Rides and Attractions – EverythingMouse

Epcot Countries

February 5, 2012 By Alison Leave a Comment

There are 11 Epcot countries in the World Showcase part of the park. Each has very unique architecture, dining and shopping. All of the Epcot countries are located around the World Showcase Lagoon. The saying goes that what Epcot really stands for is Everyone Comes Out Tired and it is true that it can certainly be a challenge to take in everything that Epcot has to offer in just one day! Most of the countries have been there since Epcot opened on 1st October 1982 but some have been added since that time, and of course there is always speculation that one day there will be additional countries added to the existing eleven nations which are represented in World Showcase.

So let us take a tour around the World Showcase Lagoon to get a flavor of the Epcot Countries.

Photo by stuckincustoms

Epcot Canada

This is the first country you will encounter if you take an anti clockwise tour around the lagoon and enter from Future World. The architecture is certainly imposing and is designed to make the guest think of the great Canadian outdoors. Beautiful gardens, cascading waterfalls and magnificent totem poles great you in the Epcot Canada Pavilion.

There is an excellent attraction here. O’ Canada is a circle vision movie presentation which takes you on a journey around the diverse landscape of this huge country. Yes the narration by Martin Short can be a little cheesy, and you do have to stand for the whole performance but this is one of those not to be misses World Showcase experiences.

The one disappointing feature of the Canadian Pavilion in Epcot is the shopping. There is now just one store since the upper level shopping venue closed a few years ago due to low revenue. The remaining store just doesn’t seem as interesting as most of the others in World Showcase.

It is here that you will find one of the most popular restaurants in the whole of Walt Disney World, Epcot Le Cellier Steakhouse. This traditional steakhouse is one of the most difficult to get Advance Dining Reservations for.

Epcot United Kingdom

The United Kingdom Pavilion displays a very varied selection of British architectural styles. From Tudor to Georgian and Regency style to Victorian England this is certainly a mix but it all works really well together. Sadly the United Kingdom does not have an attraction or ride, but the shopping and dining opportunities are well worth a look.

The shops offer a wide selection of British goods. Want some tea, fine china, soccer shirts, Beatles themed items of even your own family heraldic crest? This is the destination for you!

The full service dining Rose and Crown offers traditional British pub food fare including the famous dish of Fish and chips. The Rose and Crown is one of the best places to view the Epcot Illuminations fireworks which are staged every evening at the World Showcase Lagoon.

Epcot France

Photo by Wyscan

The first thing that you will notice of course is the one tenth scale replica of the Eiffel Tower which dominates the Parisian style architecture of Epcot France. This is a very stylish place to be with excellent shopping and high quality dining. It is also a great place to find Disney Princesses Belle and Aurora.

The shops sell great selections of wine, household goods and of course perfume. Epcot France also has the only stand alone Givenchy store in the US.

The Impressions de France is one of my favorite Epcot attractions. This 18 minute movie, although very dated, has beautiful music and shows the diverse and beautiful scenery of France.

Dining in France is of course of excellent quality. If you want fine dining head to the Bistro de Paris and if you want something also of very good quality but rather less formal then choose the Chefs de Paris. If you just want a quick snack then the Boulangerie Patisserie is a great place to stop for a French cake or pastry. No they don’t quite taste like the real thing but they are good quality and the cafe tables offer a great place to rest for a while before you head off again around World Showcase.

Look out for the excellent street entertainment in France. Serveur Amusant is well worth waiting for and draws a large crowd.

Here is our complete guide to the Pavilion:

Epcot France

Epcot Morocco

This is one of the most recent additions to the World Showcase part of Epcot (it was added in 1984). It is designed to look like an authentic Moroccan city and The King of Morocco even sent some of his own artisans to work on the project to ensure the highest degree of attention to detail.

Restaurant Marakkesh is one of those hidden Epcot gems. It is located at the back of the Pavilion and many people either don’t realize that it is there or are deterred by it’s unfamiliar menu. Take a chance and see if you like it and you will likely be rewarded with one of the best Epcot restaurant experiences. The food is good and reasonably priced for an Epcot restaurant. Everyone will love the belly dancing entertainment and you can even join in if you are brave enough.

The shopping is also a lot of fun in Epcot Morocco. Here you will find authentic jewelry, clothes and Moroccan ceramics. The Cast Members here are amongst the friendliest in the whole of Epcot.

Morocco also has one of my favorite quick service dining destinations in the park. Tangier has great authentic food at reasonable prices. It is particularly good if you are vegetarian. Just don’t drink the wine!

Epcot Japan

The architecture here is stunning, the food is excellent and the shopping is amongst the best in the whole of World Showcase. The huge red torri gate is one of the most imposing and memorable features of the World Showcase Lagoon. The very tall pagoda also dominates the skyline. You will find that this is one of the most tranquil places in World Showcase. Make sure that you spend some time in the large courtyard and just look at the attention to detail and the beautiful spaces in this wonderful Epcot Pavilion.

There are 2 excellent restaurants here. Tokyo Dining has all the traditional times you would expect such as sushi and bento boxes on the menu. It is also one of the best restaurants for exceptional service in the whole of Epcot. Teppan Edo is also a lot of fun with excellent food. This traditional teppanyaki dining room offers entertainment as well as excellent food. The Yakatori House which is slightly hidden away is also a great place for quick service dining.

Miyuki is one of the best of the street entertainers. She practices the ancient and rare art of making animal shapes out of candy. Her show is very entertaining and you can see this in the courtyard at scheduled times on most days.

The shopping here is amongst the best in Epcot. The Mitsukoshi Department store is huge and has everything from traditional Japanese clothes, Japanese dining items including some very fancy chopsticks, jewelry, and lot of toys.

As you can probably tell the Japanese Pavilion is one of my very favorites. Definitely plan to spend some time here so that you can experience the very special ambience of this Pavilion.

Epcot United States

Photo by Brian and Kathy Mickle

The United States Pavilion in Epcot is the largest space and has the most imposing building – a huge colonial style mansion which houses the American Adventure attraction. This is one of the most technologically advanced attractions in the whole of Walt Disney World and it tells the story of American history using a mix of movie footage and animatronics. All of the US Presidents are represented on stage – it is a very memorable and thought provoking attraction.

It is also home to the large American Gardens Theatre which is an outdoor theater which stages many live events such as the Eat to the Beat concerts and the Holiday Candlelight Processional features.

