Epcot is one of the most unique theme parks in the world. Created to be the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, the theme park was inspired by the technological innovations of the twentieth century. Since 1982, tourists from all over the globe have celebrated the cultures and wonders of the world at Epcot. Almost everyone who visits the theme park gains new appreciation for our planet's diversity - and has a lot of fun along the way.
Epcot is made up of two themed areas, Future World, featuring rides and attractions about communication, the environment and transportation and World Showcase, offering glimpses into the cultures of eleven different countries. Getting between the two areas is usually self explanatory but it's good to consult a map before your visit. Future World is home to Epcot's icon, Spaceship Earth. Inside the 180 foot geosphere, strapped into a "Time Machine," you'll relive the history of communication, from the grunts of Cro-Magnon man to personal computers and the internet. The Living Seas is a sight not to be missed. The pavilion features one of the largest saltwater aquariums in the world, filled with dolphins, sharks and more multi-colored fish than you could ever hope to count. Catch the special effects film that recreates the formation of the Earth and shows why the oceans are so critical to life on land. Test Track is another popular Future World destination. One of the fastest rides of any Disney theme park, Test Track lets riders in on the world of auto testing, racing them around sharp turns and speeding them across bumpy terrain at sixty miles per hour.
Around a luminous reflective lagoon lay the eleven countries of World Showcase. Each nation is represented by exhibits, eateries, stores and performances that allow visitors to get a feel for its culture. In Japan , a blue-roofed pagoda and tranquil rock gardens pay homage to the country's ancient culture. Pick up a silk kimono, bonsai tree or paper fan as a memento of your Epcot trip by in the Mitsukoshi department store. Good eating isn't hard to find in the World Showcase - both Germany and France offer dining experiences you won't soon forget. Enjoy bratwurst and a cool mug of beer in Germany 's traditional Biergarten. France 's classy Bistro de Paris is the perfect place to savor crepes and crème brulee. As night approaches, turn your attention to the sky for the laser and light show, IllumiNations: Reflections of the Earth. As fireworks rain down over the eleven lands and the floating Earth Globe flashes images of the continents on its LED screens, you'll appreciate the planet's diverse cultures in a way you never have before.
Depending on what time of year you visit Epcot, you may be able to experience one of the park's special events. From late November until New Year's Eve, Epcot hosts Holidays Around the World, an exhibition that lets visitors take part in the celebrations of over half a dozen countries. Each culture is represented by a storyteller who tells tales about the rituals and legends relating to its festivities. In the evening, gather around the park's towering tree for a tree-lighting ceremony that honors all the countries in the World Showcase.
From mid-April to early June, marvel at the blossoms and blooms showcased at Epcot's International Flower and Garden Festival. Millions of flowers adorn the park in the forms of landscapes, gardens, topiaries and even Disney characters. Expert gardeners offer advice about gardening and answer questions concerning specific plants and growing techniques. Epcot's "Flower Power" concert series, featuring popular bands from the 1960s and '70s, completes the experience.
From the beginning of October to mid-November, gourmands and wine connoisseurs from around the world descend on Epcot to eat, drink and be merry at the International Food and Wine Festival. Over a hundred wineries are represented in Epcot's selection of reds, whites and blushes. Enjoy a glass while sampling savory foods from over twenty regions of the globe, including Italy , Spain , Australia and South Africa . One of the most popular events at the Festival is the Party for the Senses, in which world-famous chefs pair divine dishes with equally exquisite wines.
Epcot is truly a place like no other. Visitors young and old will enjoy the rides, attractions and events the theme park has to offer. From the Doubletree Club LBV Hotel , the Buena Vista Suites , and the Hilton Walt Disney World Resort , Epcot is a quick car ride away. Future World usually opens at 9 a.m. while World Showcase welcomes visitors about two hours later. The fun at Epcot normally lasts until 9 p.m. ; check the park's calendar for special opening and closing times. As your day at Epcot winds down, pick up a miniature replica of the landmark Spaceship Earth so you'll always have piece of the park to remind you of your visit. |
