disney tourist blog epcot itinerary

EPCOT Early Entry Itinerary: International Gateway with Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

When it comes to Walt Disney World touring strategy, Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, Early Entry, and Extended Evening Hours are the best options. This morning plan for EPCOT is via International Gateway in World Showcase, starting with Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After.

To test this itinerary, we did EPCOT on a very busy day (8/10 crowd level). It covers the wait times and what we accomplished during the Extra Magic Hours replacement, plus how this on-site perk compares to using Genie+ to skip lines. On this particular day, EPCOT opened to the general public at 8:30 am, meaning Early Entry began at 8:00 am. (EPCOT now opens at 9 am on most days, except when attendance is especially high.)

We were out the door of our room at Art of Animation by roughly 6:50 am, before joining the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind virtual queue. After that, it was off to the Skyliner station over Hourglass Lake. Our aerial escapades in getting to the park are covered in Skyliner Strategy for Early Entry at EPCOT & Hollywood Studios .

Going from Hourglass Lake to EPCOT via the Skyliner is the longest route aboard the gondolas, requiring a transfer at the Caribbean Beach Resort hub station. All told, it takes about 20 minutes gondola-to-gate on average. That’s far less time than it’ll take getting from Art of Animation or Pop Century to EPCOT via bus, Uber/Lyft, Minnie Vans, or any other sort of vehicle. The Skyliner also drops you off at EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance, which is superior to the front entrance. However, that comes with caveats…

The comments section of that ‘Skyliner Strategy’ post is filled with questions about using the gondolas or getting to International Gateway from other resorts. Many of you have some very…let’s call them creative …ideas involving convoluted routes between wherever you’re staying at International Gateway.

I’d like to think that this blog teaches you how to think differently about hacking Walt Disney World systems to beat the crowds. (More likely, it fills your mind with useless pop culture references, County Bear lore, and hatred for Dino-Rama, which is still a societal net positive.) So kudos to putting your knowledge to use and coming up with creative solutions.

However, most of them are  a bit much. It’s true that you’ll come out ahead by arriving to EPCOT via International Gateway, at least for now while Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind uses a virtual queue. Being so close to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is advantageous, and the walking distance disparity is insurmountable for those arriving from the front entrance.

With that said, we also like to think about things in holistic terms here. Not all vacation time has equal value, but it all does have some value. The added time of these convoluted routes is costly, to the point that we don’t recommend them. You’ll need to wake up significantly earlier and potentially spend extra, either of which alone would move those approaches to “not recommended” territory.

There’s not a tremendous amount of downside in starting at the front of the park  except for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure . That sort of presupposes that you  need  to do the Rat Ride first, which is not true. EPCOT has three “equal wait weighted” headliners, and this trio has average wait times that are usually within 5-15 minutes of one another.

This trio is also evenly spread throughout the park between the two entrances. One is up front, another is in the middle-ish, and the other is at the back. Given this, the two park entrances essentially offer the same advantages and disadvantages, but in the opposite direction, so to speak.

It is true that Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure typically has a longer wait time than Test Track. Month-to-date, the Rat Ride’s average is 69 minutes, whereas Test Track is 1 minute shy of that at 68 minutes. (Frozen Ever After is ahead of both at 73 minutes.) Normally, the gap would be slightly wider than this.

However, that doesn’t really matter. The extra time, money, and energy you’ll expend to arrive via International Gateway if you’re not staying at one of the resorts that can easily access the entrance far (FAR!) outweighs any upside. That is, assuming you can even get to International Gateway–those without breakfast reservations are routinely turned away by security at Yacht & Beach Club and BoardWalk.

In short, the cost of getting up early and jumping through hoops for the IG approach just doesn’t make sense. This is also one of the reasons we don’t recommend messing with Seven Dwarfs Mine Train during Early Entry. People often don’t properly account for the opportunity cost not just as it pertains to other attractions, but getting more sleep, fewer headaches, etc.

Anyway, thought all of that was worth addressing up front since it was a hot topic in the comments. All of this is probably going to be rendered obsolete in a few weeks when Walt Disney World inevitably retires the virtual queue for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Then, it’ll be Crescent Lake guests questioning whether they should Uber to the front entrance. (Same answer applies.)

This particular morning, I arrived at EPCOT’s International Gateway at approximately 7:20 am. Still 40 minutes to go before Early Entry officially started. I don’t recall what time bag check opened, but I’m going to say shortly after 7:30 am.

I was inside the park and making my way to France by 7:40 am. Again, EPCOT’s official opening time was 8:30 am, meaning an 8 am sharp start for Early Entry.

Upon entering International Gateway, there’s a row of Cast Members scanning MagicBands, resort room keys, or whatever appropriate identification you might have if staying at one of the participating third party hotels. You get held back by the gift shop and can’t access the rest of the park without scanning here.

Guests are not held anywhere in EPCOT prior to proceeding to the first attraction of the day–you go directly to the ride you want to do. Over 80% of guests were heading to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure on this morning, which was definitely down from the last time I reported on EPCOT Early Entry.

Despite stopping for photos, I was towards the front of the line for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Obtaining documentation for blogging puts me at a competitive advantage in situations like this, but that’s offset by starting at a ride targeted at families. Lots of slow movers in the group and people parking strollers.

In any case, I was in line for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure by 7:42 am. The ride open and the line started moving shortly thereafter, and I was on the attraction by approximately 7:55 am.

I was off Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at almost exactly 8 am, the official start time of Early Entry. Norway for Frozen Ever After was next on the agenda. This is the “correct” way to approach Early Entry from International Gateway, so if that’s sound familiar, it’s because this has been the exact itinerary every single time we’ve reported on EPCOT Early Entry. (Spoiler: the next steps will also be identical.)

It’s a little over a half-mile between the two, and I walk pretty quickly. However, I “offset” this by stopping a couple of times for photos, arriving to the Norway pavilion at 8:15 am. I was feeling pretty good about this, as it was actually an improvement on my last Early Entry attempt by 5 minutes.

Unfortunately, Frozen Ever After was  not  a walk-on this time.

The posted wait time was 15 minutes, and the actual wait was 9 minutes. No big deal, right? Wrong . While I could’ve easily repeated Frozen Ever After (probably the superior strategy) before it was inundated by rope drop guests, my next destination was Test Track. That 9 minute wait time plus the attraction duration plus the walking time to Test Track plus whatever discrepancy might’ve existed in releasing rope drop crowds was my downfall.

I got to Test Track at 8:35 am, and this was the scene up front.

The posted wait time was already 60 minutes, which is by far the highest I’ve seen it when doing Early Entry and rope drop in the last several months. Even objectively busier days (as measured by wait times) haven’t been this bad. The queue spilled out past the monorail track and wrapped back beyond the walkway to Flavors from Fire.

Obviously, I don’t know when this line formed since it beat me here, but I’m guessing I missed being towards the front of this crowd by less than 5 minutes. It almost makes one wonder whether it was really worth it to wait for nearly a full minute for the fountain in France to clear of guests to take a photo that ended up going unused. ( Nah. Trust the process. )

That’s simply how it goes sometimes–the best laid plans… yada yada yada . If I didn’t stop for the fountain, maybe I would’ve been spellbound by a squirrel in Germany (a country famous for its captivating critters). It’s why we keep running “on the ground” tests to see how strategy actually works in practice, not just in theory.

I’d say about 7 times out of 10, Early Entry at EPCOT is uneventful and it’s possible to knock out the trio of headliners with a below average wait at Test Track. (You’ll never beat the crowd entirely, but 25 minutes or less is a victory.) However, those other 3 times something like this–or a delayed ride opening–throws a monkey wrench into the plan.

My boarding group for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind was about to be called, so I lingered in this area rather than criss-crossing the front of the park for Soarin’ Around the World. I made the (correct) calculation that would have a short wait even after I was done with Cosmic Rewind.

Objectively, the right decision would’ve been to just do Test Track and bank on the wait time being significantly inflated. While even the long line can move quickly first thing in the morning, my fear was that it’d slow to a crawl once Lightning Lane redemptions began in earnest. My desire to wait even 45 minutes for Test Track is pretty low. I’d rather circle back and doing it in the evening, gambling on a lower wait time (at the very least, the long line isn’t in direct sunlight then).

Even with my lack of success at Test Track, this EPCOT Early Entry approach compares very favorably to buying the Genie+ service.

With paid FastPass, you can usually score Lightning Lanes for 2 of the 3 headliners. That has been our consistent experience in using Genie+ since Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure were added. However, you’re almost certainly going to be subject to the 120 minute rule for at least the second selection, meaning your third ride reservation won’t come until around 12:30 pm or later unless you get incredibly lucky. By then, all three are usually gone.

It’s possible that you’ll be able to score a ride reservation refill for the third Lightning Lane later in the day, but that’s far from a sure thing. Moreover, you can’t choose your Lightning Lane return times, so they might be inopportune or require a lot of backtracking. (In fairness, so does this Early Entry morning when paired with a normal itinerary–but I still think Genie+ tends to be worse in that regard.)

While Early Entry requires being out the door at the crack of dawn and means hustling around the park to start your day, you’d also need to wake up to have a shot at all of the headliners via Genie+ at EPCOT. And after that, you’d need to be on your phone and potentially refreshing throughout the day.

This is why, on balance, Early Entry is superior to Genie+ at EPCOT.

Not only is it more clean-cut and less stressful, but that’s also the intangible x-factor: being at EPCOT as the park is waking up to start the day. Seeing horticulturists water plants and people-less World Showcase pavilions glow in the morning light. Hearing the background music and savoring the details. When it comes to atmosphere or “user experience,” Early Entry absolutely trounces Genie+ at EPCOT. One entails enjoying the crisp ambiance of a pristine park…the other involves burying your face in your phone, trying to navigate a counter-intuitive app. It’s no contest.

Ultimately, we highly recommend taking advantage of Early Theme Park Entry at EPCOT. Even with all of the caveats here, starting at the front of the park, worse luck, more efforts at minimizing walking, etc–it’s still a superior option to paying for Genie+ and Lightning Lane access.

Genie+ is significantly improved at EPCOT now that Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure have been added to the lineup. Unlike before, we now recommend it to off-site guests or those who won’t arrive first thing in the morning. However, anyone who can should instead take advantage of Early Entry. It’s objectively and subjectively superior.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

YOUR THOUGHTS

Thoughts on Early Theme Park Entry at EPCOT? Have you experienced this 30 minute jumpstart to the day? Do you agree that Early Entry at EPCOT is superior to Genie+ and Lightning Lanes? What’s your preferred approach to mornings at EPCOT? How would you have done things differently? Any other feedback on arriving early to the Walt Disney World theme parks? Agree or disagree with our advice or approach? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

When walking from Remy to Frozen is it faster to walk around world showcase or towards future world (or whatever they are calling future world now)? Thanks

Walk around World Showcase.

Hello Tom. We are staying at the Carribean Beach in October and planning on using the Sky-liner to get to Epcot. Should they cease the virtual queue for Gaurdians of the Galaxy, prompting us to ride this first with early entry, are we still able to get to this ride using international gateway? Or would we be better arriving at the main entrance. if so I guess that means travelling to Epcot by alternative transport?

Thanks for all the great info on your site!

Cosmic Rewind is much easier to access from the main entrance, but it’s a huge hassle and much less convenient from a Skyliner resort. Unless you are deadset on doing Cosmic Rewind multiple times, I’d stick with Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure first and then do Cosmic Rewind towards the end of the night when crowds are likely to die down at the front of the park.

To each their own, though!

“That is, assuming you can even get to International Gateway–those without breakfast reservations are routinely turned away by security at Yacht & Beach Club and BoardWalk.”

I was planning to either ride share to the Swan/Dolphin (we are staying at the Shades of Green) or the general parking for the boardwalk. I am concerned by the above sentence from the article. It doesn’t seem to provide any obvious context. Security is stopping anyone walking to the IG from the local Epcot hotels and asking for verification that you are staying at one of those hotels or that you have a reservation for breakfast? Is that official Disney policy that no one but local resort guests are allowed to walk to the IG? Where would the breakfast locations be that need a reservation? In the park? I’ve googled how to get to the IG if you are not staying at a local Epcot hotel and can find nothing that says you cannot do this. Very recent blogs do indicate that you can walk there if you rideshare to Swan or Dolphin. Some context/clarification would be helpful. Thanks!

Frendy, curious how your plan to be dropped off by rideshare at Swan/Dolphin? Staying at DS hotel and trying to plan early entry from International Gateway.

Hi Susi, turns out we used the monorail from the TTC, we were fortunate that we were there in late August, so we didn’t need to “beat” the crowds to the turnstile an hour before opening. But, my plan was to have a breakfast reservation at Tratorria Al Forno at 7:30AM so we could get through the sentry. We were going to eat a very quick bite and walk over to the International Gateway. I must admit that my first reading of Tom’s description confused me. I thought they had security actually ON the boardwalk stopping anyone from walking over to the International Gateway unless you could prove you were staying in one of the boardwalk hotels. I do love Tom, but he frequently assumes everyone knows exactly what he is referring to because it is all so natural to him. (especially his use of acronyms!) I hope this helps.

Thanks so much for the response Frendy. Depending on Epcot’s Early Entry I may book a 7:30am breakfast at Trattoria as Forno without the characters I should be able to get out faster or maybe try my luck with drop off at Swan and grab breakfast at Boardwalk Deli. I love Tom too and agree that Disney is so natural and second nature to him. I would love to see him and Sarah at the park one day.

We are staying at the Grand Floridian in the winter. My mom is coming to stay for a couple of nights later in the week. She is not “officially” on our reservation, but is in my “Family and Friends” section of Disney Experience App. Will mom be able to gain early access to the parks with us?

Heading to Orlando for the first long trip in a while from the UK & not sure what I’d do without you Tom ! We’re staying in the Swan so definitely taking advantage of the extra evening hours but wondering how we will manage to score the 6pm Guardians VQ reservations

Tom, You were in the park and heading to your first attraction from the international gateway about 50 minutes prior official opening time. Does this hold true for the main entrance as well? Thanks.

I know that Test Track has a lower average wait time, but the more than occasional breakdowns add SPIKINESS to the data. Might it worthwhile to pull out the phone after exiting one’s first attraction of the day and deciding then and there whether to move TT to #2? (I’d be fine with no reservation systems but I LOVE having a virtual wait time guide on my phone.)

I agree with your assessment of early entry at the International Gate at EPCOT, my question is, which the fastest way to get to Norway for Frozen, going down to Canada and across, or all the around the “Worlds?”

Tom, here’s an EPCOT-related question. On evenings with Extended Evening hours for Deluxe Resorts, I know there is an extra 6:00 p.m. “drop” for the Cosmic Rewind virtual queue. For the 1 p.m. drop, you have to have checked into to EPCOT before to be eligible. Does the same rule apply for that 6 pm drop?

You don’t have to be in the park for the 6pm! I got it for us from our hotel pool. It was great.

Thanks Larissa, but did you previously tap into Epcot that day? Tom has stated before that at least for the 1 pm drop, you don’t have to be IN Epcot, but you have to have at least tapped into Epcot. So you could be back at your hotel at 1 pm as long as you were in Epcot earlier in the day. I was wondering if the same rule applied to the 6 pm.

Hi Tom – Would you be willing to leave the EXIF data in the photos you post? I’m an amateur photographer and seeing the settings you’re using helps me learn.

Of course, that could also be the secret sauce and I’d understand why you’d want to strip it out.

Removing the EXIF data isn’t anything purposeful to preserve my “secret sauce” or anything of that sort–the site does it automatically to make the file sizes smaller for faster loading (unfortunately, some detail is also lost due to compression).

To answer a relatively common question, I usually shoot at f/11 to achieve the sunbursts in my photos. Hope that helps! 🙂

Thanks for the reply, Tom! Appreciate the info. I know I’m the oddball here in wanting that data and since I’m guessing it makes the site load faster for the other 99.9% of the readers it’s the right move.

We arrive in 2 days. We were able to purchase Genie+ in advance months back. Unfortunately our 3 park days are Friday-Saturday-Sunday. Using Genie + has me a bit on edge but this blog has been immensely helpful in planning. Having used the VQ for RoTR- I have that down. We will utilize the above strategy via the IG for our Epcot morning. I won’t add my 2 cents around Genie not taking into account our dining reservations when allocating return times for Genie.

“I won’t add my 2 cents around Genie not taking into account our dining reservations when allocating return times for Genie.”

I hope you do add your 2 cents about this somewhere (ideally in guest satisfaction surveys), as this is exactly the type of iterative improvement that Disney knows needs to be made.

What changes get made going forward largely depend upon guest feedback. Complaining about it costing money is an absolute lost cause, but politely pointing out missing features or ways it negatively impacted your trip…that can help! 🙂

This post is very useful. But that’s not the reason I have replying to this comment by DJ. It appears to be the ONLY way I might be able to communicate with Tom Bricker. The Contact page lists only one address for emailing this website, and that address does not work. Here is the contents of the email I was trying to send to Tom Bricker:

I have been reading your posts extensively in preparation for my trip to WDW in September. However, I have one problem with your posts. You do not show any dates posted on the posts. You do sometimes insert in the body of the text a date updated notation. While it is logical to assume that the most recent posts are at the top of the Home page, if I search for a topic, I may not be able to tell if it is 2 months old or 2 years old. Obviously, the more recent posts are more useful. I would appreciate it if you would consider adding a date/time stamp to the top of your posts. I believe this would be a significant benefit to your readers. And I cannot see where it would require that much additional effort. Having run a website for several years ago, I know that putting a date on things is not that difficult. Thank you for your attention to this request.

Wow Tom !!! You get around, fast !!! Saw you Sunday night taking photos on Main Street Disneyland ( you’re Tom …. Good blog) sorry we didn’t stop and talk but we were on our way to Rise of the Resistance before it closed and of course ……. it was broken down once again by the time we got there , just like it was on Thursday. And here you are back at Disney World. (I’m pretty sure you wrote this blog before you came to California ). Was wondering if you’re going to do a rope drop on Disneyland and DCA ???

“Was wondering if you’re going to do a rope drop on Disneyland and DCA ???“

Already did.

Now back to Florida for Halloween…

Do you have a strategy for early morning for starting from the future world entrance? I was thinking Test track then frozen them Remy’s? Or skip Trst track for night bc it’s better then anyway?

I would really like to read this as well .

When you got to Test Track, could you have done the single rider line for less than a 60 min wait at that point?

Absolutely.

Hi Tom! Thanks again for all of your wonderful advice . Will you be doing a write up on strategy for the extended evening hours ? I’m wondering if I would get more out of staying late as opposed to getting to the parks (Epcot and Magic Kingdom ) early since that perk is only offered for specific hotels .

I might do another EPCOT evening hours write up when Cosmic Rewind changes. Otherwise, it’s not a high priority post while the VQ is in use. The “old” Magic Kingdom one from last fall is still accurate.