Sadly the American Pavilion lacks a full service dining venue. The only food available here is in the quick service location. If you want traditional American burger and fries this is the place to be. For funnel cakes there is also an outside small kiosk. The shopping is also strangely limited here. There is a small store selling books, clothes and other items but really most guests will be expecting something more. The focus here is on the American Adventure attraction – and whilst this is spectacular I really do wish there was a little more offered here.

Epcot Italy

Photo by Brian and Kathy Mickle

Of course Epcot Italy is one of the most relaxing and stylish of the World Showcase Pavilions. Great dining and shopping and people watching. Just pick a spot on one of the tables in the square and watch the world go by for a moment.

The architecture takes it’s inspiration from Venice, Rome and Florence. Epcot Italy has 2 restaurants. Via Napoli is a traditional pizza restaurant with a huge wood fired pizza oven dominating the space, and Tutto Italiana has a good (if pricey) selection of pasta and traditional Italian entrees.

As you would expect, the shopping is also great in Italy. Everything from excellent wines and high quality kitchen items, to perfume, jewelry and clothes.

Epcot Germany

Photo by Jalsoli

This Pavilion seems to be particularly beautiful at night. All of the lights and music just seem to work even better after dark. The theme here is Oktoberfest. The architecture is exactly what you would expect to see in a traditional medieval German town.

Germany is home to one of the most fun of all of the Epcot dining experiences. The Biergarten offers traditional German food in an all you can eat buffet. The real attraction here is the entertainment. Guests are seated at huge tables and are entertained by a traditional German ‘oompah’ band wearing the national costume of lederhosen! Certainly an experience not to be missed (although the food is not the best in Epcot).

The shops offer lots of interesting items. It is Christmas year round here and they store sells some great Holiday decorations including the traditional Pickle. The wine cellar offers some excellent German wines. There is a large selection of glassware, traditional toys including the Stein bear, and a large selection of cuckoo clocks.

Epcot China

Another visually stunning and imposing Pavilion, Epcot China offers great shopping and a very watchable movie attraction. Unfortunately the dining is the most disappointing in the whole of the Epcot park.

Reflections of China is a very entertaining movie showing the diverse culture and history of China. Like O’ Canada this is Circle Vision 360 but it is a continuous image projected all around the room (the Canadian movie is repeated images around the room not one continuous one). Whatever the technical details this is a movie to to be missed. Be aware though that guests to have to stand for the duration of the movie.

There are excellent shows throughout the day in the courtyard which showcase the talents of young Chinese acrobats. Check your daily schedule for details. Also see the schedule for appearances by Disney Princess Mulan.

The Yong Feng Shangdian store is one of the largest in World Showcase and has an excellent choice of clothes, home goods, jewelry and toys. Particularly popular are the parasols and the puppets which are sold in one of the kiosks in the courtyard.

The quick service dining venue is the Lotus Blossom Cafe which serves good Chinese favorites. Unfortunately the Nine Dragons restaurant is one of the most disappointing in the World Showcase. Average food and average service.

Epcot Norway

This is home to one of the most popular dining venues and one of only 2 rides in Epcot World Showcase. Epcot Norway is the place where the Disney Princesses are found in Restaurant Akershus. If you are looking for a great character dining location where you get quality time with the Princesses then Disney Princess Storybook Dining is the place for you. The food may take second place to the character greetings but this is still a great choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The Maelstrom water ride is a lot of fun for all ages (but beware it is a dark ride so may scare the younger ones). Take a boat ride through Viking Norway to the present day on this water ride. There is one small drop and the ride seems really short but it is worth a visit if the lines are not too long. A Fast Pass is also available if the wait times seem to much to deal with. There is a short, and very outdated movie at the end of the ride. Most people skip this but if this is your first visit then take some time to watch it. Norway is an amazing country with beautiful scenery and I wish that more people would take the time to watch the movie – incredibly outdated though I know it is!

The store is rather disappointing. A large part of it is devoted to traditional Norwegian clothes which although high quality (and high priced) somehow seem out of place in the Florida sun. The store also offers some toys (think Viking helmets, swords) and a lot of trolls! There is jewelry and perfume too but nothing particularly exciting here.

Epcot Mexico

Photo by spreadthemagic

As you would expect Epcot Mexico is vibrant and lively. The Pavilion is the only Pavilion to be mostly housed inside a building (a replica of a Mayan Temple). Step inside and you will be captivated by the sights and sounds of a traditional Mexican market place. It truly is beautiful.

The Grand Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Cabelleros is a fun, but slightly strange boat ride though Mexican historical sights with Donald Duck as your companion. Sounds strange? It is slightly but is nonetheless worth a visit.

The dining here is very good with 2 choices of restaurant. The San Angel Inn is a candle light dining venue at the side of the ‘river’ of the water ride. The food here is good (but pricey) Mexican fare. There is also a very popular outside restaurant at the edge of the World Showcase Lagoon – Hacienda de San Angel. Again the food is good but one of the main attractions here is the view. If you can snag a lagoon side table later in the evening you will get one of the very best views available of the nightly Epcot Illuminations fireworks show.

The shopping in Mexico is also very good. Here you will find traditional Mexican crafts, pottery, and clothing is good value.

Another very popular spot in Epcot Mexico is the La Cava de Tequila bar. Go here for speciality tequilas and of course very good margaritas!

There are so many Epcot countries to explore you do need to make sure that you devote at least a day to touring both Future World and World Showcase. If you can spare 2 days then you really will get the most out of your visit to Epcot.

Top 10 Walt Disney World Must See Rides and Attractions

January 26, 2012 By Alison 5 Comments

What are the must see Walt Disney World rides and attractions? This is of course a very difficult question to answer. There are so many things to see and do at Walt Disney World that to choose just a few that you absolutely must do is rather a challenge. But of course I am never one to walk away from a difficult task so here is my own personal Top 10 Walt Disney World must see rides and attractions. They are in no particular order – choosing a Top 10 is difficult enough, putting them in order would have been impossible!

All of the amazing photos are by expressmonorail

Disney Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams Fireworks

No visit to Walt Disney World is complete without seeing the Wishes Fireworks at Magic Kingdom. This spectacular fireworks show debuted in 2003 and has been enchanting guests ever since. The show is hosted by Jiminy Cricket and The Blue Fairy and is a classic tale of good against evil. It is a magical mix of fireworks, music and lighting effects. Watch out for Tinkerbell flying across the skies!

Which is the best viewing spot for Disney Wishes fireworks? There are many to choose from but some of my favorites include on the platform of the train station at the end of Main Street, sitting at one of the tables outside at the Plaza Restaurant, various spots in Fantasyland (which is less crowded but you can’t see Tinkerbell) and of course California Grill restaurant in the Contemporary Resort.

