There’s nothing quite like spending a day walking around the collection of countries in Epcot’s World Showcase
The World Showcase takes inspiration from New York’s 1964 World’s Fair, bringing together 11 countries from around the world and celebrating their cultures. It’s absolutely one of our favorite things about Disney World and we’re there all the time.
It can be overwhelming to try to plan your day when you see just how many attractions there really are inside the World Showcase. Just like we did with our guide to 30+ Epcot Tips & Secrets, our Insider’s Guide to Epcot Dining, our Insider’s Guide to Epcot for Adults, we built this guide to help you get the most out of your trip.
We’ll start with Mexico, then work our way clockwise around the World Showcase Lagoon through Canada. By the time we’re done, you’ll know all about our favorite restaurants, rides
Epcot Countries List
- Mexico
- Norway
- China
- Germany
- Italy
- The American Adventure
- Morocco
- Japan
- France
- UK
- Canada
Mexico
#1. See the Folk Art Gallery
The Folk Art Gallery is at the entrance of the Mesoamerican pyramid and the artwork changes every so often. Currently on display is “Remember Me!” with scenes and sculptures celebrating Dia de
#2. Drink at La Cava del Tequila
Out of all the places in Mexico, this is our number one favorite. The “tequila cellar” can have a line out the door, but you don’t want to miss the best chips, queso, salsa & guac combo and hand-made margaritas in Epcot! Take a look at our big guide to Epcot Drinking Around the World to get a more in-depth look at what you can get here.
#3. Ride the Gran Fiesta Tour
The Gran Fiesta Tour is a river ride starring the Three Caballeros offering a great break from the heat and often has a very short wait time. Tour Mexico with your hosts Jose Carioca, Panchito and of course, Donald Duck.
#4. Meet Donald Duck
Speaking of Donald, he has an exclusive meeting spot right outside the pyramid and the line can be pretty short. Guests can see him by the Aztec ruins before leaving the pavilion most times in the early and late afternoon.
#5. Eat Tacos at La Cantina de San Angel
We’ve enjoyed the Tacos Pollo and Tacos Pescado many times. It’s often difficult to find seating, but it’s an excellent place to enjoy the breeze off the World Showcase Lagoon or to view the fireworks at the end of the night.
#6. Listen to Mariachi Cobre
This talented group of Mexican performers sings beautiful renditions of Mexican traditional music, along with music from the movie Coco. They perform with a full mariachi band which you’ll see several times a day. Take a peek at the music schedule each day so you don’t miss your chance to see them shine.
Norway
#7. Shop at the Puffin’s Roost
Inside you’ll find Norwegian perfumes and skin care by Geir Ness, alongside luxurious Dale of Norway sweaters. We love the Laila collection and the opportunity to buy high-end cold-weather clothing and ski gear by Helly Hansen.
#8. Visit the Stave Church Gallery
Epcot recently updated the gallery to include historic Viking runes and artifacts. The entire upgrade is dedicated to the Gods of Norway with legends written on the walls and an electric Northern Lights display.
#9. See Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus
This beautiful little house is the only place where you can find Anna and Elsa together. Wait times can be long, but it’s well worth it for fans of Frozen.
#10. Ride Frozen Ever After
The old Maelstrom ride was also reimagined for the world of Frozen. Using the same track and boats for this river voyage, glide through scenes from the popular movie with lifelike animatronics telling the story.
#11. Eat at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe
One of our most favorite dessert combos in Epcot is the School Bread with Viking Coffee. Aside from these, Kringla has great quick-service options for lunch and other enjoyable desserts.
#12. Eat at Akershus
Similar to Cinderella’s Royal Table, but much easier to find reservations – we may actually prefer the food selections here, too. Akershus is perfect for the whole family, including an appetizer buffet, tasty menu and the chance to meet five princesses. Also, it’s arguably Epcot’s best restaurant for breakfast.
China
#13. Watch Reflections of China
Located inside the replica Temple of Heaven is a large theater perfect for resting your feet, cooling off and learning about China’s uniqueness and history through this short film.
#14. Meet Mulan
In the lobby of the theater, you can meet Mulan at several different times throughout the day. This is actually the only place you can find her on Walt Disney World property!
#15. Drink at Joy of Tea
There are many coffee and drink stops in Epcot, but this one is the only stand dedicated to tea. Sip on one of your favorites and enjoy a few egg rolls, as well.
#16. Eat at Nine Dragons Restaurant
This ornately designed table-service restaurant serves Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken, Bao Buns and Pot Stickers. The desserts are particularly good – try the Banana Cheesecake Eggrolls or the Ginger Cake.
Germany
#17. Shop at Der Teddybar
Der Teddybar has some of the cutest children’s toys and gifts in Epcot. They carry the world-famous Steiff stuffed animal brand, along with candies, wooden figurines and dress up outfits.
