EPCOT

Transforming Walt Disney’s Vision into EPCOT Theme Park

Following Walt Disney’s death in 1966, his EPCOT vision transformed, becoming WDW’s second theme park. Despite differences among Imagineers, the park’s design underwent several iterations. Ultimately, Disney decided to feature both innovative technology and international customs, architecture, and cultures.

EPCOT was the vision of Walt Disney himself. His intent was to build a utopian world that was an experimental planned community. The name EPCOT is an acronym for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.

The Walt Disney Company has recently started to stylize EPCOT, as a tribute to the park’s earlier name and Walt Disney’s original vision, even though it is no longer considered an acronym.

Exploring the Wonders of EPCOT

Did you know that EPCOT is over twice the size of the Magic Kingdom? During its construction, it was the most massive project of its kind in the world. Even today, its parking lot remains the largest in the world, with a capacity of 11,211 vehicles – and up to 500 more with the use of its grassy areas.

EPCOT officially opened its doors on October 1, 1982, the same date as the 11th anniversary of the Magic Kingdom’s opening. Visitors are welcomed by the iconic Spaceship Earth upon entering the park, a geodesic sphere with a themed attraction inside which is sure to captivate fans of all ages.

Revitalization of the Park: Four New “Neighborhoods”

Over the years, the park has undergone numerous changes and improvements. Recently, four unique “neighborhoods” were created to enhance the guest experience. These include World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature, with World Showcase continuing to be the fourth neighborhood.

Discover Epcot’s World Celebration

Upon entering the park, you’ll find yourself in World Celebration – a neighborhood that celebrates cultural diversity and global human connection. It’s home to new experiences that promote creativity, imagination, and the visual and culinary arts.

Spaceship Earth
The iconic geodesic sphere structure, Spaceship Earth, is the park’s centerpiece and home to the eponymous dark ride attraction. This ride takes you on a journey through the history of communication. It’s a fascinating and educational experience that also includes a personalized glimpse into your future.
Journey into Imagination with Figment
This dark ride features Figment – a lovable character who delves into the imagination and explores the senses. It’s a whimsical ride that’s perfect for all ages.
ImageWorks: The What-If Labs
This interactive space allows you to experiment with your imagination and creativity. You’ll find plenty of interactive exhibits that inspire new ideas and encourage you to think outside the box.
Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival
Experience the magic of Disney and Pixar with a collection of short films that will leave you feeling inspired and entertained.
The Odyssey Events Pavilion
This space is perfect for hosting special events and conventions. Its open design and modern architecture make it a versatile space that can accommodate a range of gatherings.
Cool Club
Cool off from the Florida heat with a refreshing beverage from the Cool Club – a popular spot for frozen drinks and other cold treats.
Creations Shop
Find the perfect souvenir at Creations Shop – a unique store that features a variety of Epcot-themed merchandise.
Connections Eatery & Cafe
Grab a bite to eat at Connections Eatery & Cafe – a dining spot that offers a variety of delicious meal options.
Dreamer’s Point
This scenic location is perfect for taking in the park’s beautiful views and enjoying a peaceful moment of reflection with Walt Disney himself.
A Stunning Hub with Lush Gardens and a Unique Design This This newly opened area has a lot to offer, with a beautiful hub area that is divided into several distinct gardens. The central planter is inspired by the iconic five-ring EPCOT logo, and the entire area is filled with ample seating and abundant shading. You’ll be able to connect with others and the nature around you in this inviting new space. Each garden is distinct and has its own identity, evolving in tandem with the festivals that change throughout the year.

World Discovery: A Space-Themed Adventure

World Discovery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space, science, technology, and intergalactic exploration. One upcoming attraction to watch out for is the Play! Pavilion.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
The Worldly Pavilion is proud to introduce its newest and most unique ride: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. This “Vekoma omnicoaster” is the first of its kind and features an enclosed spinning coaster that allows the ride operator to control the spinning. The ride’s theme is based on the Marvel Comics superhero squad of the same name, making it a thrilling experience for all fans.
Test Track: Design and compare your own vehicle’s capabilities with others in the lab before experiencing a thrilling ride inspired by Chevrolet’s rigorous concept car testing procedures.
Mission Space: Embark on a space adventure by launching a rocket ship and working together as a team to guide the spacecraft. Be warned: if you are claustrophobic, it might be best to sit this one out. Mission: Space features both green and orange queues, with the latter providing a more intense, G-force experience. The ride replicates a space flight experience to Mars and a low orbit tour over the Earth’s surface.
Space 220: For a dining experience like no other, visit Space 220, a themed restaurant that simulates dining aboard a space station located 220 miles above Earth.

