Recently Walt Disney World rolled out new concept art for the main entrance to Epcot and our first look at a brand new Play Pavilion that will move into the former Wonders of Life space. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg at Epcot, there is a long list of changes coming to the park as the entire resort moves toward its 50th Anniversary.
Here’s what we know officially:
- A Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction is taking over the former Universe of Energy pavilion and adding a giant new show building near the entrance to the park. This will featured one of the longest enclosed roller coasters in the world and a brand new ride system.
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction in the France pavilion, patterned after the number-one family attraction at Disneyland Paris
- “Beauty and the Beast” sing-along in the France pavilion, showing in addition to the pavilion’s current film, Impressions de France
- Circle-Vision 360 film for the China pavilion and updated O Canada! 360-degree show
- Signature Dining experience inspired by the natural beauty of Japan
- Space-themed table-service restaurant adjacent to Mission: SPACE, inviting guests to travel high above the earth for an unforgettable dining experience
- Epcot Forever, a 2019 limited-time nighttime experience over World Showcase Lagoon set to classic Epcot tunes, followed by an all-new nighttime spectacular debuting in 2020
- Later this year the Disney Skyliner Gondola station outside the International Gateway to Epcot will open carrying guests to four Disney resorts and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
That’s quite a lot of stuff planned for Epcot and it doesn’t even include improvements to the festivals, entertainment changes, and a planned update to Spaceship Earth.
“Epcot is beloved for its focus on imagination, innovation, fun, food and family,” said George A. Kalogridis, president, Walt Disney World Resort. “It’s a timeless place where the real is made fantastic through the magic of Disney. It has a very bright future ahead and the best part is that we’ve only just begun to dream.”
This all comes as part of a major makeover for Epcot that was announced at the D23 Expo in 2017. The concept art shared at that event (above) was just an artist’s concept based on ideas at the time. We understand it’s changed since then.
We do know that the central core of Future World will see significant changes, most-likely including the demolishing of the existing Communicore/Innoventions buildings. There will be an emphasis on green space, water, fountains, and improving walkability between either side of Future World.
To showcase the changes coming to EPCOT, guests can soon visit the new ‘Experience Center’ housed in the Odyssey Events Pavilion. Inside you will discover engaging and interactive exhibits that showcase the relentless innovation, energy and excitement driving the future of the park all throughout this unprecedented period of transformation. This exhibit will open later this year.
Update: First permit filed to begin construction work at Epcot’s main entrance.