Epcot is a massive theme park and not having a plan can mean you can move aimlessly across the park. Thankfully most mistakes do not mean our vacation is ruined but, they can mean we enjoy our day less. These are the Top Epcot Mistakes to Avoid updated for 2020
Skipping Epcot!
You might have heard that Epcot is currently undergoing some massive changes. While it is true that the park is probably the most significant building site in the Western Hemisphere, there is still a lot to do in the park, and it would be a mistake to skip it. Also, there are several new additions to the park in 2020, which you will not want to miss
You attempt to do Epcot in 1 day
Epcot is a massive theme park with lots of things to see and do. Attempting it all in 1 day will usually lead to failure, tiredness & grumpy kids. If you have time, visit on 2 or even 3 days. If you only have 1 day available consider what are your must-do attractions.
Not having an Epcot FastPass strategy
FastPass+ is Disney’s attraction reservation system and allows you to book attractions in advance of your visit. Your reservation will enable you to join a much shorter line so you can experience the ride quicker. If you don’t use FastPass+ you will spend a more extended period in standby lines and experience fewer attractions.
There are 3 big attractions in Epcot:
- Frozen Ever After
- Soarin
- Test Track
Disney only lets you pick one of these Group A attractions, which also includes Epcot Forever, in your initial Fastpass selections. Only being able to select one Group A attraction presents a problem to anyone with only 1 day to visit Epcot.
All other attractions at Epcot are in Group B, and you can book up to 2 attractions. Guests who fail to book a Group A Fastpass can use all 3 Fastpasses at Tier B.
We expect Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure to be added to the Group A list of attractions when it opens in summer 2020
We have created a FastPass+ Strategy for Epcot to make sure you can ride all 3 big attractions.
Know height requirements before you visit Epcot
Disney does strictly enforce height restrictions. If the kids can’t ride Test track, let them know in advance rather than getting turned away in the line. Disney does strictly enforce height restrictions. If the kids are too small, you can use a rider switch to allow the rest of the party to ride.
We have created guides to Rider Switch and Height Requirements at the Epcot which have further information.
Not using the Single Rider Line for Test Track
Test Track has a single rider line, which allows you to join a much shorter line if your group is happy to ride apart. While waiting times are not guaranteed, they are usually much quicker in the single rider line.
Not checking what is new at Epcot
Massive changes are happening at Epcot, and several new attractions will be opening during 2020. Make sure you check the My Disney Experience App for the latest information.
The most significant new attraction is opening in summer of 2020. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will be opening in the France pavilion.
Guests will wear 3D glasses, and the attraction will use a trackless ride system. During the ride, you will shrink to the size of a rat and cause mayhem in Gustav’s kitchen.
Not bringing park essentials
Make a list of what you need to take with you to the park e.g. a camera, phone, autograph book, poncho. Make sure you don’t forget the sunscreen & a good hat. Plus you will need access to plenty of water. Remember to not take too much as you will be carrying it all-day
You can’t access the park Wi-Fi.
Online access is essential at Walt Disney World. Don’t even consider entering Epcot in 2020 without access to Wi-Fi.
The My Disney Experience App is your essential guide to wait times, maps, showtimes & a lot more. Plus you can reserve Fastpass+ and make dining reservations on the App.
Not having a break.
Don’t underestimate how much there is to do in Epcot. Plus, the Florida heat can be unforgiving. It is easy to burnout if you are not careful.
Make sure you take plenty of time out, drink plenty of water and don’t skip meal breaks. Also, consider returning to your hotel for a few hours in the afternoon.
Thinking Epcot is for adults only
Many people have the impression Epcot is for adults. In fact, it is one of our kids’ favorite parks. While kids will love Turtle Talk and the Seas with Nemo & Friends, the World Showcase is the biggest star for any children with a curious mind.
Don’t forget to visit Kidcot in each country to complete an activity and collect activity cards. A new Kidcot, with new activities, was introduced to the park in 2018.
Wearing new shoes.
Make sure your shoes are worn in and comfortable you will be doing a lot of walking. Epcot is a massive park.
Did you know the British Queen hires someone to wear in her shoes?
Remember, small children will walk a lot more than back at home. Be ready to hire a stroller for all under 5s and some older kids too.
Not Eating in World Showcase
Epcot is the epicenter for Disney World cuisine. With restaurants from all around the world, there is something that will appeal to everyone.
However, restaurants do book up, and it essential you have booked your reservations well in advance. Don’t expect to get a favorite dining location on the day, especially during free dining. If standby reservations are available, you will often experience very lengthy waits.
Missing the Festivals at Epcot
This might be unavoidable depending on when you visit, but if a festival is getting held at Epcot, you must visit. There are four festivals which return annually to Epcot:
- International Festival of the Arts.
- International Flower and Garden Festival.
- International Food and Wine Festival.
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
All these festivals have great entertainment, special events, music, and special food kitchens. Festivals at Epcot are included in your regular admission and are fantastic fun.
Visiting Epcot on major holidays
Epcot is at its busiest during summer and public holidays. The park during these times is very busy. Epcot can also bring in large crowds during the weekends when festivals are getting held, especially the Food and Wine.
However, you can still have a great time at Epcot during these busiest periods, but be prepared for added crowds. Our Guide to Avoiding Crowds at Walt Disney World has further information.
Are you wondering what is the best time to visit Walt Disney World in 2020? It isn’t as simple as you think. Our Blog on when to visit Walt Disney World in 2020 will help you with the answer.
You drank too much at Epcot
We always recommend drinking plenty of water in Epcot. However; Drinking around the World is a fantastic fun Disney experience enjoyed by many adults.
Just remember the Florida sun can be unforgiving if you drink a bit too much alcohol.
Not staying for the night at Epcot
Epcot is even more magical at night but rarely stays open beyond 9 pm. Make sure you don’t leave before it gets dark.
Currently, the evening show at Epcot is Epcot Forever. However, the big new evening show, HarmonioUS, is rumored to be opening in the spring.
Do you have any other Epcot Mistakes to avoid in 2020? Why not leave us a comment below?
Read More from Walt Disney World
Pushed for time? You might want to consider skipping these Epcot attractions.
Our 2020 Guide to Walt Disney World is a great starting place to plan your Disney Vacation.
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