Fwiw: I did Epcot extra evening hours in both May and July, and I got way more done in May. It felt like “the secret was out” or something about Monday nights now (although it’s probably just bc guardians is open) and because the park closes at 9, and Harmonious starts at 9, you just lose so much time to the insane after fireworks crowds. If you don’t need to watch Harmonious, (and I wouldn’t bc you lose 20+ minutes out of 120 there..) I would try to plan to do either FW rides or WS rides during the extra hours. We were walking as fast as you probably can in Disney, but it was just dodging so many bodies and Scooters and the walk felt like it was over a mile (from Remy to TT/Guardians). Now in May, there was no one there and I rode all 4 headliners after hours (before guardians opened). If you are doing the 6pm drop, I would watch harmonious from the lake area closest to FW, or just ride TT, then go VQ. Honestly getting through Guardians takes a solid 45 minutes with no down time. There’s about a 30 minutes wait in the VQ esp right after Harmonious, and two pre-shows. We personally stack genies for afternoon and then stay late, but early morning is really nice too. Obviously your experience may be different! Enjoy! Guardians is hands down our fave.

Thanks Larissa! I feel like EEH reports are hard to come by. I’ve also heard the guardians 6:00 VQ is gone in 5 seconds!

Not getting test rack (the third headliner) with that early of an entry is disappointing. I thought given those times you would have rode that and then sailed onto soarin. I’m getting nervous how GoTG going standby is going to impact things esp IG entry. Let’s face it: paying the freight anyone but annual pass holders want to hit all of these in one day without excessive waits.

Really? Everything but Test Track with minimal waits in the morning is still a success, from my perspective. I even could’ve double-dipped FEA, which would be objectively good strategy for anyone wanting to do that twice.

With a full day, you could definitely circle back and do Test Track around 6 pm with a manageable wait.

My wife already purchased Genie+ for every day of our trip next month before I read your strategy, so we’re going to try and maximize both options. Genie+ for Frozen at 7 a.m. Early entry via IG and straight to Remy. Then hit the “non-major” rides on that side – Soarin’, Living with the Land, Nemo, etc. – and knock them all out quickly. Hopefully we’ll have a good return time for Frozen and GotG (although if virtual queue is gone, that’ll throw a wrench in the works). Relax at Pop Century in the afternoon while selecting Genie+ for Test Track in the evening. Return later for TT, Mission: Space, Spaceship Earth, and fireworks!

Nothing wrong with that approach, especially if you want to re-ride attractions and/or take midday breaks. Have fun!

Okay, I think I must have misunderstood something here. I thought Genie+ could not be purchased in advance of our visits? I thought we had to purchase it in the mornings before 7AM if we are staying in a Disney resort and if staying off property you can’t purchase it till the park opens. You said your wife already purchased it a month before your trip? How does one do that?

I guess I misunderstood how Genie+ works. You said your wife already purchased it a month before your trip? I thought we could not purchase it until the morning of our visits. 7AM for resort guests and after park opening for off site guests. I thought I had to purchase Genie+ in the morning since I’m staying at Port Orleans FQ then proceed to trying to book our first attraction on Genie after that or purchase an ILL. How does one go about buying Genie+ a month in advance?

Sorry for the double post. It said I posted it twice and then gave me the option to cancel so I did and rewrote another only to now find both of them on the board.

Carol – we booked our trip many months ago, and at that time you could still buy Genie+ in advance. So even though that’s no longer an option, ours is still valid. Sorry for the confusion!

Oh I see. Thanks Craig. To bad I missed the boat on that one. I would have loved to have been able to purchase it early. Oh well.

Great article Tom! We will be staying at the Poly in a few weeks and our toddler keeps asking about Remy’s. We are early risers and plan on doing early park entry. What is the best option, in your opinion, to get on Remy’s? I was planning on Uber to Boardwalk for Intl Gateway? Thanks, Josh

Assuming your toddler isn’t abnormally tall (and thus able to do Test Track), starting with FEA and then hitting the rat ride. The opposite order entails a bit too much backtracking, I think.

So long as you beat the rope drop crowd to Ratatouille–and you should be able to do so with that approach–you’ll be fine.

Just FYI my husband and I tried this on 07/29 and the security would absolutely not let us in to even be just dropped off without a reservation. They bordered on aggressive. They said we could go to swan and dolphin because that isn’t Disney owned.

Hi Tom. What happens to the 90%+ of guests that don’t rope drop?

I really wish you would write about bow to fix the real problem. Genie has major flaws and affects a great deal of guests in a negative way, including 90%+ of parkgoera who don’t rope drop.

That would be more helpful.

“I really wish you would write about bow to fix the real problem.”

Build more rides or otherwise add capacity (e.g. more entertainment and other offerings). That is it, literally.

Everything else is rearranging the deck chairs. Going from FastPass+ to Genie+ did not materially change capacity–it just made for different winners and losers. To the extent that current wait times are viewed as a problem, the only real solution is building more. (Or discouraging people from visiting via pricing, unfavorable changes, etc.)

That’s what I was afraid of because I know that’s not happening.

I wish Disney would give some “ride anytime”option to guests. Even if it’s only a minority (like deluxe resort guest) and they charge a boatload for it because I would pay and it would be worth it.

That would be worth it to me and I would t have to worry about getting on the rides no matter what time I got there.

Thanks for the advice!

Jeff You asked what happens to 90% of guests who don’t want to be up for rope drop then you said

“I wish Disney would give some “ride anytime”option to guests. Even if it’s only a minority (like deluxe resort guest) and they charge a boatload for it because I would pay and it would be worth it. That would be worth it to me and I would t have to worry about getting on the rides no matter what time I got there.”

So Jeff… What happens to 90% of Disney park goers who do not have nor will likely ever get close to having the money to stay at a deluxe resort and pay a boat load more price for passes that let them ride any thing they want with out having to wait? Thats a lot tougher, if not impossible, for them than being up for rope drop is for you or any one else.

This is a “me” kind of thinking instead of a “we” kind of thinking. Eventually if every one ends up thinking this way….. nothing is left for any one. And there will be no more Micky hugs for anybody.

Jeff, I think there already are options to obtaining “ride anytime” passes, in the form of buying into Golden Oak or into WDW’s version of Club 33. Both used to come with a lot of Fast Passes, and I assume they would still include some type of special ride passes. So the option is there, but the costs are prohibitive for the vast majority of us, as it does indeed cost a “boatload” for either option.

Jeff, you should look into a VIP tour. They take you where you want to go and you get to use the Lightning Lane line at every eligible attraction 🙂

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Ultimate 1 Day Epcot Itinerary

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Coming up with the perfect 1 day Epcot itinerary is a harder task than you might think. There are so many factors in play at Epcot, things can get complicated.

Epcot is unique compared to all the other parks. Between the rides, the festivals, the countries, and all the food, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The fact is, there are a lot of things to do at Epcot.

That’s where this Epcot touring plan comes into play. I want you to take a look at all of the various entertainments and identify what your priorities are.

From there, you can begin to create your ultimate 1-day Epcot itinerary. This post is a monster, but I really wanted you to be able to get a true picture of what Epcot has to offer ( Updated July 17, 2022 ).

Table of Contents

Basics for Your Epcot Itinerary

Before we get to the more exciting aspects of planning your Epcot itinerary, it’s important to know the lay of the land.

Epcot Hours

For a very long time after the reopening, Epcot consistently opened at 11:00a everyday. This was obnoxiously late, especially for people accustomed to taking advantage of rope drop.

Fortunately, this, like many other things at Disney World, has returned to normal.

The typical Epcot hours are from 8:30a-9:00p .

The closing time primarily depends on the projected crowds. If Disney feels crowd levels will be higher, they extend the closing time. Epcot can be open as late as 11:00p during very busy times of the year.

Epcot also offers Extended evening hours, usually once a week. This is a benefit for guests staying at Disney Deluxe resorts and other Disney Good Neighbor hotels.

The extended evening hours run for 2 hours after the normal closing time. Epcot has Extended Evening Hours on Mondays. But this can change, so always double check.

Epcot has an entirely different layout from any of the other Disney parks.

First, there are two entrances instead of one. The most heavily used is the main entrance, over by Spaceship Earth. This is the entrance used by anyone coming to the park via bus, parking lot, monorail, or ride share.

The second entrance is called International Gateway. This is located in World Showcase, in between United Kingdom and France pavilions.

Guests staying at Beach & Yacht Club Resort, BoardWalk Resort , and Swan and Dolphin Resorts can walk to International Gateway.

The Skyliner Gondolas also drop guests off directly outside of International Gateway. Guests staying at Riviera Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort , Pop Century , and Art of Animation use the Skyliner to get to Epcot.

One thing you’ll likely notice is that World Showcase is huge. It’s actually 1.2 miles around. So plan on doing a lot of walking when you’re at Epcot.

New “Lands” in Epcot

One of the changes happening at Epcot with the remodeling is new names for the section of the park which used to be called Future World.

I would still expect people to refer to them as World Showcase and Future World for a while until we all adjust, but let’s take a look at their new names:

• World Celebration (the center section of Future World)
• World Discovery (the side with Test Track and anything having to do with outerspace)
• World Nature (the side with Soarin’, the aquarium, and so on)

Seriously, not the best names they could have come up with.

What is the BEST day to visit Epcot?

Now that the Epcot festivals are taking up 95% of the year, this question is relevant for most people’s trips.

How does this impact deciding what day to go to Epcot? Because Epcot is very much a locals park, and during festivals they swarm Epcot on the weekends.

From Friday evening through Sunday, Epcot is a popular date night/hangout spot for the locals. There are times on a Saturday night when World Showcase can get a bit of a college party vibe.

That’s not exactly what most families are looking for.

Because of this, the best days to visit Epcot are Monday through Thursday .

Construction Projects Currently Going on at Epcot

There are a lot of projects going on at Epcot right now. The entrance and World Celebration are undergoing a rather substantial redesign.

The entrance itself has been finished, but the rest of World Celebration is still heavily worked on.

The good news is that for the most part, the construction won’t impact your trip. There’s nothing closed down that will really bring down your trip.

The main impact it has is in terms of simply being an eyesore. There are construction barricades up throughout World Celebration, creating some detours.

It’s a little bit of a maze getting through some sections, but it’s well labeled and not confusing. It’s just not as attractive as you might like.

At this point, we have no official word on when this project will be finished. But everything indicates we still have a ways to go.

How long does Epcot take?

Ok, most people are going to say that Epcot is a one day park. Some even say there’s not enough to do to even fill a full day.

I strongly disagree with those people. Epcot is NOT a half a day park. At the very least, Epcot is a full day park.

Truly, Epcot is at least a 1 and a half day park, but you can easily spend 2 days in Epcot. We have gone to Epcot many times now, and we’ve never managed to see and do EVERYTHING we wanted to do in one day.

In fact, we have yet to see and do everything the park has to offer. Because we’re always distracted by rides and food.

Admittedly, that’s because we enjoy experiencing what the different countries have to offer, not just eating the food and running (though trust me, we really enjoy eating the food too…).

But that’s how Epcot is meant to be enjoyed. The whole purpose behind Epcot is to learn about technology, the natural world, and the cultures of the world, while also having fun.

However, I recognize that most people only want to designate 1 day to Epcot, so this post focuses on how to do Epcot in one day.

So, plan on spending 1 full day at Epcot .

How the Epcot Festivals Impact Your Day

Really, this question all comes down to how much of the Festival you want to experience.

Most everyone wants to eat and drink at the outdoor kitchens. But even that “eats” into how much you can experience. See that pun there?

But beyond the food and drink, each of the festivals has other things to experience which are unique to that festival. If you want to take advantage of some of these things, you’ll have to cut some other things out of your day.

Luckily, there’s really no wrong answer to this. Whether you focus on the Festival activities or on the traditional Epcot offerings, you’ll still have an amazing day.

But now you can probably see why we have yet to manage to do everything. We fall into the category of people who get sucked into the festivals.

What is there to do at Epcot?

The general assumption is that there’s not a lot to do at Epcot. On the whole, this assumption is false. There are tons of things to do in Epcot.

However, everyone who goes has different priorities and expectations. I’ll be the first to admit, Epcot is likely more fun for adults than kids.

But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing for kids to do. And yes, your vacation should be about the grown-ups too, not just the kids!

Epcot Rides

Compared to other parks, the list of Epcot rides is definitely on the shorter side. And many of them are frequently written off by people.

I’m going to break this list into two different categories: rides and attractions. Epcot has many different short movies/presentation style experiences.

• Frozen Ever After (Norway)
• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros (Mexico)
• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (World Discover, 42″ height requirement)
• Journey into Imagination with Figment (World Celebration)
• Living with the Land (World Nature)
• Mission: SPACE Green or Orange (World Discovery, 40″ height requirement)
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (France Pavilion)
• Soarin’ Around the World (World Nature, 40″ height requirement)
• Spaceship Earth (World Celebration)
• Test Track (Future World East, 40″ height requirement)
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends (World Nature)
• Turtle Talk with Crush (World Nature)

A note about Mission: SPACE. There are two options for the ride, orange or green. Orange is a more intense version, involving spinning at rapid speed.

The wait time for Mission: SPACE Orange is always longer than Green. The Green version often has a wait of under 20 minutes.

Also, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is Epcot’s newest ride. It just opened up in May 2022. It’s amazing and I highly recommend it.

To learn more about it, I have a whole guide for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind .

Other Epcot Attractions

• SeaBase (World Nature)- did you know there’s an aquarium inside Epcot?
• Awesome Planet (World Nature)
• Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360 (Canada)
• Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival (World Celebration)
• Impressions de France (France)
• Reflections of China (China)
• House of the Whispering Willows (China)
• The American Adventure (America)
• Beauty and the Beast Singalong (France)
• Walt Disney Imagineering presents the Epcot Experience (World Celebration)
• Kidcot Fun Stops (World Showcase)
• ImageWorks – The “What If” Labs (World Celebration)

Other Epcot Attractions Coming Soon

• Moana’s Journey of Water

Epcot Festivals

Epcot has four different festivals throughout the year. Each festival has it’s own theme and offerings, but the general formula is the same.

There are outdoor food booths (the largest draw for any festival), entertainment, special decor, and so on. Many of the festivals looked different in 2020 and 2021, but now the festival offerings have returned to normal.

The four festivals of the year are:

• International Food and Wine Festival
• International Festival of the Arts
• International Festival of the Holidays
• International Flower and Garden Festival

World Showcase

Have you ever wanted to travel around the world, but didn’t have the money or tolerance for all those plane rides? Well, World Showcase at Epcot might be the next best thing.

There are 11 countries represented in World Showcase.

• United Kingdom
• The American Adventure

Each of these pavilions is actually sponsored by a private company associated with the country it represents.

Morocco was previously sponsored by the Moroccan government, but Disney recently took over control of the Morocco pavilion.

Typically, the countries are staffed with Cast Members from the representative country to provide a more authentic experience.

This wasn’t possible during the height of the pandemic, but this too is starting to return to normal.

Each of the pavilions represents architecture of their respective countries. They also typically have restaurants, bakeries, stores, entertainment, and a couple have rides.

Entertainment

At long last, international performers are starting to return to World Showcase!

This is crucial because having the international performers there is such an enriching part of the Epcot experience.

I highly recommend taking the time to watch whatever international performers are around during your stay. My personal favorite are the Matsuriza Taiko Drummers in Japan.

Activities for Kids in World Showcase

A major concern that most people have is that Epcot is not a good park for kids. This is a common misconception, but there’s actually a lot for kids to experience at Epcot.

The main issue seems to be when adults want to spend time eating and drinking in World Showcase while kids get bored.

But Disney is pretty smart. They make a lot of money on food and drink sales in World Showcase, so they want both kids and parents happy to stay there.

Kidcot Fun Stops

Each of the pavilions in World Showcase has a designated Kidcot Fun Stop. Kids can collect activity cards from each Kidcot station while engaging in an activity and learning about the cultures of different countries.

Here’s where you can find the Kidcot Fun Stops:

• Mexico Pavilion (near Mexico Folk Art Gallery) 
• Norway Pavilion (at The Puffin’s Roost) 
• China Pavilion (near the exit of Reflections of China) 
• Germany Pavilion (at Volkunst) 
• Italy Pavilion (outside, near La Bottega Italiana) 
• American Adventure Pavilion (outside, near Art of Disney) 
• Japan Pavilion (in the Bijutsu-kan Gallery) 
• Morocco Pavilion (at the Marketplace in the Medina) 
• France Pavilion (at Souvenirs de France) 
• United Kingdom Pavilion (at The Toy Soldier) 
• Canada Pavilion (at the exit of Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360)

Scavenger Hunts

Each Epcot festival has at least one scavenger hunt for kids (and adults) to participate in. Typically, the scavenger hunts cost around $8 to get the map.

However, sometimes there are some free scavenger hunts to participate in.

1-Day Epcot Itinerary

Ok, now, let’s start putting together all the pieces of the puzzle. But there are some things I want you to think about first. The answers to these questions will help shape your itinerary.

• Is your priority to get on as many rides as possible?
• Do you qualify for Early Theme Park Entry?
• Do you want ample time to explore the nooks and crannies of the countries?
• How many shows/movies can your family tolerate?
• Do you plan to focus on eating/drinking at a lot of Festival booths?
• Will you buy Disney Genie+ or Lightning Lane access?

You’re going to take the answers to these questions, and use them to adjust the amount of time you spend at each step of your Epcot touring plan.

If you know you want to focus on eating and drinking around the world, then you’ll eliminate some of the rides in the afternoon.

Conversely, if rides are king, you’ll spend less time in World Showcase. You can still follow this basic Epcot itinerary I’m presenting, you’ll just customize the amount of time you spend in each step.

Also, as a warning, there’s a lot of walking at Epcot. In order to get on rides with lower lines, or break up long stretches in World Showcase, you have to zig-zag the park.

If you’re more concerned with minimizing walking, you’ll want to tackle attractions located close to one another.

And I’m going to warn you, this itinerary is designed for the shortest wait times. There is nothing about this that equals efficiency with walking. You will crisscross the park like crazy.

Also, if you have small kids with you, you’ll have a slower pace than I did while walking around by myself.

As a random side note, because of all that walking, make sure you have happy feet! Here are some of the best shoes I’ve tried out at Disney World .

Disney’s Early Theme Park Entry and Epcot Itinerary

The advent of Early Theme Park Entry now has a significant impact on an itinerary at any of the parks.

If you are staying at a Disney World resort or a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel, you qualify for Disney Early Entry into all of the parks. This allows resort guests to get into the park, and on the rides, 30 minutes before non-resort guests.

Make sure you understand how Disney Early Theme Park Entry works before your trip.

For guests who are eligible, those extra 30 minutes will likely have some of the shortest lines of the day. If you can take advantage of early entry, I highly recommend it. This is the new rope drop.

Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane at Epcot

Also, this particular itinerary is assuming you don’t have Disney Genie+ or plan to buy Lightning Lane access. Essentially, this is the free version of the Epcot Itinerary.

For people with Disney Genie+, your itinerary will look different based on what you’re able to book, and when. You can still use this basic framework, simply plug in the rides you’re able to get passes for and go from there.

But if you are planning to purchase Disney Genie+ or Lightning Lane access, here are the rides which are eligible:

Epcot Disney Genie+ Rides

• Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
• Journey into Imagination with Figment
• Living with the Land
• Mission: SPACE – Green
• Mission: SPACE – Orange
• Soarin’ Around the World
• Spaceship Earth
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends
• Turtle Talk with Crush

Epcot Lightning Lane Rides

• Frozen Ever After
• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Please note, Disney can, and does, change these around. For example, through August 7, 2022, Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure are actually available via Genie+, not Lightning Lane.

If you do plan to use Genie+ (which unless you are going during high crowd times, I don’t think is truly necessary at Epcot), make sure you are ready to start booking right as the window opens at 7a the day you go to Epcot.

The running joke right now is that when people request a popular ride for early in the day, they’re being offered a show in the evening as the available option.

So be prepared to be flexible with your ride and time options.

But I digress…

Head on over to my general guide about Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane if you don’t have a clue what I’m referring to. But the short version: this is the paid FastPass replacement to allow you to skip the lines.

What is the first thing to do at Epcot?

Regardless of what your overall plan is for Epcot, the first thing you should do is head for a ride at park opening.

But to determine which ride, there are a couple of factors I want you to consider while answering this question.

• Which gate are you entering at?
• Is there a ride you absolutely want to get on?

The most popular rides for standby at Epcot are Test Track, Soarin’, Frozen Ever After, and Remy’s.

Across the board, all the guests at rope drop are heading to one of those rides.

Once Guardians of the Galaxy switches to a standby line, that will hands down be the most sought after ride at rope drop. At that point, if I haven’t updated this post yet, just plan accordingly.

If you enter Epcot through the main entrance, you are pretty close to Test Track and Soarin’. If you’re entering at International Gateway, you are closest to Remy’s and Frozen Ever After.

So, the most obvious strategy is to simply head to one of the rides that’s closer. That gives you a leg up on people coming from a longer distance.

However, there are some facts to take into consideration. The rides in World Showcase are at their most crowded later in the day because that’s when everyone is in World Showcase, eating and drinking.

So if you don’t get them done early, you might not get on them at all.

My family has almost always followed this pattern, regardless of entrance gate: Test Track, Soarin’, check wait times to determine next ride.

And that pattern definitely still works, but it might not be the best if you want to get on Frozen.

With Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure now offering standby lines, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to head there first if you’re entering through International Gateway.

Because of that, I’m now going to create 2 slightly different morning Epcot itineraries:

• Main Entrance Plan
• International Gateway Plan

With these plans, its the morning that will be slightly different, the afternoon and evening will generally be the same.

How does the virtual queue for Guardians of the Galaxy fit in?

Right now, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind can only be ridden by using the virtual queue or booking an individual Lightning Lane.

Because of this, there’s no way of knowing what time of day you’ll be able to ride until it happens.

However, it just requires a little rearranging of your day on the fly. Just hope you aren’t all the way back on Morocco when your boarding group is called, because that’s a looooong walk.

Make sure you understand how to use the Disney virtual queue system so you don’t struggle to use it the day of your trip.

Morning Epcot Itinerary – Main Entrance Plan

Fortunately for us all, now that Epcot is opening up earlier, there is so much more morning to play with.

In this plan, I’m assuming you are arriving for early entry. Though, this plan does have a chance of still working even if you can’t enter until the official park opening time.

But a word to the wise, you want to be as close to the front of the rope drop line as you can manage. The closer you are to the front, the more you’ll get done before the crowds hit.

Step 1: Let it Go!

Ok, this is going to be a little bit of a hike, but not too bad. After this, you can concentrate more on being efficient with your walking.

Head on over to Norway to take a ride to visit with Anna and Elsa on Frozen Ever After . Turn left when you enter World Showcase from World Celebration. You’ll go through Mexico and hit Norway after that.

The main reason I suggest that you do this first is because the line for Frozen will get significantly longer as the day goes on. As I mentioned, the afternoon is prime time in World Showcase.

If you’ve gotten to Epcot about an hour before early entry starts, you should be pretty darn close to the front of the pack. If that’s the case, Frozen Ever After is a walk on.

This means you’ll be on and off the ride very quickly and ready to head to the next ride.

Step 2: Feel the Need for Speed

It’s time to head to Test Track . Yes, that’s right, you should walk back where you came from!

But seriously, this is another highly desired ride and has long lines throughout the day. If you can get on Test Track before the official park opening time, you have a leg up on thousands of other people.

This line won’t be a walk on, but it should be a reasonable wait time. Think in the realm of 20-30 minutes, and for Test Track, that’s not bad.

A word of warning: Test Track does break down frequently. If it’s down when you get there, move on to the next ride. You’ll know if it’s running by the sound of the cars flying by on the track.

Likewise, if the posted wait time is crazy high, come back later in the day and skip to another ride.

But if all goes to plan, once you get off Test Track, the park is officially open.

Step 3: Take a Trip to France

You are now at a cross-roads in the morning. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is known to have pockets of availability that pop up after the initial rush.

When I followed this exact itinerary, once I got off Test Track, Remy’s had a 15 minutes posted wait time. That is crazy low!

So, I hope you brought your walking shoes because it’s time to walk all the way to France, and it’s not close.

Before you make the hike, check My Disney Experience to see what the posted wait time is. If it’s 30 minutes or above, it’s not worth the walk. You can get on other rides in the time you would wait.

Just keep looking for that pocket of a short line to show up, it usually does. Once you see a low wait time, hoof it over there.

But if it’s low when you get off Test Track, head on over there and become a rat.

Step 4: Fly Through the Sky

It’s time to head back into Future World, where the majority of the rides are located. With that, it’s time to go ride Soarin’ . Odds are pretty good that the wait time for Soarin’ is in the 15-20 minute range. It’s always the headliner that fills up later than the rest.

This also has the benefit of putting you in a good position to get on rides for the rest of the morning.

Step 5: Bounce around World Nature, World Celebration, and World Discovery

Pull out your My Disney Experience app and check the wait times of the other rides. At this point, the crowds are going to start catching up with you.

But there should still be a pocket of time to get on one or two more rides before it’s time to switch gears. For these rides, if there’s a posted wait of more than 15-20 minutes, don’t ride them yet. These rides often have walk on wait times throughout the day.

This should bring you very close to 11a when the food booths for the festivals begin to open. Since the lines have become inflated for rides, it’s time to switch gears.

Morning Epcot Itinerary – International Gateway Plan

For all of you coming in from Crescent Lake or the Skyliner Gondolas, this is the plan for you.

Because of where you are already, the first half of the day is very heavy on World Showcase, it simply makes the most sense.

However, if you have people in your group who desperately want to get on Test Track (this is my family, it’s our favorite), then simply go for it.

As long as you walk fast and are at the front of the pack at International Gateway, you can make it to Test Track and have a short wait.

But if not, give this plan a try.

Step 1: Parlez-vous Francais

From International Gateway there is really only one option that makes the most sense: Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.

France Pavilion is literally right next door to International Gateway and this is a hot new ride. Lines throughout the day are going to be pretty darn long.

If you were good at getting to Epcot early and are at the front of the pack entering International Gateway, Remy’s should be a near walk-on for you.

For this plan, you want to be as close to the front of the pack as possible. That’s because you want to get off the ride as fast as you can to head to step 2…

Step 2: Let it Go

Because I’m an absolute geek, I actually measured out the distance between Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After, Soarin’, and Test Track.

I found that the distance for each and every one of those rides is 0.6 miles. So you’re looking at an equidistant hike to all of them.

With that in mind, it turns to strategy.

Frozen Ever After is the other Lightning Lane access ride, meaning you can always purchase access to it as a back up, but this is a free itinerary, so we might as well try to ride it for free!

Because of that, Frozen Ever After is my pick for step 2 of the International Gateway strategy.

According to Google Maps, it’s actually 1/10 of a mile quicker to turn left out of France Pavilion and head back towards United Kingdom Pavilion and head towards Norway that way.

However, I think I’d head right towards Morocco for the sheer fact you should encounter less people walking. At this point you’ll have people coming from World Celebration if you go the other way. Might as well avoid the crowds while you can.

Step 3: Soar Around the World

I’d love to tell you to head to Test Track, but it will be after park opening time by now, and all the off-site guests just headed straight towards Test Track. You’re better off waiting until later for that ride.

Instead, go into World Nature and get on Soarin’ .

Step 4: World Nature, World Celebration, and World Discovery Rides

Seriously though, it was so much easier when I could just write “Future World” instead. I’ll probably do that anyway just to avoid having to write that out every time.

This is the point where you’ve caught up with the itinerary for the front gate. Except you’ll have more time and be able to get on more rides.

Spaceship Earth is the ride I’d probably head to first, it tends to get decently long lines at some points of the day. After that, the world is your oyster.

Remember, use My Disney Experience as a tool to help you make decisions.

Afternoon Epcot Itinerary – Both Plans

There will be some slight differences in the exact rides you choose to do in this section, but there is much about this part of the itinerary that will be the same for everyone.

I’m writing this with the assumption that there is a Festival of some sort going on during your trip. Because really, they’re pretty much year round at this point.

With that understanding, it’s time to eat!

Step 5: Eat and Drink Around the World

I’m sure everyone is hungry by now so it’s time to eat! Start making your way around World Showcase sampling the outdoor kitchens or restaurants.

It’s up to you whether you want to head clockwise or counter-clockwise. There is much debate whether the correct way is to start with Canada or Mexico, but really it doesn’t matter. Go whichever way has the first booth you want to eat at!

As you do this, consider popping into the different countries to explore. You’ll need time to let your food settle. Each country has some really cool things to look at.

Explore the shops, watch some of the movies. Don’t sweat about deeply exploring every country on this round. You’ll be back through again later.

Pick the countries that most interest you for this first loop around World Showcase. That way you know for sure you get to experience your priority countries.

Remember, it’s 1.2 miles around World Showcase, so you’ll get the miles in today. By eating as you go, you won’t need to stop for lunch.

If the kids needs something a little more standard, stop at Regal Eagle Smokehouse at the American Adventure. It’s the best quick service restaurant in Epcot.

It’s also halfway around World Showcase so it’s the perfect spot for lunch.

Some highlights to consider as you make your way around: American Adventure animatronic show, Beauty and the Beast Sing-a-long , and Gran Fiesta Tour .

As a bonus, this is the time of day it’s starts getting HOT. And World Showcase always feels even hotter. By going into some of the shows, it gives you a break to sit down in air conditioning.

Step 6: Head back to World Celebration

As the afternoon wears on, World Showcase becomes more and more crowded. As such, it’s time to head back to the front of the park.

A lot of the “lesser” rides should have quite reasonable wait times at this point. Rides like Journey into Imagination, The Seas with Nemo & Friends, and Living with the Land tend to always have waits on the lower end.

As you head back in that direction, pull out My Disney Experience and see where everything stands. Your plan for the next little while is to simply bounce around this area and see what you can get done.

This is where things might start to differ slightly depending on what you accomplished earlier in the day. The main difference being whether or not you rode Test Track and Soarin’.

If you haven’t ridden those rides yet, save them towards later in the afternoon/evening. They will still have long lines in the early afternoon.

I would suggest something along these lines:

• Journey into Imagination
• SeaBase (it’s in the same building as Nemo)
• Mission: SPACE
• Soarin’

This makes the earlier part of the afternoon a bit more efficient. You don’t have to start criss-crossing back and forth until you get to the later part of the plan.

Even if you’ve already gone on Soarin’ or Test Track, if you see the waits go down, you might as well ride again!

Our mission is always to ride Test Track at least twice since it’s a family favorite.

This should take you into evening.

Evening Epcot Touring Plan

The sun is setting and the lights are turning on. I LOVE how beautiful Epcot is all lit up at night. Once the sun goes down, please take some time to simply enjoy the beauty and take some pictures.

A note on dinner: depending on how much Festival food and/or snacks you want to eat, you might not need dinner.

My husband and I have successfully done an entire day at Epcot without ever needing a restaurant. There’s just so much food.

But, I also understand if you want to eat at one of the amazing Epcot restaurants. It’s really a hard call. We are big fans of Rose & Crown Pub , Biergarten, and La Creperie de Paris .

Step 7: Go Back and Explore the World

The evening is a great time to head back to World Showcase. Your plan now is to eat more booth food, drink more drinks, find more snacks…oh and explore the countries you missed earlier today.

World Showcase will probably feel a little more crowded at this point, but unless it’s a Friday through Sunday, it should be pretty reasonable.

Also, the later it’s open, the more everything will thin out.

While you’re here, keep an eye on the wait times for Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure . Be opportunistic!

Step 8: Last Minute Rides and/or Harmonious

This is of course going to vary depending on what time Epcot closes. The later the closing time, the more opportunity you have to re-ride your favorites.

One of the big tricks at Disney is to hop in line for a ride right before park closing. Disney artificially inflates the wait time as a deterrent. It’s often one of the shortest waits of the day.

If there is any ride you weren’t able to get on earlier in the day, now is the time to revisit that attempt.

Test Track has always been my number 1 recommended ride for getting on right before closing. As a bonus, riding Test Track at night has a completely different feel than during the day.

However, if you haven’t been able to get on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure or Frozen Ever After, right before closing is probably your best bet.

But truly, this strategy would apply to any of the top 4 rides.

The main hiccup to this strategy is if you want to watch Harmonious, Epcot’s fireworks show. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend watching it.

However, it usually runs right at closing. This means you need to choose which is more important to you: a hard to get on ride with short waits or a very entertaining fireworks show.

It’s a tough call.

If you’re lucky, the show will run prior to closing. If that’s the case, watch as much as Harmonious as you can, then book it to a ride.

Final Thoughts on This 1-Day Epcot Itinerary

I think this is a pretty solid Epcot itinerary. It could be a little overly ambitious on a heavy crowd day. You simply can’t get as much done when there’s a big crowd. There’s no way around that.

I’m hopeful that this strategy helps you to experience a full day at Epcot without having to spend the extra money on Disney Genie+ or Lightning Lane.

As always, you never know exactly what’s going to happen on the day of your trip. Test Track might be out of commission most of the day, driving up demand for night time.

You could get distracted by all the food and miss some of the rides. Just remember to think on your feet and be adaptable.

While this Epcot touring plan gives you a good framework of a successful plan, you WILL need to alter it on the big day. But don’t worry, you’ll still have an amazing time.

If you’re looking for some other itinerary ideas, take a look at these:

• Magic Kingdom Touring Plan
• Hollywood Studios Itinerary
• Animal Kingdom Touring Plan

Your Thoughts

What do you think about this Epcot touring plan? Do you think it’s doable or a little over ambitious? What have you tried that worked really well? Let me know in the comments below.

Don’t forget to follow The Disney Journey on Pinterest and Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news and updates.

1 thought on “Ultimate 1 Day Epcot Itinerary”

thank you for the tips on what to do when. One thing really disappointed me though in Epcot. You wrote “The whole purpose behind Epcot is to learn about technology, the natural world, and the cultures of the world, while also having fun.” No, it is not. Is USED to be. Now? now it has turned into a commercial movie based place, like the other parks. Sad if you think about it. Now, instead of learning about Energy, you get a roller coaster for Guardians of the Galaxy. instead of learning about the future in Horizons, you get a ride to space to ohh and ahh over. Instead of learning about the entire history of motion cumulating in the auto, you get a fast car ride. All nice rides, but not what EPCOT was supposed to be. Instead of a ride that educated you a “little” about Norway, you get a ride about the movie Frozen. It’s still different than the Magic Kingdom, but too much focused like the M K is. ON rides and movies. Not on the Experimental city of the Future that it was originally set to be. I remember the old days. I saw the new days. I miss the original concept for this one. 🙁

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Epcot Itinerary Plan: A Strategic Guide for the Perfect Day

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Get ready to make the most of your visit with a strategic plan that covers every detail. Discover how to master Epcot’s layout, secure your Disney World tickets, and use tools like My Disney Experience and Disney Genie+ to enhance your adventure. Learn the best strategies to start your day early, navigate crowds, and maximize your time with a rope drop approach.

Explore Epcot’s must-do rides and attractions by securing Lightning Lane passes and effectively using standby lines and virtual queues. Immerse yourself in the World Showcase, where each pavilion offers a glimpse into different cultures with captivating exhibits, vibrant entertainment, and delectable dining options.

Dive into Epcot’s culinary delights with a range of table-service and counter-service restaurants. Find out how to make reservations in advance for a smooth dining experience. Epcot also hosts seasonal festivals and evening shows, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

Families with children will love Epcot’s kid-friendly attractions and interactive experiences like Kidcot Fun Stops. Adults can enjoy unique experiences, from sampling international cuisines to exploring lush gardens and intriguing exhibits. This guide ensures your day at Epcot is packed with excitement and unforgettable memories.

Planning Your Epcot Visit

Epcot, a theme park at Walt Disney World Resort, offers diverse attractions and experiences. To maximize your time, an itinerary is essential.

Understanding Epcot’s Layout

Epcot is divided into two main areas: Future World and World Showcase. Reference an Epcot map for layout familiarity and attraction locations. Future World features futuristic and educational exhibits, while World Showcase presents pavilions from 11 different countries.

Purchasing Disney World Tickets

Begin by purchasing Disney World tickets online to secure entry to Epcot. Choose between single-day tickets or multi-day passes with options for park hopping.

Leveraging My Disney Experience and Disney Genie+

Install My Disney Experience for a tailored Epcot schedule. Utilize Disney Genie+ for booking Lightning Lane entries, which allow expedited access to select attractions.

Arrival and Rope Drop Strategy

To maximize your day at Epcot, arriving early and understanding the rope drop strategy is essential.

Timing Your Entry

Arrive at Epcot’s entrance at least 30 minutes prior to the official park opening time. This will put you ahead of the majority of crowds and position you closer to the front of the line for the rope drop, which is the moment park officials allow guests to enter the park’s main areas.

• First: Take note of any Extra Magic Hours or Early Theme Park Entry benefits if you are staying at a Disney resort, as this allows for even earlier park access.
• Second: Check Epcot’s official website the day before your visit to confirm park opening times.

Navigating Through Crowds

Move swiftly and directly to your first destination after the rope drop. Crowds will start to form quickly behind the early arrivers.

• First: Choose less crowded pathways often found to the left or right of the main walkways.
• Second: Have a park map or the Epcot mobile app ready to avoid any confusion about directions.

By following these steps, you’ll navigate through crowds more efficiently and make the most of your time at Epcot.

Must-Do Rides and Attractions

When planning a visit to Epcot, including the most popular rides and attractions ensures an unforgettable experience. Prioritize these to make the most of your day.

