Drinking around the world at EPCOT has become a must-do for adult Disney World vacationers who are looking to get a taste of the cultures represented in the park. From the refreshing margaritas in Mexico to the robust sake in Japan, and the rich wines of Italy to the crisp beers in Germany, EPCOT’s World Showcase is the perfect place to indulge in international flavors and try something new.
It may sound simple, but a little bit of planning can make your day a lot better when drinking around the world. So, we’ve got a complete guide to completing the challenge on your next trip with recommendations on what to drink, insider tips to have the best experience, and more!
What is Drinking Around the World in EPCOT and How Do You Do It?
There are a lot of fun ways to explore the country pavilions around EPCOT’s World Showcase and “drinking around the world” has become a popular option among Disney-goers. The idea is to have a drink at each of the 11 country pavilions to get a taste of each country. But, how do you do it?
First, you’ll need to purchase an EPCOT park ticket and decide which country you’re going to start with. If you’re entering through the main gates, you’ll have to choose between Mexico or Canada. And, if you’re entering through the EPCOT International Gateway at the back of the park, you’ll choose between France and the U.K. There’s no wrong answer here!
Once you’ve chosen, it’s time to start drinking! Purchase one drink from each EPCOT pavilion as you make your way around. Once you’ve had a drink in every country you will have completed the challenge.
How Much Does Drinking Around The World Cost?
It’s important to note that the cost of drinking around the world at EPCOT varies depending on what you get and your group. If you drink around the world at every World Showcase country, you are going to be spending at least $8-$15 per drink. This is generally the cost per drink whether you’re opting for a cocktail, beer, or non-alcoholic drink. However, non-alcoholic beverages tend to be much cheaper. So, in total, you’ll likely spend close to $80-$170.
Keep in mind that this cost is on top of your park ticket and any snacks or meals that you buy throughout the day. If you want to save some extra cash, we recommend sharing your drinks with a friend or family member. You can still say that you’ve drank around the world, but your wallet won’t be quite as light.
Tips for Drinking Around The World in EPCOT
When it comes to drinking around the world in EPCOT, it’s important to have a plan and know what you’re getting into. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your day:
Stay hydrated
With all the drinking you’ll be doing, it’s important to stay hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid getting dehydrated. You can even bring your own refillable water bottle to save money and reduce waste. EPCOT has multiple water refill stations throughout the park and you can ask for a free cup of water at most quick service restaurants. Just keep in mind that the complimentary cups of water are small, so you may want to order a few extra to ensure you stay hydrated.
Snack your way around the world
Drinking on an empty stomach is never a good idea. Luckily, EPCOT’s World Showcase is filled with delicious snacks from around the world. Aim to eat something in at least every other country pavilion and try some of the fan favorites like chips and guacamole from La Cava del Tequila in the Mexico Pavilion, something from Karamell-Küche in the Germany Pavilion, and Maple Popcorn from the popcorn cart in the Canada Pavilion.
Share drinks with a friend
Drinking around the world can get expensive, but you don’t have to do it alone! Consider sharing drinks with a friend to save money and avoid overdoing it on the drinks. You can also split a drink flight to try multiple drinks in one pavilion without breaking the bank.
Use Disney transportation
If you’re planning on drinking around the world, it’s important to have a safe way to get back to your hotel. Luckily, Disney offers a variety of transportation options, including buses, monorails, and boats. We recommend staying at a Disney World Resort hotel so that you can get back with Disney transportation. Ride-share services like Lyft and Uber also service Disney World. So, you can use them if you are staying at an off-site hotel.
Go in with a plan of what you want to try
With so many drinks to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide what to try. Do some research ahead of time and make a list of the drinks you want to try. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you don’t miss out on any must-try drinks. And, don’t forget to pace yourself – you have all day to complete the challenge!
Not sure what to try in each EPCOT country pavilion? Check out our FULL LIST of the best alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in all 11 countries below.
