Ultimate Guide: 25+ Best Things To Do At Epcot In 2024
Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World and wondering what are the best things to do at Epcot? This isn't your typical theme park; it's a celebration of human achievement, global culture, and culinary adventure. While other parks focus on classic characters and thrills, Epcot offers a unique blend of futuristic innovation and authentic international experiences. Figuring out things to do at Epcot can feel overwhelming with its massive size and two distinct halves—Future World and World Showcase. But don't worry; this comprehensive guide breaks down every must-see attraction, hidden gem, and strategic tip to ensure your visit is unforgettable. From soaring over California to sipping margaritas in Mexico, we've got your complete Epcot itinerary covered.
Epcot, which stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, has evolved from its original vision into a park that both inspires and delights. It’s a place where you can travel the world in a single afternoon, sample cuisine from six continents, and experience cutting-edge entertainment. The key to enjoying things to do at Epcot is understanding its layout and pacing yourself. This guide will walk you through each pavilion, highlight seasonal festivals that transform the park, and provide insider knowledge on maximizing your time. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney veteran, there's always something new to discover among the best things to do at Epcot.
1. Soar Over California on Soarin’ Around the World
Few attractions capture the magic of things to do at Epcot quite like Soarin’ Around the World. This hang-gliding simulator is a guest favorite, offering breathtaking aerial views of iconic landmarks from the Great Wall of China to the African savanna. The experience begins with a gentle ascent into the sky, where you’ll feel the wind, scents, and stunning vistas of 14 destinations. It’s a visually stunning ride suitable for almost all ages and heights (minimum 40 inches).
Pro Tip: Use Genie+ for this attraction, as wait times consistently rank among the longest in the park. For the best experience, request a middle seat in the front row for the most immersive feel. The original Soarin’ was a California-specific version, and while the global iteration is spectacular, some longtime fans still miss the local focus. This ride perfectly embodies Epcot’s original mission of showcasing global wonders through technology.
2. Journey into the Human Imagination with Journey Into Imagination
This whimsical, dark ride inside the iconic Imagination! Pavilion is a charming and quirky thing to do at Epcot that appeals to children and adults alike. Hosted by the beloved Figment, a purple dragon of imagination, the ride takes you through a series of dreamlike scenes exploring the five senses. It’s a colorful, musical, and surprisingly profound look at creativity.
The attraction has a storied history, with a beloved original version featuring Dreamfinder. The current iteration, while different, has found its own audience. Be sure to explore the ImageWorks: The What-If Labs interactive play area afterward, where kids (and kids at heart) can create music, build virtual cities, and conduct a storm. It’s a great way to spend 20-30 minutes when you need a break from the Florida heat.
3. Test Your Skills on Test Track
Rev up your engines for Test Track, a high-speed slot car ride that lets you design your own concept vehicle and then test it on a thrilling track. This is Epcot’s answer to a thrill ride, reaching speeds of nearly 65 mph. The first portion is a interactive design studio where you choose attributes like efficiency and responsiveness for your car. The second portion is the outdoor track, featuring sharp turns, a climb, and a final speed burst.
Insider Strategy: The single-rider line is significantly shorter if you don’t mind being separated from your group. The ride vehicles seat six, and singles often fill empty seats. Also, note that Test Track is currently undergoing a major refresh themed to the Chevrolet brand, so the pre-show and design elements may change in the future. It remains a cornerstone Epcot attraction that combines interactivity with adrenaline.
4. Dive Deep with The Seas with Nemo & Friends
This pavilion is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, making it a perfect thing to do at Epcot for a mid-day escape. The main attraction, The Seas with Nemo & Friends, is a gentle clam-mobile ride through scenes from the film Finding Nemo. After the ride, you can explore the massive main tank holding thousands of marine animals, including manatees, sea turtles, and sharks.
Don’t miss the Turtle Talk with Crush show, where the animated sea turtle from Finding Nemo interacts with the audience in real-time. It’s a hilarious and impressive piece of technology that kids adore. For a unique experience, consider booking the Epcot Seas Aqua Tour, a behind-the-scenes excursion where you can snorkel in the main tank. It’s an add-on that transforms a standard visit into an extraordinary adventure.
5. Explore the Wonders of Living with the Land
This gentle boat ride is a hidden gem among things to do at Epcot, offering a serene and educational journey through greenhouses showcasing sustainable agriculture. You’ll see real plants, fish farms, and even a desert ecosystem, all narrated by a humorous lemur named “Pom.” It’s a refreshingly calm attraction that highlights Epcot’s focus on the natural world and innovation.
The Living with the Land boat ride is often overlooked for bigger thrills, but its relaxing pace makes it ideal for all ages. Afterward, visit the Behind the Seeds tour (available for an extra fee) to go deeper into the greenhouse operations. You might even get to taste some of the produce grown there. It’s a fascinating look at how Disney feeds hundreds of thousands of guests daily with on-site farming.