Securing Lightning Lane Passes

Lightning Lane access allows you to skip the standard queues on select attractions. Begin by purchasing Genie+ through the My Disney Experience app. Here’s how to secure your passes:

• Purchase Genie+ on the morning of your park visit starting at 7 a.m.
• Select your first Lightning Lane attraction immediately after purchase. Aim for high-demand rides such as Test Track or Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind .
• Reserve subsequent Lightning Lanes throughout the day as you redeem your initial selections. Remember, attractions like Soarin’ and Frozen Ever After can be quickly booked, so plan ahead.

Utilizing Standby Lines and Virtual Queue

Standby lines provide traditional queue experiences. Use these guidelines for an efficient approach:

• Arrive early for attractions with longer waits such as Test Track .
• Visit popular rides during parades or evening shows when lines are typically shorter; examples include Soarin’ and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure .

Virtual queues are sometimes used for high-demand attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind . To join the virtual queue:

• Access the My Disney Experience app.
• Join the virtual queue during distribution times, usually at park opening or early afternoon.
• Monitor the app to receive your boarding group call to the attraction.

Exploring World Showcase

The World Showcase at Epcot offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, featuring a variety of pavilions that represent countries from around the world.

Showcase Pavilions Overview

World Showcase is a collective exhibition of 11 national pavilions encircling a picturesque lagoon. Canada and Norway are among the first pavilions you might encounter as you embark on your journey around the World Showcase. Each pavilion showcases its country’s unique architecture, dining, and shopping opportunities.

• Canada Pavilion : Experience the Canadian wilderness with its impressive mountain backdrop and engaging attraction, ‘O Canada!’
• Norway Pavilion : Brave the seas with ‘Frozen Ever After’, taking a boat ride through the scenes of the popular ‘Frozen’ movies.
• Mexico Pavilion : Step inside a Mesoamerican pyramid to discover the ‘Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros’, a gentle boat ride.
• France Pavilion : Be enchanted by the romantic streets and ‘Impressions de France’, a panoramic film showcasing France’s beauty.
• Morocco Pavilion : Explore a Moroccan bazaar and admire the intricate tile work, reminiscent of a distant land.
• Japan Pavilion : Immerse yourself in a serene setting, with traditional Japanese architecture and peaceful gardens.
• American Adventure : Anchoring the World Showcase , this pavilion features a patriotic audio-animatronic stage show.

Cultural Exhibits and Entertainment

As you visit each pavilion in the World Showcase , you will find cultural exhibits and entertainment that bring the spirit of these countries to life.

• Mexico Pavilion delights with vibrant Mexican folk art displays and the festive Mariachi Cobre band.
• Norway Pavilion offers insights into Norse history and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Norway.
• Morocco Pavilion includes ‘Gallery of Arts and History’, an exhibit of Moroccan crafts and artifacts.
• Japan Pavilion highlights traditional Japanese culture through its ‘Bijutsu-kan Gallery’ and taiko drum performances.
• American Adventure educates visitors on American history through artifacts and historical figures.

The World Showcase pairs authentic cultural experiences with recreational adventures. Be sure to catch the continuous screenings of Impressions de France and Reflections of China , films that offer cinematic glimpses into their respective countries.

Dining Experiences at Epcot

Epcot offers a myriad of dining experiences, ranging from quick-service spots to immersive table-service restaurants that serve a diverse array of cuisine.

Making Dining Reservations

Secure dining reservations up to 60 days in advance to ensure a place at your preferred restaurants such as Le Cellier or Space 220 Restaurant. Check availability online or through the My Disney Experience app. Prioritize booking popular spots like La Crêperie de Paris early.

Recommended Table-Service and Counter-Service Restaurants

At Epcot, indulge in a variety of table-service restaurants . Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada Pavilion is renowned for delicious steaks and poutine. For Mediterranean cuisine, Spice Road Table by the Morocco Pavilion offers delectable small plates. In Japan, Teppan Edo serves sumptuous meats and vegetables cooked teppanyaki-style. Space 220 Restaurant provides an out-of-this-world dining experience with its space-themed setting and American cuisine.

For a quicker dining option, explore counter-service eateries . Sunshine Seasons offers diverse food choices for lunch or an afternoon snack. Sample a savory or sweet crêpe at La Crêperie de Paris for a taste of France. At the Mexico Pavilion, enjoy a refreshing margarita paired with Mexican quick bites.

Entertainment and Festivals

Epcot is a hub for diverse entertainment options and annual festivals that cater to a wide array of interests and cultural celebrations. These range from spectacular evening shows to seasonal events that transform the park with unique themes and activities.

Seasonal Festival Highlights

At Epcot, seasonal festivals are a core part of your experience, each offering a series of events and activities that are distinct to their theme. The Epcot International Festival of the Arts , held in winter, showcases visual, performing, and culinary arts. Here, you’ll find:

• Artistic Performances : Enjoy a variety of live performances that cover a broad spectrum of the arts, from vocalists to acrobats.
• Art Exhibits : Witness artwork by talented artists displayed throughout the World Showcase.

During spring, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival blooms with:

• Garden Spaces and Topiaries : Explore beautifully themed gardens and encounter character-shaped topiaries.
• Outdoor Kitchens : Experience culinary delights that are as visually appealing as they are tasty.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in fall brings:

• Global Marketplaces : Sample delights from numerous countries, providing a taste of international cuisines.
• Wine and Beverage Tastings : Participate in sessions that allow you to taste-test and learn about various wines and beverages.

As winter approaches, the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays presents:

• Holiday Storytellers : Engage with cultural representations of holiday traditions from around the globe.
• Festive Foods : Indulge in seasonal treats and holiday specialties at kiosks peppered throughout the park.

Evening Shows and Performances

Epcot becomes an even more enchanting place as night falls, thanks to the riveting Harmonious show. This is one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney park. Harmonious offers:

• Immersive Experiences : Experience a breathtaking blend of Disney music and visuals, reimagined by artists worldwide.
• State-of-the-Art Technology : Be amazed by the cutting-edge technology, including giant screens, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics, and lasers that create a dazzling spectacle on the World Showcase Lagoon.

With these offerings, your visit to Epcot’s festivals and entertainment options will be memorable, enriched by the cultural, culinary, and visual splendor that each festival and show presents.

Tips for Families with Children

Visiting Epcot can be an enchanting experience for guests of all ages, particularly for families with children. With careful planning, you can make the most of kid-friendly attractions and interactive experiences that young visitors will love.

Kid-Friendly Attractions and Rides

Turtle Talk with Crush is a must-see for young ones. Here, children can have real-time conversations with the sea turtle from “Finding Nemo.” It’s located inside The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion. Make sure to check the showtimes upon arrival, as this attraction is a live experience and operates at certain times throughout the day.

Journey Into Imagination with Figment takes you on a whimsical ride exploring the power of imagination. This attraction’s gentle nature and vibrant sensory experiences are perfect for younger visitors. Aim to visit during off-peak hours to minimize wait times.

Interactive Experiences and Kidcot Fun Stops

Kidcot Fun Stops are interactive craft stations found in each country within the World Showcase. Children can create personalized souvenirs and collect stamps at these stations, providing an engaging way to learn about different cultures.

For an immersive experience, participate in the interactive scavenger hunts often available throughout Epcot. They provide an additional layer of adventure, complementing the educational elements of the park. Scavenger hunt maps are typically available at specific locations, and completed maps can often be traded in for a surprise.

Remember, while at Epcot, pace yourself. Young children may need breaks, so consider interspersing attractions with rest periods to keep the day enjoyable for everyone.

Adults and Unique Experiences

Epcot’s World Showcase offers adults a blend of sophisticated leisure with cultural delights and gastronomic adventures.

Drinking Around the World Showcase

Embark on a global journey of beverages as you navigate Epcot’s World Showcase. Begin with a refreshing margarita and the cozy ambiance at La Cava del Tequila in Mexico. Moving clockwise, explore the wine offerings in Italy or the beer gardens in Germany. Ensure to pace your experience, aiming to savor the flavors from a selection of 11 countries.

• Purchase a customizable passport to track your drinks.
• Take the opportunity to converse with cast members from each country.
• Enjoy entertainment acts between stops, like the British Revolution in the UK pavilion.

Exploring Epcot’s Gardens and Exhibits

Discover Epcot’s commitment to nature with its array of gardens and exhibits. Dive into the Journey of Water , inspired by Moana , an interactive walkthrough that showcases water’s cycle. Admire the integration of technology and ecology in the Awesome Planet film, spotlighting Earth’s beauty and diversity.

• Journey of Water : Learn about water’s crucial role on our planet through engaging displays.
• Awesome Planet : A cinematic exploration, narrated with compelling imagery of Earth’s environments.
• Visit during spring for the Flower & Garden Festival.
• Engage with the interactive exhibits that promote environmental awareness.

Your experience with Epcot’s gardens and exhibits can be both enlightening and enjoyable, reflecting the park’s vision of education and entertainment.

Guide to Seasonal Decorations and Special Events: Essentials for First-Time Visitors

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Itinerary Plan: A Savvy Guide to Maximizing Your Experience

Guide to Experiencing Disney World on a Budget: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Guide to Disney World’s Parades and Fireworks: Tips for First-Time Visitors

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Epcot 1-Day Itinerary: The Perfect Touring Plan for 2024!

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for the   perfect Epcot 1-day itinerary to outsmart the crowds and get the most out of your Walt Disney World vacation?

Need a summary of rope drop tips, and ideas on how to plan your day at Epcot to maximize efficiency and decrease time spent standing in lines?

My 1-day Epcot touring plan highlights all of these topics and offers a step-by-step plan for an ideal day at Epcot!

For an absolutely perfect one day at Epcot, utilize these practical tips while taking time to enjoy the Disney ambiance that makes Epcot one of our favorite Disney parks!

Important Notice:  This one-day Epcot itinerary has been updated many times over the past several years to reflect the ongoing changes at the park. It represents the permanent suspension of the Disney FastPass system and Disney Magical Express, as well as the additions of the Disney Genie, Disney Genie+, and Lightning Lane services. And last, please note that Epcot is currently under a huge transformation that is expected to last into 2024. The area of World Celebration (formerly called Future World) behind Spaceship Earth is being completely transformed into Dreamers Point. It will include a wishing tree in an enchanted forest, natural environments, global design elements, interactive features, and gardens. Though construction won’t limit your ride experience, expect barricades and construction walls located throughout the front half of the park.

Table of Contents

Epcot Touring Plan: Important Considerations

You can’t just wing it when it comes to planning a Walt Disney World vacation.

You can try to go without a plan, but you’ll probably end up being disappointed, especially if it’s your first visit.

Our Epcot itinerary makes it easy for you to get the most out of your experience by outlining the order in which you should visit the rides and attractions.

It is the perfect strategy for those visiting Epcot for one day.

If you are visiting the park for a longer period, you may still take advantage of this plan, however.

When customizing your Epcot touring plan, stick to the general idea of having a solid rope drop strategy and overall touring plan that compliments the layout of the rides and shows within the park.

This will maximize efficiency and decrease the amount of time spent standing in lines.

My Quick Thoughts on Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane

Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane (ILL) passes are Disney’s new ‘skip the regular’ line options that can be purchased in addition to your regular theme park entry.

Though it seems confusing at first, they’re quite easy to use if you do your  research ahead of time .

When you only have one day at Epcot, I recommend that you purchase both Disney Genie+ and an Individual Lightning Lane pass for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (if your funds allow).

I also  100% recommend  purchasing Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane (ILL) passes when visiting the parks during the peak seasons of Christmas, Thanksgiving, Spring Break, and 3-day weekend holidays such as President’s Day and Memorial Day –  unless, of course, you don’t mind standing in line for 2 hours!

For guests who want to get on as many rides as possible, Disney Genie+ and Individual Lighting Lane purchases tend to be well worth the added cost to avoid spending hours waiting in line.

With that said, let’s take a look at the first important steps required to plan a successful day at Epcot!

Epcot Itinerary: Initial Steps

• Check Epcot reservation availability.
• Purchase your theme park tickets.
• Make Epcot theme park reservations.
• Know Epcot’s park hours for the day of your visit.
• Consult an Epcot crowd calendar.
• Review the Epcot map.
• Make a list of ‘must-do’ rides and experiences in World Showcase.

1. Check Theme Park Reservation Availability

Along with purchasing a theme park ticket, you need to make a theme park reservation for each day you’d like to visit any of the Walt Disney World theme parks.

This includes needing to make a reservation to visit Epcot.

It’s important that you start by checking  Disney’s theme park availability calendar  to see if the date(s) you plan to visit have availability before purchasing your ticket, Annual Pass, or vacation package – as park reservations do run out during peak seasons.

2. Purchase Theme Park Tickets

After ensuring reservation availability, purchase your Epcot tickets.

In my opinion, the easiest way to purchase a ticket to Epcot (or any of the Disney World theme parks) is to buy them directly from a Disney Travel Agent or from the Disney World website.

Others choose to buy them from an authorized ticket seller or discounted ticket site.

Be sure to stick with reputable third-party sellers, however, and verify that there are no hidden usage rules that apply.

Check  here  to read about the three different types of theme park tickets available:  1 Park Per Day, Park Hopper Option, and Park Hopper Plus Option.

3. Make Theme Park Reservations

Then, due to the limited availability of theme park reservations, make your reservation immediately after purchasing your admission ticket to guarantee your spot.

Theme park reservations can be made  online  on the Disney World website, or via the My Disney Experience mobile app.

4. Review Epcot Hours

Epcot hours vary by day, by month, and by season.

It is very important to check the Epcot hours for the day that you plan on visiting so that you can plan your experience accordingly.

As you’ll find, the entire park (including World Showcase) now opens at the same time, whereas in the past, the two sections of the park opened at different times.

The Epcot park hour calendar shows early entry hours and park hours, as well as the times of events, fireworks, and nighttime entertainment.

You’ll also want to check this calendar for temporary ride closure information.

Additional planning tip:  Early theme park entry is a benefit for registered Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and other  select hotels .

It involves getting to enter Magic Kingdom and riding select rides 30 minutes before the park’s scheduled opening time.

5. Consult the Epcot Crowd Calendar

It’s safe to assume that Epcot is always going to be busy, but there are times such as Christmas, Spring Break, mid-summer, and other school holidays when the crowds can be overwhelming.

Bigger crowds mean longer attraction lines, and consequently experiencing fewer attractions – unless, of course, you’ve carefully planned your Epcot 1-day itinerary and plan to take advantage of Disney’s paid ‘skip-the-regular-line’ options.

Our 1-day Epcot itinerary assumes moderate to high crowds at the park when lines are long.

This exact plan was utilized when crowds were rated 9/10 according to Touring Plans .

To accomplish this itinerary in a single day, some (less popular) attractions are skipped. 

No matter when you visit, however, this 1-Day Epcot itinerary is optimized and ordered so that walking and your waits in line are minimized .

Additional planning tip:  If you are planning on visiting several Disney Parks during your  Orlando itinerary , we highly recommend adding in non-parks days. 

Disney World non-park days  offset the busyness of the crowds and help keep you fully energized!

6. Review the Epcot Map

Epcot is huge –  305 acres to be exact  – which is almost three times the size of the Magic Kingdom.

This makes Epcot the second largest park at Disney World behind Animal Kingdom.

Due to its enormous size, I never recommend visiting without having a general idea about the layout of the park.

Epcot theme park is organized into the following four neighborhoods:

• World Showcase
• World Celebration
• World Nature
• World Discovery 

They are laid out as follows:

Each neighborhood is home to a mixture of themed rides, attractions, cuisine, and unique character sightings.

They are all accessible via a standard Epcot park ticket.

(In other words,1 Epcot park ticket gets you into all 4 neighborhoods.)

When planning your Epcot touring plan, be sure to know what ‘must-do’ rides are in which land, as the overall goal is to do as many rides as possible in each land before moving on to the next one.

This decreases the time of time you will waste zig-zagging within the park.

It also cuts down on the amount of walking you will do throughout the course of the day.

Additional planning tip: In addition to this itinerary, don’t forget to consult helpful know before you go  Disney tips  to avoid preventable touring mistakes.

And last, double-check your  Disney packing list  to be sure that you have not left behind the top 9 most forgotten items to have with you in the park.

7. Make a List of Your ‘Must-do’ Rides

Epcot is a combination of rides, shows, character-meet-n-greets, dining experiences, and the World Showcase.

It would be absolutely impossible to do  everything  in one day at Epcot.

For this reason, talk with your family or whoever you’re visiting with and make a list of your ‘must-do’ rides and attractions, and be sure to allow time for them in your Magic Kingdom itinerary.

The most popular rides include Guardians of the Galaxy, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen Ever After, Test Track, and Soarin’.

Eating and drinking around World Showcase and the nighttime fireworks shows are other attractions most people typically don’t want to miss.

Epcot 1-Day Itinerary

Before you arrive at Epcot, be sure to download the official Walt Disney World app on the  App Store  or the  Google Play Store .

The app, which has always been helpful, is now essential .

You’ll use it to view the park map, look at wait times, order quick-service food, and make dining reservations, as well as access all  Disney Genie digital services  and virtual line queues.

In addition, you must use your Smartphone to obtain a virtual boarding group number if you’re looking to experience Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

Keep in mind that the first boarding group times are released at 7 AM each day, and not again until 1 PM, so do act quickly.

The app will notify you when it’s your turn to ride, and you have 1 hour to join the physical line.

Additional planning tip: For the 7 AM release time, you don’t need to be in the park to secure a boarding reservation, but you do need a Park Pass Reservation for that day.

For the 1 PM release time, you will need to have checked into Epcot for the day prior to being able to obtain a boarding group number.

Epcot Arrival

If you are arriving at Epcot by car, Epcot has its own on-site parking lot.

Simply follow the signs to the Epcot parking area and parking attendants will direct you to the next available spot.

Catch a parking lot tram to Epcot’s entrance if want to cut down on the walking.

If you are a guest staying at a Disney World resort, parking is free. Other visitors should expect to pay a $25/daily fee for parking.

Guests staying at any Disney theme park resort can arrive right at the entrance by complimentary bus. Though the buses run continuously, expect delays at peak times and plan accordingly!

Guests staying at the Yacht or Beach Club, the Swan, Dolphin, or the Boardwalk resorts can arrive at Epcot by boat.

In addition, you can travel to Epcot by monorail from the Ticket and Transportation Center, or from Magic Kingdom.

Finally, Disney Skyliner connects Epcot to the following Disney Resort Hotels: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.

Epcot Park Entry

We recommend getting to the park turnstiles 45-60 minutes prior to the scheduled park opening, especially on projected busy days.

This act has long been known as ‘rope drop’.

Rope drop involves getting to Epcot before it begins operating for the day so that you can be among the first guests to enter and enjoy the attractions.

It essentially means getting to your first ride with NO WAIT and having 1 hour to ride rides with the shortest lines of the day.