Be careful to check the schedule for times and dates of showings for Wishes as these do vary.

Disney Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

The thing about Disney attractions is that they are just so amazingly themed – and Disney’s Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is one of the best examples of this anywhere in Walt Disney World. Want to drop 13 stories in an elevator? This is the Disney attraction for you!

Disney is the master of theme park story telling and every great ride has a back story. The Hollywood Tower Hotel has a history. It opened in 1919 and soon established itself as one of the places to be for the movie crowd. But on October 31st 1939 five guests enter the elevator of the hotel just as lightning strikes. The child star, her nanny, two young starlets and the bell hop vanish . All the other hotel guests run from the building leaving their belongings behind.

The attention to detail in the line is exceptional. It looks just as though you would imagine it would if it had been abandoned in 1939. The Cast Members play their part brilliantly, all adding to the anticipation of the ride.

The Tower of Terror is not for the feint of heart. It is a thrill ride and has a height requirement of 40″. It is very popular so make sure that you use a Fast Pass or arrive very early in the morning.

For more on this amazing attraction visit

Disney Twilight Zone of Terror

Star Tours The Adventure Continues

If you are a fan of Star Wars (and even if you aren’t) this motion simulator ride is one of the best Disney World attractions. Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios this classic ride has a complete overhaul in 2011. You will see all your Star Wars favorites including your accidental pilot C3PO who will take you on a journey which has 54 variations. This new technology means that you never know quite which direction your journey will take.

Kilimanjaro Safari

Not many of us will get to experience a real safari in Africa but The Kilimanjaro Safari in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park is a great substitute for the real thing. Walt Disney himself always wanted to have a theme park which allowed guests to see real live animals and Animal Kingdom was the realization of his dream.

Guests board an authentic safari type vehicle as they are taken on a tour of the 100 acre African savanna. The ride is also authentically bumpy so take note of those warnings! The very best time to take the safari is in the early morning. This is not just because the lines are likely to be shorter but also because this is the time when the animals are at their most active.

There is a great commentary by the tour guide who will help you to see as many of the animals as possible. Some of the most popular sitings are of elephants, zebra, giraffe, rhino, hippopotamus and of course the lions (don’t worry they are kept out of your reach by some very clever discreet Disney landscaping). You may even be lucky enough to see the Cheetah (they are often quite difficult to see). Also on the savanna are warthogs, gazelle, flamingo, ostrich, okapis and wildebeest.

As with all popular Disney attractions make sure that you get a Fast Pass or ride early in the morning. It will cut your time waiting in line.

It’s A Small World

This classic Disney ride is one of the original attractions which was over seen by Walt Disney himself. Disney World has seen many changes over the years but this cheerful musical boat ride remains true to the original ideals of Walt himself. The theme is quite simply world peace through global understanding. Hundreds of animatronic dolls representing many countries around the world sing the unforgettable It’s A Small World theme song. Guests board a slow moving boat and sail around watching the brightly colored moving dolls sing their happy message. You know you will never get that song out of your head, but somehow it is worth it!

Epcot Test Track

Another very original Disney World ride, Epcot Test Track is a theme park ride unlike any other. The story is that guests are needed to test the cars just like the crash test dummies do! Guests board a 6 passenger vehicle which will take them on a journey through various tests. These tests include braking, heat and cold tests, hair pin bends and of course the final speed test. Your test Track vehicle will reach speeds of up to 65 mph before bringing you back to the testing facility.

This one is a lot of fun and is a truly unique ride. It is thrilling without being scary so a lot of guests who don’t usually enjoy thrill rides like roller coasters will enjoy Test Track. It is of course very popular so use the Fast Pass or if you don’t mind riding without the other members of your party the Single Rider line will save you a lot of time.

For more details visit

Epcot Test Track

Epcot Illuminations Reflections of Earth

This is another must see fireworks event at Walt Disney World. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is a unique fireworks, lights, pyrotechnics and music spectacular which is shown every night (weather permitting) around Epcot’s World Showcase Lagoon.

Most places around the World Showcase Lagoon give a good view of the show but do be aware that trees can block your view so choose your viewing spot carefully. At busy times you do need to reserve a place at least an hour ahead of the show. Some of the best places to view are the bridge between the United Kingdom and France, on the platform just outside the Japanese restaurants, and if you can get a reservation, the outside viewing area in the restaurant at the Rose and Crown Restaurant.

For more information about this amazing fireworks show:

Epcot Illuminations

Soarin

Located in Disney’s Epcot Future World, Soarin’ is a must see attraction. It is a ride which simulates flight, rather than a flight simulator! Another very unique experience only available in Disneyland, where it originally debuted, and Disney’s Epcot.

Guests board a huge structure which has rows of seats in front of an extremely large screen. The seats are then lifted up into the air and have gentle motion which feels like flying. The movie Soarin Over California is then projected onto the huge screen so guests feel as though they are flying over the state. The movie is beautifully filmed and seems to fly you over many destinations including Yosemite, The Wine Country, San Francisco, Palm Springs, San Diego and of course Disneyland.

Pirates of the Caribbean Ride

This is another classic Disney ride which originally debuted in Disneyland in 1967. This was the last attraction which Walt Disney personally supervised and participated in it’s design. Guests board a slow moving boat which will plunge down a (very small) waterfall and then take them through a series of dark scenes with animatronics, pyrotechnics, and explosions all to the tune of Yo Ho It’s a Pirates Life For Me!

Most guests these days will be very familiar with the Pirates of the Caribbean movies and they will be pleased to see that Jack Sparrow appears in the ride more than once.

Fantasmic!

Make sure that you arrive early for this Disney Hollywood Studios night time spectacular. Even though the auditorium has seats for 6,900 guests and standing room for 3,000 more it does reach capacity. To get the best seats you do have to be there 60 to 90 minutes before the show starts.

Once again the theme is good against evil, with Mickey Mouse dressed as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice battling the Disney villains. The show is spectacular. Expect pyrotechnics, a huge dragon, images projected onto water, fire which seems to be right in front of you, fireworks and an epic musical score. This show seems to have every special effect known to Disney World thrown in! Of course all ends well for Mickey and at the end of this 25 minute show many of your favorite characters sail past you on the water in front of the set.

Never under estimate how popular this show is – arrive as early as you possibly can to get a good seat. This can be a long wait if you have young children or if it is cold out at night. The only way to beat the crowds is to book a Fantasmic Dining Package which you can reserve ahead by calling 407 WDW DINE. You then reserve a meal at one of the Disney Hollywood Studios restaurants and get a place is the reserved seating area for Fantasmic. This is a reserved area, not a reserved seat so you do still have to be there around 30 minutes before the show.

