EPCOT at Walt Disney World is a unique theme park that blends culture, technology, and adventure.
From soaring over landscapes to exploring the depths of the ocean and tasting cuisine from around the world, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, EPCOT offers experiences designed just for you.
Even if you’ve visited EPCOT before, you may be surprised by some of its hidden gems and strategies for maximizing your time. Knowing what to expect will help you create unforgettable memories.
Here are eight essential tips to make the most of your visit.
8. EPCOT Is More Than Just the World Showcase
Many people associate EPCOT with the World Showcase and its iconic attractions like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure or Frozen Ever After. While those are must-see highlights, there’s much more to explore!
- World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature are the park’s three additional themed areas, each featuring unique attractions.
- The Land Pavilion offers Soarin’ Around the World and Living with the Land, where you can discover Disney’s innovative farming techniques and learn about sustainability.
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends features a massive aquarium with sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
Recently, Disney removed all live dolphins from this exhibit, but guests can still enjoy impressive aquarium displays and interactive marine experiences. The pavilion also offers Turtle Talk with Crush, an interactive show where kids can chat with the beloved Finding Nemo character.
- Mission: SPACE, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind provide high-energy thrills. Each attraction offers a distinct experience, from designing your own car to embarking on a cosmic journey with Rocket and Groot!
- EPCOT also hosts interactive exhibits and seasonal festivals that add extra magic to your visit. Whether it’s the Flower and Garden Festival in spring or the International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, there’s always something exciting happening.
7. Rare Characters Appear at the International Gateway
A hidden gem at EPCOT is the International Gateway, located between France and United Kingdom Pavilions. This entrance sometimes features surprise appearances by rare Disney characters!
There’s no set schedule, but guests have encountered characters like Prince Eric, Maleficent, and Jane Porter from Tarzan. Keep your camera ready—these surprise meet-and-greets are a magical bonus for visitors.
To increase your chances, check Disney’s official character schedule before your visit. Some of these characters appear during special events, so be on the lookout for limited-time opportunities!
6. Free Soda Samples at Club Cool
Need a quick refreshment? Club Cool, located in World Celebration, offers free samples of Coca-Cola products from around the world.
You won’t get a full bottle, but you can taste unique flavors—including the infamous Beverly, an Italian soda with a bitter twist that Disney fans love daring their friends to try!
It’s a fun and free way to cool off during your visit. Plus, Club Cool is a great spot to take a short break and enjoy air conditioning before heading to your next attraction.
5. Exclusive Perks for Disney Visa Cardholders
If you have a Disney Visa Card, you can take advantage of an exclusive character meet-and-greet at EPCOT.
This private photo opportunity allows cardholders to meet Mickey and friends with a much shorter wait time than the regular character spot. It’s a great way to get a memorable photo without standing in long lines.
Additionally, cardholders can enjoy discounts on select dining and merchandise throughout the park. If you’re planning on shopping, this perk can help you save!
4. The Easiest Way to Get from EPCOT to Hollywood Studios
Did you know that Disney’s Hollywood Studios is just a short walk or boat ride from EPCOT?
By exiting through the International Gateway, you can stroll through Disney’s BoardWalk and reach Hollywood Studios in about 15-20 minutes. The scenic walk takes you past beautiful resort areas and provides a relaxing transition between parks.
If you prefer to rest, take a Scenic Friendship Boat from EPCOT’s World Showcase Lagoon directly to Hollywood Studios. The peaceful ride drops you off near the park entrance, making it a convenient option.
This is especially beneficial for guests staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, or the Swan & Dolphin Hotels, as these resorts provide quick access to both parks.
3. Meet Disney Princesses Without Long Lines
You don’t have to visit the Magic Kingdom to meet Disney princesses! At EPCOT, many princesses greet guests in their respective home countries throughout the World Showcase, including:
- Aurora and Belle in France
- Snow White in Germany
- Jasmine in Morocco
- Mulan in China
- Alice and Mary Poppins in the United Kingdom
For an even more magical experience, consider dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway Pavilion, where multiple princesses join you for a royal feast. This character dining experience is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious meal while meeting some of your favorite Disney royalty.
2. EPCOT Was Originally Designed as a Futuristic City
EPCOT wasn’t always intended to be a theme park—it was originally Walt Disney’s vision for a real working city.
The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow (EPCOT) was designed as a high-tech city where people would live, work, and test new technology. Walt envisioned a place where innovation and progress would shape the future.
After Walt Disney’s death, the company transformed EPCOT into a theme park focused on innovation, world culture, and future possibilities. However, some of his original ideas still influence the park’s design today.
You can see concept models of Walt’s original vision at The Walt Disney World Railroad Station at Magic Kingdom or at special D23 events. These models provide insight into what EPCOT could have been if Walt’s full vision had come to life.
1. What to Expect from Luminous: The Symphony of Us, EPCOT’s Nighttime Spectacular
EPCOT’s evening entertainment has evolved over the years, and its current show is Luminous: The Symphony of Us.
This breathtaking nighttime spectacle features fireworks, laser projections, and an emotional musical score that celebrates human connection and storytelling.
To get the best view, grab a spot around the World Showcase Lagoon at least 30 minutes before showtime. The best viewing locations include the Italy Pavilion, Japan Pavilion, and the bridge between the United Kingdom and France Pavilions.
EPCOT is one of the most immersive and exciting theme parks at Walt Disney World. Whether you love cultural experiences, cutting-edge attractions, or fantastic food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What’s your favorite EPCOT experience? Let us know in the comments—we love hearing from fellow Disney fans!
