Magic Kingdom is Walt Disney World’s most popular park, but Epcot is a close rival. So it’s understandable that folks might be having a tough time choosing between the two. I’ve been to both more times than I could ever count and each park has a totally unique experience.
It can be tough to consider all the differences between the two, so I made this guide to provide a straightforward comparison of WDW’s two “big” parks.
Magic Kingdom or Epcot? – The Short Answer
Magic Kingdom is best for young children, families, and anyone who wants the full “Disney” theme park experience. Epcot is best for adults, older kids, and anyone who loves great food and interactive educational opportunities. Both parks are quite large and have a wide variety of attractions.
This answer is too short to fill you in on all that Magic Kingdom and Epcot have to offer, so we’ve gone into great detail on all the things you’ll find at each place.
There is an endless number of things to do at both parks. I’ve broken them up into three sections for you: Rides, Restaurants, and Attractions.
Magic Kingdom vs Epcot: Rides
Winner: Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom has a huge number of iconic rides that are great for the whole family. What it lacks in thrills it makes up for in pure childlike delight. Epcot has fewer rides, though some are a little more advanced. From the “Mountains” to Haunted Mansion to Pirates of the Caribbean, there’s a lot of fun to be had at Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom’s Best Rides
TRON Lightcycle / Run (10/10)
This is the most thrilling addition that Magic Kingdom has added in a long while. We think it’s worth the hype, even though the ride doesn’t last quite as long as we’d like it to. This coaster is influenced by the original TRON: Legacy film where riders climb aboard a futuristic motorcycle to race through a video game universe. TRON’s track goes both indoor and outdoor and features a 60mph takeoff with many twists and turns.
Space Mountain (10/10)
Not only is Space Mountain one of my favorite iconic structures, it’s one of the best rides at Disney World. We love this dark indoor roller coaster for its classic appeal. It doesn’t invert, but the track is really quick and there are tons of tight turns. We’d recommend you use a precious Lightning Lane slot for this one since wait times can get pretty lengthy.
Haunted Mansion (10/10)
Haunted Mansion is a dark ride that takes guests on a “Doom Buggy” tour of a lightheartedly spooky mansion. This scary house is full of cartoon “Happy Haunts” doing various activities around the estate. We don’t think it’s too scary for children as you’ll see plenty of young ones around age five or older willingly hop aboard this silly ride.
Pirates of the Caribbean (10/10)
Pirates of the Caribbean is an iconic Disney ride that takes guests through a number of elaborate pirate scenes. Outside of a couple of small drops, this one is a great family-friendly ride. It’s also impressive and fun for those familiar with the Pirates movies since you’ll spot Captain Jack Sparrow in his native habitat. The sets are incredible and we recommend it for anyone who wants to add little adventure to their day.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (9/10)
Big Thunder Mountain is another Disney World classic that we consider a must-do. There’s loads of Frontier fun to be had on this rickety gold mine train. The ride is a bit fast-paced and the G-force hits surprisingly hard while not doing anything too crazy. It’s a classic for a reason and most people of all ages will love it.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (9/10)
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is one of Magic Kingdom’s more charming rides. It’s a simple roller coaster that features a slow section with a lot of really cool Seven Dwarfs animatronics. We really like the gliding turns and the artistic style of the ride, but wait times can be quite high for this one. They can be difficult to get, but we highly recommend Lightning Lane for this one.
Epcot’s Best Rides
Soarin’ Around the World (10/10)
Soarin’ Around the World is a one-of-a-kind hang glider simulator that takes guests over some of the world’s coolest landscapes. The ride lifts high into the air and situates itself in front of a huge screen that shows locations from Niagara Falls to the Eiffel Tower. The sights, sounds, and smells all combine with the motion of the ride to create a really immersive experience. Soarin’ is very popular and it’s Epcot’s #1 can’t-miss ride in my opinion.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (10/10)
Guardians of the Galaxy is based on the popular movie of super heroes from out of this world. Guests will enjoy being transported to the planet Xandar and then suddenly escaping the wrath of legendary Marvel enemies. Your “escape pod” is the ride vehicle which whips you backwards through outer space while blasting the toons of Star Lord’s Awesome Mix. It’s a super fun ride but we wish it lasted longer.
