Did you know that Disney makes it easy to travel the world? Well…kind of!

EPCOT is one of the four main theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort and features some of the best rides, food, and entertainment. But, there’s one thing that makes this park stand out – you can immerse yourself in the unique culture, cuisine, and attractions of ELEVEN different countries! And, you don’t even need a passport.

So, what is there to know about all of the countries at EPCOT in World Showcase? We’ve got a complete guide to help ensure you don’t miss a thing on your next Disney World vacation!

Countries at EPCOT Overview

Since opening in 1982, World Showcase has been a fan-favorite part of EPCOT. The park is divided into four main areas: World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery, and World Showcase. And, while there are several iconic and new attractions at the front of the park, it’s World Showcase that draws Disney-goers to this park usually more than once during their trip.

World Showcase is situated around World Showcase Lagoon where you can explore eleven different countries from around the world including Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, United States, Japan, Morocco, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Each pavilion is designed to transport you to that country, with authentic architecture, landscaping, and music. And, you might even meet a few Disney characters along the way!

In addition to the immersive atmosphere, World Showcase also offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

How Many Countries Are At EPCOT?

EPCOT’s World Showcase features 11 different countries that were selected by Disney to represent diverse cultures, heritage, and architecture from different parts of the world. Each country has its own pavilion, which includes unique architecture, food, and attractions.

What Countries Are At EPCOT?

Here is a list of the countries you can visit at EPCOT:

• Canada
• United Kingdom
• France
• Morocco
• Japan
• United States
• Italy
• Germany
• China
• Norway
• Mexico

How Were EPCOT Countries Chosen?

Back when EPCOT was still an idea on paper, Disney knew that they wanted World Showcase to be part of the park when it opened. However, they didn’t know exactly which countries they would feature. So, when they pitched the idea for EPCOT, they invited representatives from several countries to see if they would be interested in sponsoring the project.

Unfortunately, the response from the foreign governments was underwhelming, so instead Disney opted to utilize corporate sponsors and it’s the interest of different sponsors that guided the decision process on which countries would be included. For example, the Mexico Pavilion was originally sponsored by Moctezuma Brewery and San Angel Inn, and the Germany Pavilion was sponsored by Bahlsen, Brauerei Beck GMBH & Co., Goebel, Hutschenreuther, and Schmitt Söhne.

The original concept for World Showcase also included the American Adventure Pavilion at the front of the park with Mexico and Canada neighboring it (like they do geographically). However, Disney decided to place the American Adventure Pavilion at the back of World Showcase as the centerpiece to entice guests to make their way around to all the pavilions.

Do Countries Pay To Be In EPCOT?

Currently, Disney owns all of the country pavilions at World Showcase, though that hasn’t always been the case!

Nine out of the eleven countries within World Showcase were originally sponsored (and paid for) by companies from the individual countries that worked with Disney to create an authentic pavilion. In some cases, private companies are still operating the restaurants and shops in select countries, but it would be hard for you to tell as a guest!

The only two countries that were fully sponsored by a country’s government were the Morocco Pavilion and the Norway Pavilion. Disney worked closely with the king of Morocco when the country was added to World Showcase in 1984 and the king even sent artisans from Morocco over to Disney to work on the tile to make sure it accurately represented his country’s culture. The Norwegian government also paid for the Norway Pavilion, however, the partnership ended in 2002.

When Do Countries Open At EPCOT?

While the park itself typically opens relatively early in the morning, the restaurants and exhibits within World Showcase may open at a later time. We recommend checking the My Disney Experience app or speaking with a Cast Member if you have any questions about when a certain location opens.

It’s important to note that, even if the restaurants, shops, and attractions don’t open until later in the day, you can still walk around World Showcase once the park opens.

Which Countries At EPCOT Have Rides?

While all of the countries feature a selection of authentic dining options, shops, and exhibits, select pavilions also have a ride! Here’s the full list of countries at EPCOT with attractions:

Mexico

Mexico is the first country you’ll come across when you enter the World Showcase to your left, and it has a ride called the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros. This is a boat ride that takes you through various scenes featuring Donald Duck and his friends.

