Theme Park Guide: What to Do at Epcot

Epcot is the realization of Walt Disney’s incredible vision that opened in 1982! He imagined a utopia in which residents could enjoy futuristic technologies while living in harmony with the environment. Want to know what to do in Epcot? We’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a first-timer’s guide to rides, attractions, places to eat, and events — to help you decide what to do at Epcot. 

Epcot: Two Fun-Filled Lands

Epcot was originally comprised of two distinctive zones: Future World and World Showcase. Today, things have changed a little. While World Showcase still offers the same immersive experience, Future World is now three different zones: World Discovery, World Celebration, and World Nature.

Top Epcot Rides and Attractions

The most popular attractions are located in the old Future World zone. You can expect shrieks of excitement from everyone in your family and group here! Here are three of our favorite Epcot rides and attractions:

Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot

Soarin’ is a unique para-gliding experience that takes you over some of the world’s most beautiful regions. You’re lifted up in the ride vehicle and placed directly in front of a giant screen.

Test Track

Of all the great rides, Test Track is the most exhilarating. This unique attraction is split into two stages. The first stage involves designing a concept car on a touchscreen. Once you’ve saved your design, you move to the track section — where you take a ride on the car you’ve just designed. Get ready for speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour.

Mission: Space

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to take off in a rocket bound for Mars, Mission: Space is well worth your attention. Take the “orange” journey for an eerily realistic experience that uses a centrifuge to recreate the powerful G-forces astronauts must endure on take-off and landing.

No rundown of the top Epcot rides would be complete without mentioning Spaceship Earth. Known by some as the “giant golf ball,” this iconic ride takes you on a journey through human achievement. As well as lifelike animatronics, the ride uses music, narration, and video to tell a compelling story.

Where to Eat in Epcot

There are several quick-service dining locations scattered around the park. You’ll find authentic British fish and chips at Yorkshire County in the UK Pavilion. Head to Sommerfest in the Germany Pavilion for a traditional bratwurst hot dog. And if you’re in the mood for Italian, there’s pasta and pizza on the menu at Pizza al Taglio in the Italy Pavilion.

Of all the Walt Disney Parks, Epcot is number one in terms of table-service restaurants. One of the most popular eateries — particularly among children — is Garden Grill in The Land. Many of the ingredients used in this all-you-can-eat restaurant are sourced from the gardens within Epcot. But the most exciting aspect of Garden Grill is the rotating floor. 

If you’re looking for authentic cuisine from one of the 11 countries in World Showcase, there are several options. Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria in the Italy Pavilion serves traditional pizza and pasta dishes. Biergarten in the Germany Pavilion serves classic Bavarian dishes — against the backdrop of live music. And, Teppan Edo in the Japan Pavilion serves hibachi-style food made by a chef at your table.

Annual Epcot Festivals and Events

While there are several events that happen every year, the two most popular are Taste of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival and Taste of Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.

The Flower and Garden Festival usually takes place between March and July every year. This Disney World theme park is transformed with landscaped gardens, topiary Disney characters, and stunning examples of creative horticulture. The park never looks as good as it does during this incredible event.

The Food and Wine Festival takes place between July and November every year. The World Showcase hosts a range of pop-up catering huts, serving specialty dishes from every corner of the planet.

Insider Tips

Now that you have an idea of what to do in Epcot, it’s time to start planning your next trip. But before you do, we’ve put together a few insider tips that should enhance your experience.

• Soarin’, Test Track, and Frozen Ever After are usually the most popular Epcot rides. When the rope drops, head to these attractions first to avoid the biggest queue lines. 
• Use the virtual queue or FastPass+ options (if they’re available).
• Keep an eye on the waiting times for the most popular attractions using the My Disney Experience app.
• Leave the World Showcase until later in the day — it’s a much more sedate experience. 
• To get the most out of your Epcot experience, visit during one of the “Taste of” festivals. 

Ready to experience epcot?

Epcot and the rest of Walt Disney World are always busy, so book your accommodations in advance. Whether you’re a seasoned Walt Disney World veteran or a first-timer, we’re here to help you plan your next trip. We are an authorized ticket seller, so you don’t need to go anywhere else to plan your dream Disney vacation! Simply contact our team for more information and to begin planning your visit. We’re available 24/7 by email and phone.