Exploring the vast Walt Disney EPCOT park can be overwhelming. Add a few of these tips and tricks to your pre-planning and you'll succeed in having a wonderful time.
Epcot is a large park, opening early and closing late, it still requires a little planning and scheduling to fit in all the fun. Epcot is split into two sections, Future World and the World Showcase with parades and shows sprinkled throughout. Future World pavilions feature rides, learning and hands-on adventures while the World Showcase pavilions highlight the cultures of various countries.
Some tips and tricks to get the most out of a visit:
Upon entrance to the park, at the front of Future World, proceed to the locker rentals to store all your stuff but, rent a locker in the middle of the park. A locker in the middle of the park will make access and emergency runs a lot easier.
If you've purchase tickets before hand, and physically have the ticket, enter the park through the Disney Boardwalk entrance near the Swan/Dolphin hotel. This entrance places you in the middle of the park with no walking.
To eliminate the crowds, plan to do the World Showcase in the morning and Future World in the afternoon. Lines for rides (most in Future World) will be shorter in the afternoon and you'll be closer to the exit for departure.
Pick up a schedule of shows for both Future World and the World Showcase and sit for a moment to vote on the ones you just can't miss. The most popular rides, Test Track and Mission Space, and a few others will sponsor FastPass, a ticket you get at the entrance of the ride that specifies when you can return. Return during the specified time and you'll be at the front of the line with minimal waiting.
The World Showcase features the cultures of Japan, China, Canada, Morocco, Mexico, Norway, Germany, France, Italy, America and the United Kingdom. All pavilions offer sit-down and counter service food of the region, shopping, activities, gardens, and representation of the architecture and famous monuments. Throughout the day each country has a number of shows that highlight the talent of the country. Don't miss the rides in Norway and Mexico, the Hall of Presidents in the American Adventure or the outdoor shows at each country.
Use the boats that run across the pond to go from country to country, or the double-decker bus, as you'll be walking throughout the day.
If interested in trying the cuisine of different countries, graze the counter service for snacks at each showcase. If a lunch or dinner is on your plans, be certain to use Priority Seating through Walt Disney World for reservations - walk-ins are hard to accommodate.
Save the souvenir shopping for the end of your day unless there is something you just can't live without. Some of the activities in Future World will result in a souvenir. Professional photographs near Spaceship Earth, Leaving a Legacy on stone, or autographs and pictures with characters all are available in Future World. Packages you do end up purchasing can be sent directly to Disney Resorts or to the Exit of the park for pick up upon departure.
Ask cast members (Disney's name for employees) for the best location to see some of the daily parades. Most cast members will be happy to point out places to sit, stand or even offer the best table view if you'll be dining during the parade time slot.
Epcot's night show, Illuminations, is a spectacular event that can be seen from anywhere in the park. If you need to be in the front row to see the show as well as the lights, be prepared to line up early (about 2 hours early) and wait. Cast members do cut the line off once the maximum number has been achieved so don't fear that you'll be standing in line for nothing.
Remember to take breaks often, rest your feet, take in the views, the fountains, and the gardens, enjoy an ice cream and cool off. There's more in Epcot than can be accomplished in one day so return another day or select your fun accordingly.
