4 Tips for Planning Your Next Visit to Epcot

The world-famous Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow (EPCOT) is a Disney Park that is divided into two areas: Future World and World Showcase. Future World is comprised of rides that show visitors technological innovations.

World Showcase highlights the culture and food of different countries including the US, France, Germany, Mexico, and more. Factors that you will have to take into account when making your visit include:

Crowds

EPCOT is a popular destination with over 11 million visitors in 2015, according to the Orlando Sentinel. The good news is that the size of the crowds is not consistent throughout the year. By visiting during the right periods, you can avoid the large crowds and long lines. The peak season for EPCOT is June through August, which is the most popular time of year for family vacations. Plan your visit outside of this period and you will find that the lines are shorter and the overall number of visitors much lower than during the peak season.

Weather

Florida is known for its heat and humidity and EPCOT is no exception. The summer months can be hotter, but Epcot helps by provides fans and covered areas for lines. The most comfortable times of year are March through May & October through December. Note that both March and December can be warm during the day, but chillier than you might expect at nights. During the summer months you may encounter afternoon thunderstorms periodically, but there is no need to leave the park. Take this time to eat lunch or browse the gift shops since these thunderstorms are quick moving and don’t stick around long.

Schedules

Because there are fewer visitors to EPCOT during the colder months, this is when rides and attractions may get closed for maintenance. The rest of the park will still be open and you will have access to the other rides, but some may not be available. All the information for ride closures due to maintenance can be found online and at the entrance of the park.

Events

EPCOT is the location for various seasonal events such as:

The International Flower & Garden Festival

This event typically takes place in early March and runs through May. This celebration of spring exposes park visitors to farm-to-table food and a variety of events and displays.

The International Food & Wine Festival

This event runs from September through November and provides visitors with the opportunity to sample international foods, attend concerts, and interact with famous chefs.

If your schedule does not allow you to visit outside of the peak season, there are still ways for you to avoid long lines and crowds. Consider Disney's Extra Magic Hours program and the FASTPASS+ system.