EPCOT’s World Showcase is brimming with experiences from 11 countries around the world. This area of the theme park has become very popular over the years. Families no longer feel as if World Showcase is “boring”, or “not for kids”. There are so many experiences, foods, and even a few attractions that your family will love in EPCOT’s World Showcase.
Today, I am breaking it down by country, to give you the highlights and things not to miss in Epcot’s World Showcase. There’s so much to share so this is Part 1 of 2 posts.
About EPCOT’s World Showcase
World Showcase Lagoon is encircled by the World Showcase Pavilions. This area is situated toward the back of the park, if you use the main entrance via Spaceship Earth. This entrance places you between the Canada and Mexico Pavilions. Or, guests staying at a Skyliner resort or one of the Boardwalk area resorts can walk in through the International Gateway entrance. This entrance places you between France and the UK Pavilions.
Walking World Showcase will take about 20 minutes if you do not stop at the pavilions. However, my suggestion is to allow at least half a day, or maybe 2-3 hours, to enjoy World Showcase. Each pavilion has entertainment, maybe an attraction, and food! Plus, the shops are definitely worth visiting.
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EPCOT’s World Showcase has become very family friendly over the years. While enjoying the pavilions, there are scavenger hunts for kids.
During each EPCOT Festival, there is a scavenger hunt, and you can walk World Showcase to collect clues and place stickers on your map. In the end, turn it in for a prize. Also, each country has a KidCot Fun Spot. These are a fun way to interact with the cultural representatives from each country. Sometimes there is a small craft, or the Cast Member will have an artifact and tell a story.
Currently, children can enjoy Disney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure in seeking the 7 Plunders of the World. This is an interactive experience via Play Disney Parks that is fun for everyone!
World Showcase pavilions are staffed by citizens from each country. As with all things Disney, the magic is in the details! These Cast Members truly add so much to their home pavilions. Taking time to talk with and interact with them is a must!
So what are the things not to miss? I have taken each pavilion, and broken it down for you!
Canada Pavilion
Victoria Gardens
The Canada Pavilion is home to the Victoria Gardens. This is THE prettiest area in all of World Showcase. I would dare say it is one of the prettiest in ALL of Walt Disney World. This is a quiet spot to rest and people watch. Also, there are benches tucked in so many sweet locations in the gardens. If you want an amazing photo spot, this is the place!
Maple Popcorn
Canada is the only place you can find this delicious Walt Disney World treat. There is a popcorn cart at the entrance to the Canada Pavilion, and the maple popcorn is NOT to be missed.
France Pavilion
Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie
Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie is a must visit for amazing food. This location is also one of the only ones open for breakfast in World Showcase. It opens at 9AM. They serve beautiful French pastries (try the macarons!!), as well as sandwiches and soups. My personal favorite is the Jambon Beurre (ham and butter sandwich). The sweet treats are not only gorgeous to look at, but are absolutely amazing to eat!
Characters in France
France is home to two very popular, favorite Disney princesses. Both Belle and Aurora meet guests in this area. Belle can typically be seen in her classic blue / white costume. Occasionally, you may find her in her yellow ball gown. Aurora is also here to greet guests.
L’Artisans des Glaces
L’Artisans des Glaces is an ice cream shop in the France Pavilion. They serve the BEST snack – the Croque Glace. This is a scoop of your favorite ice cream, served in a homemade pressed brioche. It is served warm, and absolutely to die for.
RELATED READING: Best Budget Friendly Snacks at Walt Disney World Parks
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
France is one of those pavilions with a lot going on, and it does include an attraction. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure remains one of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World. This is a 4D experience, as you scurry through a kitchen from Remy’s point of view.
Morocco Pavilion
Beautiful and serene, the Morocoo Pavilion is home to a beautiful tile fountain, and makes a perfect photo spot. The entire pavilion is stunning, with tile decor and a secret quiet spot.
Tangierine Cafe Rest Area
If you walk toward the back of the pavilion, near Tangierine Cafe, you will find a quiet area with many tables and chairs. This area is used for guests of Tangierine Cafe, but it remains closed at this time. So this area makes for a very quiet, nice are to relax and even let your children run off some energy!
Frozen Citrus Pomegranate Slushy
While most of Morocco remains closed, there is a great place to find this yummy slush. The Oasis Sweets and Sips quick service location has a selection of Mediterranean pastries, and beverages. One of those is the Frozen Citrus Pomegranate Slushy. It is VERY tart, and you need something sweet to balance the tart. But it is SO good. It would be perfect with the Sesame Koulouria cookie.
United Kingdom Pavilion
The Hedge Maze
This is a beautifully manicured area, a maze made out of hedges. This is a great spot to let your kiddos run and let off some energy. Also, near this area is where you will find Mary Poppins and Alice greeting guests. This is one of the few areas where you will find these two amazing characters for a meet and greet.
Rose and Crown Dining Room
For authentic English food and drink, Rose and Crown Dining Room is a must try! This family-friendly British pub offers traditional favorites and waterfront dining. Sometimes, Walt Disney World will offer a dining package at Rose and Crown that includes viewing of the fireworks that evening along World Showcase Lagoon.
The Tea Caddy Shop
The UK Pavilion is home to a unique shop, and one of my favorites, The Tea Caddy Shop. Here, you will find variations of teas, as well as the option to create your own tea box with your favorite flavors. They also sell cute tea cup sets, and some Mary Poppins themed items as well.
I hope you enjoyed this first post! The second post will be posted soon. Stay tuned for the things not to miss in Japan, America, Italy, Germany, China, Norway, and Mexico!
