EPCOT may not be the main reason to visit Disney World, but it certainly is a reason to add an extra day to your trip. Nowadays, Disney World’s second-largest theme park is the perfect location for kids and adults who are passionate about technology, science, travel, food, and more.
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Why Visit EPCOT?
Even those who didn’t yet reach Disney World know that EPCOT is a bit nerdier, with lots of attractions that promote science and technology. And, if we unfurl the park’s acronym, we learn that it stands for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. So, yes, science and technology are a big part of the experience.
But before you say pass and start looking for the nearest princess, you should know that EPCOT is based on Walt Disney’s unrealized dream of building a real-life utopian city run with the help of advanced technology (with citizens and everything).
When it opened in 1982, people were blown away by the futuristic buildings and amazing attractions that spoke of a better world guided by science and technology. However, nowadays, the same attractions have a different impact. That’s mainly because technology moves extremely fast and many of the initial attractions feel outdated.
However, there are other attractions that kids and adults love, like the several high-tech thrill rides or the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind story-focused roller coaster. Overall, EPCOT continues to promote the spirit of technological adventure and advancement, even if it’s in a slightly different way than first intended.
The Must-See EPCOT Attractions
Now that you’re convinced and ready to go, which attractions should you hit first? Here are some of the most popular rides and experiences based on their popularity with park visitors each year.
1. Guardians of the Galaxy – Cosmic Rewind
Source: disneytouristblog.com
Who wouldn’t want to go on an adventure with Star-Lord and his gang of misfits? The Guardians of the Galaxy ride is the most recent addition to EPCOT’s impressive collection of attractions, and it’s a hit with the crowds.
The ride is all about traveling through time and space, so you shouldn’t expect a chill experience. Also, this is Disney’s first omnicoaster, where individual cars rotate so you can’t tell what’s coming even if you’re in the middle of the coaster.
To keep things moving smoothly, Disney uses a virtual queuing system for this ride, so you can register to the queue and wait for your turn while visiting other attractions nearby. But you’ll need the MyDisneyExperience app for this.
2. Soarin Around the World
‘Soarin was dethroned by the newest ride at the park, but it’s still one of the most popular, as proven by the long waiting times. The ride is designed to make you think you are in a hang glider while flying over the most popular world attractions.
In all fairness, it may not be that popular with rambunctious teenagers, but those who like to travel and discover the world will love it. You’ll get to see iconic global buildings and areas such as the Sydney Harbor, the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and the Eiffel Tower.
Now, if you’re traveling with small children, this is a great ride since the experience is not too bumpy or stimulating. Also, you may want to check our tips on how to plan your Disney World trip with kids.
3. Test Track
Source: caranddriver.com
If you like speed and cars, you can’t miss the Test Track ride! This one is extremely popular with car enthusiasts and people passionate about technology because it starts with you creating your very own concept car (virtual, of course).
When you’re done, you can drive it on the test track and test its capabilities in one of the fastest rides at Disney World. Who needs princesses when you can drive at high speed (up to 65 miles per hour) through rough terrains and past obstacles in a car of your own design?
Plus, you get to see the results of the test on the scoreboard and even share a commercial for your design.
4. Frozen Ever After
When visiting EPCOT, you’ll notice there aren’t many rides or attractions focused on classic Disney characters (except for the Beauty and the Beast Sing-along). Frozen and its ice world is one of the exceptions, but it’s not a classic princess experience.
The Frozen Ever After journey takes you on a slow-moving boat ride through beautiful lands via the Troll Valley (where Kristoff’s family lives) and ends right inside Elsa’s castle. Of course, you’ll be accompanied by the beloved characters of this world, such as Olaf, Anna, and others.
5. Other Attractions
Source: tripsavvy.com
When you’re done with the rides, EPCOT has other amazing attractions you can enjoy with family and friends (yes, this is a great park for a weekend away with friends!).
Start by visiting Sea Base and exploring the magical world under the sea. Here, you get to see one of the largest artificial ocean environments in the world and admire a living coral reef and the biodiversity that surrounds it. The habitat also houses rays, sharks, and sea turtles, so there’s a lot to see.
Continue your exploration by popping up at one of the few amazing restaurants and diners in the park.
Here you can enjoy a wide range of cuisines from all over the world and recharge your batteries. Try the Rose & Crown for a traditional British experience, the Spice Road Table for traditional Moroccan dishes, or the Biergarten restaurant for an authentic Oktoberfest celebration.
Lastly, check out the list of festivals, live events, and shows – you’re bound to find something interesting while you’re there.
Wrap Up
EPCOT is better than ever and promises to get even better in the near future, so don’t miss out! It’s one of the few theme parks where children and adults can have fun and learn, each in their own way.
Plus, every time you go, you’ll discover something new to spark your interest. Also, the kids will get a better understanding of the park as they grow older, so it’s definitely worth it to introduce them to these educational activities from a young age.
