Geodesic sphere at night

A Guide to Every Attraction at EPCOT, Listed & Ranked

Last updated:

Epcot isn’t your typical theme park. Previously called EPCOT Center, Walt Disney intended it to be the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, a place where people from around the world could live, work, and exchange ideas. While that didn’t happen, of course, Epcot has become the theme park known for its educational spirit. For those with a passion for travel, cultures, food, and technology, this is the Disney park for you.

So, what Epcot rides, shows, and other attractions should you plan to see on your next trip to Disney World? Read on as we round up the many attractions available, including the very best rides at Epcot. (Updated February 2, 2023)

Epcot Spaceship Earth at Sunset

Best Rides at Epcot

Wondering which are the best rides at Epcot? Disney World’s second theme park may be lacking in the thrill ride department, but it more than makes up for it with an abundance of family-friendly attractions, many with an educational spin. Here are our favorites:

Frozen Ever After

Frozen Ever After is one of the most popular rides in the park and with good reason! One of several Epcot boat rides, this is the most exciting of the bunch thanks to more than a few surprises. Fans of Frozen will love it, and even those who don’t will still have a great time. Does it feel slightly out of place from the rest of education-loving Epcot? A little bit, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. 

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

With its winning combination of popular Marvel characters, a killer soundtrack, the thrill of a roller coaster and just a dash of science, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind has quickly become one of the best rides at Epcot. Is it our favorite coaster at Disney World? Not quite (that title goes to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Expedition Everest or the soon-to-open TRON Lightcycle / Run), but it sure is a heckuva lot of fun.

Olaf, Elsa and Anna dressed up

Living With the Land

We’ll admit that Living With the Land may seem like a surprising choice for one of the best rides at Epcot. However, this slow-moving boat tour past rows of fruits and vegetables and tanks of fish really epitomizes the whole concept behind Epcot – experiencing cultures from around the world and the technologies of tomorrow in a fun, educational way. 

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Using immersive 3D technology, creative staging and rodent-like ride vehicles, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is one of those rides that appeals to kids and adults alike. The Parisian rooftop scenes are charming, to say the least, as is viewing the ride from the perspective of a rat. Sure, it’s based on an animated film, but it’s a colorful inside look at one of France’s most quintessential settings, the café.

Soarin’ Around the World

Similar to its Land Pavilion neighbor, Soarin’ Around the World is another ride that captures everything Epcot is all about. From the innovative ride vehicle to the thrilling views of iconic scenes from around the world, it’s the perfect combination of cultural experiences and technology all set to an epic soundtrack, plus it’s a whole lot of fun. 

Test Track

One of the only true thrill rides in the park, Test Track is a must for those who miss the heart-pounding speed of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster or the twists and turns of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. It’s also yet another Epcot ride that manages to hit the sweet spot between education and entertainment, where cutting-edge technologies and future cars meet for a roller coaster-like ride. 

Blue test vehicles on a loading track

Epcot Rides & Other Attractions

Strictly speaking, there are only 9 rides at Epcot, soon to be 10 when you include Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. This might sound like either a short day at the park or extra time to drink around the world when, in fact, there are actually close to 40 different attractions spread across Epcot Center. In addition to rides, you and your crew can also experience things like art galleries, films, play areas, and more. 

As this is Epcot, many of the attractions have an educational aspect, from learning about the agriculture of tomorrow over at Living With the Land to the various cultural films played at pavilions throughout World Showcase. Does this add up to the most thrilling ride experience at Walt Disney World? Not exactly, but it has created some classic, near-iconic Disney World rides that really shouldn’t be missed. 

With a focus on learning, you might think that Epcot isn’t very family friendly, but really, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, aside from the art galleries and, to a lesser extent, some of the films, the vast majority of attractions are made just as much for the kiddos as they are for their parents, with most not even having a height restriction.

Canada Palace over water

And even if there is a height requirement that one of their little ones can’t quite reach just yet, parents can simply use Disney’s Parent Swap (or Rider Switch) program where each parent is allowed to ride separately while the other waits back with the too-small child. Just tell the cast member you’d like to do a rider switch at the entrance to any ride with a height restriction. 

Although Disney characters aren’t the focus of Epcot, you can still find character meet-and-greets throughout the park. However, we our favorite place to meet characters at Epcot has to be throughout World Showcase. It’s just really fun to see these beloved characters, mostly Disney princesses, in a setting that feels more authentic to them than just being in Princess Fairytale Hall. 