World Nature

World Nature is dedicated to the preservation of our planet’s natural beauty, balance, and wonder. The park showcases pavilions inspired by humanity’s interaction with the environment, including ocean exploration, hydrology, agriculture, ecology, and travel. Here are some of the featured attractions:

The Seas with Nemo & Friends: A pavilion based on ocean exploration that houses an aquarium with marine life exhibits and an attraction inspired by Finding Nemo.
Turtle Talk with Crush: An interactive show that lets guests chat with Crush, the sea turtle from Finding Nemo.
Coral Reef Restaurant: A dining experience that features panoramic views of the aquarium.
Journey of Water: Inspired by Moana, this walkthrough attraction is one of the newest additions to the park, depicting the Earth’s water cycle.
Soarin’ Over California: An exhilarating attraction that simulates a hang-gliding flight over various regions of the world.
Living with the Land: A narrated boat tour through Audio-Animatronics scenes, a greenhouse, and a hydroponics lab.
Awesome Planet: A short documentary film presented in the pavilion’s Harvest Theater about the Earth’s biomes and the perils of climate change.

Epcot’s World Showcase: A Global Adventure

Step into the World Showcase – Epcot’s biggest neighborhood – and experience a permanent world’s fair that celebrates the culture, cuisine, and traditions of 11 nations. You’ll find each nation’s pavilion surrounding the World Showcase Lagoon, a man-made lake at the center that spans 1.2 miles.

Explore the World
As you journey into the World Showcase, you’ll find pavilions dedicated to 11 different countries. Each pavilion offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s culture, cuisine, and more. From landscapes to architecture to entertaining attractions, shops, and restaurants, every detail reflects the distinctive character of each country.
Which Countries Are Represented?
The countries represented in the World Showcase are Mexico, Norway, Germany, Italy, France, England, Canada, China, Japan, Morocco, and The United States.
Nighttime Spectacular
At the end of the day, the World Showcase Lagoon becomes a stunning stage for the award-winning Luminous: The Symphony of Us fireworks and laser show.

EPCOT’s Annual Events: A Festive Celebration for Everyone!

EPCOT offers a range of annual events throughout the year, including the ever-popular Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, which has been running since 1994. This flower-themed event takes place every spring. Gardening experts provide workshops to inspire visitors with ideas for their home garden.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is another sought-after event, held each fall since 1995. It features additional country kiosks in the World Showcase, allowing guests to experience the cuisine of each country.

EPCOT’s newest event, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, began in 2017. It is a late January and February festival that showcases visual, culinary, and performing arts.

Holidays at EPCOT

Holidays Around the World is Epcot’s annual holiday celebration, featuring storytellers describing the unique traditions of their respective nations. Additionally, a celebrity guest, accompanied by a choir, narrates the story of Christmas. The World Showcase pavilions feature storytellers describing their nation’s holiday traditions, and there are three nightly performances of the “Candlelight Processional,” featuring an auditioned mass choir. Kiosks throughout the World Showcase offer holiday dishes.

The park has a lot to offer on New Year’s Eve Celebration, with a variety of musical entertainment and a special dinner to celebrate the occasion. Additionally, the park boasts live DJ dance areas throughout the venue, guaranteeing a fun-filled night for all.

In 2009, my family and I went on our first trip to EPCOT, which quickly became our favorite destination. We usually arrived early to experience Test Track or Soarin’ before heading to the World Showcase for lunch. Our go-to spot for lunch was San Angel Restaurant in Mexico. We made a point to visit every country to shop, check out the exhibits, or watch a show. Our day at EPCOT always concluded with a trip on Spaceship Earth if we made our way out of the park before the Nighttime Spectacular.