6 EPCOT Mistakes That Scream “This Is My First Trip to Disney World”

EPCOT is not your average theme park and treating it like one is a rookie mistake.

Sure, there are rides, characters, and plenty of iconic Disney magic, but EPCOT is a whole different beast compared to Magic Kingdom or Hollywood Studios. If it’s your first time at Disney World, there are some key pitfalls that might make EPCOT feel overwhelming (or worse – underwhelming). Don’t worry, though! We’re here to make sure you don’t fall into these classic first-timer traps.

Treating EPCOT Like Magic Kingdom

Listen, EPCOT has rides, some great ones in fact, but if your game plan is to treat it like Magic Kingdom and just knock out rides all day, you’re missing the entire point. EPCOT is about exploring, wandering, and, most importantly, eating.

You don’t want to be the person racing from Soarin’ to Test Track to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure without stopping to soak in the atmosphere of the World Showcase.

Take your time, grab some snacks, watch a live performance, or even chat with Cast Members from different countries. Trust us, EPCOT is much more than just a list of attractions.

Not Walking to EPCOT If You’re Staying on the Boardwalk or Skyliner

If your hotel is along the Disney Skyliner route or on the Boardwalk (like Disney’s Beach Club, Yacht Club, or BoardWalk Inn), the fact that you can walk into EPCOT is a game-changer.

Many first-timers don’t realize that there’s a whole other entrance to EPCOT (The International Gateway) right near the France and UK Pavilions.

Instead of waiting for a bus or boat, take advantage of this shortcut and enter the park with minimal hassle. You’ll be munching on a baguette before most people even make it through the front gates.

Trying to Eat Everything

EPCOT is a foodie’s dream, especially during one of its many festivals. But if your plan is to hit every booth, try every snack, or conquer the entire World Showcase in one go, you’re setting yourself up for failure (and a major food coma).

The best strategy is to check out what’s available ahead of time, make a game plan, and focus on a few must-try items. Otherwise, you’ll end up full halfway through the day, regretting that third serving of cheese soup from Canada.

Not Checking the Calendar for Festivals (Or Not Avoiding Them If You Want a Quieter Trip)

EPCOT basically lives in festival mode. From the Food & Wine Festival to the Flower & Garden Festival, there’s usually something going on.

If you’re expecting a regular, laid-back EPCOT experience but unknowingly show up during Food & Wine on a weekend, you might be surprised to find a packed park filled with snack-hunting festival-goers.

On the flip side, if you want to experience a festival and didn’t check the dates beforehand, you might end up missing out. Always check the calendar before planning your EPCOT day. You’ll thank yourself later for doing so.

Starting Your Walk Around the World Showcase in Canada

Look, you can start in Canada, but let’s be real: the only correct answer here is starting in Mexico.

Starting in Canada means you’re prioritizing cheddar cheese soup and steak, while starting in Mexico means margaritas and tacos.

It’s a debate as old as time itself (or at least as old as EPCOT), but if you want to pace yourself with drinks, snacks, and atmosphere, Mexico is usually the move.

That said, if your goal is to get to France for a pastry ASAP, then fine, we’ll allow it. Just know that the Mexico-first crowd will be judging you.

Being Tricked Into Trying the Beverly at Club Cool

Oh, you poor thing. If someone enthusiastically tells you to try the Beverly soda at Club Cool, just know that they are not your friend. This infamous Italian soda is a rite of passage for Disney World newbies, but let’s just say it’s more of a prank than a treat.

If you’re feeling brave, go ahead and give it a sip (and make sure someone records your reaction). But if you’d rather not have your taste buds assaulted, stick to the other international sodas instead. You’ve been warned!

EPCOT is one of the most unique theme parks in the world, and while it’s easy to make these first-timer mistakes, it’s just as easy to avoid them with a little planning. So, now that you know what not to do, you’re well on your way to experiencing EPCOT like a pro.

Keep checking back in with us at AllEars for more Disney World tips that’ll make your trip smoother!

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What’s your go-to EPCOT strategy? Let us know in the comments!