It is very difficult to pick a Top 10 Walt Disney World must see rides and attractions but here are my personal favorites. Which ones have I left out? Which have I included that you really don’t enjoy? Leave me a Comment below!

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Filed Under: Disney Hollywood Studios, Disney Parks, Disney Tips, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Rides, Rides, Rides and Attractions, World Showcase Tagged With: disney world rides, must see disney world attractions, top 10 disney world rides, Top 10 Walt Disney World Must See Rides and Attractions, walt disney world rides

Where to Find Sleeping Beauty in Disney World

December 2, 2011 By Alison Leave a Comment

Where can you find Sleeping Beauty in Disney World? Sleeping Beauty or Princess Aurora is a very popular Disney Princess and many guests hope to meet her in person when they visit Disney World. So where are the best places to find her?

Photo by lorenjavier

Sleeping Beauty in Disney Magic Kingdom

Sleeping Beauty is easiest to find in Magic Kingdom where she can be in one of a number of places. As with all Disney characters remember that you should check schedules the day that you arrive in the park and that character appearances are subject to change without notice.

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Cinderella’s Royal Table is the incredibly ocular restaurant inside Cinderella’s Castle in Magic Kingdom. Getting a reservation here is the most difficult of all the Disney restaurants. The combination of the attraction of dining inside the Castle and the chance to meet some of the Disney Princesses makes this the most difficult of all of the restaurants to get a reservation for in the whole of Walt Disney World. It isn’t just Cinderella who you will find here. Sleeping Beauty sometimes makes an appearance here. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

Photo by armadillo444

Disney Dreams Come True Parade at Magic Kingdom

This is one of the most popular parades in Disney World and it is held most days (usually around 3pm) in Magic Kingdom. Princess Aurora and her Princess friends make an appearance in each parade. This is one of the best chances to see the Disney Princesses but of course this is a parade so you can only watch them from afar. The Main Street Electrical Parade is another chance to see Aurora. This is not held every day so check your schedule for appearances.

Dream Along With Mickey

This is a must see show which takes place in the forecourt at the front of Disney’s Cinderella Castle each day. Usually there are 3 performances each day but as always check your schedule. Mickey and Minnie also appear in this song and dance show which includes Snow White, Cinderella and Princess Aurora.

Disney’s Storybook Princesses Town Square Theater

There is a good chance that you will be able to meet and greet Princess Aurora in the Town Square Theater. Even if Sleeping Beauty is not there then you will certainly be able to see one of her Disney Princess friends. Check your schedule for times. This is one of the best places for meeting the Disney Princesses without having to book a character dining meal.

Princess Aurora in Epcot

Over the years the Disney Princesses have made more and more appearances inside Disney’s Epcot and now it is one of the best places to go for a chance to see your favorite.

Disney Princess Storybook Dining at Akershus

Disney Princess Storybook Dining is one of the very best places to spend some quality time with the Disney Princesses. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Akershus restaurant in the Epcot Norway Pavilion there is a good chance that Sleeping Beauty will be there. Usually 4 or 5 Disney Princesses are there at any one time and can include Princess Jasmine, Snow White, Belle and Sleeping Beauty. There is no guarantee that a specific Princess will be there but there is sure to be at least one Princess on your favorites list.

Princess Aurora is also regularly seen outside the Epcot France Pavilion. This is an excellent place to meet both Belle and Sleeping Beauty as generally the lines are shorter than for meet and greet in Magic Kingdom. Look on your daily schedule for times.

Princess Aurora Outside the Disney Parks

There are few chances to see the Disney Princesses outside the Disney parks as they usually keep to Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You won’t see Princesses inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party

This regal tea party is held each Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:30am until Noon in the Grand Floridian Hotel Garden View Lounge. Hosted by Miss Rose Petal who is a rose from Sleeping Beauty’s garden this is a very special, and at $250 for one adult and one child, very expensive tea party. Any of the Disney Princesses can be there with Rose Petal but often it is Sleeping Beauty herself. This is a very popular event and the reviews are usually positive. It is recommended for girls aged 3 to 11 and is promoted as a mother daughter event. As well as being served tea, cake and sandwiches, girls receive a lot of extra goodies including a doll which is dressed just like Princess Aurora.

Who is your favorite Disney Princess? Have you had the chance to meet her yet? Leave me a Comment below.

Epcot Test Track Video

November 26, 2011 By Alison Leave a Comment

Have you ever wondered what it is like to experience Epcot Test Track? This great video shows you exactly what to expect from this thrilling Epcot ride. Of course nothing can compare to actually experiencing it but this gives you a great idea of what Test Track is actually like. This is a video which shows the complete Test Track ride so if you want anything to remain as a surprise don’t look! But if you want to know exactly what the ride entails this is one of the best videos of the ride.

Test Track is one of the most popular rides in Epcot. On most days the lines will reach 60 minutes. So how do you minimize the amount of time that you spend in line. You do have to do a little forward planning. There are two very popular rides in Epcot. Soarin’ and Test Track. The lines for Soarin’ tend to be even longer with waits between 60 to 120 minutes on most days. The way to make sure that you can experience both rides without standing for hours in line is to make sure that you arrive as close to park opening time as possible. Remember that the parks generally open 30 to 45 minutes before published opening times so make sure that you arrive early. As soon as Epcot opens walk quickly to either Soarin’ or Test Track and get a Fast Pass. Then go to the other ride and get in line.

The Fast Passes for Test Track do tend to run out in the afternoon on busy days so make sure that you get to the Fast Pass machine or get in line for the ride as soon as you arrive in the park.

Remember too that Test Track has a Single Rider line which is usually a short wait. You will not be seated with your party but if you don’t mind this then the Single Rider Line is a great option.

Epcot Italy

July 22, 2011 By Alison 3 Comments

Epcot Italy is one of the most visually stunning of all of the World Showcase Pavilions. It also has excellent restaurants and shopping. making Italy one of the most popular of all of the Epcot World Showcase Pavilions.

The Architecture of Epcot Italy

The Epcot Italy Pavilion features an ingenious and visually pleasing mixture of Venetian, Roman and Florentine architecture. The most recognizable features are the huge recreation of St Marks Campanile in Venice, Doges Palace in Venice, The Fontana de Nettuno and The Sistine Chapel exterior from Vatican City. A stroll around the wide open piazza of St Mark’s Square Venice really does make you feel as though you have traveled thousands of miles to Italy. Well not quite because most people will be wearing Mickey Mouse shirts but it certainly does give you a sense of the real thing.

