Epcot – Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow2024-02-17T21:11:56-05:00
  • Visitors Guide to Epcot

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the extraordinary realm of Epcot – a place where imagination takes flight, cultures come alive and enchanting neighborhoods inspire you to explore. Epcot is made up of a tapestry of four distinct neighborhoods, each with its own charm and wonders. Covering 300 acres, Epcot is dedicated to human achievement, technological innovation and international culture and cuisine.

It’s a fascinating park that’s able to amuse, thrill and educate all at once. Where else can you keep the kids entertained while you munch your way around the world?

The name is an acronym for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow and not the popular and much easier mouthful, Every Person Comes Out Tired.

Epcot opened on October 1st 1982 and the park icon is Spaceship Earth located at the main entrance.

Get those walking shoes ready. This place is big. And we mean huge big! Not so much in terms of acreage, (Animal Kingdom has that accolade), but in the amount of walking you’ll do covering the park.

You can hop on the Friendship Boats between two points in World Showcase, but that’s pretty much as far as it goes in transport. The rest is down to footwork.

Epcot Neighborhoods

Epcot is split into 4 neighborhoods:

  • World Celebration
  • World Discovery
  • World Nature
  • World Showcase

There’s a lot to see between them all, you’ll need more than a day to do Epcot any justice. Or a very thorough touring plan.

Luminous The Symphony of Us is the spectacular laser and firework show held every evening as the finale to the day. The show is located over Showcase Lagoon in World Showcase.

Epcot Map

Epcot Park Map

Get A Quote To Stay in A Vacation Home

Epcot
World Celebration

World Celebration is the first area you come to as you enter Epcot, it’s the central hub of the park and was designed as a celebration of human achievement and the power of a global community. This tree-lined oasis is a showcase of Epcot’s essence, where storytelling, art, nature and technology blend together.

There are multiple pathways leading off to all other areas of the park, plus lots of shaded seating areas, tables and gathering space.

Attractions in World Celebration

Spaceship Earth

As you step into the entrance plaza, Epcot’s iconic 180 foot geosphere looms ahead. Inside the sphere is a 16 minute historical observation that takes us on a journey of how mankind overcame and developed communication concepts. From the dawn of civilization to the digital age, it showcases the modern technology we take for granted today.

At dusk, Spaceship Earth comes alive in a symphony of specialized LED lights illuminating a series of light shows that change with the seasons, festivals and events. The dazzling effect can be seen from all over the park.

Dreamers Point

“Walt the Dreamer” statue, which shows Walt later in his life when he was dreaming up the initial concepts for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow and the overall Florida Project. Walt is sitting in front of a wall with a pattern taken from a much earlier design concept of Epcot.

Dreamers Point Statue

There is plenty of seating either side of Walt where you and your group can sit and get a photo alongside the man himself. A Disney PhotoPass Photographer is always on hand to take photos, or you can take your own.

World Celebration Gardens

Unwind in this serene oasis that showcases the beauty of nature from around the globe. Stroll through lush landscapes, admire vibrant floral displays and discover hidden pathways that lead to quiet spots to sit and watch the Epcot world go by. The lighting at night gives the whole area a whole new atmosphere.

The central planter of World Celebration Gardens is based on the five-rings of the iconic EPCOT logo.

It’s a great location to take a breather and relax. There are multiple charging stations and power points around this area.

Pluto is also a regular visitor to World Celebration, you’ll often see him mingling and interacting with visitors.

Enjoying This Post? Get Your FREE Insiders Guide

Plus Monthly Insiders Circle Update for the latest news, info and deals.

Orlando Insiders Guide Image

Journey into Imagination with Figment

Embark on a delightful journey alongside Figment and discover the magic of imagination. The lovable purple dragon reminds us that imagination has the power to inspire, innovate, and transform the world around us. He encourages us to embrace our inner creativity and unleash our imaginations. As your journey comes to an end, you’ll emerge from the Imagination Institute with a renewed sense of inspiration.

The sensory lab provides a series of interactive exhibits, from colorful displays to whimsical soundscapes.

Disney Pixar Short Film Festival

The magical world of animated shorts are showcased at the Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival. An indoor location with air conditioning, it’s a great place to take a break on an exhausting Epcot day.