Spaceship Earth (9/10)
Spaceship Earth is a slow-moving dark ride that takes place inside Epcot’s massive geodesic sphere, a.k.a. “Spaceship Earth”. The ride is pure, classic Epcot and everyone should experience it at least once. The ride takes you on a journey through the history and development of humankind over the ages. It starts with the earliest humans and goes all the way to the 20th century. Spaceship Earth is well-known for having painstakingly accurate sets and animatronics decked out in period-specific garb.
Mission: SPACE (9/10)
Mission: SPACE always makes my list of favorite Epcot rides for one reason- it’s technically the most intense ride in all of Disney World. It’s a space shuttle simulator that puts out some really strong g-forces while it takes you to Mars. It’s great for the thrill, but it doesn’t have much in the way of storyline. Gary Sinise used to be the face of the ride, but that recently changed (much to my dismay). Avoid this one if you have problems with motion sickness or claustrophobia.
Test Track (8/10)
Test Track is a super-popular track ride that lets drivers road test a vehicle of their own design. You’ll travel through a series of indoor turns and obstacles before reaching an outdoor stretch where you reach max speeds of 63mph. The outdoor part of the ride is definitely the best part and it really is quite fast. I like Test Track, but I do feel that it’s a little bit overrated. Wait times are almost always long, so definitely consider using Lightning Lane here.
Frozen Ever After (8/10)
Frozen Ever After is an indoor water ride that takes you on a trip through Arendelle with all of the Frozen film’s main characters. Not to worry though, you probably won’t get wet. The animatronic work is very impressive and the storyline is cool. Kids and anyone who loves Frozen shouldn’t be disappointed, however the wait times can get really long. If you’re not really a big Frozen fan, you may want to use your valuable Lightning Lane elsewhere.
Magic Kingdom vs Epcot: Restaurants
Winner: Epcot
Epcot is the undisputed king of Disney World dining. This is one of Epcot’s greatest strengths. Magic Kingdom does have a few noteworthy restaurants, but nothing at Magic Kingdom can really compete with Epcot in this area. From outstanding quick-service to exquisite fine-dining, Epcot has it all.
Check out our Insider’s Guide to Epcot Dining to get a full ranking of every restaurant, snack, dessert, and drink at Epcot.
Epcot’s Best Restaurants
Monsieur Paul (10/10)
Monsieur Paul is a restaurant that features French fine-dining. It’s a huge surprise for anyone who wouldn’t expect a true white tablecloth experience inside a theme park. The atmosphere is impeccable and the prix fixe menu is always amazing. Prices are high, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for some of Disney World’s best upscale food inside the gates of a park. Monsieur Paul ranks toward the top of our list of best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Le Cellier Steakhouse (10/10)
Le Cellier is an upscale steakhouse located in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion. The food and the atmosphere are both superb. The entrees (beef, especially) are some of Disney’s best. The enhancements are just as good and you shouldn’t leave without trying the signature poutine. The restaurant is designed to emulate the cellar of a fine Canadian chateau where the stone, wood, and low lighting make it really cozy.
TAKUMI-TEI (10/10)
Takumi-Tei is a bit of a hidden gem in Epcot’s Japan Pavilion. The experience here is less Western and definitely more Japanese influenced. One of the first things guests will notice is the natural decor inspired by earth, wood, stone, water and washi paper. The restaurant offers two dining experiences that include omnivorous and plant-based options. Expect an element of surprise with familiar dishes like Wagyu beef, sushi, tempura and tofu.
