The Building site also known as EPCOT - Orlando 2022

Before Walt Disney World’s closure, a multi-year Transformation of EPCOT had started. Unfortunately, the ambitious plans have been significantly delayed, and several projects were postponed or downgraded. However, the transformation is continuing, and currently, there is construction happening throughout EPCOT. The result is that EPCOT has now replaced Hollywood Studios as the “World’s largest building site.” Today we look at what has changed in the “Building site also known as EPCOT.”

Future World, in theory, no longer exists.

EPCOT traditionally was split into two lands World Showcase and Future World. Future World has been divided into three separate areas as part of the transformation. However, it isn’t easy to work out precisely what has changed. The three new areas are World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature. There are partitions up everywhere in the areas that are now designated as World Celebration and World Discovery. Currently, nothing exists to highlight the different lands or to indicate which one you are in. Perhaps, the changes from Future World will become more evident once the transformation is complete.

Space 220 EPCOT — Space 220 Restaurant new in EPCOT

There are Barriers Everywhere

Significant amounts of what was Future World currently has considerable barriers/hoardings restricting access. It does make navigation of the park more complicated as several routes have been closed off. The walls are so tall it can be challenging to work out exactly where you are in the park.

However, the parts of the park that are not currently undergoing development look fantastic.

Hoardings and barriers are everywhere at EPCOT

New attractions are already open!

The entire park isn’t a building site, and several new attractions are already open, including Walt Disney World’s two newest E-Ticket attractions.

EPCOT is being transformed but many changes are already complete

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure should have opened in 2020 but eventually opened on October 1, 2021. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure already existed at Walt Disney Studios Paris and is a guest favorite. The attraction is in 3D and uses a trackless ride system. During the ride, you shrink to the size of a rat and cause mayhem in Gustav’s kitchen.

The attraction is currently attracting long waits. Perhaps it is due to the lack of new attractions in Paris, but I prefer the Paris version. However, the outside setting of the ride is undoubtedly better in Paris.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT was initially slated to open in 2021. Construction resumed once the parks reopened and eventually opened on May 27, 2022. The attraction is housed in the new Wonders of Xandar pavilion

The indoor coaster stars the cast of Guardians of the Galaxy, including Rocket, Star-Lord, and Groot. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the World. The attraction has spinning components and a backward launch. One of six randomly selected “cult” songs accompanies our ride.

The ride is fantastic and possibly the best attraction at Walt Disney World.

World Showcase currently feels very different.

World Showcase is traditionally my favorite part of EPCOT, but currently, it does feel very different:

Many shops seem to have supply problems, and significantly less merchandise is available.
International cast members are currently not working at EPCOT. Traditionally EPCOT pavilions are staffed by participants of the Disney Cultural Representative Program. The program is due to start again late this year. Currently, visiting the Japanese Pavilion and getting served by a Floridian does feel a bit odd.

World Showcase currently feels very different at EPCOT

Festivals are all year round.

This is the best bit of the changes to EPCOT; the annual festivals are now held on most weeks of the year. The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival now start in July rather than September. We have loved tasting the food at EPCOT as we have toured the park.