Although we didn’t include them in our list, there are many galleries sprinkled throughout World Showcase. Almost every country’s pavilion has a gallery, with the exhibits usually featuring artwork, other cultural pieces, or a glimpse into what Disney Parks in other countries are like. These aren’t major attractions by any means, but they are nice to walk through – along with something cold to drink in hand – if you’re in need of some shade and air conditioning. 

Training lab with computers

Advanced Training Lab | World Discovery

Interactive play area feels like a strong choice of words for this hands-on activity at the end of Mission: SPACE that lets you create your own e-postcard. But that’s what Disney calls it, so an interactive play area this shall be. It’s not worth it to go out of your way to visit, but it is a fun little detour for after you and your family take a spin on Mission: SPACE.

Height Restriction: None

The American Adventure | World Showcase

With Audio-Animatronics, a stirring score, and an accompanying film, The American Adventure is the only stage show of its kind at Epcot. Over 30 minutes, the show brings great moments in American history to life. It’s a big time investment to be sure, but it’s also air-conditioned and in the dark. If you think that sounds like the perfect conditions for a nap, you’d be right, because we’d be lying if said we haven’t nodded off a time or two during The American Adventure. That being said, if you’re an American and you aren’t lulled to sleep by the comfy chairs, chances are good that you’ll leave with a sense of pride that wasn’t there before the show began. For a truly patriotic experience, we highly recommend bookending the show with a performance by the Voices of Liberty, Epcot’s resident acapella group, for soaring harmonies that are sure to leave you with goosebumps and perhaps a tear in your eye.  

Height Restriction: None

Northern lights on a screen

Awesome Planet | World Nature

Tucked away in The Land Pavilion in the theater that once housed Circle of Life, a film led by Timon and Pumba about the havoc man is wreaking on the environment, Awesome Planet takes the helm for another film threats our planet faces. The videography in the 10-minute presentation is stunning and doesn’t shy away from big issues like climate change and all that comes with it. Does it solve the problem or even give ideas on what humans can do to help? Not at all, but it is visually stunning and a nice break from all the walking and the heat. 

Height Restriction: None

Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along | World Showcase

Toss education and drinking around the world to the side for 15 minutes at the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along. As you wait for the theater to open, check out the exhibits on French literature and such nostalgic Disney films as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and, of course, Beauty and the Beast. Once you’ve grabbed a seat, sing along to everyone’s favorite songs from the classic Disney movie. Although there are 5 screens available in the theater, the film only plays on the center screen. If there’s a traffic jam and you find yourself stuck near the entrance, simply walk around the front of the theater and so you can snag a seat on the other side.  

Height Restriction: None

Bruce’s Shark World | World Nature

Bruce’s Shark World isn’t so much a play area as it is a small exhibit with a photo op. Part of The Seas With Nemo & Friends, this walkthrough area has stations with fascinating shark facts, as well as tips on how we can help keep our toothy friends safe. Once your kiddos have learned all there is about sharks, have them jump into Bruce’s mouth for the perfect vacation photo. 

Height Restriction: None

Flower beds and a river

Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360 | World Showcase

If there’s one thing that’s a mainstay in World Showcase apart from art galleries and educational exhibits, it’s 360° films. These theaters in-the-round immerse guests in panoramic views of some of the world’s most jaw-dropping landscapes and cityscapes. After numerous updates to the previous film O Canada!, Canada Far and Wide is the pavilion’s newest Circle-Vision film and takes guests on a whirlwind tour of our friendly neighbor to the north. Fans of Schitt’s Creek will be especially happy to learn that Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy are the narrators. Overall, if you’re ok with standing for the full 12 minutes, Canada Far and Wide is the perfect escape from the Florida sun. 

Height Restriction: None

Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival | World Celebration

What Epcot lacks in rides, it more than makes up for with an overabundance of shaded and air-conditioned attractions like films and exhibits. While many of them can be found over in World Showcase, the Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival at the Imagination Pavilion provides guests with an excellent refuge from the oppressive Florida sunshine on the Future World side of Epcot. These fan-favorite films are a huge step up from what you’ve seen on Disney+ or before a feature film at a movie theater, however: they’re all shown in 4D!

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Frozen Ever After | World Showcase

One need only think of the Frozen mania that swept the globe following the film’s release to know that Frozen Ever After is one of the most popular rides at Epcot. Board an ancient Norwegian ship for this boat ride through the winter wonderland of Frozen and Arendelle. Although there are a couple of hills, it’s a mellow ride, and there are more than enough encounters with the movie’s characters to keep Frozen fans happy from beginning to end. Lines are usually long here. Fortunately, the queue is adorable, making the wait much more bearable. 