The following tips will help you make the most of rope drop at Epcot:

• Epcot generally allows guests through the turnstiles 30 minutes prior to the official opening.
• Once you’re inside Epcot, you’ll be held at Spaceship Earth if you enter through the front entrance. If you’re entering from the International Gateway entrance you’ll be held in the World Showcase.
• There will be a rope manned by cast members at each of these entrances preventing guests from entering further into the park.
• Immediately at park opening, cast members remove the ropes (hence the name “rope drop”) allowing you to walk briskly, but not run, to whatever land/attraction you desire.
• If you truly want to ride without a wait, be as close to the front of any waiting ‘rope drop’ crowd as you can. After rope drop, instant waits of up to 60 minutes for popular attractions will form.

Epcot Touring Plan: Morning

The following Epcot 1-Day itinerary assumes a 9 AM park opening without the early entry benefit for onsite guests.

Adjust the times accordingly if you’re visiting when there’s a different park opening time.

Also, keep in mind that Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind can currently only be ridden with either a virtual line reservation or the purchase of an individual lightning lane pass – there is no standby line available.

Because of this some, details of your 1-day Epcot itinerary are subject to change based on the availability of virtual queue times for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

Likewise, we do not factor in Disney Genie+ reservations in this itinerary, as not everyone uses Genie+, and for those who do, every ride choice and return time is different making it impossible to create a universal touring plan.

( If this is your first time visiting Epcot, I recommend visiting this Virtual Queue FAQ page to determine how to use Disney’s virtual queues. )

Suggested times

6:50 AM: Log into the My Disney Experience app and navigate to the Virtual Queues page.

Next, press “Join Boarding Group” in My Queues. Select ‘Epcot’ then ‘Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind’, then ‘Confirm Your Party’.

Be ready to click ‘Join’ at exactly 7 AM and wait for a confirmation of a boarding group number and an estimated time when you’ll be able to ride.

7:00 AM : First try to get a virtual queue time for Guardians of the Galaxy (they can be gone in as early as 4 seconds!). If unavailable, consider purchasing an Individual Lightning Lane pass for Guardians that also becomes available at 7 AM.

8:15 AM: Park arrival.

9:00 AM: Official Park Opening. Go to the left and head straight for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (or Test Track if you have older kids who want to skip Remy’s.)

Morning Epcot Rides and Attractions

Upon your arrival at the park, your goal is to ride as many headliner attractions as possible, especially if you haven’t purchased Disney Genie+.

For that reason, our recommendation is to head straight to World Showcase to ride Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After.

As mentioned, if you are visiting Epcot with older children who don’t mind skipping these rides or saving them for later, I suggest riding Test Track first .

1. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

2. Frozen Ever After

3. Test Track

4. Mission Space

Afterward, cross over to World Nature and ride Soarin’ and Living with the Land.

Save the rest of World Nature for later in the evening when there will be no lines.

5. Soarin’

6. Living with the Land

Next, cross back to World Celebration and ride Spaceship Earth and Journey Into Imagination with Figment.

7. Spaceship Earth

8. Journey Into Imagination with Figment

Next, you will start your journey around the World Showcase in a clockwise direction.

The distance around World Showcase is roughly 1.25 miles, so do plan accordingly.

Epcot Touring Plan: Afternoon

Spend the afternoon of your Epcot 1-day itinerary making your way around Epcot’s World Showcase .

This is a magical area to explore at your own pace while taking in all of the sights, sounds, and flavors of different countries.

Most people choose to ‘eat and drink’ their way around the countries stopping frequently to enjoy the ambiance of the various culinary offerings.

We enjoyed cocktails in Morocco, caramels at Karamell-Kuche in Germany, funnel cakes in American Adventure, and a full Italian meal at Via Napoli.

Upon stopping for various photo ops and pop-up entertainment offerings, be sure to savor each and every moment enjoying this unique experience.

Additional planning tip:   Snacking your way around the park instead of indulging in fancy meals is one of our top tips for visiting  Disney World on a budget !

Afternoon Epcot Rides and Attractions

Here is an example of an afternoon itinerary for Epcot.

The majority of the afternoon is spent in World Showcase while revisiting the rides left in the front of the park during the evening hours.

2. United Kingdom

3. France (home of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Palace du Cinema that features the 18-minute Impressions de France Film and Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along.)

6. The American Adventure (A 29-minute audio animatronics stage show featuring key moments in American history; located in a large air-conditioned theater.)

10. Norway (Home of the hugely popular ride; Frozen Ever After .)

11. Mexico (Ride the Grand Fiesta Tour boat ride located inside.)

In conclusion, finish off the evening with the following:

12. Return to any of the headliner rides that you may have missed due to long lines in the day, i.e. Remy, Soarin’, Frozen Ever After.

13. Turtle Talk with Crush (15-minute animated show)

14. The Seas With Nemo and Friends Attraction

15. Watch Harmonious

Epcot’s Harmonious

Having debuted on October 1st, 2021, Harmonious is the name of the new nighttime spectacular being held at Epcot.

Similar to the previous IlumiNations: Reflections of Earth show, Harmonious is held outdoors on the water of World Showcase Lagoon.

With state-of-the-art technology, Harmonious features large-scale floats, LED panels, fountains, lights, fireworks, and lasers.

Inspired by beloved movies like Moana, Aladdin, Coco, Mulan, and The Lion King, the show was created by more than 240 artists from around the world. 

You absolutely won’t want to miss this show in your Epcot touring plan!

Dining in Epcot

We could write an entire article dedicated to dining in Epcot, after all, food makes up a huge majority of the Epcot experience.

There are only a few table service, quick service, and snack stops located throughout the first 3 neighborhoods of the park.

The majority of the noteworthy dining experiences are located within World Showcase, however, as each pavilion is home to both ethnic restaurants and several unique dining options.

Along with the long-standing best restaurants in Epcot, its newest additions include La Crêperie de Paris in the France pavilion of World Showcase and Space 220 found in World Discovery.

Space 220 is a highly-anticipated space-themed restaurant that simulates traveling 220 miles above Earth to a space station.

After checking in, visitors are given boarding passes for a space elevator (known as Stellarvators), that takes you to the Centauri Space Station to dine among the stars.

Additional planning tip: A confirmed table-service dining reservation is required for day guests (those not staying overnight) and is highly recommended for guests staying overnight at a Disney Resort hotel.

Epcot dining reservations can be made 60 days in advance via the My Disney Experience app or via the Disney website. You can also call (407) WDW-DINE.

*Click here for our exclusive FREE Family Vacation Packing List and BONUS Disney Day Bag Packing List to complement your Disney vacation!

Epcot 1-Day Itinerary: Conclusion

In conclusion, this Epcot 1-day itinerary was the perfect combination of rides, attractions, and shows.

We left feeling like we did it all!

We were not zig-zagging throughout the park, and we never had to stand in line for more than 60 minutes (on a day when every ride had a 60-120-minute wait in the afternoon).

Every parent knows their kids’ limits, as well as knows what touring plan is going to work for their family.

In our opinion, this is the perfect Epcot touring plan…we hope you think so too!

What strategies will you use in your Epcot 1-day itinerary? What are you most looking forward to when spending a day at Epcot? Happy travels! Jen

If you liked reading our  Epcot Itinerary , continue planning your Walt Disney World vacation with us!

Disney World Touring Plans:

• 1-Day Magic Kingdom Itinerary: The Perfect Touring Plan for 2024
• 1-Day At Animal Kingdom Itinerary: The Perfect Touring Plan for 2024
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Disney World Ride & FastPass+ Tips:

• Disney World Magic Kingdom Wait Times (Longest and Shortest Lines)
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Disney World Planning Tips:

• The 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Our First Disney Vacation
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Disney World Cost:

• Disney World Cost Calculator: How Much Will It Cost?
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*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Great tips – I’ve been a lot (I used to live in the area), but never early enough to experience the rope drop. I like that you got so much big stuff out of the way early, and now I want to go back – I’ve never done Soarin’ or Frozen.

• Pingback: 6-Day Orlando Itinerary: An Unforgettable Family Vacation Guide

We visited Epcot last year and only spent one day there. I wish we would have spent 2 days! I severely underestimated this park…. And I want terribly slow! Lol this is a great 1 day itinerary, I wish I had it on our last visit to stay on track.

Thanks! Yes, you’re right…2 days is ideal for most of the parks. This 1-day itinerary worked for us when traveling with less time.

Very cool place, so many things to do and see. Not the funnest rides, but very interesting and different nonetheless.

Test Track, Soarin, and Mission Space were our favorite rides! And yes, so much to see and do there!

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The Ultimate Epcot Itinerary (Without Lines!)

March 7, 2020 //  by  Zahra Leggatt //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for information to help you plan the Ultimate Epcot itinerary for one day?   What even is the Ultimate Epcot itinerary, anyway?  For us, it’s being able to experience the very best that Epcot has to offer (and we think it is a park with a LOT to offer) without wasting our time waiting in lines, and that’s exactly what we’re going to share with you, too!

Whether you have one day in Epcot or just want to make the most of your time, we’re going to cover everything you need to know to help you plan your Epcot itinerary.  

This is just one of our many detailed Disney World Touring Plans! When you are done, make sure to check out other options for any parks you may be visiting! 

If we’ve included something that doesn’t interest you (or if we’ve missed something your party considers a ‘must’!) then you should feel free to switch as you wish – we’re going to give you all the information you need so you can plan your very own bespoke Epcot touring plan.

Best Time Of Year To Visit Epcot

Epcot Hours

How To Use Fastpass+ At Epcot

What is fastpass+.

Between 1999 and 2013, you could get a  paper Fastpass for some attractions when you were visiting Disney World.  Fastpass+ is the current free service included with your park ticket and is bookable in advance (60 days ahead if staying in a Disney resort and 30 days if staying offsite).    You can save time with FastPass+ because, in your specific time ‘window’, it allows you to enter a separate Fastpass+ line, bypassing the main line for certain rides, attractions and character meets.  

You can pre-book 3 Fastpasses for attractions in the same park;  the Fastpass+ window is open for an hour and you cannot overlap windows.  So you could book a 10.30am Fastpass, but the second window won’t open until 11.35.

What about Fastpass+ at Epcot?

Unlike Magic Kingdom (read our Ultimate Magic Kingdom itinerary here ), Epcot operates a Tier system, meaning you can book one Fastpass from Tier 1 and the other 2 from Tier 2 (all covered in our Best and Worst Epcot Fastpass options article) .   Once you’ve used your third Fastpass, you’re no longer tied to the ‘tier’ system and can grab whichever Fastpass is available, but one at a time (and you are not restricted by Tiers at this point).

If you weren’t able to get the Fastpasses you wanted, you should use time in lines to ‘tap’ any Fastpass for your desired attraction, grab them and then persistently try to modify the time, until you get a time that suits you.

How do I book my Fastpass+?

The simplest way to book your Fastpass+ is through the My Disney Experience app.   

When you’re at your Fastpass booked attraction, go to the Fastpass+ line, tap your magic band (or ticket) at the entrance to the line and Mickey will go green.   Once you’ve tapped in for your third Fastpass+, you should open the My Disney Experience app on your phone and start looking for more Fastpasses – you can only book one at a time, but as soon as you tap in at the beginning of the next line, you should start looking for another Fastpass.

Best And Worst Epcot Fastpass Options

Fastpass Suggestions To Save To Your Phone

Arrival And Rope Drop At Epcot

Getting to epcot.

Guests driving to Epcot will drive into the parking lot and either walk or get a tram to the park entrance (parking is free if you’re a guest in a Disney resort).  Visitors staying in a Disney resort can get a bus, which will take them to the same entrance.

Guests staying at Disney’s Beach or Yacht Club Resorts; BoardWalk Inn or the Swan or Dolphin resorts,  can walk (or get a boat) into the park via the International Gateway (in the World Showcase).  Similarly, those staying at a Skyliner resort , can also enter via the International Gateway.

Typically, you can enter the park and go to the ‘rope’ at least 30 minutes before scheduled park opening.   You will be held behind a rope and you may even get to see the Jammitors perform.   Often, up to 15 minutes before the scheduled park opening, the cast members will allow guests to start to walk to the attractions (which is why it pays to get there early and, particularly, to be at the beginning of this crowd!).

Using Breakfast Reservations to Enter Epcot Early

One way of getting ahead of even the rope droppers is to get an early breakfast reservation!   If you have a reservation at Garden Grill or Akershus at 8.05, you should aim to get to the park no later than 7.30 to make sure you get to the restaurant on time – you’ll want to be close to the front of the line of parties waiting to be seated, rather than near the back of it!  If your reservation isn’t this early, but is before 9am, we advise you to arrive as if you had an 8.05 reservation, as they may be able to seat you earlier.

Guests dining at Garden Grill, are very close to Soarin’; guests dining at Akershus, are very close to Frozen Ever After (these are the rides we advise you to head for after breakfast and which you should not need a Fastpass for).   Both are character breakfasts and are enjoyed by parties with and without kids!

Be aware, though, that if there’s EMH on the morning you make your reservation, there’ll be no advantage.   You should also keep an eye on park hours, because if they decide to open Epcot an hour earlier on the same morning you have your reservation, again, there will be no advantage.  If this is the deal breaker for you, as long as you cancel your reservation at least 24hours beforehand, your credit card won’t be charged.

Both Akershus and Garden Grill are popular and early reservations will be the first booked up.  However, both present great opportunities for character interactions and delicious food, served family style.  Read more about  Garden Grill in our review. In addition, if you are on the Disney Dining Plan , it is a great way to use up your credits!

Basic Epcot Touring Strategy

It is generally best to Future World first and then make your way around the World Showcase – apart from Frozen Ever After – this also makes for a more enjoyable way of experiencing the best things to do at Epcot, with less walking, too!

If you’re entering through the International Gateway, then it is best to aim to ride Frozen Ever After as early as you can/at rope drop and use your Tier 1 Fastpass elsewhere.

Our main strategy is to get you to ride at least 2 of the Tier 1 rides in the morning; making as much of the first hour (if you do rope drop) as you can.

One Day Epcot Itinerary – Morning Plan

9-10am  .

Stop 1 : Choose Frozen Ever After OR Soarin’ (whichever you do not have a Fastpass for).  If you don’t have a Fastpass for either, we recommend you go to Frozen Ever After as the lines are usually longer

Stop 2: Use Single Rider for Test Track – if you’re travelling with small children and don’t want to split your group up, you may want to ride this first and Frozen or Soarin’ afterwards (Soarin’ has greater capacity and the line moves more quickly).  If you’re happy with Single Rider, this is the best strategy.

Stop 3:  Walk across to Mission: Space.  You will get the choice to take the Orange or the Green Team – Orange team members will enter a capsule and go to Mars, Green will orbit Earth in their capsules.   

Orange and Green are 2 very different experiences – the orange is an intense, thrilling experience where you will feel realistic G-forces and your capsule will tilt and spin.  There are motion sickness bags and some people have reported feeling unwell for a while after riding.   The green mission is still an exciting ride, but does not spin, so people don’t experience motion sickness – we’ve found this to be a family friendly ride (with a 40″ height requirement).

Stop 1: Spaceship Earth – book a Fastpass for this and, if you need to because you’re ahead of schedule, tap and modify to get the time you need.  Spaceship Earth closes on May 26th 2020 indefinitely for refurbishment.

Stop 2: Living Seas with Nemo and Friends

Stop 3: Turtle Talk with Crush – definitely worth a visit whether or not you have children in your party!  If you do, encourage them to sit in front of the screen on the floor.    Be sure, while you’re here, not to miss the exhibits that SeaBase has to offer.

Stop 1: Living with the Land – if you dined at Garden Grill, you will have had a little sneak into part of the ride earlier!

Stop 2: Awesome Planet – showing in The Land Pavilion, this film started being shown in January 2020.

Stop 3: Journey Into Imagination with Figment – this is popular with all ages in our parties and we challenge you to not be humming the song as you leave!

Stop 4: This is your time to do anything you’ve not done in your first hour; use a Fastpass for Mission Space (we always like to ride it more than once!), or repeat anything that you loved – remember you can check ‘live’ wait times on the My Disney Experience app!

12-1pm 

Now is a great time to take a break and have some lunch.   If you’re still in Future World, we highly recommend Sunshine Seasons in The Land (which has some excellent Quick Service options and also some amazing sweet snacks – try the Turtle Brownie or the Magic Cookie Bar – neither of which look spectacular but both taste awesome!); this location will help you refuel and finish anything in FutureWorld before commencing on your afternoon itinerary!

If you’re in the World Showcase, you have a diverse and excellent range of Quick Service options to choose from; our favorite is the  Tangierine Café in Morocco, but there really is something to suit all taste buds and we highly recommend you have a look at our Top Picks.   If you’re travelling with kids who are picky eaters, try not to let them be put off by the adventurous menus on offer; all of the restaurants have more traditional, kid-friendly options!

If you are looking to drink around the world , now is a good time to begin!

One Day Epcot Itinerary – Afternoon Plan

Begin your afternoon by using your second Fastpass (for your Tier 1 ride – whichever you did NOT ride earlier)

The World Showcase with kids

The World Showcase has a lot to offer; but i f you’ve got kids in your party, you may find that their attention wanders elsewhere.  You should make use of the Kidcot Fun Stops where your kids can do coloring; talk to Cast Members about their language or their country.   You can also buy a ‘passport’ and get your kid to get it stamped in each country.  

Coming in Spring 2020 is Duck Tales – the replacement for Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure – which will be an interactive way for your kids to enjoy the World Showcase and, if it’s anything like it’s predecessor, help them forget about the walking that is involved with the exploration!

We’ve found all of these to be successful ways of engaging kids with the different countries and making sure we get to see what we want, too!

Noteworthy stops

The following are attractions you should take at your own pace, but we highly recommend you build these into your Epcot itinerary:

• See Walt Disney Imagineering Presents Epcot Experience
• Ride Gran Fiesta Tour in Mexico (you may see a short line to meet Donald outside, too)
• Watch Reflections of China
• Enjoy the Beauty and the Beast Singalong in France
• Watch Canada Far and Wide 

A Note: As SOON as you use your third fastpass, make sure to sign on to grab another Fastpass!  You should do this throughout the day!  Constantly refresh and modify based on Fastpasses that are open near you!

Rest of the afternoon

You may have snagged more Fastpasses to use (or, if you’re like me, your kids may be pleading with you for another ride on Figment!), so you should spend the afternoon doing the things your party really wants to do. 

However, we really recommend, as you take in some of the Noteworthy stops above, that you spend a little time exploring some of the detail and the amazing shops that the World Showcase has to offer.  It’s easy to miss stuff, but we’ve put our highlights in one place, here.

You may also want to enjoy some of the drinks that can be sampled around the World Showcase – many excellent non-alcoholic (as well as alcoholic!) cocktails are available!