What To Drink In Each EPCOT Pavilion
Mexico Pavilion
Turn left when you make your way to World Showcase from the front entrance of EPCOT and you’re in the Mexico Pavilion! We recommend starting here since the drinks can be a bit stronger and the restaurants here have a great selection of snacks to start off your day.
One of the most popular places to grab a drink in the Mexico Pavilion is La Cava del Tequila. This small tequila bar is located inside the pyramid in the pavilion and features some of the best drinks in the park. If you’re open to something unique and a bit more adventurous, try the Avocado Margarita. The original version is made with Tromba blanco tequila. But, you can also try their updated version – the Dos Hombres Avocado. It is the same margarita made with Dos Hombres mezcal, melon-orange liqueur, fresh avocado, lime juice, and a hibiscus salt rim.
You also can’t go wrong ordering any other margarita on the menu here. Or, if you prefer a Frozen Margarita on a warm day, stop by Choza de Margarita.
If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, the Mexico Pavilion has you covered. You can try the Jarritos from La Cantina de San Angel. It is a Mexican fruit-flavored soda that is sure to please.
Norway Pavilion
The next stop is the Norway Pavilion where you should head to Kringla Bakeri og Kafe. There are lots of delicious Norweigan treats here, but the must-try drink is the Viking Coffee. It is a mix of Kamora Coffee Liqueur that is topped with Coffee-Chocolate Sauce and Coffee-Chocolate Crunch.
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, you can try the Carlsberg beer, which is a refreshing lager that is perfect for a hot day. You can find it at the Norway beer stand near the Frozen meet-and-greet area.
For a non-alcoholic option, order the Kristoff Kaffe from Kringla Bakeri og Kafe. It is the Viking Coffee minus the liquor.
China Pavilion
As you continue to make your way around the World Showcase at EPCOT, you’ll come across the China Pavilion. This pavilion is home to some of the most unique and flavorful drinks in the park.
One of the most popular drinks at the China Pavilion is the Tipsy Ducks in Love from Joy of Tea. This chocolaty drink is made with coffee, tea, chocolate, and bourbon. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and strong, and it’s sure to warm you up on a chilly day at the park. You also may want to try the Canto Loopy here if you’re looking for something sweeter. It is made with vodka and cantaloupe juice.
If you want something without alcohol, grab a Bubble Milk Tea from Joy of Tea. It is a tasty mix of iced and sweetened peach black tea with boba. You can’t go wrong ordering any of the other milk teas here too.
Refreshment Outpost
It’s highly debated whether you should stop at Refreshment Outpost on your trip around World Showcase to properly “drink around the world.” Does it count as a country or can you safely skip it and still accomplish the challenge? It’s really up to you!
The menu at the snack stand here isn’t huge, but there are still a few great drinks to try including the Mango Starr (which is made with mango purée and Starr African Rum) and the Coca-Cola or Lemonade Slushy.
Germany Pavilion
Prost! You’ve made it to the Germany Pavilion and, as you might have guessed, beer is the specialty here. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try the Schöfferhofer Grapefruit beer. This beer has a light, fruity flavor that’s refreshing on a hot day. You can find it at any of the beer carts or at Sommerfest in the back of the pavilion.
It can be hard to find a specialty non-alcoholic option here. But, if you can get a dining reservation at Biergarten Restaurant, try the German Spezi. It’s a tasty mix of Coca-Cola and Fanta Orange.
Italy Pavilion
The Italy Pavilion is the place for wine lovers! At Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, you can indulge in some of the best Italian wines while taking a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the park. The wine cellar has an extensive menu of over 200 Italian wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines. You can also enjoy some delicious Italian snacks such as cheese plates and charcuterie boards.
If you’re looking for something quicker, the Italian Margarita at Gelateria Toscana is a great option. It is a frozen blend of Limoncello and tequila and is a refreshing and tasty way to experience the flavors of Italy.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try the Naufrago from Gelateria Toscana. It is a bit more filling, as it is made with root beer and vanilla gelato.
