Epcot: Discover The Gem That It Is

Missy RyanApril 28, 2016The Epcot that opened when I was younger, compared to the Epcot we know today, is like night and day. It has grown by leaps and bounds from the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow that was originally envisioned by Walt Disney himself.Still, there is so much to love. When I hear people say they are going to skip Epcot because “there isn’t much to do”, I cannot help but let out a huge gasp. Epcot has become one of my favorite parks over the years. Once someone expresses little interest I cannot help but give glory and praise to this fun-filled park.I invite you to take full advantage of the wonderful experiences Epcot has to offer by checking out the following and adding some memories to your next vacation.The Countries, by far, are the most popular attraction when Epcot comes to mind. Countries from around the world are set up along the perimeter of Epcot. They give us a glimpse of what it may be like to live in that particular country. Whether it be the pasta in Italy or the market place set up in the center of Mexico, you are sure to feel “part of that world.”Have you visited Germany? It is a known fact that Germany is very popular for its beer. If you cannot physically travel across the world for a visit, try the famous grapefruit beer while making your rounds through the countries.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel to Japan? You are sure to be entertained if you stop by for a show in the courtyard. Several dancers will wow you as they put on a show that incorporates cultural dance and acrobatics. After the show, do not just leave yet. Nestled within the pavilion you will find a large tank of shallow water with several oysters placed on the bottom. At the station you can “pick” an oyster. The cast member at the station will open the pearl in front of you. The pearl inside is yours to keep. There are several additional choices you can do with your pearls including having them set as pearl earrings. What a wonderful keepsake to go home with!In Mexico take a boat ride and experience the smells and sounds from the market as you coast down the canal. If you make your way towards the side of the pavilion you may be lucky enough to catch Donald Duck.Make sure you are not rushing through each country. Get your children involved. Pick up a character puppet at any Kidcot. Then at each country, locate the Kidcot for more fun. Your child can color and decorate their puppet and have their name added in the language from the country. Representatives from each country will gladly add your child’s name and are great conversationalist if you want to learn more about their country!Each Country offers a little peek inside their culture. I guarantee you will leave appreciating the differences each country has to offer.Of course when we go to a park most of us look forward to the rides. Throughout the years, Epcot has stepped it up. Although the park is not centered around ride attractions, they do have some of the best. Soarin is one, if not the most popular. Soarin is an experience for all five senses. The hang gliding simulator ride goes over man made sights including California, Yosemite, orange groves and even Disneyland! Smelling the orange citrus as you fly over Florida, feeling the wind beneath your chair, avoiding golf balls, or picking up your feet so they do not come in contact with mountains are some examples of this extraordinary ride.More of a thrill seeker? Take Test Track for a spin. Fly through straight-aways, maneuver switchbacks through inclement weather, hug curves banked at 50 degree angles and scale hills that are up to 3 stories high. Speed peaks at 65 mph!! If speed is not on your list due to little drivers remember the ride share option.Turtle Crush is more up to speed for little ones along with The Seas with Nemo & Friends. Both are fun attractions for all ages. Tiny tots can also explore splash pads that can keep an active toddler cool and entertained for a long enough time for Mom and dad to re-group.There is also a fantastic interactive area inside the base of Mission Space Ride. Enter through the gift shop and you’ll find the advanced Learning Lab, which includes several different types of video games, plus play tunnels and a kiosk to email space postcards.Looking for more unique experiences? Check out Club Cool. This attraction allows people to cool off and sample complimentary Coca-Cola soft drinks from around the world. It is quite interesting. The main goal of coming here is either to indulge in some of the more palate friendly Coke beverages or to trick friends/family into the more bitter options…Beverly!Snack around the world, drink around the world. Stop in at Garden Grill and rotate through your meal or have a meal while dining with the fish at Coral Reef.Enjoy a ferry boat ride to Canada, sit and admire Illuminations the light show as you think back of all that you did at this fabulous park!Contact me at missyr@wishesfamilytravel.com so we can start planning your next visit to Disney’s hidden gem…Epcot!You can also follow me on Facebook.