10 Things Not to Miss at Disney’s Epcot

1. Soarin’ Around the World

The ride Soarin’ Around the World has always been one of my top favorite rides out of all the Disney parks! The ride is so calm, relaxing and exciting all at once! You're able to visit 13 destinations all around the world! These destinations are: The Great Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Wall of China, the Matterhorn in Switzerland, Lau Islands in Fiji, Sydney Harbor in Australia, Mt. Kilimanjaro, India’s Taj Mahal, Ice Fjords in Greenland, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Iguazu Waterfalls, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, and Monument Valley in Utah, and of course Epcot's fireworks! So, grab your Disney Passports and hop on to a journey around the world! 

2. The World Showcase

Epcot’s World Showcase is situated around a beautiful lake and features pavilions representing 11 different countries from around the world. Stroll through Paris while visiting their perfume or wine stores, or visit Germany and taste some of their pastry shop desserts for sale. You can even visit a Mayan Temple in Mexico and shop for traditional souvenirs under the stars. With so much to see in the world showcase, you could go for days at a time without seeing and experiencing it all. It is truly a walk around the world without having to leave the United States!

3. Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival

If you are a foody like me, and if you enjoy a nice drink or two, then you should definitely head to Epcot during their Food and Wine Festival. During this festival, chefs from around the world prepare tapas styled dishes from their countries. These dishes are offered at stands throughout the World Showcase in the country of the dishes origin. Though Epcot features many countries in their World Showcase everyday, not all countries are included. But during the Food and Wine Festival, you'll have many more options for trying dishes from countries that are not usually available. Therefore, be sure to go when you're hungry and try out many of these delicious foods!

4. Characters

At Epcot, you'll find some of the most rare characters that you may not easily find in the other parks. You can meet Mary Poppins, Stich, Mulan, Baymax, Daisy, Joy and Sadness (from the Disney movie Inside Out) Goofy, Pluto, Donald and even Nemo! Simply check my Disney Experience app for locations and times for where to meet these characters. And remember your autograph book!

5. Snacks & Restaurants

Epcot offers a variety of yummy snacks and restaurants all year long. In the snack department, you can find anything from ethic foods featured in the World Showcase, to Milk Chocolate Caramel Squares and Apple Strudel. A mix of sweet and savory options are always available at Epcot. Also, ethnic dining at various restaurants is a mainstay. Watch live music and dancing as you dine in Morocco or enjoy a high-class Canadian Steakhouse. The options are endless, just make sure to arrange your dining reservations 180 day in advance (if you're staying at a Disney Resort) or 60 days in advance if staying off property. 

6. Mission Space

If you have always wanted to travel to space, then Mission Space is your ride! This ride simulates what it feels like to be in a rocket ship and lifts off into space! You can ride either the "Orange Mission" or the "Green Mission." The Orange Mission takes you on a journey to Mars, whereas the Green Mission which takes you on an orbit around space. Full disclosure, if you're prone to motion sickness, then the "Green Mission" may be best for you, as it not quite as intense as the "Orange Mission." As thrilling as these mission’s sound, make sure to listen to all the safety warnings prior to deciding to ride it. The simulation is so accurate that you should not ride it if you have a bad back, heart problems, are pregnant and more! Talk about a serious ride!

7. Turtle Talk with Crush

If you have young kids or are obsessed with Nemo, then Turtle Talk with Crush is a fun show to experience. Turtle Talk allows you and your kids to have a conversation with Crush from Nemo. You can ask him about marine biology, about how his day is going, what he likes to do, what it's like living in Australia and so much more! This interactive experience truly makes the Nemo characters come to life. Crush may even introduce you to Squirt, Nemo, Dory or Marlin!

8. The World Showcase Stores

Along with food, the World Showcase offers a large variety of stores where you can shop and buy products made in the different countries. Sometimes these products cannot be found anywhere else in the United States! My family's personal favorite is the outer garment shop in Norway. There my dad is able to purchase handmade Norwegian sweaters! It is always fun collecting trinkets imported from around the world!

9. Picking A Pearl Ceremony In Epcot

For only $17 in the Japan Pavilion, the Mitsukoshi Department Store allows you to choose an oyster from a salt water tank and obtain your very own pearl! Choosing your pearl is part of a ceremony which includes drums, ceremonial bows, hand claps and more. Once your oyster is opened and you see your pearl, you can then chose to keep it the way it is, or you can pay extra to have the pearl put into a necklace. It is such a fun experience to enjoy!

10. Ethnic Performances

Another amazing thing about Epcot is the amazing performances all around the park and in the various countries. From acrobatic dancers in China, to Belly Dancers in Morocco, and live bands in the United States Pavilion. There is always so much culture to enjoy while in Epcot!