Epcot Center

Epcot Center Beginnings

Epcot was originally an idea of Walt Disney’s, though the park itself did not open until the fall of 1982, quite some time after his death. Epcot stands for “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,” which emulates Walt’s passion for the future and all the advances in technology and innovation that it holds. The futuristic theme of this park was appealing to many visitors in its opening year and it continues to thrive today. In 2007, Epcot was ranked as the third most visited theme park in the United States, and sixth in the world.

Walt Disney’s original idea for Epcot Center was for it to be a community where 20,000 residents would live. After his death, the Disney Company decided to plan a park geared toward the technological future instead. Some of Disney’s engineers (“imagineers”) wanted to focus on a different type of future altogether – the cultural melting pot our world has become, celebrating the varying ethnicities and traditions found throughout. The result? Epcot is now home to two distinct sections: Future World and the World Showcase. Technology and innovation are celebrated in Future World, while guests can enjoy international customs, rituals, and food in the World Showcase.

Future World

In Future World, you will find many rides and exhibits to explore.

Spaceship Earth

Quite possibly the most famous landmark of Epcot Center, Spaceship Earth resembles a giant silvery golf ball at the front of the park. You can’t miss it as you enter the park’s gates, and it is also home to a ride of the same name. Guests board vehicles in this attraction that has been around since opening day, and journey through a simulated time machine exhibiting various aspects of technological evolution since the beginning of time. Starting with cavemen and going on through the 21st century, guests see how computers have changed the face of the world and how we continue to advance today.

Will you make it to Mars?

Mission: Space

For aspiring space travelers, Misson:Space is the place to be. Guests become astronauts on a first time mission to Mars on this motion simulating thrill ride on a mock spacecraft complete with super strong g-forces. Riders are challenged to take control of their ship with various assigned tasks while working against gravity (or lack there of), hypersleep, and other aspects of futuristic space travel.

Test Track

Come be a crash dummy on this General Motors sponsored ride in the heart of Epcot. This is the one of the fastest rides found in any Disney park, as you go through a simulated car testing system including heat and weather proofing, brake checks and speed acceleration. This is the ultimate thrill for any Disney enthusiast, and many guests opt to ride it repeatedly, as is evident by the lengthy lines found in the queue.

World Showcase

The World Showcase is located in the back of Epcot, and represents 11 countries: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States.

Each pavilion features exhibits and cuisine from that nation, and some such as Mexico and Norway include classic-style Disney dark rides celebrating their culture and traditions. Check out the fine dining in France, and don’t leave without grabbing a beer in Germany.

Adding to the authenticity of the various nations, all park employees are from the country in which they work. For example, an employee working in the Japanese pavilion is a native of Japan. Disney has set up an internship program for young international citizens to work in Epcot for a set amount of time. This authentic foreign feel enhances the experience of guests who have never ventured outside of the United States.

Whether you choose to visit Future World, the World Showcase, or all of Epcot Center in a single day, you will undoubtedly enjoy this integral part of Walt Disney World which continues to be cherished by millions of guests each year.