Guests heading to EPCOT this fall will find their arrival experience just got a whole lot easier. After a month-long closure for resurfacing, the Moana parking lot reopened on September 27, restoring a critical section of parking that had been sorely missed.
The closure began in late August—right as EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival was kicking off. Crowds swelled, parking became scarce, and guests were often forced into longer walks from less convenient sections. What made it more stressful was the loss of handicap-accessible spots in the Moana lot, adding extra challenges for families with mobility concerns.
Now that the project is complete, the improvements are immediately noticeable. Disney gave the Moana lot new pavement, repainted lines, and refreshed signage. It’s part of the park’s ongoing push to keep parking lots themed and easy to navigate. The Earth side now features Moana, Heihei, Crush, and Dory, while the Space side highlights Wall-E, Eve, Rocket, and Gamora. For guests, that means not just practical parking but a little bit of Disney theming before you even reach the gates.
Parking updates may not sound as exciting as new rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, but they carry just as much weight for guest comfort. Walking into the park already frustrated from a long trek can sour the entire experience. For strollers, wheelchairs, and anyone managing long days on their feet, having a closer and more accessible lot is more than just a perk—it’s essential.
The reopening couldn’t have come at a better moment. EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival, running through November 22, is one of the park’s most popular annual events. This year’s big draw includes the debut of the “Gyozas of the Galaxy” booth, which has already created buzz among festival-goers. The lot’s return eases traffic flow and makes arrival smoother for the record crowds EPCOT is expecting.
The Moana lot reopening might not get the same fanfare as a brand-new attraction, but it’s a practical improvement that shapes the way guests begin their day. After a month of inconvenience, visitors can once again count on a smoother start to their EPCOT adventure.
