7 Things to Do First When You Get Into Epcot

There is truly something magical when you arrive at a Walt Disney World park. Epcot, the second oldest theme park at Disney World, is no different. Epcot holds a special place in many Disney fans’ hearts for its look at the future, innovation, and different cultures. But, with so much to do, deciding where to start can be overwhelming. To make sure your arrival is a magical memory you can treasure and not a hectic, frantic moment you’ll remember or won’t want to, we suggest you consider the following.

Editor’s Note: We do not include Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind as a place to go because the attraction currently requires guests to join the virtual queue to ride the attraction.

1 – Take a Photo in Front of Spaceship Earth

Once inside the park, one of the first things you’ll want to do is snap that iconic photo in front of Spaceship Earth. The construction in front of the iconic attraction is now finished, and the walls are down! Disney PhotoPass photographers are there to take pictures. Be sure to also admire the new fountain in front of Spaceship Earth. It’s gorgeous and is a great addition to the area!

2 – Head to the France Pavilion

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is the family attraction in the France pavilion. We recommend you head to the attraction first thing in the morning. The line will only get longer as the day goes on, so typically, first thing in the morning is the best time to wait in the standby line, especially if you want to not pay for Lightning Lane Multi Pass, to access the Lightning Lane for this attraction.

3 – Have a Pastry at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie

While in the France pavilion if you’re looking for a tasty breakfast spot, then you’ll want to head over to the France pavilion for breakfast at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie. This quick-service location serves delicious French treats. You’ll also get to enjoy walking through the Canada and United Kingdom pavilions with fewer crowds.

4 – Enjoy a Starbucks Drink While You Review Your Day

Starbucks has a new location in Connections Cafe & Eatery. This convenient new spot is a great place to pick up a coffee or light breakfast as you are gearing up for a full day at Epcot. It’s air-conditioned, and there is a huge seating area (or step outside to #5). This is also a great time to review the park map and the plans for the rest of your day.

5 – Explore the New World Celebration Gardens and Say Hi to Walt

After four years of closure, the center of EPCOT has finally reopened to guests. Here, you’ll find the new World Celebration Gardens, a gorgeous space that is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee or breakfast. There is a variety of seating for guests to take it all in. You’ll also find the new “Walt the Dreamer” statue. The statue shows Walt later in his life when he was dreaming up the initial concepts for the park and the overall Florida Project. His relaxed and reflective demeanor was important to the design of this statue, a nod to the pure optimism he felt for the future and the magic of possibility that was the basis for the dream he never saw come to life. Guests can sit next to him for a photo. You don’t want to miss it!

6 – Be on the Lookout for Characters!

At EPCOT, guests can find their favorite characters near Spaceship Earth, the Imagination Pavilion!, the new World Celebration Gardens (#5), and scattered throughout World Showcase!

7 – Take a Ride on Test Track

Editor’s Note: Test Track is currently closed for reimagining!

Another attraction we encourage you to ride during the early morning is Test Track. This fun-filled, thrilling attraction generally has the second-longest standby wait times in Epcot, making it a great attraction to visit early in the morning at Epcot.

We hope you have a fantastic time at Epcot!