Norway

Norway is home to one of the most popular rides at EPCOT, Frozen Ever After. This ride takes you on a journey through the world of Frozen where you’ll see all of your favorite characters along the way. Be prepared to wait in line for this one, as it’s almost always busy.

The American Adventure

The American Adventure Pavilion has a show called The American Adventure, which is a combination of animatronics and film that tells the story of America’s history. While it’s not a ride, it’s still an entertaining and educational experience.

France

The newest attraction in World Showcase at EPCOT is Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. This ride can be found at the back of the France Pavilion and was recently added as an expansion to the park. The 4D ride takes you on a cooking adventure with Remy inside Gusteau’s famous Paris restaurant.

It’s also worth noting that a Mary Poppins-inspired attraction was originally planned for the United Kingdom as part of the EPCOT Expansion, however, this has since been canceled by Disney.

What Is There To Do In Each Country At EPCOT?

Each country pavilion at EPCOT offers unique things to do – that’s what makes exploring each one so much fun! While the offerings will vary, you can expect to find several dining options, shops, exhibits, and attractions in each country.

Here’s an overview of what there is to do in each country at EPCOT:

Mexico Pavilion

Inside the giant Mesoamerican pyramid (complete with a temple at the top!), you’ll find a variety of exhibits and attractions that showcase Mexico’s rich culture. The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros is a popular ride that takes you on a boat tour through Mexico. You’ll be accompanied by Donald Duck, Panchito Pistoles, and José Carioca as you explore the country’s vibrant cities and lush landscapes.

If you’re interested in art, be sure to check out the Mexican Folk Art Gallery. This gallery features rotating exhibits that showcase the work of Mexican artists. The current exhibit, “Remember Me! La Celebración del Día de Muertos,” is a colorful tribute to Mexico’s Day of the Dead holiday.

When it comes to dining, the Mexico Pavilion has plenty of options to choose from. La Hacienda de San Angel is a popular table service restaurant that offers authentic Mexican cuisine. This restaurant has a stunning view of the World Showcase Lagoon, making it the perfect spot to watch EPCOT’s nighttime fireworks show.

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, the San Angel Inn Restaurante is a quick service restaurant that serves up tasty Mexican fare. You can also grab a drink at the La Cava del Tequila, which offers an impressive selection of tequila and other Mexican spirits.

Norway Pavilion

Located between the Mexico and China pavilions, the Norway Pavilion features a 58,000-square-foot area designed to look like a Norwegian village. One of the main attractions at the Norway Pavilion is the Frozen Ever After ride, which takes you on a boat tour through the world of Frozen. You’ll see all your favorite characters, including Elsa, Anna, and Olaf, as you sail through the icy landscapes of Arendelle.

Another popular exhibit at the Norway Pavilion is the Stave Church Gallery. This exhibit showcases the history and culture of Norway and features artifacts and artwork from the country’s past. You can learn about the Vikings, traditional Norwegian clothing, and more.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, the Norway Pavilion has several dining options including Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, which serves up Norwegian pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.

For a more formal dining experience, check out the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall. This restaurant features a character dining experience with some of your favorite Disney princesses, as well as a menu of traditional Norwegian dishes.

China Pavilion

The China Pavilion at EPCOT is designed to look like the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, and it includes a variety of attractions and exhibits that showcase the rich history and traditions of China.

One of the most popular attractions in the China Pavilion is the Reflections of China film, which takes you on a virtual tour of China’s most famous landmarks and scenic areas. It’s a great way to learn about the country’s history and culture in a fun and engaging way. Another popular attraction is the House of the Whispering Willows, which is a replica of a traditional Chinese home. It features beautiful gardens, a koi pond, and a variety of exhibits that showcase Chinese art and artifacts.

In addition to these attractions, the China Pavilion also features a variety of live performances throughout the day. The Chinese Lion Dance is a popular performance that takes place outside the pavilion, and it features dancers dressed in elaborate lion costumes performing traditional Chinese dance moves.

If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine, the Nine Dragons Restaurant is one of the best places to go. It features a variety of dishes from different regions of China, including Cantonese, Szechuan, and Hunan cuisine. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with Chinese lanterns and artwork, and it offers a great view of the World Showcase Lagoon.