Originally it was intended that the Italy Pavilion would have a gondola boat ride, and a Roman ruins walk through feature but these expansion plans unfortunately were never realized.

Epcot Italy Restaurants

One very good reason for visiting Epcot Italy is the excellent food. There are 2 full service dining restaurants in the Pavilion – Tutto Italia and Via Napoli Pizzeria E Ristorante.

My personal favorite is Tutto Italia. This restaurant is owned and operated by the Patina Restaurant Group. The Master Chef Joachim Splichal has created an excellent menu, and the service is amongst the best you will find in any of the Epcot restaurants. Lucnch and dinner are served – and they do accept the Disney Dining Plan.

Lunch entrees include Lasagne Al Forno, Penne Caprese, Chicken Cutlet Milanese and Tagliata di Manzo. Lunch entree prices start at around $19 up to $28. The Antipasto Misto is a great value at $28 as it is a plate of appetizers served family style. The Marinated Olives are also particularly good.

Dinner selections may include Fennel Roasted Loin of Port, Pollo al Mattone and Taglatelle Egg Pasta. Most of the menu is the same as for lunch but the prices are higher with dinner entrees raining from $19 to $36.

There is a wide selection of drinks available including as you would expect excellent coffee. If you want to try something different then give the Espresso Coffee Martini a try.

A more recent addition to Epcot Italy is the Via Napoli restaurant and pizzeria which opened in 2010. Prices are lower here than in Tutto Italia. The speciality of course is pizza and diners can watch them being prepared in one of the 3 pizza ovens on show. The wood burning stoves are all named after Italian volcanoes – Etna, Vesuvio and Stromboli.

The atmosphere in Via Napoli can best be desrcibed as lively and welcoming. The interior of the restaurant is just beautiful – with high ceilings, a huge communal table in the center, and Italian hand painted tiles as decoration. The service is good and so is the food. Lunch and dinner is served here with the menus being mostly the same but prices for dinner being higher. Pizza of course is the obvious choice with different sizes available if you want to share. Prices range from $18 to $30 depending on the size. All the usual favorites are available such as Margherita, Pepperoni and Quattro Stagioni. You may want to try something a little different such as Carciofi with Artichoke, Peccorino, Mozzarella and Truffle Oil.

But Via Napoli doesn’t only serve pizza. The extensive menu includes other Italian favorites such as Lasagna Verde, Linguini Frutti de Mare, and Veal Parmigiana. Entrees range around the $20 to $28 mark. Dessert is of course a vital indulgence in an Italian restaurant. My particular favorite is the Gelati e. Sorbetto which is a combimation of lemon,chocolate, vanilla and pistachio sorbet.

Shopping at Epcot Italy

The shops in Epcot Italy offer a great choice of original merchandise from Italy.

The smaller shop is La Bottega Italiana. This sells kitchen items, cook books, wine and chocolates. Everything is made in Italy. You can take the chance to sample a glass of wine or just browse the cookery books.

The Il Bel Cristalo Shop is housed in the Doges Palace replica building. One of the most interesting items in this store is the beautiful Venetian masks. There are also ceramics, glassware, Italian leather bags and clothing. Of course being Italian this is perhaps the most stylish of all of the stores in Epcot World Showcase.

Take some time out of your visit to Epcot World Showcase to visit the Italy Pavillion even if you are not going to dine there. It is one of the most beautiful and relaxing of all of the places in World Showcase. Sit down for a while and enjoy the ambience which may just make you believe, if only for a moment, that you really are in Italy. The one thing which it really is lacking, and would be such a great addition, is an attraction of some kind such as a movie or a ride. That originally planned gondola ride would have made a great addition.

Disneyland Star Tours Review

June 15, 2011 By Alison 1 Comment

The long wait is over and Star Tours The Adventure Continues is now open in Disneyland. This weekend my family and I braved the considerable crowds but were fortunate enough to have Fast Passes for the brand new version of this classic Disney ride. Star Tours is now back on my list of Top 5 favorite Disney rides. I decided to leave the actual review to someone who knows way more about Star Wars than I. My husband Richard! So here is what he thought of the new ride:

I finally got to try out the new Star Tours – the Adventures Continue – at Disneyland this weekend. It’s advertised as all-new, with brand new 3D sequences and 54 different versions of the ride. I went on the ride twice, quite a feat considering the wait times, but was dismayed to find I was sitting through exactly the same story! What are the chances of that? (OK, smart people might say 1 in 54, but I’m guessing it’s even less than that. Read on for why…)

First things first. Spoiler alert coming. I should say now that this post includes details of one of the 54 new stories, plus observations from the brand new waiting line, so if you don’t want to know, stop reading now.

OK, I was exaggerating slightly, since there was a slight difference between the two rides. In the first story, Yoda delivers information about a spy who has hidden on board the ship. In the second, this is done by a holographic projection of Princess Leia. Very impressive, since for the show they re-used the message hidden inside R2-D2 by the Princess shortly before the Tantive IV was captured in A New Hope. There may have been lip-syncing going on, but it was hard to see. The script was definitely adjusted to make use of the original, especially ‘you are our only hope’. The spy turned out to be one of our fellow passengers, and a photo of them was shown on a video screen at the side of the main screen.

I absolutely loved the ride, particularly the use of C3PO as the rookie pilot caught in the auto-launch sequence. My son told me there must be five C3POs in the ride in total (one in the line and one on each of the four shuttle ships. Not bad for a five year old).

As you attempt to take off from the space port, Darth Vader, flanked by a battalion of storm troopers (some with jet packs) attempts to intercept you. He uses his dark force powers to throw the ship around in new ways. This must have stretched the simulator’s capabilities far more than originally expected.

You are then pursued by a group of 3D TIE fighters as you try to head into hyperspace.

The jump to lightspeed felt a lot more realistic in the new simulator. Of course I haven’t really got anything to compare this against (the California speed limit forces me to keep my car under 65 mph at all times).

On exiting lightspeed, you end up joining the Battle of Hoth where several AT-ATs either step on you or collapse on you after a snowspeeder succeeds in lassoing their legs.