Dinner at Epcot

We think you are literally spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your dining spot at Epcot.  Whether you want to ‘graze’ through the evening and ‘snack around the world’; perhaps you want to eat at a Quick Service location, giving you more time for exploring the best things to do at Epcot, or you may prefer to enjoy a longer sit down at one of the quality restaurants, we recommend you dine in the World Showcase and take in the atmosphere.   We love the Rose and Crown (in the UK) and Teppan Edo (Japan), but there really is something for everyone from the choices available to you in the World Showcase.  Read more about our recommendations here.

Rest of the Evening

The evening is the best time for shortest wait times for the rides – remember to check My Disney Experience for current wait times, or to grab more Fastpasses.

You can watch the Fireworks, of course, from the many excellent places around the World Showcase Lagoon, but you don’t need to spend ages staking out your spot when you could be making use of the shorter wait times and riding your favorite rides from the day!

We love Epcot, we hope that’s clear from this article and we love to spend more than one day in Epcot.  We’re also confident, however, that this strategy will help you plan an excellent Epcot itinerary whether you have one day or several.   If you have any questions, please leave them below and we’ll be delighted to help.   What’s your favorite Epcot past time?  Do tell us below!  Thanks for reading!

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy our Ultimate Hollywood Studios Itinerary , too.

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Wandering In Disney

A disney theme parks blog.

Epcot 1-Day Itinerary

Our Epcot 1-Day Itinerary is an efficient touring plan for what attractions, shows, and dining we’d do in our ideal day at the park. This itinerary is how we’d recommend experiencing all of the, what we consider, Epcot essentials. While other touring plans are more focused on fitting in every attraction in one day, we’ll be more focused on how to have the best day possible. Instead of constantly running from attraction to attraction, this plan will also have you enjoying some of the little things that make Epcot special. Yes, we’ll get to the majority of the attractions but some are left behind in favor of, what we consider, better options. If you are more ride focused then check out our Epcot attraction rankings . We also have entertainment ,  table-service  and  counter-service rankings to help out your trip planning. If you’re looking for other park itineraries, click here !

Epcot is the best idea for a theme park that’s ever come to fruition. Mixing inventions and looking towards the future with cultures throughout the world is a very noble idea that succeeded for many years. Now, the park is trying to find a new identity and is lagging behind, especially in the area formerly known as Future World which is slowly emerging from construction walls. Even with Epcot in transition, all of the attractions, dining and entertainment in the park make for a full day. While some areas need help, others show how beautiful Epcot was and is.

With those changes there’s a chance that something might not be running or open during your visit. If that’s the case while working your way through this itinerary then just skip that step.

There are many different factors that go into a theme park day, so we do have to keep this plan somewhat general.  I don’t know how busy the park will be when you visit, whether you splurged for genie+ or Lightning Lanes (this plan assumes you didn’t), where you are staying, etc. What I do assume in this itinerary is that you are spending the full day inside of the park, getting there before the gates open and leaving after the park closes. Getting to the park about half an hour before opening would be a wise choice if you only have one day there.

I would recommend staying on-site at Disney World or at one of the nearby off-site hotels. This makes the morning shorter and the transportation simpler. If you are extremely Epcot focused and the budget allows, staying at the Yacht or Beach Club , Boardwalk Resort , Swan & Dolphin or Caribbean Beach Resort would be ideal. If not, don’t worry. Just get to the park before opening one way or another with tickets already bought . On to the plan!

Join the Virtual Queue for Cosmic Rewind!

Epcot’s latest attraction is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and it’s one of the most fun attractions in all of Walt Disney World! For now, the attraction utilizes a virtual queue system. This opens at 7 AM. There’s also a virtual queue window opening at 1 PM to those that miss the early one, just make sure you’re inside of the park before that time to access that window. We do recommend trying for the first one just to play it safe. If you get a spot in the virtual queue then just adjust the rest of the itinerary accordingly. If you miss out, guests can purchase an individual lightning lane to access Cosmic Rewind. We don’t recommend that though. For more information on the virtual queue, click here .

Racing and Soarin’ Through The Land

While others will start the day at one the two big World Showcase attractions, we’re going to knock out Future World first. Line up at Epcot’s gates at least 15 minutes before the park opens (do not go on a day with Extra Magic Hours in the morning) and head straight for Test Track. The attraction builds up a long wait as the day goes on and it’s not worth that to us. With that in mind, we’ll get it done early and move on.

After a crazy drive, we’ll cut across the park and go for the Land Pavilion. Soarin’ will likely have a longer line at this point but go for it regardless of the wait. Unless it’s a particularly busy day, then the wait shouldn’t be over half an hour regardless of the posted wait time. Getting these two attractions out-of-the-way early should help avoid the crowds and will make for a great start to the day. While you’re in the land, you might as well do Living With the Land and Awesome Planet. The former we absolutely recommend while the latter we can take or leave.

Breakfast in France

After your early morning attractions, it’s time for a little breakfast. As always, having breakfast at your hotel might be cheaper and a quicker option. With that said, Epcot is one of the few parks that has an excellent breakfast option in Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie. This bakery in the France Pavilion has several sweet and savory options that are delicious. It might not be the most filling or healthy breakfast, but it is one of the best options in all of Disney World. You could also opt for a crepe in the France Pavilion. Sunshine Seasons is an okay option for breakfast, as well, if you’d rather stay in the land.

Other Worldly Attractions

After breakfast, it’s time to head back to more to the front of the park for other attractions. Really it doesn’t matter much at what order you go on these attractions. Mission: Space and Spaceship Earth are likely the most popular of the remaining Future World rides so go ahead to those first.  After that, enjoy The Seas with Nemo and Friends. The ride is kind of a necessary evil to go see the rest of the pavilion. The aquarium exhibits are much better than the ride. This is one of the best spots in the front of the park so take your time there.

We’ll keep going on the water theme and visit Journey of Water which is inspired by Moana. This is a walkthrough attraction that won’t take up much time but is a must see. This is also beautiful at night so double back if you want to later!

After The Land and The Seas, head over to the Imagination Pavilion for a ride on Journey Into Imagination. Again, this isn’t the best attraction but is worth doing as it’s a part of Disney history. Unfortunately, the attraction isn’t half of what it used to be but the building is innovative and worth seeing. There’s a beautiful fountain outside and some great water features in this area of the park.

Lunch at Via Napoli

After a fairly busy morning, it’s time to slow down a bit. While this step shows that we’re headed for lunch, you may not have quite worked up the appetite. If that’s the case, then start a slow loop around World Showcase and when you do get hungry just circle back to where you left off. Enjoy the shops and shows, roaming around. We’ll start off a good amount of eating with lunch at Disney World’s best pizza place, Via Napoli . That might not be as high praise as it seems but Via Napoli does have good pizza and a variety of options inside of a beautiful environment. Space 220 would also be a good option if you’re able to get in and want to spend some money. If you don’t want to go for a table-service restaurant then there are a variety of good counter-service options including Katsura Grill (Japan) or Sommerfest (Germany).

Dessert or Snack or Drink Around the World

Don’t fill up too much at lunch because our next step is all about eating too.  This and the following step can and should be combined. Eating/drinking around World Showcase is one of the more enjoyable parts of Epcot, even without a definitive plan of what to eat. Each pavilion will have interesting options to both eat and drink, offering some adventurous dishes as well as more safe and accessible items. Some of our favorite snacks around World Showcase include Egg Rolls in China, School Bread in Norway, Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookie in Germany, and Ice Cream in France. I enjoy a good margarita in Mexico at La Cava del Tequila too.

If there is a festival going on while at Epcot then enjoy some of the options at the food booths. There are plenty of good options at each festival and good values to be had. Regardless of the time of year, there’s no shortage of good food and drink in World Showcase.

World Showcase Rides, Shows and Shopping

Believe it or not, there are other things to do in World Showcase besides eating and drinking. Several pavilions have films and rides that are well worth doing. On top of that, each pavilion is worth exploring whether that be shops, exhibits, shows, or the intricate details. With an entire afternoon and early evening devoted to World Showcase, we’re confident that you can experience a number of rides, shows, and shops while eating your heart out. This itinerary does have you riding Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After near the end of the day but if you notice the wait times around 45 minutes or less then go for it!

Start this grand circle tour of World Showcase in the Mexico Pavilion with its beautiful marketplace and the only real ride (outside of Frozen Ever After and Remy’s) in the area, Gran Fiesta Tour. This ride is well worth doing even if it’s a bit weird. As far as shows go throughout World Showcase, we love Impressions de France (which only shows at night), a film in the France Pavilion, and The American Adventure, a show telling America’s history that features audio-animatronics. Both of these are must-dos while you are walking around World Showcase. Times for American Adventure will be in the daily times guide. Reflections of China and Canada Far and Wide are other World Showcase films that are decent but not on the level of the previously mentioned shows.

Live entertainment is a hallmark of World Showcase and there is plenty to get to. A main rule of thumb that I go by is that if you see live music being played, stick around for a few minutes. If you enjoy the music then stick around a while longer, if not then move on. Live entertainment that we make an effort to see (and that is typically in the times guide) include Serveur Amusant (France Pavilion), Voices of Liberty (American Adventure) and the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats (China). If you see a performance going on then it is well worth checking out.

Shops throughout World Showcase that we like are the marketplace in the Mexico Pavilion, the Christmas shop in Germany, Mitsukoshi in Japan, and the market-style shops in Morocco. Other areas to explore throughout World Showcase are the back streets in Morocco, the beautiful gardens of Japan, the garden and maze in the UK, and the ponds in China.

World Showcase has so much to see and do that there isn’t a bad area to spend in. Be sure to walk around as the sun is setting as the area’s vibe gains more energy and the lights are inspiring.

Dinner at Chefs de France

Chefs de France embodies the energy and ambiance of World Showcase, with wide windows to watch passersby. The food is good but the ambiance is what stands out here. Other good table-service options include San Angel Inn, Rose & Crown , Biergarten and Le Cellier . A number of restaurants in Epcot have decent food but dining there is about the ambiance. There aren’t many bad options but some are overpriced.

If you don’t want to spend money on a table-service meal at both lunch and dinner then eating at one of the counter-service places we mentioned in the lunch section is a great option.

Dark Rides After Dark

By this point, it should be around 7 or 7:30 which should be enough time to ride the two marquee attractions left before the nighttime spectacular. If you’re stressing about time then go ahead and do one of these rides before dinner. While Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure don’t wow us, they are must-do’s. They each have equal popularity and are on opposite ends of World Showcase. If you had dinner at Chefs de France, then staying there to do Remy’s and Impressions de France makes sense. If there are extra hours after the nighttime show then getting both of these attractions done is easy, just make sure both are available.

Epcot’s Night Time Spectacular

Epcot’s new nighttime show is Luminous The Symphony of Us. Truthfully, we don’t love the show but Epcot knows how to do pyro right. That alone makes the show worth seeing. Along with that, standing around the lagoon and watching a nighttime spectacular is a Disney World rite of passage. The front of World Showcase will offer the best view but if you’re strolling up a little bit later then we’ve had very good luck near the Japan Pavilion.

Post-Show Loop

Once the show ends comes my favorite part of a day at Epcot. While the park may be closing, there is still plenty of time to be had in World Showcase. Let the crowds thin out for a while after the show and then start your slow stroll through all of the pavilions. This is a perfect time for photos if you enjoy taking them. This is also one of the most romantic things to do in all of Disney World as there aren’t many people around and the beautiful views and score make for a perfect setting. Most of the shops will be closed but there are plenty of paths to explore or just walking along the main promenade is worth your time. This late night stroll is a perfect way to end the day.

That’s our itinerary for one day at Epcot. This isn’t quite as specific as our other itineraries mainly thanks to fewer attractions involved. I will say that this itinerary might need a little adjusting if you are touring with kids. I do think they will like many of the shows and there are several playgrounds around. I’ll also note that if it’s Festival of the Arts or Flower and Garden season then take time to see the exhibits and live entertainment throughout the area. This can go in the afternoon/evening of the itinerary and you should still have time for nearly everything else. As always, leave time for wandering around the park although we included a good amount of this inside of the itinerary. Following this should lead to a great day!

As always, if you have questions or thoughts on our Epcot itinerary then leave a comment below. If you are planning a trip to Disney World, then check out our planning guide . Looking for Walt Disney World tickets? Check out this site . If you enjoy what you are reading here on Wandering in Disney please share this post with your friends, as well as like our social media pages. You can also subscribe to the blog via WordPress or email. You can do all of that on the right side of this page. Thank you for reading, we really appreciate it!

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Categories: Park Itineraries

Tagged as: Disney World , Disney World itineraries , Epcot , Epcot 1-day Itinerary , Epcot Itinerary , Epcot touring plan , Walt Disney World

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A blog all about Disney

Epcot Itinerary

January 30, 2018 by Becky 14 Comments

Looking to spend one day in Epcot?  Not sure which attractions to hit first?  Here are some of my suggestions, tips, and tricks for how to design your Epcot itinerary.

Some things to keep in mind…

• No plan is foolproof.  Tons of outside factors will affect how long it takes for you to do the parks, what attractions might be closed for refurbishment, etc.  Be willing to go with the flow and don’t feel like you have to stick to your schedule.
• Time of year will greatly affect crowds, so keep that in mind.
• Extra magic hours will influence the amount of people in the parks – this blog post is written assuming you go on a day that does not have extra magic hours.
• Fastpasses are essential to make the most of your Epcot day.  Book them as soon as possible!
• This is assuming a full day at the park, from opening to closing.  Adjust according to your plans!
• This itinerary does not include every attraction and show in Epcot, just what I believe are the biggest highlights.  With young children, things like Nemo may take on more of a priority over thrill rides like Test Track.
• This is my opinion on what I prefer… yours may vary ?

Recommended FastPass+

• Frozen Ever After
• Test Track (if Frozen Ever After doesn’t interest you)
• Mission: Space
• Spaceship Earth

And now, my Epcot itinerary:

There are three major attractions in Epcot that you’ll want to make time for.  They are Frozen Ever After, Test Track, and Soarin’.  Since Soarin’ recently added a third theater the waits haven’t been as bad for that one, so I make it my lowest priority out of the three.  That means you’ll want to head to either Test Track or Frozen Ever After first, and then ride Soarin’ after that.  For me, that usually means rope dropping Test Track and then heading over to Soarin’ once we’re done with that.

Mid-Morning

After riding Test Track and Soarin’, it’s probably around 10:00-10:15.  Spend some time visiting other rides in the area.  Living with the Land can come right after Soarin’ since it’s in the same building.  Then head over to check out The Seas with Nemo and Friends, and of course Turtle Talk with Crush!  I consider Journey into Imagination with Figment and the Pixar film as optional.  Finally, make sure you ride Mission: Space before lunch, preferrably with a fastpass.  I try to book my fastpasses in the period from around 10-1.

I like to do a quick service meal for lunch and a table service for dinner.  There are lots of tasty places to grab lunch in Epcot!  If you’re ready to head to the World Showcase I would definitely try to eat there.  Lately I’ve been a fan of Cantina de San Angel, and if you’ve been following my plan and just did Mission: Space you should be close by.  Other great lunch options are Katsura Grill (Japan, has Udon and sushi) or Les Halles (France, has great sandwiches and salads – plus the ice cream shop nearby is perfect for dessert!).  If you prefer to stay in Future World, Sunshine Seasons has lots of tasty options and Electric Umbrella has improved a lot lately too.

I like to get most of my Future World stuff done in the morning and hang out in the World Showcase for most of the afternoon/evening.  I’d aim for a Frozen Ever After fastpass around 1-2 o’clock so I can visit after lunch and squeeze in a visit with Anna and Elsa.  Then I just take in the atmosphere of the different countries and check out the shows and entertainment.  Voices of Liberty in the American Adventure is a highlight.  And I always ride the boat ride in Mexico.  And of course I like to try some fun snacks and drinks around the world !

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

At this point I would do one of two things – if I feel like I need a mid-afternoon break I’d leave around 3:00 or 4:00 and take a nap or just relax at the resort.  If I wanted to stay in Epcot I’d probably see if I could head back into Future World to re-ride some stuff that I enjoyed the first time or stuff I might have missed.  See if you can grab a 4th fastpass.  If you’re going back to Future World or taking a break that’s a good time to hit up Spaceship Earth too.

There are so many great dinner options in Epcot, and I like to do a sit down restaurant.  Some of my favorites include Tokyo Dining, Le Cellier, Garden Grill, Rose and Crown, or Via Napoli.  Though honestly, I don’t think you can really go wrong in Epcot.  One of my favorite things to do is eat at Rose and Crown or Spice Road Table around 7-7:30, request an outside table, and hang around until Illuminations begins.

If you aren’t dining at a place with outdoor viewing, I’d try to grab a spot for the fireworks no later than 8:30 – earlier if you’re picky about where you stand (I’m not).  After the fireworks show the park closes, and chances are you’re wiped out!  But on the off chance that you’ve still got energy, I’d head over to the Boardwalk.  Grab a drink at AbracadaBAR or visit the amazingly fun dueling piano bar, Jellyrolls.

What about…

Character meet and greets – almost all of the characters are in the World Showcase, so I try to work in some meet and greets while I go around in the afternoon.

Circle of Life show – it’s not good. I would skip it, and I hear it’s probably closing soon anyway.

All of the street entertainment – there are so many great little shows happening in Epcot.  If there’s a certain one that interests you I would check out the times guide and make a point to see it.  Otherwise I’d wander and make time to stop when you see something good!

Festivals – Epcot is home to three different festivals throughout the year: Festival of the Arts, Flower and Garden Festival, and Food and Wine Festival.  A lot of emphasis is placed on food booths during these festivals.  If you’re a foodie like I am, I would suggest skipping a counter service lunch and just snacking around the World all afternoon.

Finally, don’t feel like you  have  to stick to an itinerary.  Sometimes the best experiences are from going with the flow and just taking in all of the little details that Epcot has to offer!

If you enjoyed this, make sure you check out my Animal Kingdom itinerary as well!

Do you use an Epcot itinerary?  What do you make sure you do on your Epcot day?

January 30, 2018 at 2:11 pm

The boat ride in Mexico brings back good memories.

January 31, 2018 at 3:48 pm

Yes, even though it’s different now than it was when we were kids!

January 30, 2018 at 5:21 pm

I love Epcot! We just recently went to Disneyland for the first time and it was so disappointing compared to Disney World. Maybe my husband and I are spoiled growing up on the East Coast haha but Disney World is a million times better. We’re hoping to plan a giant family trip when our daughter turns 5 (still 4 years away haha) and we’re definitely doing every park!

January 31, 2018 at 3:49 pm

I enjoy Disneyland too, but Disney World is definitely my favorite – DL doesn’t have Epcot or Animal Kingdom (or anything like them) and I love both those parks!

January 30, 2018 at 8:08 pm

“Sometimes the best experiences are from going with the flow and just taking in all of the little details that Epcot has to offer!” <-- literally my favorite thing to do

I love doing that in Epcot – I’ll just catch whatever random performers are out in the World Showcase, and it’s always entertaining.