6. Meet Your Favorite Characters at Epcot
Character meet-and-greets are always popular things to do at Epcot, and the park offers unique opportunities you won’t find elsewhere. In World Showcase, you can meet characters tied to the country’s culture, like Mulan in China, Snow White in Germany, or Alice and Mary Poppins in the UK. In Future World, keep an eye out for Joy and Sadness from Inside Out near the Imagination Pavilion.
Strategy: Use the My Disney Experience app to check character appearance times and locations, which can change. Lines for popular characters like Anna and Elsa in Norway can be long, so prioritize early in the day or use Genie+ if available. These interactions add a personal touch to your day and make for fantastic photos.
7. Sip Your Way Around World Showcase
One of the most iconic things to do at Epcot is the World Showcase drink crawl. Each country’s pavilion offers signature beverages, from Mexican margaritas and Japanese sake to French wines and German beers. It’s a delicious way to experience the flavors of the world without leaving Florida. The Club Cool attraction in the Mexico Pavilion is a must-stop for free samples of Coca-Cola beverages from around the globe.
Responsible Enjoyment: Pace yourself and stay hydrated. Consider sharing a drink to try more varieties. During the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (typically late August to November), the options expand dramatically with additional kiosks and specialty cocktails. Even outside the festival, the permanent pavilion bars and restaurants provide a year-round tasting tour.
8. Dine Around the Globe in World Showcase
Speaking of food, dining at Epcot is an attraction in itself. Reserve a table at one of the many table-service restaurants for an immersive meal. Try Teppan Edo in Japan for interactive hibachi, San Angel Inn Restaurante in Mexico for waterfront dining under a night sky, or Biergarten Restaurant in Germany for a lively Oktoberfest-style feast with German classics and a oompah band.
Booking is Essential: These restaurants book up 180 days in advance for Disney resort guests. If you miss out, don’t despair—many pavilions have excellent quick-service options like Katsura Grill (Japan) or Sombrero (Mexico). The Food & Wine Festival also adds dozens of casual outdoor kitchens, making it one of the best things to do at Epcot for foodies.
9. Experience the Spectacular IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
For years, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth was the nightly spectacular that defined things to do at Epcot. This show combined fireworks, lasers, fountains, and a powerful musical score to tell the story of humanity. It played on the World Showcase Lagoon and was widely considered one of Disney’s best nighttime productions. While the show has been updated and renamed to EPCOT Forever and then Harmonious, the spirit of a lagoon show remains a non-negotiable part of any visit.
Viewing Tips: Arrive at least 45-60 minutes early for a good spot, especially on busy nights. The view from between the American and Japanese pavilions is classic. Alternatively, book a dining package at a World Showcase restaurant like Tokyo Dining or Rose & Crown for guaranteed seating. Check the current show schedule, as offerings can change with seasons and festivals.
10. Shop for Unique International Goods
Shopping is a delightful and often overlooked thing to do at Epcot. Each World Showcase pavilion is filled with authentic merchandise you can’t find anywhere else. Pick up handmade lace in France, German steins, Italian ceramics, or Scottish tartans. The Mitsukoshi department store in Japan is a multi-level wonder of anime, stationery, and traditional goods. The Creations Shop in the park’s entrance is also excellent for Epcot-exclusive merchandise.
Hidden Treasures: Look for smaller shops like The Art of Disney in the American Adventure for beautiful prints, or Tierra del Sol in Mexico for vibrant pottery. These shops offer high-quality, culturally specific items that make for perfect souvenirs. It’s a great way to take a piece of your global tour home.
11. Marvel at the Iconic Spaceship Earth
The massive geodesic sphere that houses Spaceship Earth is Epcot’s most recognizable landmark. This gentle dark ride takes you on a journey through the history of human communication, from cave paintings to the computer age. Narrated by a soothing voice (currently Judi Dench), it’s a classic Epcot attraction that has been updated over the years but retains its core message.
Ride Note: The ride vehicles are slow-moving Omnimover cars, so it’s suitable for all ages. The post-show area, Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future, features interactive games about future technologies. It’s a good spot to cool off and let kids play while adults rest. The sheer scale of the structure is worth admiring from the ground and from above on the Fountain of Nations plaza.
12. Encounter the Ocean at The Seas Pavilion
Beyond the Nemo ride, The Seas Pavilion offers multiple things to do at Epcot. Explore the massive aquarium at your own pace. Watch feeding demonstrations for sharks, rays, and manatees (check the schedule). Visit the Manatee Rehabilitation area to learn about conservation efforts. The SeaBase exhibit hall is filled with smaller tanks and hands-on activities.
This pavilion is a top choice for families with young children due to its stroller-friendly, indoor layout. It’s also an excellent place to spend a few hours during an afternoon rainstorm. The educational focus aligns perfectly with Epcot’s mission, making it both entertaining and informative.