After the next lightspeed jump you arrive in the rings around the planet Geonosis, where Jango Fett is waiting to give chase in Slave I through the asteroids that make up the rings. You weave through the asteroid field with some great effects, courtesy of the Star Tours the simulator. Actually since this story is supposed to be set around Episodes II and III I wonder if this is actually a grown-up Boba? Also, since he appears to fall foul of one of his own seismic charges, is this consistent with the story? Sorry, maybe I’m taking this too seriously now…

The final exciting sequence takes you into the Death Star, which is under construction. You enter through an open hole in the side and speed through tight corridors, just like those in Return of the Jedi, before plummeting down a huge shaft filled with ships. One of these ships is the Millenium Falcon, but it speeds past in an instant and is hard to spot (my son saw it too).

A new and entertaining wait line slightly makes up for the wait time (120 minutes yesterday for anyone without a Fastpass). The line shows the weather on various destination planets including Mustafar (ash cloud approaching, of course). I didn’t spot Hoth on there but guessed it was going to be cold.

I also loved the silhouetted shadows passing by the window in the line and spotted a number of familiar shapes: Chancellor Palpatine (again since this is set around Episodes 2 and 3 I assume he hasn’t made emperor yet), several Jedi, plus an R2 droid. R2 gets zapped by a bunch of pesky jawas, falls over and is carried off, Episode IV-style.

I was left wondering how they will rotate the different endings. Maybe they are truly random, in which case the probability of my seeing the same show twice was indeed 1 in 54. Or maybe they limit the variation a bit. If it was my ride, I’d hold back some special endings for really special occasions.

Filed Under: Disneyland, Rides and Attractions Tagged With: disney star tours, Disneyland, disneyland rides, star tours

The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure

June 13, 2011 By Alison 1 Comment

The latest attraction at Disney’s Californian Adventure park tells the story of everyone’s favorite Little Mermaid. Ariel’s Undersea Adventure debuted on 2nd June 2011 and has already proved to be very popular with park guests.

Ariel and her friends are to be found in the Paradise Pier area of the park where the Golden Dreams attraction used to be. The line is in the shade and moves pretty quickly – which is fortunate as there is not much to entertain you whilst waiting. Although one very welcome feature of the line is the soundtrack which was created using the original songs from the movie but creating a whole new orchestral medley.

As you approach the ride boarding area you will see the beautiful 86 foot long hand painted mural designed by Larry Nikolai with scenes from the Little Mermaid movie.

Each guest boards a brightly colored clam shell and takes a 5 1/2 minute journey under the sea with Ariel. There are almost 200 audio animatronic figures included in the ride. Each new attraction has it’s own particular challenges and Ariels ride was no exception. Working out how Ariels hair should move was a particular problem. Another challenge was the fact Ariel, King Triton and Ursula have so much skin exposed a new skin technology needed to be introduced for them.

Your clam shell moves through different scenes which all tell the Little Mermaid story. The most spectacular of these is the Under The Sea scene which features 120 animatronic figures. Look out and see what you think of Ariel’s hair in this scene – it certainly seems to have a strange life of it’s own!

Most of the ride follows the storyline of the movie but the ending scene was created just for The Little Mermaid attraction.

Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is a welcome addition to Disney’s California Adventure but I have to confess being slightly disappointed. Everything is very well done but it just didn’t seem to take anything to a new level. We expect so much from Disney and usually they over perform. The other new attraction Star Tours The Adventure Continues is amazing and takes the experience to a whole new level. With Star Tours you are part of the experience. In Ariel you just never seem to really be very involved. With the exception of the Under The Sea scene there just isn’t quite enough to immerse you in the whole underwater journey. Perhaps we just want too much these days, but Ariel’s Undersea Adventure somehow left me wanting more.

Filed Under: Disneyland, Rides and Attractions Tagged With: ariels undersea adventure, disneyland rides, little mermaid ride

Disney World Rides

May 30, 2011 By Alison 2 Comments

Which are the very best Disney World Rides? The ones which are the absolute must see not to be missed trip of a lifetime Walt Disney World rides? There are so many to choose from it is difficult to narrow it down but here is my Top 10 choice.

Disney Hollywood Tower of Terror

Even approaching the Disney’s Tower of Terror you know this is going to be a very special and unique experience. The imposing 199 foot tall Tower of Terror can be seen from miles away. As you approach it you may experience second thoughts as you hear the screams of the other Disney guests on the ride!

The inspiration was the popular television series The Twilight Zone. According to Disney Imagineer Legend the Hollywood Tower Hotel dates back to 1917. Located in Hollywood the movie capital of the world it soon became famous for welcoming it’s film star guests.

But then tragedy strikes on October 31st 1939. The Tower is struck by lightning and part of the building is destroyed including 2 wings and 2 elevator shafts. Five guests have just boarded the elevator. The guests are a child star with her nanny, two young stars and a bellhop – you may see them again somewhere……

You board the elevator and then move through the hotel passage ways until you come to a brief pause. The doors open and you get a great view across the park. Just long enough to make you realize just how high you are. And then you plunge 13 storeys down an elevator shaft. Again. And again.

The ride is never the same twice as the innovative technology selects a random drop sequence each time, so you never quite know when the next plunge is about to start. The attention to detail on the ride is amazing. Even if you don’t dare to experience the ride then you should at least go through the line to see all the details on the scenes, and meet the excellent bell hops who make sure that your elevator journey is one that you will never forget.

The height requirement for Tower of Terror is 40″ so warn the kids if they aren’t going to make it.

Epcot Test Track

There really isn’t anything like this Epcot ride anywhere else in the world. Test Track is one of the most technologically advanced rides ever launched in Walt Disney World.

The idea is that it is a test facility for new vehicles. Guest board a six passenger vehicle and are driven around the test facility. Along the way you will experience a series of test including handling, breaking, and even a hot and cold test. Of course what you are really looking forward to is The High Speed Test. This is one for the thrill seekers out there. You reach speeds of up to 65 mph on a huge circular outdoor track before steady breaking brings you back into the test facility and you exit your vehicle.

Epcot Test Track is a very popular ride. It does have a Fast Pass and these do often run out by the early afternoon, so get one as soon as you arrive. There is also a single rider line which is a great idea if you do not mind being in a different vehicle to the rest of your party. There is a child swap facility too as there is a height requirement of 40″. This is one of the best child swap waiting areas as you can spend your time looking around the display of cars to keep your children entertained!

Disney It’s A Small World

This one tends to provoke quite strong feelings. You will probably either love it or hate it. However you ultimately feel about this classic Disney ride you have to experience It’s A Small World at least once. This is one of the original Walt Disney World rides, and although it has had some changes along the way, it is one which Walt himself would recognize.

Guests board a boat for an almost 11 minute ride. You are taken through many different lands to be entertained by 289 audio animatronic dolls representing many of the countries of the world. The theme is international harmony through the eyes of children. It first debuted as a ride at the World’s Fair in 1964 and was a Disneyland favorite too.

