Getting a Glimpse of Tomorrow at EPCOT

EPCOT (derived from Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) is a popular theme parks at Walt Disney Resort, a gargantuan attraction that is double the size of the popular Magic Kingdom park. It was originally conceptualized as a model community of around 20,000 residents complete with its own commercial and business areas, as well as transportation systems. Because of lack of funding and the decision of the Walt Disney Company not to push through with running its own town, the plan was never implemented. EPCOT was later turned into a theme park instead which showcases technological advancement and culture.

EPCOT is divided into two parts: Future World and World Showcase. The sections are laid out on the grounds in an hourglass shape.

They say that ideas become reality in Future World. This section is composed of several pavilions, which exhibit technological innovations. This is where Spaceship Earth, the park’s icon, is located. It is one of the most popular structures in Walt Disney Resort and. This geodesic sphere structure, which is 18-stories high and designed with the help of science fiction writer Ray Bradbury, houses the time machine ride. It is an attraction which takes guests through an exciting journey where the story of human collaboration and connection is told with the help of amazing audio-animatronics. The story is narrated none other than acclaimed actress Judi Dench, over a musical score composed by Emmy-award winner composer Bruce Broughton. From the story of prehistoric times to the Age of Information, Spaceship Earth is just the start of the exciting and educational time that you will have here in EPCOT.

Future World also features Project Tomorrow, where guests can play interactive games that will surely tickle their brain cells.

The World Showcase houses various pavilions which surround the World Showcase Lagoon. Here you will find shops, restaurants and other attractions that exhibit the culture and food of 11 countries, which include China, Germany, Japan, France, United Kingdom and the U.S.

The park has lots of entertaining and educational attractions that will surely amaze guests from all age groups. Some of them are:

The park captures the authentic feel of the Colonial era with the old-style structures, which are inspired by Boston’s Old State House and Independence Hall, among many others. There is live entertainment, as well as lots of dining and shopping options. Enjoy all-American food at the Liberty Inn Restaurant then shop for Americana items and handcrafted good at Heritage Manor Gifts.

Those who can use some lessons in environmental awareness should check out Circle of Life, which shows a 20-minute film based on the Disney hit, The Lion King. This is a great way to teach children about the importance of taking care of the environment, and they will surely not fall asleep during the film. Translation device units, reflective captioning system and video captioning are available upon request.

Here is something that the adults will appreciate. This multimedia attraction stars comedienne and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, and takes guests on an adventure-filled trip where guests can learn all about energy in the universe.

Craving for an adrenaline rush? Then check out the scene at Test Track, where you can get your need for speed riding a high-speed vehicle simulation ride. It is perfectly safe for both kids and adults, although children under 40 inches are not allowed to ride. It takes you through a steep terrain, bumpy roads, banked curves and nasty turns at up to 60 miles per hour.

If you are a big fan of adorable Nemo and his colorful fish friends, then this one is for you. Ride a “clamobile” and go into an underwater adventure swim around and discover ancient shipwrecks. Watch for the ride’s beautiful climax, where Nemo and his friends frolic with real-life fishes in a massive saltwater tank.

Want to experience the sensational feeling of flying over the most beautiful landmarks in the world? Then try Soarin,’ a multi-sensory ride where you are strapped on a multi-passenger glider and taken 40 feet high into the air. Surrounded by 180 degrees of IMAX screens, you will fly over places such as The Golden Gate Bridge, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Malibu and Redwood Creek.

Within Norway Pavilion is an ancient Viking ship which will take you to the North Sea, a swamp filled with trolls and a Norwegian fjord. Other things in store for you during the ride are pirates, polar bears and a beautiful aquatic landscape. At the end of the ride, you will watch a short film that tells all about the majestic beauty of Norway at present.

Here are some of the excellent restaurants inside the park:

For those who want to dine in style on traditional French regional cuisine, then book for reservations at Les Chefs de France. Loyal diners love the way the restaurant sticks to traditional ingredients and preparation. Must-try: broiled salmon with green lentils, roasted duck with cherries, chocolate-topped profiteroles and their signature crème brulee.

If you are in the mood for mouth-watering Moroccan dishes, check out Restaurant Marrakesh at Morocco Pavilion. Feast on shish kebab, roast lamb and brochette of chicken. There is something in the menu for kids too. Savor each bite as you drink in the sight of belly dancers shimmying sensuously to exotic music.

Want to go Japanese? Let the master chefs at Teppan Edo serve you fresh sushi, stir-fried vegetables and meats and Udon noodles. Finish off each meal with a glass of wine or Kirin beer, or opt for sake if you are gutsy enough. Fans of minimalist interiors will love the clean, simple but sleek surroundings inside Teppan Edo.

If all you want is just a quick bite to satisfy your grumbling stomach, then drop by Electric Umbrella Restaurant. Get your favorite chicken, burgers, salads and wraps for lunch and dinner for a fast but delicious meal.