A Visitor's Guide to EPCOT Countries

The countries of EPCOT in Orlando provide visitors the experience to travel around the world in a single day. The countries, also known as The World Showcase, give visitors access to eleven countries from five continents. Visitors get to experience each country's foods and culture, with employees from those showcased countries. Learn a little more about what each country has to offer and how you can plan your next visit to EPCOT's World Showcase.

The Canadian experience allows visitors to enjoy the ethnic diversity and outdoor beauty of Canada, including both the French and English-speaking portions, while visitors stroll down through the shops and restaurants of Main Street. The shops offer Canadian hockey jerseys, books by famous Canadian authors, and of course, maple syrup. The indigenous people of Canada are also represented, with traditions and symbols displayed throughout the country’s showcase. Visitors can view the film O Canada!, hear Canadian folk music, and dine at Le Cellier Steakhouse, a sit-down restaurant where reservations are encouraged.

The Chinese pavilion is readily recognizable by its ornate, Chinese entrance gate. Upon entering the pavilion, visitors will experience a classic courtyard with entertainment from amazing Chinese acrobats. The main garden is flanked by restaurants, both full and counter service, and a movie that provides visitors with an overview of Chinese history. Visitors are encouraged to take character pictures with the Chinese-inspired Disney character, Mulan.

The France showcase will remind visitors of a leisurely stroll through the streets of Paris, including shops selling items like perfumes and flowers, along with a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower. Currently, there is a short film for visitors to see, but will soon be taken over by a Ratatouille themed attraction, based on the Disney Film. There are three dining experiences for visitors to choose from: a sit-down meal, Le Chefs de France, a counter-service establishment serving ice creams and gelato, and a fantastic French bakery with delicious croissants. Keep a lookout for Belle while you are here.

Enjoy the Bavarian-style village with an authentic-looking town square when you enter Germany. The counter service in Germany serves traditional German cuisine, like bratwurst and sauerkraut, but for the full German experience plan to spend some time in the Biergarten where the tables are arranged in a traditional style with musical entertainment. The shops feature hand-carved items, like cuckoo clocks and figurines, along with beautiful glass designs. This is also a great place to pick up a souvenir Christmas ornament. All items can be shipped to your home.

Italy’s world showcase does not disappoint. Designed to resemble St. Mark's Square in Venice, the country boasts a sit-down dining option of traditional Italian fare, a wine cellar-Esque experience for visitors over 21, and a pizza parlor for a quick bite to eat. Be on the lookout for Italian street entertainers while you are there.

Check out the towering Japanese pagoda when entering the World Showcase. The Japanese pavilion is best known for its landscaping and shopping options. With traditional Japanese trees and Taiko drumming performed regularly, it is hard to not feel immersed in your surroundings. You can even purchase Bonsai trees to take home, but don't forget about your Hello Kitty souvenirs. The culinary delights include a Sake tasting bar inside the souvenir shop, two sit down eating options, at Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining, with a third option designed for a more casual visit.

Visitors can't miss the replica Mayan pyramid on their way into the Mexico showcase, as well as the carts selling traditional Mexican fare. You also will not want to miss the traveling Mariachi band, with visitors getting a glimpse of Donald Duck dressed in his traditional sombrero. Mexico boasts one of the largest sit-down eating establishments, at La Hacienda De Angel and San Angel Inn, where reservations are recommended. San Angel Inn also allows visitors to overlook the boat ride that Mexico offers to its guests.

Looking for a taste of Morocco, with entertainment from Moroccan belly dancers? You can find it at the sit-down restaurant, Restaurant Marrakesh. This pavilion is inspired by the towns of Fez and Marrakech, with a towering minaret and fountains. Visitors can experience a Moroccan bazaar and get henna tattoos. Other restaurants feature delicacies like mint tea, crepes, and smaller plates of classic dishes. Don't forget to purchase your souvenir ceramic tiles, handmade mirrors, or Moroccan carpets to take home with you. Keep your eyes out for Princess Jasmine.

If your youngest traveler is looking for Anna or Elsa, Norway is where they will find them. Norway's attraction features "Frozen Ever After", a log flume ride with lots of twists and turns, formerly known as the attraction, Maelstrom. They can also meet the sisters in Norway for a photo op. The country features two dining establishments, one for sit-down dining, where reservations are recommended, and a take-away service for sandwiches and bakery items. This is a great place to get your princess crown, Frozen merchandise, or other historic Norwegian garbs. You will see lots of tourists taking pictures next to the giant Troll.

Looking for Alice In Wonderland, Winnie the Pooh, or Mary Poppins? Chances are you will find them here. The United Kingdom's pavilion resembles a cute, village setting, and features great iconic items like a red phone booth and cobblestone streets, where guests are treated to musical entertainment. So go ahead and get some fish and chips, a beer, and enjoy the view over the World Showcase Lagoon. There is also a Pub where reservations are recommended.

Take a walk back in time when you enter the United States pavilion and experience a colonial version of the country. With buildings resembling the late 1700s and early 1800s, guests are treated to musical entertainment from folk singers and a traditional fife and drum band. There is a theater production of American Adventure, providing a look at American history. There are three dining establishments serving items like funnel cakes, hot dogs, turkey legs, and apple pies.

Whatever countries you visit, EPCOT is sure to deliver a spectacular experience. If you have a dining plan, be sure to check ahead of time to be sure that you get a reservation. Remember to take your time and enjoy yourself as you go around the world.