In addition to the Nine Dragons Restaurant, the China Pavilion also features a variety of snack stands and kiosks that offer traditional Chinese treats like egg rolls, pot stickers, and bubble tea. And, if you’re looking for a unique souvenir to take home, the pavilion’s gift shop offers a variety of Chinese souvenirs, including silk clothing, jade jewelry, and hand-painted pottery.

Germany Pavilion

One of the most popular attractions in the Germany Pavilion is the miniature train display. This exhibit features a detailed replica of a German village, complete with working trains. The big draw of the Germany Pavilion, however, is the food!

If you’re looking for a quick snack, be sure to check out the Bier und Brezeln cart, which serves up delicious pretzels and beer. For something more substantial, head to the Sommerfest quick service restaurant, which offers a variety of traditional German dishes like bratwurst and sauerkraut.

If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, the Biergarten restaurant is a great choice. This restaurant features a buffet-style service and offers a variety of German dishes like schnitzel and spaetzle. It’s also a great place to enjoy live entertainment, including traditional German music and dance performances.

Italy Pavilion

Unlike some other pavilions in EPCOT, the Italy Pavilion does not have any rides or attractions. However, it does have several exhibits that showcase Italian culture, including:

• Gallery of Arts and History – This exhibit features replicas of famous Italian sculptures and artwork, including Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.
• Spiral Staircase – The pavilion’s centerpiece is a beautiful spiral staircase that leads to the second floor of the pavilion. The staircase is a replica of the one found in the Vatican Museum.
• Venetian Mask Shop – This shop sells a variety of Venetian masks, which are popular souvenirs for visitors to the pavilion.

The Italy Pavilion has several dining options that offer authentic Italian cuisine including Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria which is known for its delicious Neapolitan-style pizza. It also offers a variety of pasta dishes and Italian desserts.

Tutto Italia Ristorante is more of an upscale restaurant that offers a variety of Italian dishes, including seafood, pasta, meat dishes, and an extensive wine list. Or, you can also stop by the Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar if you just want to sample some of the drinks. And, if you’re in the mood for dessert, you can grab some gelato from Gelateria Toscana.

The American Adventure

One of the main attractions in the American Aventure Pavilion is The American Adventure show! It takes you on a 30-minute journey through America’s history with audio-animatronic figures of Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain, who narrate the show.

In addition to the show, The American Adventure Pavilion also features exhibits showcasing America’s history and culture. You can view historic artifacts, paintings, and statues. You can also learn about American innovation and technology. And, if you time your visit just right, you might catch the Voices of Liberty, an acapella group that performs inside the American Adventure Rotunda.

If you get hungry while visiting The American Adventure Pavilion, there are several dining options available. The Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue offers classic barbecue fare, including burgers, hot dogs, and ribs. You can also try funnel cakes or ice cream at the Funnel Cake Stand or grab a Jumbo Turkey leg at the Fife & Drum Tavern.

Japan Pavilion

One of the most popular attractions in the Japan Pavilion is the Mitsukoshi Department Store. Here, you can find a wide variety of Japanese gifts and souvenirs, including traditional clothing, footwear, and Hello Kitty merchandise.

Another unique attraction is the Miyuki Candy Art. Here you can watch a skilled candy artist create intricate sculptures out of sugar. For a more educational experience, visit the Bijutsu-kan Gallery, which features rotating exhibits of Japanese art and artifacts.

The Japan Pavilion is home to several dining options, including Teppan Edo, a hibachi-style restaurant where chefs prepare your meal right in front of you. For sushi lovers, there’s also the new ew Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya restaurant. It offers a variety of sushi rolls and other Japanese dishes.

If you’re looking for a quick snack, stop by Katsura Grill for a bento box or a bowl of udon noodles.

Morocco Pavilion

The Morocco Pavilion was the first expansion pavilion to be added to World Showcase. It opened on September 7, 1984 and there’s a lot to explore inside!

One of the most popular attractions is the Gallery of Arts and History, which features a collection of traditional Moroccan crafts, textiles, and ceramics. Visitors can also explore the intricate architecture and design of the pavilion, including a replica of the Koutoubia Minaret and the Bab Boujouloud gate.