Via Napoli (9/10)
If you want the best pizza Disney World has to offer, you’ll find it at Via Napoli. Via Napoli is an Italian restaurant in the Italy Pavilion. The restaurant serves other entrees too, but trust me- you’ll want the pizza. The Neapolitan-style pizza is really authentic and it’s all made with high-quality ingredients. There are a number of different “red” pizzas and “white” pizzas to choose from, or you can just create your own.
Chefs de France (9/10)
Chefs de France is the France Pavilion’s main restaurant. It’s a moderate-priced restaurant with a really big menu containing all sorts of French favorites. The food is always good and it’s quite a bit cheaper than Monsieur Paul. The one downside to the restaurant is that it’s pretty large and it can be loud. That said, I never think twice about making a reservation here if I’m in the mood for French.
Biergarten (9/10)
Biergarten is a German buffet that is one of the most fun table-service restaurants at Disney World. The food is hearty and the beer is (obviously) awesome. The restaurant is indoors, but the whole thing is designed to feel like an outdoor Bavarian village center. There are building facades, a water mill, and a stage that features a live polka band. Seating is a little different at Biergarten though and you’ll be placed at tables with other guests. It’s fun if you enjoy good times and drinks with friendly strangers. It’s not so fun if you’re shy or if you’re just looking for a more private experience.
Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room (8/10)
Rose & Crown is an English restaurant that has a menu full of traditional English pub classics. Fish & chips, bangers & mash, etc. The Welsh Pub Burger here is one of my favorite burgers at Epcot. Beers here are also great, especially the “pub mixes” (different British beers mixed together).
Epcot Quick-Service Restaurants (10/10)
Epcot’s quick-service restaurants are second-to-none at Disney World. You can find plenty of amazing food here without ever having to make a reservation. Italy has incredible gelato and ice cream (which we have a specific guide for!). The UK has some of the best fish and chips you can find anywhere. Norway has an outstanding bakery. Mexico has a spot inside the pyramid dedicated to nothing but tequila. The list goes on and on.
Magic Kingdom’s Best Restaurants
Be Our Guest (10/10)
Be Our Guest is hands down my favorite Magic Kingdom restaurant. It’s safe to say that other guests agree- Adults will love Be Our Guest and so will children. The restaurant is designed like the inside of the castle from Beauty and the Beast and split into three rooms: The Ballroom, The West Wing, and The Castle Gallery. The interior offers a unique dining location but guests will also be pleased to see the Beast make an appearance. The food is outstanding and it’s easily the best you’ll find inside Magic Kingdom.
Cinderella’s Royal Table (10/10)
Let me start by saying that you shouldn’t choose Cinderella’s Royal Table for the food. They serve a standard upscale American menu, which isn’t bad, but this restaurant is all about the experience. Cinderella’s Royal Table is located inside the iconic Cinderella Castle and is the top tier dining establishment in Magic Kingdom. During your meal, you’ll be visited by five different Disney Princesses. It’s a really cool experience and it’s worth the money for anyone if dining with royalty is your vibe.
Liberty Tree Tavern (9/10)
Liberty Tree Tavern is an exceptional restaurant with traditional American food fit for the Founding Fathers. The whole experience transports you to the 1770’s where women wore petticoats and bonnets and men wore wigs. The best part is that Liberty Tree serves a full Thanksgiving feast in an all-you-can-eat family-style dining adventure. If you’re looking for a hearty meal inside Colonial America, Liberty Tree Tavern is the place to be.
The Crystal Palace (9/10)
The Crystal Palace is a character dining location full of Winnie the Pooh and his friends. This buffet-style restaurant is located on Main Street in a beautiful Victorian building encased in glittering windows. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner all while celebrating Friendship Day with the Hundred Acre Woods gang. Children will especially enjoy eating here and adults should find it worth the money.