January 30, 2018 at 9:15 pm

i adore epcot!! but i have to be honest, i was SO bummed about the frozen ever after remodel! I LOVED that ride when it was norway or whatever with the vikings but now it’s SO boring lol

January 31, 2018 at 3:50 pm

Haha I know what you mean! I don’t have strong feelings either way – I didn’t love Maelstrom and I don’t love Frozen Ever After. But I wish they’d left it alone because I don’t like that they got rid of all the vikings and stuff, and I hate the long waits now!

January 31, 2018 at 3:17 am

Test Track was closed last time I was there so I didn’t get to ride it! Next time I’m hoping to get a fast pass for it, and the Frozen ride. It was so cute and detailed!

January 31, 2018 at 3:52 pm

I really enjoy Test Track – before the ride you get to design your own car too and I love that part as well!

January 31, 2018 at 3:12 pm

I love Epcot! It’s my favorite! Soarin’ Mission Space and Spaceship Earth are definitely my favorite rides there. Somehow, I don’t remember doing the Frozen ride. I went in 2015. Was it there then? It’s so cool that you have an entire itinerary. I’m going to refer to it next time I go to Epcot.

Cheers | http://girlinchief.com

Frozen Ever After didn’t open until 2016, so it wasn’t there yet! The ride that was there previously, Maelstrom, closed in late 2014 to make room for it, so when you visited you probably just saw a lot of construction walls in Norway, lol.

January 31, 2018 at 3:33 pm

I’ve been to Disney World, but we never made it out of the Magic Kingdom! I’ve always been curious about Epcot. It sounds a lot better than what my cousin experienced twenty years ago.

January 31, 2018 at 3:53 pm

I love Epcot, and it has definitely changed a lot in the past 20 years. It’s also a great spot for adults, especially if you’re into food and drinks. There are so many great options in the World Showcase!

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EPCOT 1-Day Itinerary – Genie+ Strategy, Must-Sees, Tips

While we would all love to spend days in every park at Disney World, sometimes that is impossible. In some cases, EPCOT is considered a two-day park. But if you can only fit in one, our EPCOT itinerary will help you cover both park areas, eat delicious food, and watch some of the most popular shows.

EPCOT is home to four different areas which include the new Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind rollercoaster and the World Showcase where you can enjoy food from different countries around the world. EPCOT is known for having some of the best dining experiences at Walt Disney World so it's a great place to have lunch or dinner.

Keep reading for everything you need to know to plan your EPCOT one day itinerary!

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Preparing For Your EPCOT Itinerary

Planning for your EPCOT itinerary begins well before you enter the park, and there are some must-dos to ensure you start the day off right.

• Whether you purchase your ticket on the Disney World website or through a third party, you must make a park reservation to enter EPCOT. You can link your tickets on the Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app.
• Install the My Disney Experience app to know park hours, available reservations, and attractions’ wait times. You can connect your ticket to this tool, install Genie+, and check in to your hotel. You can also find PhotoPass photos, buy Memory Maker, or mobile order your food. We use it for all our trips and find it an essential service for a vacation.
• Check park operating hours for the day. Times change throughout the year, so check the day before to maximize your day! If you stay at a Deluxe resort, check if there are extended evening hours during your visit. You can stay in the parks for two hours after closing on select nights!
• EPCOT is a big park, one of the largest at Disney World. Knowing your must-dos is a good idea to keep your day on track and feel you are making the most of your day. Will your group want to ride the latest attractions? Or are they feeling like having a laid-back, cocktail-in-hand kind of day? This will all affect how you plan your EPCOT itinerary. Also, take a look at the EPCOT map ahead of time so that you know how to effectively navigate the park!
• Make dining reservations before entering the park. EPCOT is known for its food; many popular restaurants fill up quickly.
• Learn about Genie . Free and paid versions of this tool are found on the My Disney Experience app. Both curate a personalized itinerary for you based on your interests. With the paid version, you have access to Lightning Lane. This upgrade allows you to bypass the Standby (i.e., regular) queue and hop on rides faster. Depending on the park, Genie+ can help save you time. We have tried the service at EPCOT and find it to be a toss-up – and it depends on what you want to do for the day. It might not be valuable if you plan on eating and drinking a lot. However, it is a good option if you want to ride on all popular attractions. We have a fantastic guide to Genie+ with all of the latest updates.

EPCOT 1-Day Morning Itinerary

Disney World Rope Drop: “Rope Drop” is a term used at Disney Parks where guests are let into the park at its opening (in some cases, actual ropes are used to block off park areas). Seasoned Disney Parks goers use this early morning trick to get in line to popular attractions. At EPCOT, guests are corralled to either the Spaceship Earth area or near the France Pavilion at the International Gateway. There are tricks to navigating this morning rush so you can get to your desired ride more quickly.

EPCOT Early Entry: Early Entry is a perk for guests staying at Disney World hotels. They can enter 30 minutes before theme parks officially open to the general public. While 30 minutes does not seem long, you can conquer a surprising amount in a short amount of time. Our guide to Early Entry shows which rides are open and qualifying hotels.

Join the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Virtual Queue: As of January 2023, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is only available through Virtual Queue or Lightning Lane. At 7:00 AM, select the “Join Virtual Queue” button on the My Disney Experience homepage. You can choose the ride and your party members. Once confirmed, you will receive a boarding group number and an estimated wait, which can change depending on how quickly (or slowly) boarding groups are loaded. This process means you could be one of the first to ride or wait a few hours. If you do not grab a boarding group at 7:00 AM, you can try again at 1:00 PM. We suggest you read our guide on virtual queues for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to prepare yourself.

Breakfast at EPCOT: There are two spots that we love getting a light breakfast to start our EPCOT itinerary: Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie and Connections Cafe. Les Halles is located in the France pavilion in World Showcase and is easily accessible if you enter the park through the International Gateway.

• Riding the Skyliner
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
• Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
• Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
• Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
• Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie is the best place to eat breakfast. Decadent pastries, quiches, and desserts are made daily to satisfy your pallet. Our favorite is a coffee with a Pain au Chocolate (maybe a macaron or two).

Connections Cafe is in World Celebration between Spaceship Earth and the area with Test Track and Mission: SPACE (also known as World Discovery). The popular Starbucks spot has classic coffees, frappuccinos, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. You can expect the quality to be similar to any Starbucks, with it being much busier.

Which “World” Do You Start With?

EPCOT is large and has four park areas: World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature, and World Showcase. You and your group will walk a lot, trying to navigate between all sections as you complete the EPCOT itinerary. First, lets better understand the differences between each area and what they offer.

World Celebration

This is what you will first see if you enter the park by monorail, bus, or parking. It hosts shops, attractions, and dining experiences.

• Attractions: Spaceship Earth, Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival, Journey Into Imagination With Figment, JAMMitors show
• Characters: Vanellope, Joy
• Dining: Connections Cafe, Connections Eatery
• Shopping: Pin Traders – Camera Center, Gateway Gifts, Club Cool, Creations Shop

World Discovery

To the left of World Celebration lies some out-of-this-world attractions, shopping, and dining experiences. This area is busy right now with the introduction of the Space 220 restaurant and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

• Attractions: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Mission: SPACE, Test Track
• Dining: Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Company, Space 220 Restaurant & Lounge
• Shopping: Treasures of Xandar

World Nature

This area is a celebration of our natural world, located to the left of World Celebration.

• Attractions:  Awesome Planet, Soarin' Around the World, Living with the Land, The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Turtle Talk With Crush, SeaBase
• Dining: Sunshine Seasons, Garden Grill Restaurant, Coral Reef Restaurant

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EPCOT Itinerary World Showcase

World Showcase is a homage to 11 countries: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, The United States, Japan, Morocco, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Each pavilion hosts a mix of shopping, dining, attractions, and shows. Many people spend their afternoons in this park area, as most locations open at 11:00 AM. It is also where most dining options are as well. Throughout the year, you can also see other countries sprinkled throughout during one of EPCOT's festivals .

• Attractions:  Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros, Mariachi Cobre
• Characters: Donald Duck
• Dining:  Choza de Margarita, La Cantina de San Angel, La Hacienda de San Angel, La Cava del Tequila, San Angel Inn Restaurante
• Shopping: The plaza in the pavilion hosts home goods, artwork, and clothing from Mexico.
• Attractions: Frozen Ever After
• Characters: Anna and Elsa
• Dining: Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
• Shopping: There is a string of shops with  Frozen merchandise and clothing, perfume, and goods from Norway.

• Attractions: Reflections of China show
• Characters: Mulan
• Dining: Nine Dragons Restaurant, Lotus Blossom Cafe, Joy of Tea
• Shopping: The building at the back of the pavilion features decoration and clothing products from China.
• Characters: Snow White
• Dining: Biergarten Restaurant, Sommerfest, Karamell-Kuche, Black & Hans
• Shopping: You will find German-made beer and wine to take home in addition to home decorations and clothing.
• Attractions: Sergio
• Dining:  Tutto Italia Ristorante, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzaria, Gelateria Toscana

The American Adventure

• Attractions: American Gardens Theatre, The American Adventure show, Voices of Liberty, American Heritage Gallery
• Dining: Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Company, Fife & Drum Tavern, Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue, Funnel Cake

• Attractions:  Matsuriza drummers, Bijusu-kan Gallery
• Dining: Kabuki Cafe, Katsura Grill, Teppan Edo, Tokyo Dining
• Shopping: Mitsukoshi Department Store
• Characters: Jasmine
• Dining: Spice Road Table, Oasis Sweets & Sips, Tangierine Cafe: Flavors of the Medina
• Shopping: Souk-al-Magreb
• Attractions: Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along show, Impressions de France show
• Characters: Belle
• Dining: Le Vins des Chefs de France, Monsieur Paul, Chefs de France, Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie, L'Artisan des Glaces
• Shopping:  La Signature, Souveniers de France, Plume et Palette, L'Espirit de la Provence, Les Vins de France

United Kingdom

• Attractions: Command Performance band, Rose & Crown Pub piano musician
• Characters: Alice
• Dining:  Yorkshire County Fish Shop, Rose & Crown
• Shopping:  The Tea Caddy, The Crown & Crest, The Toy Soldier, The Queen's Table, Lords and Ladies
• Attractions: Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360
• Dining: Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Company, Le Cellier
• Shopping: Northwest Mercantile

EPCOT Itinerary

The good news is that certain areas in the park do not open at the rope drop. Most stores, restaurants, and shows do not open in World Showcase until 11:00 AM, so we suggest conquering rides in the other areas before moving into World Showcase for your EPCOT itinerary. There are two exceptions to this rule: Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After. If you or someone in your family is a fan of Frozen or the movie Ratatouille , ride those first before the others, as they can have long wait times in the afternoon.

Consider making these attractions your morning priorities and leave the splendors of World Showcase for the afternoon:

• This is the newest roller coaster at Disney World. Themed to Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, you are helping the guardians as they save Earth. This ride is fun, unique, and has a great soundtrack from the 1970s and 80s. As mentioned, you will need a virtual queue boarding group for this attraction, so we suggest you get your spot and enjoy the other attractions while you wait.
• This ride is extremely popular, and Lightning Lanes are quickly sold out. We suggest heading to this ride first, as wait times can be very long. However, if you do not mind breaking up your party, the Single Rider option frequently lets you onto the ride sooner. Genie+ is the way to go for this ride.

• Located in the France Pavilion at World Showcase, this attraction is one of the newest at EPCOT. Arriving early and high-tailing it to the back of the park will be a priority if you want to ride this attraction first.
• Who does not love seeing Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf? You can find these  Frozen friends in the Norway pavilion. Similar to Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, it is a bit of a walk, so you will want to arrive early to get in line.
• You are transported through time and see the history of humankind in this slow-moving attraction. There is often a 10 to 15-minute wait throughout the day, and it loads quickly, so you do not need to book Genie+ for this one. We suggest fitting this in whenever you have some downtime.
• Admittedly, this ride is not for everyone, and some of your group may stay behind if they experience motion sickness. You have two choices before entering the ride: Orange and Green. If you have a sensitive stomach, choose the Green queue. Daring individuals can choose Orange. There is an occasional wait for this ride, maybe 30 minutes, so we suggest filling this one into your itinerary if you have free time.
• This hang gliding experience takes you around the globe, visiting African grasslands, Paris, the Taj Mahal, and more. Wait times vary for this ride, but it is often 30+ minutes. If you have Genie+, consider booking this one. If not, you can typically catch lower wait times in the late evening.

• This boat ride through EPCOT's hydroponic greenhouses is next to Soarin' in the Land Pavilion. It typically has no wait times and is a relaxing journey, letting you rest your feet for a bit.

Should I purchase Genie+ for EPCOT?

It largely depends on how you want to spend your time at the park. Genie+, which gives you access to Lightning Lane, starts at $15 per person per day, which can add up for a family! If your family wants to focus on rides, it can be a worthy investment to save time. But, if you want to focus on food with only occasionally riding attractions, you should save your money.

Genie+ Lightning Lane for EPCOT

• Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
• Frozen Ever After
• Journey into Imagination with Figment
• Living with the Land
• Mission: SPACE
• Remy's Ratatouille Adventure
• Soarin' Around the World
• Spaceship Earth
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends
• Turtle Talk with Crush

The rides listed above are all available through Genie+. You can purchase Genie+ on the day of your park visit and make your first ride selection at 7:00 AM. Then, either after you hop into the desired attraction’s queue or 2 hours after your first selection, you can make another one.

Individual Lightning Lane for Purchase

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

This ride is not included with other Genie+ attractions. If you do not purchase Genie+ but miss your virtual queue opening, you can buy an individual lightning lane for each group member for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind which averages around $15 per person.

EPCOT Itinerary: Let’s Grab Lunch!

You may not want to stop for a full sit-down meal during midday. However, some might want to take a break from the sun and crowds and relax. Thankfully, EPCOT is the food paradise for Walt Disney World. Consider adding one of these recommendations to your EPCOT itinerary.

Our favorite quick-service restaurants are:

Sunshine Seasons: In The Land Pavilion in World Nature, this spot has elevated fast casual dishes like Oak-grilled Salmon, Mongolian Beef, and Pizza Rolls. There is something for every type of eater, with salads, kid-friendly fare, and vegetarian/vegan options. The portions are hearty and can feel heavy after eating, so consider this location if you are not snacking for a while.

Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie: We suggest purchasing the cheese platter with a baguette or a sandwich for lunch. The sandwiches are of a good size and are primarily deli-style. You can also satisfy your sweet tooth with a beignet or eclair chocolat. Seating is small and located near a gift shop, so we suggest buying items where you do not need a tray and can walk away to find a more comfortable seat.

Yorkshire County Fish Shop: This unassuming building holds some of the tastiest fish ‘n’ chips at Disney World. You can sit at a nearby table or grab a bench near the gardens and enjoy this flaky, fried dish.

If you want to take your time and relax, we love the following table-service restaurants:

Space 220 : This EPCOT restaurant is in the same building as Mission: SPACE. Space 220 is in the Centauri Space Station, which is 220 miles above EPCOT. Your elevator transports you to the station offering a unique Earth view. We recommend reservations if you want to dine in, but you can join the walk-up list for the Lounge in the same area.

Rose & Crown Pub: Overlooking World Showcase Lagoon sits the Rose & Crown Pub. On one side, you have the bustling bar where people can grab a quick cocktail or beer. On the other is a homey dining room that evokes charm in every inch. This British-themed menu has staples like Fish and Chips or Bangers and Mash. You can indulge in a Sticky Toffee Pudding and sip on the Welsh Dragon, a green-colored cocktail with Peach Schnapps and Melon Liqueur. As with many sit-down restaurants, reservations are highly encouraged.

Garden Grill: In The Land pavilion, Mickey and friends greet guests at this family-style restaurant. Garden Grill is similar to other character meals around Disney World. You can dine on American-style platters while characters stop by your table to wave and take pictures.

But there is something very unique about this restaurant. As you dine, your table rotates to show views of the attraction Living with the Land! The (literal) change in scenery is enjoyable and gives little ones more to look at while they wait for their turn to meet the characters.

Festival Booths

There is seldom a moment when EPCOT is not having a festival. As of 2023, EPCOT has four festivals:

• EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
• EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
• EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
• EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Each festival has different food booths with small plates and cocktails that you can eat on the go. They are often a convenient way to try new foods without sacrificing precious time away from rides and shows. You can grab a booklet at many food and information locations throughout the park that shows you menus. Choose your favorites, and you’re on your way!

Read our EPCOT Festival Guide and Calendar to see which festival is being offered during your trip!

EPCOT Disney Characters

If meeting Disney friends is in your EPCOT itinerary, you are in for a treat. A few characters are exclusive to this park, and we recommend stopping by to say hello.

• Disney Pals (typically Goofy and Pluto) – EPCOT's entrance near World Celebration
• Mickey Mouse – Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival building
• Alice – United Kingdom pavilion in World Showcase
• Anna and Elsa – Norway pavilion in World Showcase
• Donald Duck – Mexico pavilion in World Showcase
• Joy – ImageWorks in Journey to Imagination With Figment
• Mulan – China pavilion in World Showcase
• Princess Jasmine – Morocco pavilion in World Showcase
• Snow White – Germany pavilion in World Showcase
• Vanellope – ImageWorks in Journey to Imagination With Figment

If you want character dining, there are a few restaurants where you can grab a meal and meet your favorite characters.

• You will meet Ariel, Belle, Aurora, Jasmine, and Snow White in this restaurant. They walk around to every table for photos, autographs, and good conversation. You can see our review of EPCOT princess dining at Akershus Banquet Hall for more details on the experience!
• The rotating restaurant lets you meet Mickey Mouse, Chip, Dale, and Pluto in one spot. Best of all, your table rotates to views overlooking the Living with the Land attraction, making it unique while you wait for characters to join your table.

EPCOT Shows & Experiences

World Showcase Performers

Some pavilions in World Showcase have a performer or a musical group. They are experts in their craft and draw a crowd! The current shows are:

• Command Performance – UK Pavilion
• Musicians at Canada Mill Stage -Canada Pavilion
• Matsuriza Drummers – Japan Pavilion
• Mariachi Cobre and Marimba de las Americas – Mexico Pavilion
• Rose & Crown Piano Musician – UK Pavilion
• Sergio – Italy Pavilion
• Voices of Liberty – The American Adventure Pavilion

Show times vary, so check the My Disney Experience app or ask a Cast Member for the latest information.

EPCOT Cinematic Shows

There are shows throughout the park that inspire and add some relaxation to your day.

• This 10-minute film gives a unique look into the beauty and power of our world's nature and people.
• Enjoy a 15-minute show while singing to some of your favorite movie tunes. Little ones will love this experience!
• This 12-minute show has inspiring views of Canada's landscape in a unique 360-degree standing theater.
• An 18-minute film showing the landscape and people of this picturesque country.
• Discover the beauty of this country in a 12-minute show.