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Gran Fiesta Pyramid on a river

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros | World Showcase

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros is another Epcot boat ride in the nearby Mexico Pavilion. With a slower, more relaxing pace and no recent updates, Gran Fiesta Tour can feel a little worse for wear at times, but its colorful scenes and goofy antics from everyone’s favorite duck (Donald Duck, just so we’re clear) make the trip perfectly enjoyable. The whole thing feels almost like It’s a Small World at times. Lines here are usually on the short side, if there is one at all, so it’s easy to sneak this into your loop around World Showcase.

Height Restriction: None

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind | World Discovery

Rock out with the Guardians of the Galaxy—and save the day in the process—on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Featuring a reverse launch and 360-degree rotating ride vehicles, this high-speed, fully-enclosed roller coaster makes you feel as if you’re hurtling through outer space. Best of all, the rotation thrusts you into the heart of the action: an epic battle between Star-Lord, Rocket, Gamora, Groot and the evil celestial being Eson. Before you set out on your intergalactic journey, you even get to learn about the fascinating world of Xandar in the attraction’s Galaxarium. 

Height Restriction: 42” (107cm) or taller

Lightning Lane?: Individual Attraction Selection

Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at Epcot with Spaceship Earth in the background

ImageWorks – The “What If” Labs | World Celebration

Of the various interactive play areas sprinkled throughout Epcot, one of our favorites is ImageWorks. There are several hands-on activities available for kids of all ages here. That’s right, even the adults can get in on the fun! This futuristic playground feels a bit like a miniature children’s museum and includes tons of sensory games like making music by waving your arms or stepping on special buttons and creating your own Figment the dragon. This is a great place to stop if your little ones (or you!) need a break from the heat but don’t want to miss out on playing.  

Height Restriction: None

Impressions de France | World Showcase

Impressions de France is the pavilion’s long-running cultural film. Not quite a Circle-Vision 360° production, Impressions de France extends for 200° across a giant, curved screen. It is one of Epcot’s original attractions and, aside from when the film closed to update the projection system, has played daily since Epcot first opened in 1982. Surprisingly, the timeless film still looks like it could have been shot recently thanks to its recent upgrade to 4K. With air conditioning, chairs, and an 18-minute runtime, it’s a nice escape from the Florida heat for adults or older kids, but it might be a bit long for little ones. 

Height Restriction: None

Upside down room with Figment

Journey Into Imagination With Figment | World Celebration

Strap in for a whimsical ride through the whimsical Imagination Institute on Journey Into Imagination With Figment. A slow-moving dark ride with plenty of visual gags, sound effects, and smells explaining the senses and a cute, purple dragon to boot, kids will love Journey Into Imagination, while adults might find themselves wondering when it will end or dreaming about the original attraction with Dreamfinder. 

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Kidcot Fun Stops | Parkwide

As much as adults love World Showcase for all the delicious drinks and food to be had, some small children might find it all a bit boring. Luckily, that’s where the Kidcot Fun Stops come in! Located at each country pavilion, these interactive booths allow kids of all ages to interact with cast members from around the world and collect unique souvenirs for each pavilion. The free activity cards are filled with fun facts and games based on each country’s unique cultural traditions. We think these stations are great for keeping your kiddos entertained while you make your way around World Showcase, plus we love being able to chat with the cast members and learn a bit bout their home countries. 

Height Restriction: None

Living With the Land | World Nature

Yet another Epcot boat ride, Living With the Land features a gentle float through The Land Pavilion’s greenhouses. More for the adults than the kids, this boat tour sails you past a huge array of food crops from across the globe, as well as some unique farming methods. It’s a fascinating look into all the science that actually goes on at Epcot, and a welcome reprieve from all the walking.

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Control room for Spaceship

Mission: SPACE | World Discovery

Ever wanted to be an astronaut? Well, now’s your chance on Mission: SPACE. This NASA-style space flight simulator blasts you into the stratosphere where you and the rest of your crew play the parts of the flight team. There are 2 different experiences available here: the Orange Mission sends travelers on a thrillingly realistic flight to Mars thanks to centrifuge pulling 2.5 Gs, while the milder Green Mission propels guests on a centrifuge-free trip around Earth’s orbit. Although you may not think it, the G-forces created in the Orange centrifuge version are intense and can create heart problems or an upset stomach if you are predisposed to such issues. So, if you’re at all unsure but you’d still like to ride, we recommend you go for the Green Mission instead  and avoid any chance of ruining your day entirely. 