American Adventure Pavilion
You’re halfway “around the world” when you make it to the American Adventure Pavilion and there’s more drinking to do! The walk-up bar in front of Regal Eagle Smokehouse is well-known among Disney fans for its wide variety of delicious drinks. If it’s your first time here, try the Moonshine Sour, which is a mix of Ole Smoky Blackberry Moonshine, blood orange, blackberry, and lemon.
For a non-alcoholic drink, head to Fife & Drum and order an American Dream Slush for the ultimate American Adventure experience. It is a slushy made with frozen Fanta Wild Cherry, vanilla ice cream, and frozen Fanta Blue Raspberry. As an added bonus, it’s very refreshing!
Japan Pavilion
Sake is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of drinking in the Japan Pavilion, and there’s definitely plenty of that! We recommend trying the Violate Sake from YeSake if you haven’t yet. It is a fruity drink made with sake, purple pear, and lime juice.
Another popular drink here is the Kirin Frozen Beer, which is a unique and refreshing way to enjoy a cold beer. This drink is served with a frozen foam on top of the beer, which keeps it cold and adds a creamy texture to the drink.
Finding a non-alcoholic drink is a bit more challenging in the Japan Pavilion. So, instead of going to one of the snack kiosks or restaurants, visit Mitsukoshi Department Store and pick any flavor of the Japanese sodas.
Morocco Pavilion
You won’t have to stop too long in Morocco because you’re headed to Oasis Sweets & Sips Bar, which is right at the front of the pavilion. The Frozen Mint Tea has become one of the most well-known drinks here. The alcoholic version is made with Bombay Sapphire Gin. But, you can also order it without the alcohol.
France Pavilion
Next up is the France Pavilion! One of the most popular drinks here is the Grand Marnier Orange Slush. This refreshing drink is made with Grand Marnier, Grey Goose Orange, and orange juice and can be found at Les Vins de Chefs de France, which is a small drink stand near the front of the pavilion on your way from Morocco.
If you’re looking for something with a little less alcohol, the Cafe Glace from L’Artisan des Glaces is a great option. This non-alcoholic drink is perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, as it is an iced cappuccino with one scoop of ice cream and whipped cream.
Of course, you can also try a variety of wines and champagnes in the France Pavilion too if you’d prefer.
United Kingdom Pavilion
In the U.K. Pavilion, you’ll find a variety of drinks to choose from, including beer, cider, and whiskey. If you’re a beer drinker, the Guinness from Rose & Crown Pub is a fun, authentic way to celebrate drinking around the world. However, we recommend ordering the English Rose from the pub. This secret menu drink is made with Beefeater Gin, Apricot Brandy, Sweet Vermouth, and pineapple, orange, and cranberry juices.
For something a bit less adventurous, you can also order a Twinings Hot Tea from the Rose & Crown Pub.
Canada Pavilion
You’ve made it around the world and the Canada Pavilion is the last stop! The signature drink here is the Ottawa Apple, which can be found at the Maple Popcorn Cart. It is made with Crown Royal Whisky, maple, apple infusion, and cranberry juice. Pair it with the maple popcorn for the ultimate Canadian snack.
And, if you want something non-alcoholic, stop by the Canada Booth during any EPCOT festival. There are usually some great non-alcoholic options like the Maple Popcorn Shake.
BONUS: EPCOT Festivals
In addition to the 11 country pavilions, EPCOT hosts several food and drink festivals throughout the year that bring dozens more snack stands to World Showcase. These festivals offer unique food and drink options, and we recommend stopping by a few if you’re drinking around the world when a festival is going on. You certainly don’t have to stop at them all, but be sure to stop and see what’s on the menu at each one. You could end up finding your new favorite EPCOT drink and the snacks are a great addition to your drinking around the world challenge.
Check EPCOT’s website before you make your plans to see if a festival will be happening when you’re there!
Comments
What is your must-have drink when you’re drinking around the world at EPCOT? Let us know your best tips for conquering this challenge in the comments!