DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
EPCOT at Walt Disney World welcomes over 11 million visitors annually, making it a must-visit destination for Disney fans. With its immersive blend of futuristic attractions and a global cultural experience, EPCOT offers something for everyone. Whether you’re soaring through the skies or tasting the flavors of 11 different countries, there’s a lot to explore.
To ensure you have the best experience possible, we’ve compiled 11 essential tips to help you plan your perfect day at EPCOT!
1. Secure Your Lightning Lane Selections Early
EPCOT is home to some of the most beloved attractions at Walt Disney World, including Frozen Ever After, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Soarin’ Around the World, and Test Track. To avoid long wait times, take advantage of Disney’s Lightning Lane service, which allows you to reserve access to these rides in advance.
Pro tip: if you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you can make your selections up to 60 days before your visit! Prioritize your must-do attractions, and remember, popular rides fill up quickly.
2. Arrive at EPCOT for Rope Drop
To truly make the most of your day, be sure to arrive early—right when the park opens. This is what Disney fans refer to as “rope drop.” With EPCOT’s typical operating hours running from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., early birds get the advantage of experiencing popular attractions with minimal waits before the midday crowds arrive.
Plus, with Future World opening earlier than the World Showcase, you’ll have time to explore both parts of the park efficiently.
Credit: Disney
3. Save Spaceship Earth for Later
While it’s tempting to hop right on Spaceship Earth (the iconic geodesic sphere at the park’s entrance), we recommend waiting until later in the day. Lines tend to be longest in the morning when everyone enters the park. Instead, make this classic attraction one of your last stops—especially if you’re leaving around closing time when waiting times usually drop.
4. Explore World Celebration, World Nature, and World Discovery First
EPCOT is split into four main areas: World Celebration, World Nature, World Discover (all three in the former Future World) and the World Showcase. Start your day in the former Future World section, where you’ll find the park’s most thrilling rides, including Mission: SPACE and Test Track. These attractions are best enjoyed in the morning when wait times are shorter. Plus, most of the World Showcase doesn’t open until 11:00 a.m., so visiting these sections first makes for a smooth start to your day.
5. Don’t Skip The Seas with Nemo & Friends
While The Seas with Nemo & Friends may seem like a kid-focused attraction, it’s a hidden gem for all ages. After your fun ride with Nemo and friends, take time to explore the massive aquarium, home to dolphins, sharks, and thousands of fish. The Turtle Talk with Crush show is also a fan-favorite, where kids (and adults) can interact with the laid-back turtle from Finding Nemo—a fun and educational experience!
6. Enjoy Lunch at The Land Pavilion
Head to The Land Pavilion in World Nature for a mid-day break. The pavilion is home to Soarin’ Around the World, which is an absolute must-do (don’t forget to secure your Lightning Lane for this one). Afterward, grab lunch at Sunshine Seasons, a large quick-service food court that offers a variety of fresh, delicious options.
Credit: Frank Phillips, Flickr
For a unique experience, consider booking the Behind the Seeds tour, where you’ll go behind the scenes to learn about the innovative agricultural techniques used in the park.
7. Pick Your Path: Mexico or Canada?
Once you’re ready to explore the World Showcase, you’ll have to make an important decision—start with Mexico or Canada. The World Showcase is set along a lagoon in a nearly circular layout, so you’ll eventually visit all 11 countries either way. Whether you start your journey with a margarita from Mexico or a delicious poutine from Canada, the World Showcase is best experienced at your own pace.
8. Experience Frozen Ever After in Norway
If you have little ones—or are a big Frozen fan yourself—don’t miss Frozen Ever After in the Norway Pavilion. This charming boat ride takes you on a magical journey through Arendelle, featuring state-of-the-art animatronics of Anna, Elsa, and Olaf. Lines can get long, so securing a Lightning Lane reservation for this ride is highly recommended. While in Norway, stop by the Royal Sommerhus to meet Elsa and Anna for an unforgettable photo op!
9. Eat, Drink, and Explore the World Showcase
One of the most exciting aspects of EPCOT is the ability to experience 11 different countries, all within a short walk. From the cultural performances and beautiful architecture to the mouthwatering cuisine, the World Showcase offers endless opportunities for discovery. Don’t miss classic EPCOT treats like German pretzels, French pastries, or Japan’s sushi. EPCOT pros know that you can easily spend a full afternoon exploring this immersive area.
10. Catch EPCOT’s Nighttime Spectacular
As your day winds down, be sure to stick around for EPCOT’s nighttime show, Luminous The Symphony of Us. This dazzling performance takes place over the World Showcase Lagoon and features fireworks, lasers, and choreographed music. With plenty of viewing areas around the lagoon, you can grab a snack and secure a good spot for the perfect end to your EPCOT adventure.
Credit: Disney
11. End Your Day with Spaceship Earth
Cap off your EPCOT visit with a relaxing journey through time on Spaceship Earth. This classic ride takes you on a trip through human history, from the dawn of civilization to the modern age. As the lines tend to shorten later in the day, it’s a perfect way to wind down before you leave the park.
Conclusion:
EPCOT is a park that offers an incredible mix of education, adventure, and culture. Whether you’re soaring over global landmarks, tasting international cuisine, or learning about marine life, there’s something for everyone.
By following these 11 pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to having an unforgettable day at EPCOT!