13. Discover Innovation in Future World
Future World, though currently undergoing a transformation into three distinct neighborhoods (World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature), still houses the park’s core tech and science attractions. Beyond the major rides, explore the Innoventions buildings (now part of World Celebration) for interactive exhibits on topics like virtual reality, sustainability, and health. These free experiences are great things to do at Epcot to fill time between major attractions.
Note on Changes: Disney is reimagining Future World, so some areas may be under construction. Always check the official Epcot map for the latest updates. The focus is shifting from a corporate showcase to more immersive storytelling, but the spirit of discovery remains.
14. Celebrate Seasonal Festivals
Epcot is famous for its year-round festivals, which dramatically increase the number of things to do at Epcot. The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (fall) is the most famous, with dozens of food booths, cooking demonstrations, and concerts. The Epcot International Festival of the Arts (winter) celebrates visual, culinary, and performing arts. The Epcot Flower & Garden Festival (spring) features stunning topiaries and outdoor kitchens. The Epcot Festival of the Holidays (winter) offers holiday traditions around the world.
Festival Strategy: These festivals are included with regular park admission. They add hundreds of small food and drink options, special merchandise, and unique entertainment. They also draw larger crowds, so plan accordingly. For food-focused festivals, consider purchasing a Food & Wine Festival Passport to track your tastings and potentially earn a prize.
15. Meet Anna and Elsa in Norway
For Frozen fans, meeting Anna and Elsa in the Norway Pavilion is a top thing to do at Epcot. The meet-and-greet is located in Royal Sommerhus, a charming cabin modeled after a Norwegian stave church. The theming is exquisite, and the characters are in their Frozen costumes. It’s a beautifully done character experience that feels authentic to the pavilion.
Booking: This is a highly sought-after character greeting. Use Genie+ if available, or be prepared for long standby lines, especially early in the day. The setting is so picturesque that it’s worth a visit even if you’re not meeting the characters—just to admire the architecture and gardens.
16. Ride Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
This trackless dark ride in the France Pavilion is a newer and incredibly popular Epcot attraction. Based on the film Ratatouille, you shrink down to the size of a rat and zip through Gusteau’s restaurant on a culinary adventure. The effects are impressive, with 4D elements like scents and water sprays. It’s a family-friendly ride with mild thrills and stunning visuals.
Genie+ Essential: This ride consistently has some of the longest standby times in the park. Genie+ is highly recommended. The queue is cleverly themed as the Paris sewers and Gusteau’s kitchen, so even the wait is engaging. It’s a perfect example of how Epcot integrates film IP into its cultural pavilions seamlessly.
17. Experience the Thrill of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
This is Epcot’s first and only real roller coaster, and it’s a blockbuster thing to do at Epcot. Located in the renovated World Discovery neighborhood, this is a reverse-launch, spinning coaster with a thrilling soundtrack that changes per ride. The theming is fantastic, putting you in the middle of a cosmic battle with the Guardians. It’s a high-intensity ride with a 42-inch height requirement.
Virtual Queue System: Due to immense popularity, Cosmic Rewind uses a virtual queue via the My Disney Experience app (at 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM). You must secure a boarding group to ride on the same day. This is separate from Genie+ and is first-come, first-served. It’s a must-do for thrill-seekers and has redefined Epcot’s thrill-ride credentials.
18. Explore the Mexico Pavilion’s Ancient Pyramid
The Mexico Pavilion is one of the most elaborate in World Showcase, featuring a massive Aztec pyramid. Inside, you’ll find a bustling marketplace, the San Angel Inn Restaurante, and the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros. This boat ride is a fun, colorful journey with Donald Duck and his friends as they search for the missing Panchito across Mexico’s landscapes.
Atmosphere: The interior of the pyramid is designed to feel like a Mexican village at night, with a starry sky and twinkling lights. It’s a beautiful, immersive space to wander. The marketplace is excellent for shopping for Day of the Dead items, pottery, and tequila. Grab a margarita at La Cava del Tequila for a quick, authentic sip.
19. Witness the Beauty of the American Adventure
This 28-minute show in the American Adventure pavilion is a moving and inspiring look at American history, narrated by Audio-Animatronic figures of Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain. The theater itself is impressive, with a complex stage that changes scenes seamlessly. It’s a classic Epcot attraction that offers a moment of reflection amid the fun.
Don’t Skip the Hall of Flags: Before or after the show, explore the Hall of Nations (actually the Hall of Flags) upstairs, which displays flags from all 50 states and U.S. territories. It’s a quiet, patriotic space. The pavilion also hosts the American Adventure restaurant and the Liberty Inn for quick-service American classics.