Height Restriction: 40” (102cm) or taller

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future | World Celebration

Nestled at the base of the geodesic sphere at the exit to Spaceship Earth, Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future is yet another interactive play area. This hands-on area boasts several futuristic activities, or at least they were futuristic at one time. Now they just feel dated. That being said, it is fun to tinker around with the various games after riding Spaceship Earth, and kids will definitely like getting to try everything out.  

Height Restriction: None

Reflections of China | World Showcase

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Middle Kingdom at Reflections of China, a 12-minute Circle-Vision film. Shown in 360 degrees, this transporting movie shows guests some of the many sides of this massive, diverse country, from the ancient Great Wall to its rich cultures to glittering, ultra-modern cities. 

Height Restriction: None

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure | World Showcase

Put on your chef’s hat and lace up your sneakers for this daring 4D caper through Gusteau’s restaurant. Scamper your way through all the sights, sounds, and smells of a Parisienne restaurant with little Chef Remy by your side. As Epcot’s newest ride, you can bet that Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is the most popular ride in the park, so expect very long lines unless you head there first thing after park open.  

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Aquarium with water tube and diver

SeaBase | World Nature

We don’t know about you, but for us, there’s nothing more relaxing than seeing schools of colorful fish and other playful sea life swim lazily past you. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of Epcot as you gaze out over coral reefs teeming with life including sea turtles, rays, sharks, fish and more. This aquarium is quite large, and guests of all ages will love watching all the underwater antics, so be sure to set aside some time to explore.

Height Restriction: None

The Seas With Nemo & Friends | World Nature

Nemo is lost again on The Seas With Nemo & Friends. Follow Marlin and Dory as they try to track him down on this slow-moving ride with Epcot’s aquarium as the backdrop. Thanks to some Disney magic, it actually looks like everyone’s favorite band of underwater pals are swimming in aquarium at times. It’s a short but sweet ride with not a lot of action, making it a must for families with younger children. 

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Soarin’ Around the World | World Nature

Hang glide over some of the world’s most epic vistas on Soarin’ Around the World, a breathtakingly beautiful yet soothing flight simulator. Once you’ve strapped in and stowed your Mickey ears, you’ll set a course for such wonders as the Great Wall of China and India’s Taj Mahal. Soarin’ Around the World is one of the best Epcot rides, so you can expect the lines to almost always be on the longer side here. Fortunately, trivia questions in the queue help to pass the time. Although there really isn’t a bad seat in the house, we prefer spots in the middle section as it keeps the image warping to a minimum. 

Height Restriction: 40” (102cm) or taller

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Spaceship Earth | World Celebration

Spaceship Earth surrounded by Palm Trees

Hidden inside the geodesic sphere that is the icon of the park, Spaceship Earth is an equally iconic ride. For this leisurely dark ride, guests embark on a slow-moving journey through time that tells the story of the evolution of communication from the creation of the Phoenician alphabet to the arrival of the computer.

Spaceship Earth is one of the park’s oldest rides and as such, it can feel a little stale, but we think that only adds to its charm. Luckily, a revamp is in the works for some time in the future and will see the storyline focus on the history of storytelling instead. As the first ride you see when you enter the park, lines here can get really long at the beginning and middle of the day but shorten quite dramatically as the day wears on. 

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Test Track | World Discovery

Fast your seatbelts for Test Track, an interactive thrill ride where you can design your own concept car, then take it for test drive to see how it stacks up to designs created by other guests in your ride vehicle. Originally designed to mimic the safety tests cars are put through, this latest iteration still has you putting a vehicle through its paces including speed, handling, power, and more. Creating your own car is half the fun of this ride; however, you only get the full experience by waiting in the standby line. So, be sure to skip the FastPass for this one if you don’t want the shortened design process. 

Height Restriction: 40” (102cm) or taller

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Turtle Talk With Crush | World Nature

As anyone who has ever watched Finding Nemo knows, Crush the sea turtle has been around the ocean a time or two, and with age comes wisdom. So, you can be that he knows a whole heck of a lot about the underwater life. Sit down for an question-and-answer session with the turtle himself as Crush answers questions from the crowd in real-time. There’s no question that kids will love this interactive attraction, while adults will appreciate the cuteness of it all. 

Height Restriction: None

Lightning Lane?: Genie+

Norwegian buildings with waterfall

Well, that’s all for our guide to all the Epcot rides, shows, and other attractions. Not sure how you’ll fit everything into a day? We show you how in our 1-Day Epcot Plan. And for those of you wondering how to save some cash on your upcoming Disney vacation, you won’t want to miss our discount Disney tickets. If you plan to visit other parks be sure to see our top attractions for Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

For all the Epcot regulars out there, we can’t wait to hear all about your favorite Epcot attractions. Let us know in the comments below!