Tips For Visiting Epcot

Since its opening in 1982, Epcot at Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida continues to be rated as one of the most popular theme parks in the world.  Million of visitors come from all over the globe to visit this top-notch theme park. Epcot’s blend of education and entertainment make it an enjoyable experience for guests of all ages.

Visitors to other Disney theme parks, like the Magic Kingdom and Disneyland may be used to the crowded areas and slow moving lines that cause a great deal of stress to their guests. The design and layout of Epcot is more conducive to park touring, allowing guests to roam more freely without feeling crowded or packed in at any park area.

When planning your visit to Epcot try to allow two full days to touring the park. Epcot is nearly 300 acres and has two sections, Future World and World Showcase. Future World usually opens at 9am but closes around 7pm, two hours before Epcot’s closing time. World Showcase opens at 11am and stays open until 9pm. The popular Illuminations show begins each night at 9pm and is considered the “finale” before the parks closing.

If you are able to visit Epcot for more than one day you will be able to visit at a more leisurely pace. It is suggested that you visit the attractions at Future World as the park opens, and then make your way into World Showcase. Your first day at Epcot will be spent mostly in Future World, with such popular attractions as Soarin, Mission Space and Test Track. Most major attractions at Epcot can be found in the different pavilions, The Land, Living Seas, Universe of Energy, etc. You should allow about one hour when visiting each pavilion as the attractions include pre-shows and most times a wait on line. Disney’s FastPass feature allows you to secure a return time (with a one hour window) so that you may return to the popular attraction at a set time and enjoy a shorter wait time. Currently the FastPass system is installed on the most popular attractions such as Soarin, and Test Track.

When you move into World Showcase you will get to visit the different countries represented here at Epcot. Guests will visit eleven pavilions for such countries as Canada, Mexico, Norway and China. Some countries feature movies or rides, while others are mostly shops and recreations of popular tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower. With some planning, your visit to Epcot can be one of the most enjoyable vacations you will ever have!