Dining & Shopping in Epcot World Celebration

Connections Cafe is home to Starbucks for a variety of beverages, plus sandwiches and pastries.

Connections Eatery serves up burgers, sandwiches, pizza, salads and a selection of beverages.

Club Cool – you’ll find multiple fountains offering free sample sizes of Coca-Cola products from around the world. Try as many flavors as you like. There are 8 samples to try, including Country Club Merengue from the Dominican Republic, Smart Sour Plum from China and Bon Bon Anglois from Madagascar. The most discussed flavor is Beverly from Italy, it has a bitter taste and you’ll either love it or hate it.  All samples are free, plus there’s also Coca-Cola merchandise available for purchase.

Creations Shop offers plenty of Disney and Epcot merchandise.

CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza

Scheduled to open sometime in 2024, CommuniCore Hall will serve as a dynamic Epcot hub for innovation, creativity, and storytelling. This state-of-the-art venue will host a variety of interactive exhibits, immersive experiences, and special events, where visitors can engage with cutting-edge technologies and groundbreaking ideas.

Epcot
World Discovery

Dive into technological marvels while having a blast in this futuristic haven where the spirit of exploration and innovation thrives. You can experience thrilling journeys into the unknown and embark on intergalactic escapades, exploring the outer reaches of space. You can even dine among the stars at World Discovery.

Attractions in World Discovery

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

With its innovative ride system and immersive storytelling, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind takes you on a high-speed journey through space. During this intergalactic adventure, you’ll encounter iconic characters from the Marvel universe and experience gravity-defying twists and turns.

The first ever family-friendly coaster in Epcot brings us an intergalactic chase through time and space. This is one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world, housed in one of the largest show buildings ever constructed by Disney. By volume, four Spaceship Earths would fit inside the attraction’s massive building! soaring through the cosmos

Guardians of the Galaxy Epcot Attraction

Mission: SPACE

Have you ever wanted to be an astronaut? Well you can in Epcot. Mission Space needs a crew of 4, each with their own responsibility to ensure a safe flight to the red planet. With realistic simulations and a sense of weightlessness, Mission: SPACE is a must-visit for space enthusiasts.

This high-intensity simulator attraction offers two distinct experiences: an Orange Mission for those seeking a thrilling adventure to the Red Planet, and a Green Mission for a more family-friendly journey around Earth. If you have any worries about motion sickness, then give serious thought to giving this ride a miss or at least take the less intense GREEN flight.

Select Property and Add Dates for a Quote

Test Track

Buckle up and get ready for a high-octane adventure on Test Track Presented by Chevrolet. Test Track involves designing your own virtual concept vehicle, which is then put into production to discover how successful your prototype has become. Then take it out for a test drive in a 6 passenger vehicle. The track banks at a 50 degree angle and you’ll reach speeds of 65 miles per hour. Hold onto your hat.
Test Track has a 40” height restriction.

Green Landing Family Play Zone

This Epcot location often changes name, but you can’t miss it, located right outside the Connections Shop. Lots of climbing structures and several interactive and hands-on activities for all ages. Plus, there’s plenty of space for everyone to relax and take a breather.

Green Landing Family Play Zone

Dining & Shopping in World Discovery

Space 220

After being transported 220 miles above Epcot to a space station orbiting the planet, you can indulge in a gourmet menu inspired by international cuisine and futuristic flavors. Enjoy panoramic views of space, out-of-this-world ambiance and delectable dishes.

Space 220 at Epcot World Discovery Neighborhood

For something a little lighter, there’s a Joffrey’s for coffee and beverages and also a seasonal Coca-Cola Refreshment Station.

Treasures of Xander For some otherworldly merchandise, head to Treasures of Xander where The Broker has imported lots of treasures from Xandar. You’ll find an array of items from the Guardians of the Galaxy movie plus some great theming.

Epcot
World Nature

The wonders of the natural world take center stage in World Nature. From soaring over majestic landscapes and exploring lush tropical gardens to discovering sustainable farming practices, World Nature blends fun education and unique entertainment.

Attractions in World Nature

Journey of Water

With breathtaking scenery and immersive storytelling, Journey of Water offers a serene and educational experience that highlights the wonders of nature in an aquatic adventure inspired by the hit Moana.

