Of all the theme parks in Orlando, I think Epcot has the most areas to explore. walt disney world The second-oldest park has in some ways shaken off its initial criticism of being “just food and shopping,” adding more rides and characters.
But if all you want to do is drink around the world and spin around on the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind roller coaster, you’re missing out on quality browsing. Reading is also essential at Epcot, where you can learn about history if you slow down a little.
Here are five off-the-beaten path spots to explore in Epcot.
I wish you good luck
I sometimes wonder about theme park souvenirs and whether modern merchandising trends like online shopping have taken a toll. Still, the stores inside the attraction seem to be quite crowded. I still hear my parents’ budgeting lessons: “Just buy one big thing, two small things,” and “I don’t think that’ll fit in your suitcase, kid.”
My first step into the House of Good Fortune store in Epcot’s China Pavilion was with the expectation of traditional clothing, jewelry, and other items. As I turned the corner, I came across an unexpected item for sale. A capybara ink pen. It turns out that this semi-aquatic mammal from South America has popular restaurants such as capybara cafes in China as well.
All animals are popular with Good Fortune shoppers, but pandas are at the forefront of the merchandise, from yin-yang-themed T-shirts to handbags, bucket hats, keychains, bobbleheads and stuffed animals known as shoulderkins.
Other surprises: The almost Shanghai Stucky-style chopsticks have your name on them, and the 6-foot-wide fans are actually for sale. I don’t think that will fit in your suitcase, bud.
deserted island
In some ways, the Morocco Pavilion is the anti-Epcot. Quiet and not too crowded, the second half focuses on tiled foundations, exposed walls, and a peek into the sky. It’s a quiet place, but surprisingly you can buy sangria or mediterranean beer there. Exhale.
There’s also a museum of sorts called the “Gallery of Art and History,” which delves into Sahara-related topics such as the Marathon of the Sand, a six-day race in the desert. There are also relics such as trophies that were loaned to us. Ever wonder where Toda Didi forgot the award she won in 2008?
hidden idol
There’s a sign outside the Stave Church Gallery in the Norway Pavilion advertising the Viking exhibit, but it’s easy to miss. Inside there are carvings of the ancient gods Thor, Odin, Loki and Freya, and naturally Disney has to mention Marvel on their website.
There is also a large exhibit of Seers, representing women who performed rituals inspired by Norse poetry.
Nearby, a new permanent kiosk on the lawn serves Pavilion’s famous school bread, sweet rolls dipped in coconut and served with custard. The menu also includes alcoholic drinks, such as frozen Troll Krem (cranberry, vanilla, and dragonberry rum) and Mickey ice cream bars, which cost $1 more than Gakupan.
tank talk
As you exit the Test Track attraction, you’ll see what I would call the showroom of the future. There are 11 current vehicles on display here. It’s an interesting arrangement as people seem to be rushing to get out, but many are pointing and discussing the General Motors models on display.
What you won’t find in the showroom: Coffee in a Styrofoam cup. But when a visitor asked to see the inside of the car, workers quickly took the keys. Driving out of that showroom… must be a pain.
Talking about tanks
It’s a little strange to say that Seabase Aquarium is in a corner. It’s a very large place, but I often see posts on the internet asking, “Did you know there’s an aquarium at Epcot?” Head over to the Big Ol’ Hidden Gem, located right behind the Nemo ride.
Although it is large, there are small rooms and aquariums for various marine life. But I think one of the biggest draws is the two-story manatee viewing (and feeding) area, plus the space is air-conditioned, making it a great climate-controlled hidden gem.
The space feels somewhere between chill and Field Trip Gone Wild. You’ve been warned.
Email us at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. Blue Sky: @Theme Park Database. Thread account: @dbevil. X account: @themeparks. Subscribe to Theme Park Ranger Newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters.