The lines can get pretty long at times and unfortunately there is no Fast Pass available. The good thing though is that the lines move pretty fast and everything is shaded from the Florida sun. This ride is suitable for all ages and is a definite Walt Disney World must see.

Disney Animal Kingdom Expedition Everest

This is the most recent of all the Disney Mountains. What sets Disney apart in all areas is attention to detail and Expedition Everest is a brilliant example of this. Imagineers spent six years researching and designing this legend of the Yeti themed ride. Much more than just a roller coaster.

Guests board the Anandapur Rail Service train which is scheduled to take them to the foot of Mount Everest. The journey begins gently enough but as you might expect there are twists and turns just around the corner. The Yeti has torn up the rail track and your journey is about to get much more interesting……..

Expedition Everest is an intense ride as is not for the faint of heart (neither is it for those under 44″ tall). A definite must see in Disney’s Animal Kingdom you do need to ride early in the morning if you want to beat the lines. There is also a Fast Pass available so one tactic is to head straight there as soon as you enter Animal Kingdom park and get a Fast Pass, then head straight to Kilimanjaro Safari (another very very popular ride).

Epcot The Seas With Nemo and Friends

This is one for all the family. Located in the Living Seas Pavilion in the Future World part of Epcot this is a relaxing ride which is just pure relaxation and entertainment. Lines can be long, and even if they aren’t there is a long walk before you actually get to the front of the line. But the wait is worth it to experience this Nemo themed ride.

Board a clammobiles for a journey of discovery through the Seas Pavilion aquarium. Very clever Disney technology makes you feel as if you are swimming with Nemo and his friends. When the ride ends you find yourself in the viewing area for one of the largest salt water aquariums in the world. A great way to relax and just slow down the pace of the day. The Seas with Nemo and Friends is a great ride for all the family.

Aerosmith Rock N Roller Coaster

One of the very best rides at Walt Disney World and certainly the best of the Disney World Roller Coasters. Rock N Roller Coaster is a true thrill ride. Located adjacent to the Tower of Terror in Disney’s Hollywood Studios this 80 foot tall 2 minute 2 second indoor roller coaster accelerates from 0-57 mph in a breathtakingly fast 2.8 seconds.

This is one for the thrill seekers amongst you and there is a 48″ height requirement. The combination of the roller coaster technology and the music of Aerosmith makes this a very popular ride. A Fast Pass is available. When you arrive at Hollywood Studios head quickly down Hollywood Boulevard and take a right on Sunset. Get a Fast Pass for either Tower of Terror or Rock N Roller Coaster and ride the other one before the crowds get the better of you.

The idea behind the ride is that Aerosmith are late for their concert appearance. You have a back stage pass but you need to quickly get to the performance with them. What better way than to share a super stretch limo that will speed you to the venue. And of course you will encounter twists, turns and 360 loops along the way, whilst listening to the band.

Epcot Spaceship Earth

The very symbol of Epcot. The geodesic dome which is Spaceship Earth can be seen for miles around and is one of the most recognized symbols of Walt Disney World. Spaceship Earth is one of the very best rides at Epcot.

Guests board time travel vehicles to be taken on a journey from the beginning of time to the present day. The theme is how communication has changed throughout the ages to make the earth the place which it is today, and which it may become in the future. Both educational and entertaining this is a ride which all of the family will enjoy.

Epcot Spaceship Earth is located right at the entrance to Future World, but often it is best not to follow the crowd and ride this attraction first. If the line is more than 15 to 20 minutes long then wait until later in the day when crowds will often have moved further into the park and you can sometimes just walk onto the ride with little or even no wait.

Disney Pirates of the Caribbean Ride

These days you will of course find Captain Jack Sparrow in this iconic Disney ride. Guests board a boat and sail along for an eight and a half minute pirate themed ride. The ride debuted in Disneyland in 1967 and has been a park favorite ever since, having enjoyed even more popularity since the success of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.

Pirates of the Caribbean is billed as a journey for all the family but be aware that it is dark, with some frightening images. My youngest children still are really not very keen on this ride!

Unfortunately there isn’t a Fast Pass for Pirates of the Caribbean, but the ride does move fast and is under cover so at least you aren’t out in the Floridian sun.

Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin Ride

A modern variation on a classic shooting arcade. Help Buzz Lightyear on his mission to save the world from Evil Evil Emporer Zurg. This is a lot of fun for all ages. Guests board a Space Ranger vehicle built for two and use the laser gun to shoot at the targets to win point. This really appeals to the competitive spirit in everyone (hint: ignore the round targets as they bring the lowest scores).

The line is fast loading so even if the line is long you do feel as though you are making progress! And it is always fun to meet Buzz Lightyear himself in the line. Younger members of the family, and perhaps some of the older ones too, will marvel at the larger than life fully articulate Buzz Lightyear in the line.

Disney World Space Mountain

A Disney classic. Space Mountain remains one of the most popular of the Disney Mountains. Walt Disney always wanted a space age attraction. Tomorrowland was his vision of the future and he wanted a major attraction for this Disney World land.

Space Mountain is not particularly fast. At 28 mph is it positively slow for a roller coaster. But the appeal is not it’s speed. It is in it’s theming and innovative use of lighting. Guests are always surprised when the realize that this is not a fast or particularly complex ride. It’s appeal is that it uses light very effectively and creates the great Disney illusion of not being quite what it seems.

It is also a lot of fun to board the Transit Authority, a slow moving people carrier attraction which travels right through Space Mountain. All you can see is flashing lights, the boarding area, and sometimes even hear the screams from the Space Mountain riders. But if you want to catch a glimpse of Space Mountain without daring to ride then this is a good way to do it.

Of course Space Mountain is a popular ride. But there is a Fast Pass and a Child Swap area. Guests must be at least 40″ to ride.

So there it is. My own personal list of unmissable Walt Disney World rides. I know that many of you have your own personal favorites. There are so many to choose from a list of 10 is almost an impossible task. So which would be on your list of top 10 favorite Disney World rides?

All photos by expressmonorail

Filed Under: Disney Hollywood Studios, Disney Parks, Disney Tips, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Rides, Rides and Attractions Tagged With: disney world rides, epcot rides, its a small world, rock n roller coaster, space mountain, spaceship earth, walt disney world rides

Rides at Epcot

February 17, 2011 By Alison 5 Comments

Disney World has done a lot in recent years to expand the choice of rides at Epcot. This Disney park is probably the most misunderstood of any of the four theme parks. Each of the others has a strong idea related to it whereas Epcot has often but unfairly been seen as the one which is just a little difficult to define . Sure we know it was based on Walt Disney’s Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow but somehow the fact that Epcot has some excellent rides and attractions gets a little mixed up along the way.

