Last week we had a chance to explore half of Epcot’s World Showcase. Today, let’s make our way around the rest of World Showcase and see what else there is to see and do!
The American Adventure: This is the cornerstone of World Showcase and rightfully so, as it is one of the most familiar spots in all of World Showcase. Not only does this pavilion boost some amazing artifacts inside, but also is home to a show called The American Adventure. This 26-minute presentation is narrated by none other than Mark Twain and Ben Franklin! Mark Twain casually puffs away on his cigar while telling the story of America from the pioneers to more modern day. Not only is it very moving, it’s also a great way to learn about (or be reminded of) many of the very important moments in the history of the United States.
Italy: While there isn’t a show in the Italy Pavilion, this area does not lack for ambiance and culture. The many shops have all kinds of merchandise from Italy and if you are a wine aficionado, you’ll love La Bottega Italiana that features red and white wines, along with many kitchen necessities, olive oils, spices and other collectibles. Grab a cold Italian beer while here and enjoy the courtyard in the center of this pavilion, or take a few minutes to enjoy a glass of wine at Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar. And be sure plan a meal at one of the several table service or quick service places for some delicious Italian food!
Germany: This very interesting pavilion is based on multiple villages throughout Germany. Here you can find athletic apparel, German teddy bears, crystal ware, German beer steins, clocks, a wine shop, German Christmas shop and everyone’s favorite – Karamell-Kuche with Werther’s caramels and candies. This is the one stop around World Showcase that is a sensory overload!
China: China is home to another popular 360 degree film, Reflections of China. You will enter through Disney’s replica of Beijing’s Temple of Heaven. Not only is this incredibly beautiful, but be sure to check out the very center of the temple – every whisper is amplified! This movie is also standing room, which is good as you definitely want to check out every direction. Reflections of China leads you on a journey through Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai and of course, the Great Wall of China. And there is, of course, lots of great shopping!
Norway: Norway has recently become even more popular with the addition of of the ride, Frozen Ever After that replaced Maelstrom. This Frozen-themed rides is extremely popular, often with very long lines, so if you have little Frozen fans, be sure to get a FastPass (Tier One). Once you have finished this ride, don’t forget to take your little Frozen fans to the Royal Sommerhus to visit with Anna and Elsa in person. We really enjoy making our way through the many shops in Norway, and one of the most popular things here is the giant Troll! Be sure and get everyone’s picture with this huge guy!
Mexico: When you walk into the Aztec pyramid in this pavilion, you will find yourself in the most festive and inviting plaza set right in the middle of Mexico itself at dusk! This quaint plaza has every imaginable kind of handicraft from all over Mexico and if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to shop to the sounds of the Mariachi Cobre band. To the right as you enter is this area’s newest addition, La Cava del Tequila with over 200 tequilas, top-shelf cocktails, Mexican beer and wine. This place is popular so plan some extra time if you’re looking for the perfect margarita. At the back of this pavilion is San Angel Inn that serves Mexican authentic fare and near that you will find this country’s ride, the Gran Fiesta Tour starring The Three Caballeros, along with Donald Duck. While this isn’t the most exciting ride in World Showcase, it is a very relaxing and enjoyable ride through Mexico that kids especially love. This pavilion definitely transports you to not only another country but is also a wonderful experience under a beautiful star-studded evening sky – no matter the time of day or weather outside!
I hope you have enjoyed my tour of Epcot’s World Showcase and have learned about some things that make it unique to Walt Disney World. Do you enjoy World Showcase and have you explored all the wonderful things there are to do?
What are some of your favorites!????
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Debbie and her husband live in Chattanooga, TN. They both are huge Disney fans and try to visit the most Magical Place on Earth at least once a year, if possible. They are enjoying taking each of their now 10 grandchildren and hope to also take their great granddaughter in the near future. One of their favorite trips has been visiting Disney with adults only, including one trip when their son proposed to his girlfriend. Each trip begins with the planning, which can take up to a year, beginning with how to get the grandkids excited about their upcoming trip. They have surprised some of them the day before they left, while the latest one had “presents” every 10 days starting at 90 days all leading up to an exciting trip with her parents along also. Their philosophy on Disney Trips? “Each trip is completely different, like visiting Walt Disney World for the first time.” They both enjoy all that Disney has to offer, but enjoy Animal Kingdom and EPCOT the most. It is their goal that everyone who visits Walt Disney World has a magical trip with lots of memories to last a life time.
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