Throughout this interactive and tranquil voyage, you can explore lush water gardens, interact with magical fountains and cascading waterfalls, create music and waves and celebrate the life-giving force of water.

There are split pathways, where you can choose between staying dry or getting wet. A change of clothes for the kids might be in order!

The lighting at night creates a dazzling contrast to the day.

The Land Pavilion in World Nature

Immerse yourself in a world of exploration and discovery in The Land Pavilion. Home to several attractions and experiences, this pavilion celebrates the beauty and bounty of the earth. Take flight over breathtaking landscapes, embark on a gentle boat ride through lush greenhouses, and learn about sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts that are shaping the future of our planet.

The Epcot Land Pavilion Attractions:

Soarin’ Around the World

Soarin’ Around the World takes you hang-gliding on a journey above the world, soaring over iconic landmarks and natural wonders from every corner of the earth.

The 180-degree, 80-foot IMAX digital projection dome features sights, sounds and scents. You’ll soar over the Swiss Alps, polar bears in Greenland, Sydney Harbour in Australia, Mount Kilimanjaro, the Great Wall of China, Pyramids of Egypt, Taj Mahal in India, Monument Valley, Iguazu Falls in South America and the Eiffel Tower.

Please Note: For a limited time, Soarin’ Over California has replaced Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot.

Living With The Land

An easy-going and serene boat ride through the innovative Epcot greenhouses in the Living with the Land attraction. This educational attraction educates about sustainable farming practices, aquaculture and hydroponics while exploring diverse ecosystems from around the world. Get an insight into the vital role of agriculture in shaping our planet’s future.

If you want to see even more, you can take the 1 hour Behind the Seeds tour. Full Details: Behind The Seeds Tour.

Awesome Planet

A short movie showcasing the beauty of planet earth

6 Reasons You'll Love Orlando Vacation Homes

The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion in World Nature

This Pavilion is home to several Epcot attractions, a huge aquarium, a gift shop and a restaurant.

The Seas with Nemo & Friends

A delightful ride on a “clamobile” taking you into the world of Nemo, Dory, Crush and all the other colorful characters from the Disney movies. This charming attraction combines gentle storytelling with animated displays, where you can journey beneath the waves and explore the wonders of the ocean as you embark on a quest to find Nemo.

Turtle Talk with Crush

Hey, Dude! Come and check on this turtley awesome interactive show with Crush. This show is pure magic and a laugh-out-loud 10 minute treasure. Crush chats ad-lib with kids sitting in front of his digital ocean. He also takes time to chat to adults, invariably entertaining the audience at the expense of unsuspecting parents.

Sea Base

Wander around Sea Base, an expansive 5.7 million gallon underwater observation area containing an array of 4,000 sea creatures including rays, sea turtles and a multitude of brightly colored fish that call Epcot home.

SeaBase at Epcot

Wander through winding corridors and peer into giant windows to catch glimpses of sharks, rays and an array of colorful marine life. There’s a second floor observation deck with a circular window lined space where you are almost fully surrounded by water.

Interactive exhibits and educational displays provide insight into the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems and the efforts to conserve and protect our underwater world.

SeaBase Tours:

  • Dive Quest: Divers with SCUBA certification can dive into the aquarium, plus get a backstage tour and see the inner workings of the massive aquarium. See Disney’s website for full info.
  • Dolphins in Depth: A 2 hour intimate dolphin encounter where you’ll learn all about bottlenose dolphins. See Disney for info.

Select Property and Add Dates for a Quote

Dining in World Nature

Sunshine Seasons: This quick service food court is located in The Land Pavilion. You can experience the flavors of food grown in the Epcot greenhouses. You’ll find wood-grilled entrées, plant based dishes, healthy vegetables and power salads and a range of desserts and beverages.

Garden Grill Restaurant: Join Chip ‘n’ Dale, Farmer Mickey and other Disney pals as they parade and interact with diners. This slowly rotating restaurant, located in The Land Pavilion, gives changing views of Living with the Land attraction for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Coral Reef Restaurant: Located next to The Seas with Nemo & Friends, this cool and unique eatery provides ocean-fresh specialties and panoramic views of the living coral reef of SeaBase. The Seas in Epcot is one of the biggest man-made ocean environments in the world and is home to over 2,000 sea creatures.