20. Take a Ride on the World Showcase Lagoon
The World Showcase is a 1.2-mile loop around the lagoon. While you can walk the entire circumference (which takes about 45-60 minutes at a leisurely pace), you can also take a boat ride on one of the Friend Ship boats that depart from the Germany or Canada pavilions. This is a fantastic thing to do at Epcot if you’re tired, have blisters, or just want a different perspective of the pavilions from the water.
Boat Details: The boats run continuously throughout the day and are included with park admission. They make stops at several pavilions, allowing you to hop on and off. It’s a relaxing way to cover ground and see the park from a new angle. The boats are especially beautiful at night when the pavilions are lit up.
21. Discover the Canada and United Kingdom Pavilions
These two pavilions are often paired because they’re adjacent and offer similar experiences: charming streetscapes, excellent food, and unique shops. In Canada, don’t miss the Canada Far and Wide circle-vision film, which showcases the country’s diverse landscapes. In the UK, explore the British Revolution band for live rock music, and browse the shops for Harry Potter merchandise, British sweets, and royal souvenirs.
Hidden Detail: The UK pavilion features a replica of the Anne Hathaway’s Cottage from Shakespeare’s hometown. It’s a quiet, picturesque spot for photos. Both pavilions have great quick-service options: ** Yorkshire County Fish Shop** for fish and chips, and Popcorn in Canada for maple-flavored popcorn.
22. Experience the Morocco Pavilion’s Authenticity
The Morocco Pavilion is widely considered the most authentic and detailed in World Showcase, as it was built with the direct involvement of the King of Morocco. It features a stunning replica of the Chefchaouen blue city, a peaceful courtyard, and a belly dancing show in the evening. The Restaurant Marrakesh offers a traditional Moroccan dinner with live music.
Cultural Respect: The pavilion is a functioning mosque on certain days, so dress modestly if you plan to enter the prayer area. The craftsmanship in the tilework, woodcarvings, and fountains is breathtaking. It’s a serene escape from the park’s bustle and a must-see for its architectural beauty alone.
23. Enjoy the Thrills of Mission: SPACE
This intense simulator, located in the new World Discovery neighborhood, lets you choose your mission: Orange Team (high G-forces, more intense) or Green Team (less intense, family-friendly). You’ll be launched into space for a mission to Mars or a orbit around Earth. The theming is incredible, with a full-scale mission control and astronaut training areas.
Important: The Orange Team has a height requirement of 44 inches and is not recommended for those with heart, back, or neck problems, or pregnant women. The Green Team has no height requirement but still has some motion. Use the Rider Switch option if some in your party can’t or don’t want to ride. It’s a groundbreaking simulator that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a theme park.
24. Play and Learn at the Odyssey Pavilion
Often overlooked, the Odyssey Pavilion (between World Showcase and Future World) is a hub for interactive exhibits and seasonal festival kiosks. It houses the Epcot Experience showcase, which highlights the park’s past, present, and future through models, videos, and artifacts. It’s a great indoor spot to learn about Epcot’s history and upcoming projects.
During festivals, this pavilion becomes a central hub for additional food and merchandise. It’s also home to Mitsukoshi’s temporary festival market during Food & Wine. If you need a break from crowds or want to see what’s coming next to Epcot, this is a valuable thing to do at Epcot.
25. Capture the Perfect Photo at Epcot
With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and iconic landmarks, Epcot is a photographer’s dream. Top photo spots include the Spaceship Earth geosphere from multiple angles, the reflective fountains at the park entrance, the Japanese pagoda, the German castle, and the Moroccan courtyard. At night, the illuminated pavilions and fountain shows create magical shots.
Pro Photography Tips: For the best shots of Spaceship Earth, go early morning for soft light and fewer people. For the World Showcase at night, use a tripod (if allowed) for sharp shots of the lit pavilions. The Reflections of China film in the China Pavilion offers a quiet, air-conditioned break with beautiful scenery on screen. Don’t forget to look up—the details in the pavilion architecture are stunning.
Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Epcot Adventure Awaits
From the soaring heights of Soarin’ to the intimate streets of the World Showcase, the best things to do at Epcot offer a depth and variety unmatched in any other theme park. It’s a place where you can spend the morning pondering the future of humanity and the afternoon savoring a Belgian waffle, all while surrounded by stunning architecture and lush gardens. The key to a perfect day is a mix of must-do attractions, culinary explorations, and moments of simple wonder—like watching the fountains dance or hearing a street performer in the Italy Pavilion.
Remember to use Genie+ strategically for headliner rides, make dining reservations as early as possible, and always check the My Disney Experience app for wait times, show schedules, and festival details. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, Epcot rewards those who slow down and soak in its unique atmosphere. It’s more than a theme park; it’s a world’s fair, a food festival, and a celebration of human spirit all in one. So go ahead, plan your trip, and discover the countless things to do at Epcot that will leave you inspired, full, and already planning your return.
