HAA Disney: Top 10 – EPCOT – Happily Adventures After

Hey Howdy HAA Everyone!

Welcome back to Happily Adventures After! We’re thrilled to launch our new weekly series, “HAA Disney: Top 10,” where we dive into top 10 lists about all things Disney every Wednesday. Inspired by the “Hey Disney” feature at Walt Disney World Resorts, this series will offer you insights and recommendations, just like a virtual concierge.

This week, we’re exploring one of my absolute favorite parks: EPCOT! Since it opened on October 1, 1982, EPCOT has been transporting guests into the future, blending culture, art, food, and innovation in ways that only Disney can. Originally envisioned as the Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow, EPCOT now offers a unique experience through its World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature lands.

Without further ado, here’s our HAA Disney: Top 10 for EPCOT, filled with some personal favorites and family memories!

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
This roller coaster is out of this world—literally! I’ll never forget the first time my family and I rode it together. We were completely speechless when we got off! The show scenes, the pre-show, the first of it’s kind omnimover coaster, the feeling of weightlessness as you glide through space with the Guardians—it’s all unexplainable. Plus, with six different songs playing randomly during the ride, it’s a surprise every time. My favorite so far is “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” but I’m still hunting for “Disco Inferno.”
Fish and Chips from Yorkshire County Fish Shop
These Fish and Chips have become a Happily Adventures After staple for my family. My mom and I always make a point to grab them when we’re at EPCOT. There was one time when she didn’t enjoy them as much, but that’s just how it goes with Quick Service—sometimes you strike gold, sometimes not. But when they’re good, they’re really good!
American Dream Slush with a Mickey Pretzel
This combo is a classic for us. I absolutely love the American Dream Slush from Fife and Drum—it’s a tasty blend of frozen Fanta Wild Cherry, Vanilla Ice Cream, and Frozen Fanta Blue Raspberry. Pair it with a Mickey Pretzel and some cheese, and you’ve got the perfect snack. We love taking our treats over to the America Gardens Theatre, especially when there’s a concert. Sometimes we just sit and relax, enjoying the moment. It’s become a tradition for us.

Soarin’ Around the World
Soarin’ has earned the title of “your mom’s favorite attraction” for a reason—it’s just that delightful. This flight simulator takes you soaring above some of the world’s most stunning landmarks, from the Swiss Alps to the Eiffel Tower. I love this ride for the pure joy it brings, especially hearing first-time riders gasp in awe. And the score? It’s so good, I often listen to it at home!
Connections Cafe Coffee
Yes, it’s a Starbucks, but this one at EPCOT is special. I love grabbing my coffee here and enjoying the wide-open space. The atmosphere reminds me of the “Stick to the Status Quo” scene from High School Musical—and I’m not going to lie, I’ve definitely imagined breaking into the whole musical number here! The drinks are always on point, and the service from the Cast Members makes this spot one of my go-to coffee stops.
CommuniCore Hall and Plaza
This area is a gem for both relaxation and entertainment. My family loves stopping here to meet Disney characters, check out the seasonal exhibits, and just chill in the AC. It’s a perfect break from the Florida heat! Outside, we enjoy strolling through the gardens and catching live performances. The ¡Celebración Encanto! fiesta, in particular, has been a hit with us, and I’m excited to see what Disney brings next.
La Cantina de San Angel Nachos
La Cantina de San Angel is our go-to for a quick bite when we’re wandering the World Showcase. The nachos here are simple but so satisfying, especially when enjoyed by the World Showcase Lagoon. We always make a stop here, whether we’re in the mood for a snack or a full meal.
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria
Via Napoli is where my entire family, including my dad who doesn’t often come to Walt Disney World, can agree on one thing—we LOVE the food here. The authentic Neapolitan pizza, made with ingredients imported straight from Italy, is just incredible. Pair it with a refreshing Italian drink, and you’re in for a treat. This is hands down one of the best spots for Italian cuisine in all of Walt Disney World.
EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival Topiaries
The topiaries during the Flower and Garden Festival are nothing short of magical. Every year, the horticulture Cast Members create these intricate designs featuring beloved Disney characters, and I’m always blown away by their artistry. It’s such a treat to walk around and see these living sculptures that add so much beauty to the park.

EPCOT Concert Series
The concerts at the America Gardens Theatre are always a highlight for us. Whether it’s a local band or big names like Boys II Men, these shows add something extra special to our EPCOT visits. My mom and I still talk about the time we missed Daughtry by just a day or two—talk about bad timing! But even when we miss a favorite artist, the experience is always memorable.

Honorable Mentions

Canada Pavilion Maple Cookies
These Dare Maple Cookies are a guilty pleasure—yes, they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny when you’re craving something sweet. Yes, these are very expensive to buy in the park but sometimes I just need my fix.
Friendship Boat to Hollywood Studios
This leisurely boat ride is such a relaxing way to travel between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. It takes a bit of time, but it’s a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the parks. For those not afraid of heights, the Skyliner is another great option, but I’ll stick to the boat, thank you very much!

Although Walt Disney’s original vision for EPCOT as a futuristic living community never fully came to life, the park we know today still captures his spirit of innovation and discovery.

So, what are your EPCOT Top 10? Do you agree with ours? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

“See Ya Real Soon” back on Happily Adventures After!