SeaBase Aquarium

If you or someone in your group loves aquatic fish and animals, you HAVE to visit SeaBase.  It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, holding over 5.7 million gallons of water and thousands of animals. You can see fish feedings at 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM. You will also see dolphins, manatees, sea horses, sea turtles, sharks, and more fish than you can count. This building is open during park hours, so it is a must-visit when you are in the area.

If you're interested in more animal-related experiences at Disney World, you'll find the most at Animal Kingdom. You can see our full comparison of Animal Kingdom vs. EPCOT for a breakdown of the parks' offerings.

ImageWorks “What If” Labs

After riding on Journey Into Imagination With Figment, you can play with your imagination at the play stations as you exit the building. You can create music, play memory games, and even create your Figment. A small photo booth is also available if you want to be silly and take a few memories home.

Test Track Activities

After your ride, you can play and explore in the exit building. Make a commercial, try your hand at a virtual race, or take a social media-worth photo of your designed vehicle.

Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future

Once you exit Spaceship Earth, you can play games and interact with developing technologies. Try your hand at the surgeon simulator, play against friends, or test your driving skills in a simulator test. You can even send an email of your ride photo to friends and family (you know, to remind them you are at Disney World at they aren't).

Mission: SPACE Advanced Training Lab

If simulating your journey wasn't enough, you can take it up a notch at the training lab in the exit building for Mission: SPACE. There is a playground for little ones and games for the whole crew to simulate space travel.

EPCOT 1-Day Afternoon Itinerary

You have likely conquered many popular rides at this point in the day by following our EPCOT itinerary. Many guests will start to move to World Showcase for shows, snacks, and drinks. In the evening, people start finding the perfect spot for the nighttime fireworks spectacular.

• If you want to indulge in an alcoholic beverage , World Showcase is the destination. We love grabbing a drink or two before winding down for the evening and always add it to our EPCOT itinerary. Our favorites are La Cava del Tequila in the Mexico pavilion for margaritas, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar for Italian wine, Les Vins des Chefs de France for a frozen cocktail, and Space 220 for an out-of-this-world concoction.
• Watch shows  in World Showcase. The performers are excellent at their craft and worth stopping by to see. We love the Matsuriza drummers and The Voices of Liberty. You could also rest your feet by watching a theater show or a musical act at the American Gardens Theater.
• Now you have most attractions out of the way, it is time to say hello to some Disney characters . You can check the My Disney Experience app for locations and times.
• The afternoon is a great way to hop in line for less busy attractions , like The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Living with the Land, Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros, and Journey Into Imagination With Figment.

EPCOT Itinerary: Dinner Time!

Your EPCOT itinerary is complete by settling in for a nice, relaxed meal. The park has several table-service restaurants that feature a variety of cuisines. Tempt your tastebuds with a new cooking style, or grab a plate and enjoy the comforts of home.

We love the following restaurants for sit-down dinners at EPCOT:

Biergarten Restaurant: Step into this lively Oktoberfest-inspired restaurant at EPCOT’s Germany pavilion. Biergarten Restaurant offers German classics in a buffet-style setting. Dine on sausages with sauerkraut or Schnitzel while listening to the band of merry Polka musicians as they entertain and delight. You can expect moderate pricing at this location: $49 per adult and $27 per child.

Teppan Edo: Entertainment is taken up a notch at Teppan Edo, a hibachi-style restaurant in the Japan pavilion. Watch as your chef dices, slices, and cooks your meal in front of you. This blend of art and food makes it a fun event for all ages. You can expect to order sushi, combination bowls, steak, shrimp, chicken, and desserts. Prices range from $4 for an appetizer to $100 for an A5 Japanese Wagyu entree enhancement.

Le Cellier Steakhouse: If you or your family love red meat, you will love Le Cellier in the Canada pavilion. Start with the famous cheddar cheese soup, followed by a filet mignon or poutine. Then, finish your meal with a maple creme brulee or warm pecan-brown butter tart. This restaurant is known for its steak dishes but also excels at seafood.

Nighttime Shows at EPCOT

This Disney World park is known for its spectacular fireworks. Here, you can gather around World Showcase Lagoon for a show that envelops you in stories about togetherness. While there are no bad spots to watch this show, as much of it is in the center of the lagoon, many people line up around the fencing for a good view. We suggest looking towards France, UK, or Morocco for a good viewing area. It's the perfect way to end your EPCOT itinerary. EPCOT Forever is currently showing at EPCOT with a brand new show for the Disney Company's 100th Anniversar y on its way later this year.

Plan Your Disney World Vacation!

Consider subscribing to our FREE Deals newsletter to ensure your travel runs smoothly. Inside are helpful planning tips and exclusive deals for Disney tickets, hotels, and experiences. You can read more about Disney and your EPCOT itinerary here:

• EPCOT Festival Guide: 2023 Calendar of Walt Disney World EPCOT Festivals
• EPCOT at Walt Disney World Attraction Guide
• EPCOT Morning Strategy: Rope Drop Tips, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Genie+
• Drinking Around the World at Epcot’s World Showcase in Walt Disney World
• Epcot Guide: Essential Pre-Visit Information on Dining, Rides, Transportation

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About Angela

Meet Angela, a former Cast Member at Walt Disney World and passionate Disney enthusiast. Her love for everything Disney is infectious, and her friends and family often turn to her for expert advice and the latest updates. Her favorite ride is Haunted Mansion, which she never tires of experiencing. Follow her on this and other Disney blogs to get the latest tips, tricks, and insider information on all things Disney.

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Angela, Your EPCOT 1 day itinerary and tips article is so organized and helpful! Do you have something similar for the other 3 parks?

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The Best Epcot Itinerary: A Park Guide For Walt Disney World

Categories Family Travel , Theme Parks

Disney’s Epcot Itinerary – Explore Like A Pro

Epcot for me is absolute magic.   I know everyone doesn’t feel the same way; but for many of us it is a favorite park and we could literally spend days there.   It’s such an amazing place to spend time, with its many changes of scenery and sampling of food and cultures from around the world.  Make the most of your park time with this Epcot Itinerary – it’ll guide you to the can’t miss attractions!

Related: The Best Magic Kingdom Park Itinerary

The Perfect Day – Your Epcot Park Itinerary

One of the remarkable things about Epcot is that despite being the second largest Walt Disney World theme park, it is remarkably easy to get around and to set your own pace.   This Epcot Itinerary is very approachable and can be handled in a variety of ways – put your own twist on it.   It’s  just one version of a perfect Epcot day in Disney World.

A perfect Epcot day consists of balance between planning and improvising.   There are 4 “E ticket rides” (known as the best) , plus 4 others including the iconic Spaceship Earth .  

There are also 7 shows a 6 gallery exhibits around the world showcase.   While it is nice to visit Epcot with fewer crowds, a Perfect Epcot day must include one of the international festivals the park is so famous for.   My favorite is the Festival of the Arts .

Arrival: Epcot Park Opening

Future World opens at 9:00, which is two hours before World Showcase opens.   That means that if you time it perfectly you can get most of your rides down before noon.   Spaceship Earth is the geodesic sphere that stands as the symbol for the park.   Many refer to it as the silver golf ball.  

It’s the first thing you come to when you enter the park, so the standby line is going to be long at first.   You will want to skip it and make a left turn after you pass it, but first pick up a park map and a festival passport .   You will want to sit down and look it over soon, but this Epcot Itinerary starts off with a bang: by heading straight to the two most thrilling rides.

©Disney2019, Matt Stroshane

Related: Guide To Eating Keto At Epcot

Epcot’s Future World East

Future World is divided into two sides.   The easterly side is home to Test Track , Mission: Space , the Festival Welcome Center and soon Guardians of the Galaxy .   For the perfect experience, having a Fastpass for either Mission: Space, or Test Track is ideal.  

If you have a Mission Space Fastpass, go straight past it, to Test Track, before the standby line gets long.   After your drive, get in the fastpass line for Mission Space.   This works the other way too, but in a perfect scenario you don’t use Fastpass for Test Track.   This is because only in standby are you allowed to design your own car for testing, which is more than half the fun in my opinion.

When you have finished both thrilling attractions, you should have time to spare before World Showcase and the festival marketplaces open up, so head back passed Spaceship Earth and through the breezeway into Future World West.

Epcot’s Future World West

World Showcase opens at 11:00, but you don’t have to be there right at 11:00.   As a matter of fact, it’s good to let the crowd move on ahead a little bit and give you some space to finish enjoying Future World.   If you continue Straight ahead you will come to The Land pavilion.  

This is a three part stop that is perfect for collecting yourself and prepping for the rest of your day.   Head downstairs to Sunshine Seasons , a counter service location that specializes in fresh produce grown in the greenhouses of the Pavilion.   Grab a table in the food court and have a quick bite for breakfast, while you look over the festival marketplaces in your passport and study your map.

Since there is so much to do in this park, this Epcot itinerary consists of looking over the options and picking the things you want to do most.   If you have never been to Epcot, this is the best way to avoid missing out by finding out about something too late.   While you are still in the Land Pavilion, you can ride Living With the Land and Soarin’  

If you have kids, you will also not want to overlook The Seas and Imagination pavilions.   Both include slow moving dark rides and The Seas has Turtle Talk with Crush , in addition to plentiful views of active marine life from seahorses to manatees.

©Disney, Photo composite

Related: Drinking Around The World For Less Than $100

Epcot’s Spaceship Earth

By the time you wrap things up you will be coming onto the early afternoon, which is a perfect time to head into Spaceship Earth because the standby line will be really low.   Spaceship Earth is a must-do for the perfect Epcot day so don’t pass up the opportunity.   Even if you have a Fastpass for later, it is better to jump into a short standby line, than to try to get back from wherever you are later on.   After the ride, make sure you email the photo to yourself.   It’s free!

©Disney2019, Gene Duncan

Club Cool Featuring Coco-Cola

Before you finally move on to World Showcase, there is one more stop you need to make for the Perfect Future World experience.   Club Cool on the right, near Fountain View is a Coca-Cola shop that has free self serve samples of popular sodas from around the world.   It’s a tasty, educational treat, especially on a hot day – try “The Beverly.”

Navigating Epcot’s World Showcase

By now, you are probably coming up on 3:00pm.   You have finished half of the park and are about to get on to what I think is the best part.   It’s also the easiest part, so if you are feeling like you need a break, don’t worry, because World showcase is a no rush zone.   If you’re visiting during a festival time, t here are tons of food in festival marketplaces and within the pavilions.

This is where you want to be on the lookout for great sounding dishes you want to try.   M enus are posted outside of all of the marketplaces for convenience.   World Showcase is a loop around a lagoon, so you start on one end, take your time and come out the other way.   Epcot Itinerary Pro Tip:   Most people go clockwise and start with Mexico, so in order to go with the majority flow of traffic that is the best way to take.

As long as you are enjoying yourself there is no wrong pace or length of time to spend in any pavilion.   However there are a few things that make up a perfect day for me.   That includes getting the most out of the Japan pavilion by going up stairs and dining at the outdoor seating areas of Katsura Grill .   I also enjoy an in depth experience of the France Pavilion including Impressions De France , and Les Halles Boulangerie and Patisserie .   I also love stopping at Karamell-Kuche in the Germany pavilion for a sliced caramel apple.

Don’t miss the chance to ride Frozen Ever After in the Norway pavilion, or The American Adventure show at the American pavilion.   Both are exceptionally done and will make the day even more perfect. If it’s a must-do on your Epcot itinerary, be sure to do Frozen Ever After right at 11am, when World Showcase opens. That way you aren’t waiting for a long queue time.

Related: Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival Guide

Epcot’s Illuminations Nighttime Show

At 9:00 the final event draws the evening to a close.   Illuminations is a firework spectacular that is a celebration of our world.   The show takes place over the waters of the World Showcase and it will only be running until September 30, 2019, when it will be replaced by an exciting new nighttime show.   Whether you catch Illuminations in its final year or see the all new show, it’s going to be the perfect end, to a perfect Epcot day.

FREE Epcot Itinerary Planning Printable

Want all of this itinerary in the parks? Download, save and print this free guide. You can be sure to get the Fast Passes and visit all of my attraction picks for Epcot! You can use legal size paper or print on two pages.

CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR EPCOT ITINERARY

The BEST Magic Kingdom Itinerary: A Park Guide for Walt Disney World

Wednesday 20th of February 2019

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Whatever Happened to That Insane $115,000 Disney Parks Trip?

in Disney , Featured , ParkSpotting

Have you ever dreamed of a Disney vacation that literally takes you to every magical corner of the globe? In the summer of 2022, Adventures by Disney made that dream trip a reality, but its uber-hefty price tag left fans wondering how it would fare in today’s economy.

So . . . whatever happened to the famed (and exorbitantly expensive) “Disney Parks Around the World” trip offering ?

In the summer of 2022,  Adventures by Disney announced a once-in-a-lifetime, 24-day trip that covered all twelve Disney theme parks worldwide. At approximately $115,000 per person, this exclusive adventure served as the ultimate bucket list experience for Disney enthusiasts of all ages.

Packed with perks, the trip itinerary reads like the stuff of a fan’s wildest dreams. So, what is it all about, and whatever happened to it?

A Global Itinerary Packed with Magic

This epic journey starts in California, home to the original Disneyland Park, where you’ll step into the worlds of your favorite Disney characters. As you explore the Disneyland Resort, including Disney California Adventure Park, you’ll be treated to VIP experiences that include behind-the-scenes tours, priority access to attractions, and exclusive dining opportunities.

From there, the adventure takes flight to the other Disney parks around the world. Below are just a few of the things guests were said to experience at each destination:

• Tokyo Disney Resort : Immerse yourself in the unique blend of Disney magic and Japanese culture at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Enjoy special access to attractions, private tours, and the incredible seasonal celebrations the Tokyo parks are famous for.
• Shanghai Disney Resort : Experience the newest Disney park, with its groundbreaking attractions and innovative design. Shanghai Disneyland offers an array of exclusive experiences, from a private viewing of the spectacular nighttime show to behind-the-scenes access to the park’s cutting-edge technology.

• Hong Kong Disneyland : Nestled in a lush landscape, this park combines classic Disney attractions with elements unique to Hong Kong. You’ll get a chance to explore the mystic wonders of Mystic Manor and enjoy the park’s unique blend of Eastern and Western culinary delights.
• Disneyland Paris : The charm and romance of Paris extend into Disneyland Paris, where you’ll enjoy VIP tours and access to attractions like Ratatouille: The Adventure. The French influence makes this park a distinctive and magical experience.
• Walt Disney World Resort : No Disney adventure is complete without a visit to the world’s largest and most visited resort in Orlando, Florida. You’ll explore all four theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – with exclusive perks that elevate your experience beyond the ordinary.

Luxurious Accommodations and First-Class Travel

Throughout this journey, you’ll stay in some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts, handpicked for their proximity to Disney parks and exceptional service. Each accommodation offers a unique blend of comfort, style, and themed experiences that reflect the magic of Disney.

Traveling between destinations is as seamless as it is stylish. The journey includes first-class flights and private charters, ensuring that your travel time is both comfortable and efficient. You’ll have plenty of time to relax and rejuvenate, ready for the next magical adventure.

Exclusive Experiences and VIP Access

One of the highlights of this adventure is the exclusive experiences and VIP access provided at each Disney park. Imagine walking through a park before it opens to the public, enjoying a private viewing of a nighttime spectacular, or having a backstage tour to see the inner workings of the magic. These special moments are curated to give you an unparalleled Disney experience.

In addition to the park visits, the trip includes unique cultural experiences that enrich your journey. From a traditional tea ceremony in Japan to a culinary workshop in France, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the destinations you visit, making this more than just a theme park tour.

Personalized Service and Attention to Detail

Adventures by Disney is known for its impeccable service and attention to detail. From the moment you book your trip until you return home, every aspect of your journey is taken care of by a dedicated team of Disney-trained adventure guides.

They ensure that everything runs smoothly, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about logistics.

A Price Tag Worth the Experience?

The $115,000 price tag for this adventure reflects the level of exclusivity, luxury, and comprehensive Disney experiences included. While it is undoubtedly a significant investment, it is said that the value lies in unparalleled access, personalized service, and the opportunity to create lifelong memories at every Disney park in the world.

But was it all actually worth it, and what has become of it today?

For the answer about its worth, you’d have to talk to those who have booked and experienced the trip. And as far as clues to whatever became of the offering, we can say that Adventures by Disney is still offering the trip. The inclusive price per person starts at $115,000, and the entire trip lasts an impressive 24 days!

So apparently, the offering still stands, which means it had to be enough of a viable income stream for Disney in the first place.

The Adventures by Disney trip to Disney parks around the world is more than just a vacation; it’s an extraordinary journey that brings the magic of Disney to life in ways fans never could have imagined. For those who seek the ultimate Disney experience and have the means to invest in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it promises to be an unforgettable odyssey filled with wonder, enchantment, and unparalleled magic.

• Dining / EPCOT / News / Parks / Walt Disney World

NEW Coffee Margarita Packs a Punch in EPCOT!

by Madison Owens · May 24, 2024

If you’re anything like me, you enjoy getting a fun little cocktail while hanging out in Disney World! You can get anything from the classics to Dole Whip liquor concoctions to elaborate tiki drinks.

And now, there’s a new margarita over in EPCOT!

New Coffee Margarita

Introducing the Highland Coffee Margarita from La Cava del Tequila! The tequila cave inside the Mexico Pavilion is serving up this new frozen drink which has Tromba Tequila, Cafeto Coffee liquor, vanilla cream liquor, and espresso coffee.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by The Mexico Pavillion 🥑 (@mexico.pavilion)

Tromba Tequila is craft tequila from the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico — so we’re assuming that’s the reason for the name of this marg.

We decided to go try it out for ourselves, so we headed to the Mexico Pavilion!

The line can be long for La Cava del Tequila, and today was no different.

Luckily, there are QR codes in line where you can scan and peruse the menu. But, do note that this new Coffee Margarita isn’t on the digital menu yet!

We made it up to the bar to order and the drink came to $19.17 after tax.

Now, let’s try it! There are some regular coffee beans on top, but we wouldn’t recommend eating them obviously — they’re just for garnish.

The drink is small in size, but it’s strong in flavor! You can definitely taste the tequila in this and it packs a punch.

The flavor is really nice, though! It has a little bit of a coffee flavor with a chocolate/cocoa aftertaste. It’s not super acidic and there is some sweetness to it!

This margarita is really well-balanced when it comes to flavors, but you definitely need to like the taste of tequila, because it’s very present.

We really enjoyed this new cocktail! It’s perfect for coffee and tequila lovers alike, especially on a hot day since it’s frozen.

Since La Cava opens at 11AM, you can’t have this as your morning coffee drink (and probably shouldn’t since it’s so strong), but it’s a great treat to have later in the day!

Stay tuned for more Disney World news and updates!

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