The Skipper Canteen is a relatively new addition to Magic Kingdom which pulls inspiration from the Jungle River Cruise. You’ll find it in Adventureland serving a fusion of African, Indian and Asian dishes. The menu is more adventurous and “wild” compared to what you’ll find at other Magic Kingdom restaurants, so it may be harder for children to eat here. However, if you like the kind of humor you get on Jungle River Cruise, your family will enjoy the dining experience here.
Tony’s Town Square (7/10)
Tony’s Town Square is pretty standard Italian-American food on Magic Kingdom’s Main Street. It’s likely the first thing you’ll see when walking into the park. Reservations are very easy to get here, so if you’re looking for a quick bite at a table-service restaurant this isn’t a bad choice. Lady and the Tramp is the main theme and guests are invited to share in their Bella Notte.
Magic Kingdom Quick-Service Restaurants (8/10)
Magic Kingdom quick service can be hit or miss depending on which spot you choose. The top choices are often Aloha Isle (which serves the mythical Dole Whip) the Friar’s Nook and Sleepy Hollow. There are a few good staples like Columbia Harbor House, Casey’s Corner and Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, but the majority serve some pretty bland theme park food.
Magic Kingdom vs Epcot: Entertainment & Attractions
Winner: Epcot
Both Epcot and Magic Kingdom have some really good entertainment and attractions. It’s somewhat of a close call, but Epcot has a bit of an edge here because the whole park is filled from top to bottom with attractions. The World Showcase portion of Epcot alone is essentially one gigantic attraction filled with lots of smaller ones.
Epcot’s Best Entertainment & Attractions
The World Showcase (10/10)
The World Showcase is technically one whole section of Epcot, but for the sake of this list, I’m considering it as a single huge attraction. 11 countries make up the World Showcase- Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, America, Morocco, Japan, France, The UK, and Canada. Each country’s “Pavilion” has unique restaurants and entertainment and a few hidden gems packed in each location. There are so many interesting things to see and do in the Showcase that it can easily take more than one full day to experience it all.
LUMINOUS THE SYMPHONY OF US (10/10)
Luminous at Epcot is a spectacular nighttime show at Disney World. It’s 100% an Epcot must-do and a Disney World vacation wouldn’t be complete without seeing it at least once. The show features loads of technological marvels like lasers and pyrotechnics, alongside beautiful fireworks and an epic musical score. Visitors are often pleased to find that there is not a bad seat in the house for Luminous, which makes it the best nighttime show for viewing.
The Seas Pavilion (10/10)
The Seas is a pavilion in World Nature that houses a number of saltwater aquarium exhibits. The main tank is one of the largest saltwater tanks in the world and is home to an absolutely massive amount of ocean species. You’ll see dolphins, turtles, sharks, manatees, rays, and countless fish species. You could easily lose hours just watching all of the animals in the tank swim by.
The American Adventure (10/10)
The American Adventure is a unique stage show that uses detailed sets and animatronic characters to tell the story of America. Mark Twain and Benjamin Franklin serve as the narrators, taking you from the Revolutionary War all the way into the 20th century. The show is one of Disney World’s most impressive achievements and it should always factor into an Epcot trip.
JOURNEY OF WATER (9/10)
This is one of the newest attractions at Epcot themed after the Moana animated film. It’s an educational opportunity for adults and children alike where you can learn about the full cycle of water from earth to sky. It’s also a fun area for cooling off and exploration, located inside World Nature. There are many interactive stations along the pathway where the water reacts to your movements.
Reflections of China (9/10)
Reflections of China is a short film that plays in the China Pavilion. The film’s screens are 360-degrees, so you’re surrounded while you watch. You’ll see some of China’s most beautiful areas and landmarks, some of which are rarely accessible by western cameras.
Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along (8/10)
This interesting show offers a nice reprieve from the hot outdoors while giving guests an opportunity to sing their favorite songs from the popular animated movie. Le Fou is the show host and guides you on a twisted tour through the original story, crediting him with the romance between Belle and the Beast.