#18. Listen German Bands
Every season, new bands will take the stage at the Germany Gazebo located right on the edge of the pavilion. You’ll get to listen firsthand to traditional polka music while noshing on your delicious bratwurst.
#19. Shop at the Christmas Store
Germany does Christmas right with classic ornaments, centuries-old traditions and delicious food. If you’re looking for nutcrackers and glass-blown ornaments to take back home, this is your place!
#20. Get dessert at Karamell-Kuche
While shopping for Christmas, you may be tempted by the smell of hot caramel right next door. This dessert shop has excellent hand made German caramels, candies and chocolates.
#21. Meet Snow White
As Walt Disney’s first-ever princess, Snow White is a popular character who can be found in multiple places during your visit to Disney World. In Epcot, you can meet her in the country which her story was based.
#22. Eat at Sommerfest
Germany has great quick service lunch and snacks at Sommerfest, including bratwurst and sauerkraut, jumbo pretzels and pretzel bread pudding.
#23. Eat at Biergarten Restaurant
Biergarten offers an unforgettable experience with its authentic German buffet and music on stage. You’ll feel like you’re visiting a small town in Germany with the Bavarian decor and family-style seating.
Italy
#24. Shop at La Bottega Italiana
In our opinion, La Bottega showcases the quintessential Italian merchandise. They have beautiful hand-painted cookware, red and white wines and small gifts crafted in Italy.
#25. Walk the Terrace over world showcase lagoon
This area is closed off to guests at night, so be sure to head there earlier in the day for breathtaking views of Spaceship Earth across the water. The terrace is decorated with gorgeous blooms and foliage and makes for a great photo op.
#26. Eat at Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria
We think this is the best pizza – period. The dough is perfect, the sauce is perfect and the toppings are perfect. The atmosphere is quite casual and the pizza is made in large ovens you can view from your table.
#27. Eat at Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar
The Wine Cellar is the perfect casual quick-service spot with a more upscale feel. They have an extensive drink list and you can order food from the main restaurant, Tutto Italia Ristorante.
#28. Get dessert at Gelati
With all sorts of gelato creations and other Italian desserts, this quick stand is a go-to. We recommend the Espresso Gelato “Affogato”.
The American Adventure
#29. Watch the Voices of Liberty
Inside the American Adventure Capitol Building you can listen to a beautiful arrangement of American folk songs. The Voices are professional singers dressed in historical costumes and sing multiple times a day.
#30. Eat at REgal Eagle
In the mood for some good ole American Barbecue? Regal Eagle is the only place you’ll find it inside Epcot and they’ve got great options. Choose from a variety of classic and seasonal options paired with a red, white and blue Berry Punch or American lager.
#31. See the American Adventure
The American Adventure is a show narrated by animatronic Ben Franklin and Mark Twain. The air-conditioned theatre is a relaxing environment where you can learn more about famous figures from American history.
#32. catch a Concert at the American Gardens Theatre
Throughout the year, Epcot brings in musical theatre artists, local musicians and famous bands. Our favorite concert to watch at American Gardens is the Candlelight Processional at Christmastime.
#33. Eat a Funnel Cake
Have you truly experienced America if you haven’t eaten a funnel cake? The American Adventure pavilion has a whole stand dedicated to funnel cakes, made fresh and fried deliciously to order.
Japan
#34. Shop at Mitsukoshi Department Store
Mitsukoshi is the largest store in the World Showcase, patterned after Japan’s oldest department store founded in 1673. They sell all kinds of anime merchandise, home goods, clothing, zen gardens, food and candy.
We also created a big guide to the coolest things you can find in the Mitsukoshi Store.
#35. See the Bijutsu-kan Gallery
This gallery changes every few years. Currently on display is Japanese cute culture history, featuring famous cartoons and characters that inspire the colorful, childlike style.
#36. Drink at Kabuki Cafe
Kabuki Cafe is our favorite for frozen drinks and sushi on the run. Taste one of multiple flavors of Kakigori, Sake Mist or Kiran Frozen Draft.
#37. Watch Matsuriza
Taiko, traditional Japanese drumming, is performed several times a day by predominantly female drummers. You can find them on the pagoda while you sip your frozen Kiran.
#38. Eat at Teppan Edo
Who doesn’t love hibachi style service, complete with shrimp-in-the-pocket tricks and onion volcanos? Aside from the show, the food is excellent with choices ranging from lobster tail and wagyu beef to tuna and scallops.
Morocco
#39. See the Gallery of Arts and History
The Morocco pavilion is covered in embellishments, hailing the artistry of the country itself. Currently on display inside the gallery is Race Against the Sun. It showcases the history of car races and foot races in the desert and the measures taken for competing safely.
#40. Watch Native performers
Musicians change frequently at the Morocco stage, but the sounds stay true to the middle-eastern style. Violins, lutes, and flutes set to catchy tracks can be heard as you pass by.
#41. Eat at Spice Road Table
If you’re looking for a savory quick meal, Spice Road Table has the perfect Mediterranean Small Plates like hummus and olives, spicy shrimp and meat kebabs.
