Many parents of young children are worried that their kids will not enjoy Epcot as much as the other theme parks.
While it’s true that Epcot does have a lot of experiences that make it appealing for adults and older kids, it would be a mistake to assume that little ones won’t enjoy their day here as well.
RIDES
One of the reasons many parents think Epcot won’t be as enjoyable for younger kids is that there aren’t as many rides in this park as there are in the Magic Kingdom. Many attractions are just perfect for your little ones to enjoy at Epcot!
Here are some of the top attractions for younger guests:
Spaceship Earth
The giant geosphere that dominates the entrance to the park, is a slow-moving ride that takes you through scenes showing how communication has developed over time. It’s dark, cool, and calming… a perfect mid-day break for little ones who need a rest. It’s also an ideal ride for nursing moms who want a relaxed and private place to feed their baby!
The Seas with Nemo and Friends
The Seas with Nemo and Friends is always a favorite for the younger crowd! Board a clamshell for this slow-moving ride following Nemo along on his under-seas adventures. You’ll see favorite characters from the movies as well as real-life sea creatures from the Living Seas exhibit.
Frozen Ever After
Frozen Ever After is Epcot’s newest ride. Any young Frozen fans will love this boat ride to Arendelle featuring Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and other characters from the movie. They’ll enjoy seeing Elsa use her magical powers to make it snow during the hottest part of the year. Given the popularity of the film, this attraction can have exceptionally long lines so be sure to grab a FastPass+ reservation if you’ve got a little Frozen fan!
Soarin’ Around the World
Soarin’ Around the World has a 40” height requirement, but for those who are tall enough, it’s not to be missed! This simulated motion ride feels like you are flying over scenic locations from all around the world. It’s important to note that the ride does lift you fairly high off the ground (you are securely buckled into a seat with armrests and a high back) so it may be frightening for children with a fear of heights. Soarin’ is one of the park’s more popular attractions so plan to use a FastPass+ reservation or expect an extended wait in line.
Test Track
Test Track also has a 40” height requirement, but this mild thrill ride is a favorite of lots of kids. You’ll have a chance to design your own virtual car and then see how it would fare in the different maneuverability challenges as your ride vehicle goes through them too. You’ll go over bumpy pavement, quick stops, turns, and then the highlight of the ride is a zip around the building in a banked turn at about 60 mph. Kids can be seated next to Mom and Dad and are, of course, securely buckled in. It’s a great introductory thrill ride!
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Remember, it’s not all about the rides! There are other attractions younger kids are sure to enjoy…
Turtle Talk with Crush
Turtle Talk with Crush is a fun, interactive show located in the Living Seas pavilion at the end of The Seas With Nemo and Friends ride. The kids will meet Crush the sea turtle and have a chance to ask him questions. Crush appears on a video screen, and the entire show is improved as the kids do ask live questions. Help your little ones think of something they may want to ask Crush before they go into the theater, so they are prepared when the cast members ask for volunteers.
Kidcot Fun Stops
Kidcot Fun Stops around World Showcase get the kids engaged with cast members from the different countries found around World Showcase. Each stop will have a craft table with an activity for the kids. The cast members will interact with them teaching them a few phrases and telling stories.
Disney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure
Disney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure, previously Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure, is perfect for older kids and tweens. This interactive game is played on your smartphone. It leads kids through the pavilions of World Showcase to find a series of clues to help Scrooge McDuck who is hot on the trail of some of the world’s most precious ancient artifacts. You can help, using the Play Disney Parks mobile app.
CHARACTER DINING
There are two character dining locations in Epcot. Both have characters available at all three meals.
As with all character dining locations, you’ll want to make sure to schedule Advance Dining Reservations before you arrive. They do book up quickly, and there are seldom tables available for walk-ups.
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall welcomes guests to dine with the Disney Princesses including Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and Mulan (note that all of these characters may not be present at every meal). One thing to note about this restaurant is that lunch and dinner feature Norwegian food that may be a bit too unique for picky eaters! Plan for breakfast here if you don’t have an adventurous eater.
Garden Grill
Garden Grill is a family-style, all-you-can-eat restaurant that rotates slowly around over the Living with the Land attraction. You’ll have a chance to meet characters such as Mickey, Chip, Dale, and Pluto while you dine.
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