O! CANADA (8/10)
O! Canada is another educational theater experience that’s been recently revamped. Audiences get a 360 degree view and description of each province in Canada, all narrated by Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy. The updated film showcases the splendor of Canada’s natural habitat and landscape while highlighting some of Canada’s most noteworthy icons and people.
Magic Kingdom’s Best Entertainment & Attractions
Happily Ever After (10/10)
Happily Ever After is Magic Kingdom’s beloved nighttime performance, celebrating 100 years of Walt Disney animation. It’s so epic that it’ll make grown men cry with the intricate musical accompaniment. Happily Ever After pulls in music from a ton of Disney’s best films and perfectly incorporates it into the fireworks and castle projection show. If you stand further back, you’ll see projections on the Main Street buildings, as well. Get a spot an hour beforehand if you care about your viewing location.
Festival of Fantasy Parade (9/10)
The Festival of Fantasy Parade is one of Magic Kingdom’s newer features. It’s a daily parade that has some of the most elaborate floats I’ve seen. The Tangled float and the Maleficent float are particularly cool. There are tons of characters that take part in the show, so it’s a good way to see them all in one place.
Country Bear Jamboree (9/10)
Country Bear Jamboree is a time-honored favorite at Disney World with lots of hokey, backwoods songs and references. This audio-animatronic concert features multiple acts of bears from around the country. You’ll be treated to several solos, a full bluegrass band, a trio and a full house of rowdy country bears. This is a must-do attraction any time you come to Magic Kingdom.
Enchanted Tales with Belle (9/10)
Enchanted Tales with Belle is a fun attraction that blends animatronic characters with live actors in a one-of-a-kind performance. Belle tells stories alongside Beauty and the Beast icons like Lumiere and Mrs. Potts. During the show, she’ll choose guests from the audience to play a role on stage. This is one of the most intimate settings for a show at Disney and we think it’s a winner regardless of age. Enchanted Tales is also the place to be if you’re looking for a convenient picture with Belle.
Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor (8/10)
Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor is not what we thought it would be when we first tried it out. This is a full theater stage performance where monsters perform a comedy act live on stage. The experience is completely different every time you go because the monsters tailor their act to the audience. One of the funniest parts of the show is when the single people out in the crowd to ask questions or prompt them to do something silly. Adults might have even more fun with this one than the children.
Mickey’s PhilharMagic (7/10)
Mickey’s Philharmagic is a great place to go to kill time in a dark, cold theater. This is a short 3D film that combines music from a handful of classic Disney movies into a concert of sorts. Mickey Mouse is the conductor and he treats you to an array of songs and scenery while using his magician’s hat to compose the music along the way. It’s a nice show, especially if you like the beauty of Disney film.
Conclusion
To sum it up, Magic Kingdom and Epcot couldn’t be more different and they have so much to offer no matter your age. We used this guide to help you get to the bottom of the information you need while planning your vacation. Though both Epcot and Magic Kingdom are the most popular parks at Walt Disney World, we know you’ve chosen a favorite.
Magic Kingdom is the quintessential Disney theme park. It has all of the classic Disney charm and is definitely the park that incorporates the most films and characters. It’s also the park that invokes the most nostalgia for many people. Magic Kingdom is all about providing that Disney magic to families and creating memories. It doesn’t matter what age you are, you’d have to be pretty cynical to deny that Magic Kingdom has something special about it.
Epcot is a totally unique theme park experience with the World Showcase as its main attraction, plus awesome nature, tech and future themed areas. Adults and older children will generally get the most out of the park, but it still has plenty for younger kids, too. Even though it’s been around for a long time, the World Showcase really is a masterpiece. There are just so many things to see, eat, and experience. Epcot has always been my personal favorite park and it’s the park in which I spend the most time.
In conclusion, we think Epcot has a slight edge in our book, but we love both Magic Kingdom and Epcot in their own special ways.
Looking for More Park Comparisons?
We also have comparisons for some of the other parks. Each one goes into the same detail that this guide has.
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