You might spot sharks, manta rays, turtles and all kind of sea creatures as you chow down. All ages will love the ever changing scenes of the aquarium.

Epcot World Showcase

At Epcot World Showcase, you’ll embark on an around-the-world journey spanning eleven nations located around Showcase Lagoon. This Epcot neighborhood is a celebration of international diversity, where you’ll be immersed in the authentic architecture, languages, flavors and traditions of each pavilion.

Enjoy A World Trip

The countries you’ll be able to explore in World Showcase are:

Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, United States, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom and Canada.

Enjoy seeking out treasures and gems from each location, where representatives from each country are happy to share their traditions and cultures.

Explore Global Cuisine

Epcot is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in delectable dishes from around the world, whether it’s French pastries, Japanese sushi or a hearty German bratwurst. There’s an array of international restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. From the flavors of France at Les Chefs de France to the exotic bites at Spice Road Table in Morocco, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Live Entertainment and Cultural Experiences

Every pavilion in Epcot World Showcase offers a unique and immersive encounter. Some offer live entertainment celebrating the sounds and specialties of their nation.

Live entertainment includes:

  • Mexico: Live and traditional Mexican folk music
  • Germany: Music from visiting bands on the Gazebo
  • Italy: Sergio is a master juggler and mimer with a comedy show
  • United States: Voices of Liberty harmonise with inspiring vocal performances
  • Japan: Matsuriza perform Taiko, an ancient form of Japanese drumming
  • Morocco: Live music and belly dancing
  • United Kingdom: Command Performance rock the stage on select days. Rose & Crown Pub Musician
  • Canada: Live music performances on Mill Stage

We delve deeper into each pavilion and uncover hidden gems in our Complete Guide to World Showcase.

Epcot
Fireworks Finale

Prepare to be spellbound as the night sky over Epcot transforms into a canvas of color and light. Luminous: The Symphony of Us is a breathtaking fireworks spectacular that captivates all ages with stunning visuals, enchanting music, and immersive storytelling.

As the name suggests, “Luminous” illuminates the night sky above Epcot World Showcase with a dazzling display of light and color, symbolizing the shared experiences and dreams that unite. With music, fireworks, and visual effects, everyone watching is invited to come together and celebrate the beauty of our world and the connections that bind us.

Luminous Symphony of Us fireworks

This immersive adventure weaves iconic Disney moments, beloved characters, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re soaring over Agrabah with Aladdin and Jasmine or exploring the depths of the ocean with Moana, each scene is brought to life in detail. An evocative soundtrack might tug at the heartstrings as it takes you on a journey of nostalgia, while fireworks dance across the sky in perfect harmony.

Luminous the Symphony of Us made it’s debut on December 5 2023, in honor of the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary.

The show is on every evening at 9pm, but times do sometimes change, so check the Epcot calendar on the day you visit.

Where to Watch Luminous

There are plenty of viewing locations all around World Showcase Lagoon, but make sure you have a good visual of the sky and central barges on the water and your view is not blocked by trees or poles. Luminous does have plenty of low level fountain and effects, so you want to make sure you have a clear view of the water and the sky.

If you don’t mind staking out a spot at least an hour ahead of showtime, here’s a few great locations to see the Epcot fireworks:

  • World Showcase Plaza – the best perfectly centered view. However, this location is somewhat blocked during Festival of the Arts in January/February with a stage. It is also reserved on some occasions. This area slopes from the water up, meaning you don’t have to be right at the front. You get an elevated view as you move backwards.
  • Japan/American Adventure – the space between these two pavilions gives a great central view plus a view of Spaceship Earth, which also lights up during the fireworks.
  • Mitsukoshi Department Store – the second floor gives an elevated view but is very limited and fills up fast.

Do keep in mind though, with locations at the back of Epcot, you’ll be the furthest away from the front exit!

Check the wind direction! If any wind is blowing into your face, move to a different location. The smoke from the fireworks will travel with the wind.

Click to see Why Orlando Vacation Homes make the Perfect Choice for Your Orlando Vacation

Epcot Fireworks Dining Package

If staking out a fireworks viewing spot isn’t your idea of fun, there are fireworks dining packages available. You’ll get a good view without having to camp out, along with dinner. Two locations are currently offering fireworks viewing packages:

Spice Road Table

Located in Morocco, you’ll get a table in the covered dining deck overlooking Showcase Lagoon. Dinner includes a choice of 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a dessert platter and unlimited beverages.
Cost is $81 for ages 10 and up, $31 for ages 3 to 9, including tax and gratuity.