#42. Meet Jasmine or Aladdin
Tucked away in the alleys of Morocco, near Restaurant Marrakesh, you’ll find Jasmine or Aladdin at different times in the day. At night, you’ll even get to hold the friendship lantern for your photo with the characters.
#43. Eat at Restaurant Marrakesh
Morocco’s only table service restaurant is a great dining option for couples and families. Belly dancers and musicians perform at the center of the room while you sip on mint tea and dine on bastilla, tangine or short ribs.
France
#44. See Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along
This short film is a twisted tale on the original animated classic, featuring Le Fou as the narrator. He guides the audience through the story and the songs – and turns out to be the catalyst for Belle and the Beast’s sweeping romance!
#45. Get dessert at L’Artisan des Glaces
This little ice cream parlor is located toward the back of the pavilion, easily found as you exit Impressions de France. You won’t want to pass on trying the Croque Glace – a scoop of ice cream pressed in a hot brioche bun. You can find the Croque Glace at the very top of our list of Epcot’s best ice cream desserts.
#46. Ride Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
Go all the way to the back corner of this pavilion to find your favorite Little Chef and his rat pack of cooks in an exciting 4D ride. This one’s appropriate for all ages and takes you on a fun journey through the kitchen as Remy prepares a delicious meal.
#47. Meet Belle
If you’ve been trying to catch all the princesses today, Belle is the last one to find! Get a picture with her under the trees by World Showcase Lagoon.
#48. Eat at Chefs de France
Lunch or dinner at Chefs de France is a special treat. We love this restaurant for their Plateau de Fromages (cheese board), red wine, and Canard a l’orange (seared duck breast) – which tastes like Christmas dinner.
#49. Eat at Monsieur Paul
Monsieur Paul is perhaps the fanciest dining option in Epcot, perfect for date night. Matter of fact, we chose it as our top pick in
United Kingdom
#50. Shop at Lords and Ladies
United Kingdom is home to various shops where you can buy British staples like soccer jerseys, English tea and band paraphernalia. At Lords and Ladies you can browse perfumes created for specific members of the Royal Family.
#51. Meet Alice in Wonderland
Alice appears under the garden archway across from Yorkshire Fish & Chips a few times a day for pictures, autographs and advice on journeying through Wonderland.
#52. Watch British Rock Bands
Throughout the day, you’ll hear classic rock music coming from the back of United Kingdom pavilion. Travel through the gardens, grab a chair and listen to decade favorites from the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
#53. Eat at Yorkshire Fish & Chips
Yorkshire, England natives working at the stand describe Epcot’s fish & chips as good as those back home! This is one of our recommended quick bites for lunch or dinner, which you can enjoy sitting by the water.
#54. Drink at Rose & Crown
Experience a true British pub vibe at the Rose & Crown’s bar. The pub is often crowded, with standing room available, but the drafts and cocktails here are excellent.
Canada
#55. Watch Canadian Folk Bands
As you exit United Kingdom, you’ll happen upon the Canada Mill Stage. The current lineup has everything from French-Canadian bluegrass and folk groups to modern hip hop or jazz sounds.
#56. Drink at the Trading Post
The Trading Post carries buffalo check shirts, hockey jerseys and moose plushes, but they also have a small bar at the checkout counter where you can choose from several different beers brewed in Canada.
#57. Watch Canada Far & Wide
This short film represents Canada and the vastness of it’s multi-cultural provinces. This updated version is narrated by Canadians Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy.
#58. Get Popcorn in Canada
Disney parks have a few hidden gems in the form of popcorn stands that carry different flavors than the typical buttered kind. Canada’s unique flavor is Maple, of course.
#59. See Victoria Gardens
There is a short walkway from the main thoroughfare to Le Cellier where you can find Victoria Gardens. The beautiful landscape makes for a great photo-op with a small gardenhouse, colorful flowers and a small pond.
#60. Eat at Le Cellier Steakhouse
This delicious steakhouse is located inside the gorgeously grand chateau. Le Cellier has a magnificent menu including Prince Edward Island Mussels, Chateaubriand, and gourmet Poutine.
Still in the planning phase of your Disney vacation?
We’ve got you covered there too. We created a massive guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation on a Budget. It’s a highly detailed resource to help you decide where to spend your money and enjoy Disney World, no matter your budget.
You can also find plenty of other tips, tricks, and recommendations on this big list of 110 Disney World “Must Do’s”.
This article is by far the best information about Epcot I have ever found! I’ve been reading up on Disney World planning for a few years now and Epcot is my favorite! All of this information in one spot is so amazing! Great job!!
Susan,
Wow, that’s mighty high praise and we’re thrilled that you found it so helpful! Of all the parks, Epcot is definitely the one we spend the most time at- we’re usually there at least once a week. Hope you have the most amazing time taking in everything Disney has to offer!