The Morocco Pavilion also offers several dining options that serve traditional Moroccan cuisine. One of the most popular restaurants is Restaurant Marrakesh. It features a menu of authentic Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tagine, and kebabs. The restaurant also offers live entertainment in the form of belly dancers and musicians.

For a quick bite, stop by the Tangierine Cafe, which serves a variety of Moroccan sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The cafe also offers a selection of Moroccan teas and coffee.

France Pavilion

The France Pavilion offers a variety of attractions and exhibits that showcase the French culture. Some of the popular attractions include Impressions de France (a 20-minute film that takes you on a tour of France’s beautiful landscapes and landmarks), Palais du Cinéma (featuring galleries of costumes music, and artwork that “brought French literature to life through cinema, theater, ballet, and opera”), and Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along (a 15-minute show singing along to some of the popular songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast)

The pavilion also features some of the most upscale shopping. This includes a perfume shop that offers a variety of French fragrances and a smaller gift shop that offers a variety of French souvenirs, including Eiffel Tower replicas, berets, and more.

If you find yourself hungry in the France Pavilion, you won’t be pressed to find something to eat! Some of the popular dining options include:

• Chefs de France – A restaurant that offers a variety of French dishes, including escargot, beef tenderloin, and more.
• Monsieur Paul – A fine dining restaurant that offers a variety of French dishes, including lobster bisque, duck confit, and more.
• L’Artisan des Glaces – An ice cream shop that offers a variety of French-style ice cream and sorbet flavors.
• La Crêperie de Paris – A new table service restaurant that serves crepes and cuisine from the Brittany region of France.
• Les Vins des Chefs de France – A small kiosk that features adult cocktails and slushies.

United Kingdom Pavilion

The United Kingdom Pavilion is built to represent the four countries of the U.K.: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While there is no ride or attraction at the United Kingdom Pavilion yet, there is plenty to see and do.

You’ll want to be sure to do some shopping in the Toy Soldier! Here you can find souvenirs from popular British television shows like Doctor Who, or British musicians like The Beatles. And, you can stop by The Tea Caddy to pick out a snack from a selection of Twinings teas and British treats.

Throughout the day you can also enjoy British rock music from the 1960s through the 1990s performed by the Command Performance in the gazebo at the back of the pavilion. Or, stop by for a meet and greet with Alice or Mary Poppins!

The United Kingdom Pavilion is home to several dining options, including the Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub. The pub offers a selection of British beers and traditional pub fare, such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. The Rose & Crown Dining Room offers a more formal dining experience, with a menu that includes dishes such as bangers and mash and roasted prime rib of beef. If you’re looking for a quick snack, the Yorkshire County Fish Shop serves up fish and chips, as well as other British-inspired snacks.

Canada Pavilion

The Canada Pavilion is one of the countries that did not have any sponsors behind its creation. So, there aren’t quite as many things to do here. However, it’s still worth stopping by to watch O Canada!, a 360-degree Circle-Vision film that is narrated by Martin Short and takes you on a journey across Canada’s landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to the cities, and introduces you to its people and culture. Plus, you can also shop in Northwest Mercantile for Canadian merchandise, such as clothing, jewelry, maple syrup, and hockey gear. You can also find Disney merchandise with a Canadian twist here, such as Mickey Mouse dressed as a Mountie.

And, if you’re hungry, grab some popcorn from the Canadian Popcorn Cart. Or, for a more formal dining experience, make a reservation at Le Cellier Steakhouse. This fine dining restaurant is one of the most popular throughout all of Disney World. It features a menu full of steak, poutine, and the famous Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup.

What Countries Should Be Added To EPCOT?

With eleven country pavilions, there’s already a lot to do in EPCOT’s World Showcase. But, there may still be room for more! While Disney hasn’t officially commented on what countries may be added in the future, pavilions for Spain, Israel, and Equatorial Africa were originally announced when the park first opened. Though. these never came to fruition.

Comments

So, what countries could be added to EPCOT in the future is still a mystery! What would you add if you could? Let us know in the comments!