Top 11 Epcot Favorites

Top 11 Epcot Favorites 

from a former Disney Cast Member 

Epcot is hands down one of my favorite parks - it has an epic food court, some of the resort's best attractions (Soarin' over the World and Test Track!) and SO MANY CHARACTERS! In this post I'm going to share my favorite things this park has to offer. Make sure to comment below your favorite Epcot must-do's!

1. Sunshine Seasons Food Court

Sick of eating chicken nuggets and french fries at every meal on vacation? Then you are going to LOVE Sunshine Seasons in the Land at Epcot! Sunshine Seasons Food Court is very similar to the food courts located in resorts, with multiple stations that ensure everyone in your family will find something they'll enjoy. There's an Asian Food section, Grill Shop with classic comfort food options, Soup and Sandwiches, Dessert, Alcoholic Beverages, Kid's Meals, and Grab 'n Go options such as veggies and hummus and pre-made salads. Sunshine Seasons is considered Quick Service, which means Dining Tokens can be used! ALSO - THEY HAVE VEGAN OPTIONS!

2. Princess Meet and Greets 

The Holy Grail of Character Sightings is the World Showcase in Epcot. From England to Mexico, the photo opportunities with characters is, in my opinion, the best of any Disney park. Meet Mary Poppins and Alice in England, Aurora and Belle (in her blues!) in France, Snow White in Germany, Aladdin and Jasmine in Morocco, Mulan in China, Anna and Elsa in Norway, and then finish off with meeting the #1 duck himself, Donald Duck in Mexico! Don't forget to give Pluto a hug when rounding out the World Showcase! Check out this video for Epcot Character tips!

CM Tip: Exact Character Locations can be found on the My Disney Experience App! 

CM Tip: Scan the meet and greet times for princesses and then start lining up 10 - 15 minutes before the start of the wait time - the line is often so long that they won't let any more guests join by the time she actually comes out! 

3. Character Spot 

Did you know that you can get Fast Passes for Character Meet and Greets? Character Spot in Epcot is one of those locations!

Open from park open to park close, Guests meet Mickey, Goofy, AND Minnie Mouse! Also, the AIR CONDITIONED indoor line and upbeat Disney Mania music playing makes the entire experience even better!

CM Tip: Walk across the sidewalk to the other side of character spot and meet Baymax or Joy and Sadness! (No fast passes available at this time for these characters)

4. Germany Pavilion 

I may be totally biased because my parents met in Germany (the actual country, not Epcot), but this pavilion is my favorite! The shops sell real German chocolate, hummels, tiaras with Swarvoski crystal, and pickle ornaments (a beloved German tradition!) not to mention Citrus Beer and GIANT pretzels that will knock your socks off (or so my roommates tell me)! Snow White meets in Germany, and this pavilion is where the bathrooms are located! 

5. Kawaii Japan Store 

Though Germany is my fav, the store in Japan comes in a close second! 

Full of traditional Japanese culture and modern day anime, this kawaii (Japanese for cute!) store sells everything you didn't know you needed. Guests can pay to open an oyster and keep the pearl that's inside, with a wide array of jewelry Guest's can have the pearl set it. They sell traditional Japanese kimonos, fans, umbrellas; candy, fizzy drinks, and other desserts; Pokemon and Hello Kitty; as well as pottery, mugs, bowls, and other Japanese made dishes. Whether you're into the culture or just need a break from the    heat, I highly recommend browsing this large store! 

6. Jeweled Dragon Acrobats 

I have to admit, I haven't actually seen this act perform... BUT I REALLY WANT TO! This twenty minute show features Chinese acrobats as they combine their grace and strength in gymnastics-like stunts and tricks. Make sure to check your My Disney Experience App for exact show times, and keep an eye out for these amazing athletes as you walk by China! 

7. Candlelight Processional

If you're lucky enough to have time to relax at Epcot during the Christmas Season, I suggest taking an hour to sit down in the American Pavilion and listen to the Christmas story. Narrated by a celebrity (it was Neil Patrick Harris when I watched!) and accompanied by a large choir composed of Cast Members and high school students, this peaceful rendition of Luke chapter 2 is a must-see.

NOTE: Though as a 20 year old I really enjoyed watching the show after a shift one night, I honestly think children will be bored to tears... maybe skip this unless your kids are falling asleep anyway.

8. International Gateway

Did you know there's a route to Hollywood Studios that doesn't include taking a bus? Right before crossing the bridge into France, take a right and head down the ramp toward the water and the exit (yes there's an exit - I spent one of my days on Modified Duty waving goodbye to guests and telling them they couldn't leave the park with alcohol). Hop on the boat for a relaxing ride to the Boardwalk, and then onto Hollywood Studios. Boat rides last about 20 minutes.

CM Tip: There's also a trail that you can walk - leading you to the Boardwalk and Hollywood Studios. 

9. Visa Spot 

Another character meet and greet tip, yay! If you have a Disney Visa / Chase card, you have access to a special Disney character meet and greet experience! On the right side of the park, up the steps toward the Journey into Imagination ride, on the left there will be a sign for Disney Chase card holders. Go through the entry (must have Disney Visa Chase card present) and skip the line to meet a mystery character with a complimentary PhotoPass Photo of the experience! Open daily from 1-7pm. 

10. Henna in Morocco 

Again, not something I've done, but definitely something I would get were I a Guest on vacation! Artists in Morocco are ready to draw beautiful designs, ranging in size and intricacy based on the Guest's wishes and price range. If taken care of properly, the design should last up to two weeks! Don't worry, they'll tell you all the information you need to know about caring for your artwork.  

11. Christmas around the World 

Another seasonal offering that Epcot provides that highlights the uniqueness of the world's cultures. Meet Pierre Noelle in France, Father Christmas in England, or watch the Nutcracker take the stage in Germany. Special holiday treats are also available at kiosks around the showcase!  

Conclusion 

There are too many things I love about Epcot to list, so I decided to stop at 11. I hope this list gives you insight into just a few of the unique offerings Epcot provides to its Guests. I'm excited to explore each pavilion even more this summer and hopefully try a tasty treat or two! Comment your Epcot Must-Do's down below so I don't miss out on anything! 

If you found this article helpful then please share it via Facebook or Pinterest! Thanks so much for reading and I hope you truly do have the most wonderful time at Walt Disney World! ❤

Have a Magical Day! 

- Olivia Simone 

*This post is not sponsored by Disney nor does it have any affiliation with the Walt Disney Company