One of the best things about Disney is how many things there are to do in each park. There’s so much to do, it’s pretty much impossible to do it all in one day! But that also means that you need to skip certain attractions, shows, and events. How do you know what’s a “must-do” and what to skip? Here are my choices for what I would skip at Epcot if I only had one day there:
The American Adventure
If you’re really into American history you might enjoy taking the time to see this show, but for me it’s not the most riveting and exciting of attractions. It’s also half an hour long, which takes a pretty large chunk out of your day. Skip it, but if you get the chance stop to see the acapella group Voices of Liberty, because they are fantastic.
Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
I actually do enjoy stopping for this when I have the time, but it’s not something I’ll go out of my way for, especially if there’s other things to do. They are all shorts that you’ve probably seen before if you are a Pixar fan. And while it is cool that they add some 3D/4D effects, you’re not missing a ton if you don’t have time for this one.
Reflections of China
This film is all right, and it’s pretty, but after walking around a theme park all day the last thing I want to do is go to a movie that you have to stand up for. Especially when two of the films in the World Showcase are standing films. I’d choose O Canada, which has some humor, over this one.
Journey into Imagination with Figment
Sorry Figment fans, but the ride just ain’t what it used to be. It doesn’t have a lot going for it, so if you’re not over in that area that’s no real reason to go back there to ride it. Of course, if you happen to be passing or are just curious the wait is usually short. It’s a good “filler” ride if you don’t have any other major plans or you’re waiting for a fastpass.
Do not skip…
The World Showcase. I know lots of people think that there’s “nothing to do” there. But even if you just take a walk through, the countries are beautiful and have lots of things to see. Explore the shops, try some snacks, and enjoy the characters, musicians, and street entertainment. Kids can play the Agent P game and stop at the KidCot stations.
If you don’t like thrill rides, you might want to skip…
Mission: Space (at least the more intense orange side)
Soarin’ (if you have a fear of heights)
Test Track
What things do you skip at Epcot? Are there any on this list that are a must-do for you?
I’ve never even tried the Circle of Life movie – and what’s more, I’ve never even seen anyone else go in!
Right?? We did it once and that was pretty unnecessary. I’m not sure how it’s still there!
Yup! I remember sitting on those benches inside the round building waiting to go into the theater and thinking, “where is everyone?”
I always watch to see if anyone is going in, but it’s rare!
I agree with all of your suggestions!! I’ve seen the Circle of Life movie once, and that was enough for me. I’m a huge Lion King fan and wasn’t really sure what to expect, and just came out sad. Of course it’s a great and very important message, but not exactly what I’m after when I’m in the happiest place on Earth!
Something we skip every time is all of Italy and France. We just don’t care for anything in those pavilions! Mexico and Japan, however, are some of the best! 😀
I could spend a long time in Mexico! I only stop in Italy if I’m eating there. Italy doesn’t have anything else that appeals to me other than food, haha.
I went on that Circle of Life thing once, I think, and I agree with you: I’m skipping that next time, lol!
Yeah, I never need to do that one again!
Yes, yes yes! Cannot agree more!
Thanks, not everything is always worth your time!
I probably would skip Mission: Space next time–I didn’t feel too great afterwards, and I didn’t even do the more intense version! I would go to the China video, just because I have a soft spot in my heart for anything about China–I teared up when I saw the Great Wall in Soarin’, haha! At this rate, I’ll probably end up moving back to China one day…
Aww, well I can totally understand that! And I’ve heard even the less intense side of Mission: Space can be a bit overwhelming. There’s a reason why that ride has so many warnings on it!
I totally agree with this list. I love visiting the China pavilion but I agree the film is a bit dated and can be skipped. I’m also still surprised that The Circle of Life film is still there! I thought that would have been gone by now, lol!
I find that by the time I get to China I am pretty tired and would prefer a show or a spot where I can sit down rather than stand!
I totally skip a lot of these filler attractions too. Mission: Space is sadly out for me too – vertigo! Don’t want to chance it with that one for obvious reasons. 😉
Yeah, that’s a very good point. I know Mission: Space is rough on a lot of people!