Epcot Fireworks dining package at Spice Road Table

Rose & Crown Pub

Located in the United Kingdom, you’ll be seated on the outdoor patio area of the Rose & Crown Dining Room overlooking Showcase Lagoon. Your package includes one appetizer, one entrée, one dessert and a selection of unlimited beverages.
Cost is $92 for ages 10 and up, $41 for ages 3 to 9, including tax and gratuity.

Select Property and Add Dates for a Quote

Epcot
Annual Festivals

There are four major Epcot festivals held at Epcot every year.

Festival of the Arts – January – February

Celebrate the magic of creativity of art, music and culinary delights with a diverse array of artistic performances, exhibits and festival kitchens. Admire stunning visual artworks created by Disney artists and renowned talents, watch live art demonstrations, participate in interactive workshops and sample creative cuisine from around the world.

The festival also features the popular Disney on Broadway Concert Series, where you can enjoy live performances of Disney songs by Broadway stars.

Festival of the Arts

Flower & Garden Festival – February – May

A vibrant celebration of springtime beauty and botanical wonders transform Epcot into a colorful tapestry of flowers, topiaries and garden displays. From captivating topiary sculptures of Disney characters to outdoor kitchens serving fresh and flavorful cuisine, the Flower & Garden Festival offers something for nature lovers, food enthusiasts and families alike.

Flower and Garden Festival

Food & Wine Festival – July – November

Indulge your senses with a culinary extravaganza. This festival showcases the finest flavors from around the world with a diverse selection of global cuisines, wines, craft beers and beverages. Plus there are culinary demos and seminars and live musical performances by top artists in the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply love to savor new flavors, the Food & Wine Festival guarantees a gastronomic experience.

Food and Wine Festival

Festival of the Holiday – November – December

Experience the joy of festive celebrations during this holiday extravaganza where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season from around the world. Stroll through the World Showcase pavilions adorned with holiday decorations. Listen to heartwarming storytelling and musical performances that celebrate holiday traditions from different cultures. Plus, indulge in festive treats and drinks at themed holiday kitchens.

From the Candlelight Processional performances to the dazzling lights, the Festival of the Holidays captures the magic of the holidays.

Festival of the Holidays

Get Your Free Insider's Guide

Epcot
Character Meets

There are multiple locations where you can meet characters throughout Epcot.

Entrance Plaza

  • Minnie & Pals – Main Entrance Plaza

World Celebration

  • Pluto – World Celebration Gardens
  • Disney Pals – Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival
  • Figment & Joy – ImageWorks

World Nature

  • Moana – Journey of Water
  • Farmer Mickey, Chip, Dale & Pluto – Garden Grill

Epcot World Showcase

  • Alice in Wonderland, Mary Poppins & Winnie the Pooh – United Kingdom
  • Anna & Elsa – Norway
  • Disney Princesses – Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, Norway
  • Asha – Showcase Plaza
  • Aurora & Belle – France
  • Donald Duck – Mexico
  • Mulan – China
  • Princess Aurora – France
  • Jasmine – Morocco
  • Snow White – Germany


In conclusion, Epcot is a multifaceted journey through time, space and culture. Whether you’re marveling at future innovations, savoring global flavors or connecting with the natural world, each Epcot neighborhood contributes to the park’s unique tapestry. So strap in and explore!


More Epcot Guides:

Orlando Accommodation

If you are visiting to explore Epcot, we’d love to welcome you to one of our cozy Orlando Vacation Homes located just a few miles from Walt Disney World. An awesome alternative to hotels for comfort, space and privacy!

Sleepy Hollow 3 Bedroom Home

Sleepy Hollow

3 Bedroom Resort Home ~ From $210 a night ~ Sleeps 7

Serendipity 5 Bedroom Home

Serendipity

5 Bedroom Pool Home ~ From $300 a night ~ Sleeps 12

Breezy Oak Villas

4 Bedroom Pool Homes
From $225
Sleep 8

Leave A Comment

Go to Top