. Whether you want something daring, such as a hang gliding adventure or would rather take it easy with a quiet boat ride, there is something for everyone in Epcot World Showcase.

Fun For Kids

The kids will have a blast in one of the many interactive play areas. They can even visit a Kidcot station where they can make their own souvenir. With plenty of live shows, concerts, comedians and fireworks to enjoy, there is always something fun and exciting going on.

Special Epcot Tours

Special Segway tours or behind-the-scenes tours are other options. Both of these offer a unique perspective of the park and allow you to access areas that are not usually open to guests. Special events are held at Epcot Center throughout the year including Holidays Around the World and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Enjoy The World – All In One Place

If you can’t go on that trip around the world right now, Epcot World Showcase is a fabulous way to become familiar with the cultures of many countries.