When non-Disney people think of Walt Disney World, Epcot typically isn’t the park that comes to mind. Sure, they might recognize the Epcot icon – the giant golf ball (Spaceship Earth) – but it’s not the park that people race to for the rides.
One of my all-time favorite rides is in Epcot (see #1 on the list), along with lots of other great, but underrated ones. If you do want to hit them, you can definitely do it in one morning. It’s worth half a day of your vacation if you can squeeze it in!
That’s why I’ve pulled together our family’s Top 5 Must Do Rides at Epcot. Here’s the countdown…
5. Gran Fiesta Tour starring the Three Caballeros
This one probably isn’t on most people’s list of must-do’s, but it’s a family favorite of ours. Tucked away in Mexico’s San Angel Inn restaurant (inside the pyramid), this family friendly boat ride stars Donald Duck. Cruise through different cities in Mexico as Donald’s friends try to find him. You’ll be singing along by the end of this one – good luck getting the catchy tune out of your head!
WDW Park Planners Recommendation: for all ages/heights
4. Mission Space
This thrill ride takes you on a mission to Mars and has two options for intensity (green – low, or orange – high). Our family usually splits for this one – the orange option has intense G-forces that can definitely make you nauseous if you have a weak stomach.
WDW Park Planners Recommendation: for the “big” kids and adults
Height requirement: 40 in. or taller for both options
3. The Seas with Nemo and Friends
If you love Finding Nemo or Finding Dory, then you definitely need to add this to your list. Cruise through scenes of the movie in a shell and see all of your favorite characters underwater!
WDW Park Planners Recommendation: for all ages/heights
2. Test Track
This is one of the most popular rides in the park, and for good reason. Create your own vehicle as you wait in line, and then get to experience your creation on the track. You’ll hit 60mph on the outside loop – this is the best part of the ride. Try to get a Fast Pass+ for this, as this line is always one of the longest around. If you don’t mind not riding together, you can also wait in the Single Rider line which we’ve done a few times and made it through without a terrible wait.
WDW Park Planners Recommendation: for the “big” kids and adults
Height requirement: 40 in. or taller
1. Soarin’ Around the World
This is one of my favorite rides in all of the parks!!!! Soarin’ Around the World takes you hang gliding over beautiful places like the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal and the Serengeti. Without ruining the magic, this 4D experience is truly one of the best and should be ridden more than once to fully appreciate it. The pre-flight video is a family favorite of ours, as is the soundtrack for the ride 🙂
WDW Park Planners Recommendation: for the “big” kids and adults
Height requirement: 40 in. or taller