So just what are the rides at Epcot?

Epcot Test Track

One of the most innovative, expensive and technologically advanced rides at Walt Disney World, Test Track is also one of the most popular. For good reason. This thrilling ride which has at it’s theme the concept of a vehicle test facility will have you test driving anti lock breaks, tight corners, collision aversion and then accelerate you to 65 miles an hour. A great ride for everyone in the family – well those over 40″ high anyway.

For more details and a video go to Epcot Test Track.

Soarin’

This Epcot ride made it’s debut in Disneyland California and has been a big hit in Disney World since making it to Florida on May 5th 2005. In Disneyland the ride is titled Soarin’ Over California but despite being exactly the same ride the California reference is dropped in the Florida park.

This 4 minute 40 second simulated flight ride takes guests over the amazing sights of California including Yosemite, The Wine Country, Monterey, San Francisco, San Diego and of course Disneyland.

Even though this is a simulated flight it is not a flight simulator! It is an entirely different concept with a ride mechanism which actually takes guests up into the air on a row of seats. You are safely strapped into your seat and then you ‘fly’ upwards into the air in front of a giant IMAX screen. There are 3 rows of seats and as your feet dangle in the air, the best view is on row 1 as your line of vision doesn’t have someone else’s feet in it!

This is one of those must do rights at Walt Disney World. There really isn’t anything like it at any other theme park. Truly a Disney original.

The height requirement is 40″ and young children do get an extra safety strap. Try and get a Fast Pass for this ride as lines up to 120 minutes are not unheard of. Either ride Soarin’ or Test Track as soon as you arrive at Epcot and get a Fast Pass for the other attraction.

Living with the Land

This attraction is housed in The Land Pavilion with Soarin’. That is where the similarity ends! This is unfortunately now very much a secondary attraction which can be missed if time does not permit. This used to be one of my favorite attractions, but now it just seems so dated. But if lines are not too long then it is still worth experiencing.

You will board a slow moving boat which will take you though an educational journey about advances in agricultural technology. Sounding great so far? Actually it is a lot better than that basic description suggests as it is interesting to see the acquaculture farming, the upside down tomato plants and the innovative ways of increasing food production. It is a 14 minute gentle boat ride and you may just learn something along the way.

The Seas with Nemo and Friends

You can see all of your favorite characters from the Finding Nemo movie on this relatively new Epcot ride. Launched in 2007 The Seas with Nemo and Friends appeals to all ages. Guests board a slow moving clamobile and glide past the 5.7 million gallon aquarium which appears to feature Nemo and his friends. The technology on this ride is amazing and the effect combines animation with the real creatures of the sea in the huge aquarium.

There is no height requirement for The Seas with Nemo and Friends and this is definitely a feel good attraction for every member of the family.

Spaceship Earth

This is of course the most recognizable ride at Epcot. At 180 feet high the iconic Spaceship Earth ride can be seen for miles around. The geodesic silver dome of Spaceship Earth takes guests on a journey through time – from the beginning of mankind to present times.

This 13 minute Epcot ride travels inside the dome in slow moving vehicles which pass animatronic scenes through the ages. Describing it isn’t easy – believe me it is better than it sounds! Definitely an Epcot attraction which has to be experienced at least once.

The usual ‘traffic’ pattern for Spaceship Earth is that guests ride it as soon as they enter the park. It is right there at the front of the park and so it is tempting to do that. But if the wait time is over 15 minutes long then think again. Try and ride it later in the day before you go into World Showcase when the lines are usually much shorter.

MIssion Space

This is the only ride at Disney World, and possibly anywhere, to provide motion sickness bags for guests! This gives you an idea of why this Epcot ride is not quite as popular as Disney had hoped. It is a motion simulator ride which shows what an astronaut may experience on a journey to Mars.

There are 4 riders in each vehicle and everyone is assigned their own role (i.e potential buttons to press when instructed) either Commander, Navigator, Pilot or Engineer. The ride vehicle is small and if you are prone to motion sickness or claustrophobia this is a ride where you really should observe the warnings. Riders experience up to 2.5 G Force.

Mission Space is a highly intense and very unique ride. It is certainly one of the most thrilling Disney World rides. But for many it was a little too much which is why Disney opened a second non motion version of the ride. This is also quite a lot of fun and does not have the G Force of the main attraction so is suitable for more people. If you do not like enclosed spaces though avoid this one.

MIssion Space rarely has long lines, particularly for the motion simulator version so no particular tactics are needed to avoid the lines.

Journey Into Imagination with Figment

This is one of the older Epcot rides and is found in The Imagination Pavilion in Future World. This somewhat missable ride has the theme of how our imaginations play tricks on us and features the lovable Figment the dragon as our guide. Guests board a vehicle which slowly takes them through various scenes of our senses. It is suitable for all ages but some parts are dark, noisy and contain just a few surprises. If you are short on time this is one you can safely skip.

There are only a couple of rides in Epcot World Showcase but they are both definitely worth experiencing.

Maelstrom

Located in the Norway Pavilion of World Showcase this boat will take you back in time to a place where the Vikings ruled the land. You encounter trolls, polar bears and get precariously close to the edge of a waterfall, but all ends well as you gently sail into a Norwegian village. This water ride does have a 28 foot drop close to the end which some may find a little bit scary. My youngest son has always loved it but his older brother still isn’t so keen!

Many people miss the movie about Norway at the exit of the ride. But perhaps you should pause to see it, if only once. Norway is a spectacularly beautiful country but the movie desperately needs updating.

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros

This is a gentle and relaxing ride housed inside the Mexico World Showcase Pavilion at Epcot which is loosely based around the 1944 movie The Three Cabelleros which featured Donald Duck. This 7 minute ride sails past the San Angel Inn Restaurante and into the history and landscape of Mexico. This Epcot ride is a lot of fun and is suitable for all ages.

As you will see it is perhaps rather unfair that Epcot is sometimes thought of as not having a large selection of rides. In fact Epcot has some of the best and most popular rides in Walt Disney World. Which one is your favorite?

EverythingMouse

Epcot Countries

Top 10 Walt Disney World Must See Rides and Attractions

Where to Find Sleeping Beauty in Disney World

Epcot Test Track Video

Epcot Italy

Disneyland Star Tours Review

The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure

Disney World Rides

Rides at Epcot

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