Look for the massive silver sphere that towers above the park, and you know you’re in Epcot. Guests commonly associate this park icon with classic Epcot attractions that have been a part of the park since its opening in 1982. Over the years, a number of misconceptions have circulated about Epcot, and many of these have never been accurate. Epcot is the middle of an exciting transformation to include new attractions, experiences, and entertainment, which will change the opinion of many guests as well. Here are some of the most popular misunderstandings about Epcot, as well as why guests should give this park a well-deserved second look!
[google_ad]
1. The World Showcase section is just for adults.
While some of the restaurants, shopping, and cultural aspects of the World Showcase pavilions might appeal more to adults, younger guests love this area too. Princesses are present in their respective country’s pavilion to meet and greet guests of all ages, such as Snow White appearing in Germany and Princess Aurora appearing in France. The Norway pavilion includes the extremely popular Frozen Ever After attraction, as well as an opportunity to meet Anna and Elsa. Don’t forget about the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros in the Mexico pavilion, another great attraction that instantly appeals to kids.
2. The restaurants are just for adults.
There are several more upscale table-service restaurants in Epcot, particularly in the World Showcase area, but don’t overlook the great choices for younger guests too. Join the princesses for a meal at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway pavilion, or dine in the shadow of a volcano by a hidden jungle waterway in the San Angel Inn at the Mexico pavilion. Visit with Mickey Mouse and his pals in their farming attire as you enjoy a family style meal at the Garden Grill revolving restaurant in Future World.
3. The attractions are all educational.
Epcot has always been unique in that it has exciting attractions designed to expand your horizons and your imagination. While you’re experiencing the thrill of Test Track or a zero-gravity adventure in Mission Space, you might just learn a new fact or two!
[google_ad_btf]
4. There aren’t any new attractions.
Give Epcot another look because it’s in the process of being completely reimagined. Exciting new attractions and amazing experiences are underway, including a new fireworks spectacular, re-imagined areas to replace what is now called Future World, and fun attractions featuring more of our favorite characters. Check out the Odyssey pavilion to visit the The Epcot Experience and see what the future holds for this park.
5. Where are the roller coasters?
Currently under construction, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will add a new thrill element to Epcot’s attractions. This indoor coaster is rumored to be one of the longest in the world, with innovative ride technology and the incredibly popular Guardians of the Galaxy storyline.
6. Epcot is too big to walk.
Look beyond the large footprint of the park, because Epcot is very manageable without killing your feet. Take advantage of the Friendship boats to ferry guests across the World Showcase lagoon. This is also a great park to split into more than one day, letting guests experience the sights and sounds on a more casual pace and giving your feet a break!
7. There isn’t any typical park food.
The World Showcase section offers an array of cuisine from around the world, making the countries an exciting way to spend the day. But if you’re looking for a more American menu of hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken nuggets, don’t worry. Epcot has those too!
8. Future World is too outdated.
This has been a popular comment in recent years, but this will all be changing. Epcot is in the middle of a big evolution, and this area currently known as Future World will soon renamed and reimagined to be World Discovery, World Nature, and World Celebration. Along with the existing World Showcase, the new areas will include both new attractions along with our current favorites.
9. World Showcase is just for drinking.
Look at any of the menus or kiosks in the World Showcase pavilions to see that there is so much more than just the adult beverages. Take a trip around the “World” and sample desserts or snacks from each country. Another fun adventure is to find a small souvenir from the countries, or participate in one of the scavenger hunts that are set up during the special festivals during the year.
10. It’s too expensive to eat in Epcot.
While several of the table-service restaurants in the World Showcase are categorized as Signature restaurants and offer more expensive meals, there are plenty of restaurants that are less pricey too. Consider dining at a counter-service eatery at any of the countries instead, as the menu offerings are very similar to what is available at the table service restaurant, but at a less expensive price.