🌍 EPCOT World Showcase Guide (2025): Pavilions, Food, Characters & More

Practically Perfect Pixie Dust
May 2
10 min read

Updated June 14, 2025

Take a stroll around the world—no passport required! EPCOT’s World Showcase wraps around the back half of the park and features 11 beautifully themed pavilions representing countries across the globe. While it’s not packed with rides, this is where culture, cuisine, and charm take center stage. From authentic architecture and live performances to delicious snacks and hidden gems, there’s so much to explore.

🧚‍♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Start on the left if you want to hit the most ride-heavy section first (hello, Mexico and Norway!). Start right for a quieter, more scenic route.

Looking for the best things to do at EPCOT’s World Showcase? Grab a bratwurst and beer in the Germany Pavilion, catch the thunderous Matsuriza drummers in Japan, or experience the breathtaking Reflections of China film in 360º. With a wide variety of World Showcase dining options—including festival booths, quick service favorites, and exceptional table service restaurants—there’s no shortage of delicious ways to explore each culture. Whether you’re eating your way around the world or discovering hidden performances, this part of EPCOT should be a must-do for every guest.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Planning to sip your way around the world? Don’t miss Kim's Ultimate Adult Beverage Guide with must-try drinks from around EPCOT and beyond.

Let’s take a stroll around the lagoon! Below, you’ll find an overview of each of the EPCOT World Showcase pavilions and discover the hidden gems you won’t want to miss. 🌍✨

International Gateway

United Kingdom

Canada

Mexico

If you start your journey around World Showcase by heading left, your first stop is the Mexico Pavilion—¡bienvenida a México! One of the most immersive pavilions, it’s anchored by a striking Mesoamerican pyramid that leads into a twilight-lit indoor marketplace.

Inside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a bustling Mexican village at dusk, complete with artisan shops selling everything from sombreros and musical instruments to handblown glass and folk art. At the back of the marketplace is San Angel Inn Restaurante, a romantic table service spot set beside a softly glowing volcano. Just beyond, you’ll find the entrance to Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros, a whimsical boat ride starring Donald Duck and friends.

Outside the pyramid, there are even more delicious options. Grab a frozen margarita and fresh guacamole from Choza de Margarita (a fan favorite!) or dine al fresco at La Cantina de San Angel, a popular table service restaurant along the lagoon—advanced dining reservations are highly recommended.

🍽️ Dining at the Italy Pavilion

Table Service: San Angel Inn Restaurante, La Hacienda de San Ángel
Quick Service: La Cantina de San Ángel
Bar/Lounge: Choza de Margarita, La Cava del Tequila

Norway

Dining: Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (character dining with princesses!)

Next stop—Norway! This pavilion is a must-do for Frozen fans. You’ll find the popular Frozen Ever After boat ride here, plus a chance to meet Anna and Elsa in their royal summer cabin (bring your best curtsy!) There’s also a bakery with sweet treats that are surprisingly good even if you can’t pronounce them. Our pick? The School Bread—a soft pastry with custard and coconut on top. Trust us, it’s a hidden gem.

Norway is also home to Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, where you can dine with Disney princesses in a charming castle-like setting. It’s one of the few spots at EPCOT that offers character dining—perfect for a royal start to your day.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Want the full scoop on where to find character meals across the parks? Check out our Character Dining Cheat Sheet!

🍽️ Dining at the Norway Pavilion

Table Service/Character Dining: Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Quick Service: Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe

China

Nǐ hǎo! The China Pavilion greets you with a gorgeous ceremonial gate and a peaceful garden path that makes you want to slow down for a moment.

The big temple building draws you in with its pretty details—and inside you’ll find Reflections of China, a 360º film that gives you a stunning look at the country’s landscapes and culture. You’ll also find a mix of quick bites and souvenirs nearby, plus shaded spots that are perfect for taking a break.

Mulan meets guests here periodically thoughout the day, so check the My Disney Experience App (MDE) for times and keep your camera ready!

You’ll also find a mix of quick bites and souvenirs nearby, plus shaded spots that are perfect for taking a break.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: If you’re feeling snacky, this is a great pavilion to try something new.

🍽️ Dining at the China Pavilion

Table Service: Nine Dragons Restaurant
Quick Service: Lotus Blossom Café, Joy of Tea

The Outpost

Just past China, before you reach Germany, you’ll come across The Outpost—a small area that’s not a full pavilion but still has its perks. You’ll find a few snack carts, a little shop, and some fun drums that kids love to bang on.

One hidden gem here? The covered outdoor seating with a fantastic view of World Showcase Lagoon. We love to stake out a spot here in the evening to watch Luminous: The Symphony of Us—it’s a chill (and less crowded) spot to enjoy the show.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Grab a drink or snack nearby and relax here while you wait for the fireworks!

🍽️ Dining at the Outpost

Food Carts & Snack Carts (no official table or quick service)

Germany

Ein Bier bitte? Willkommen to Germany! This cozy pavilion feels like you’ve stepped into a charming Bavarian village. It’s a great spot to take a break with a cold beer and a pretzel—or something sweet from Karamell-Küche, where everything smells like warm caramel heaven.

There are no attractions here, but you’ll find plenty of shops with souvenirs like steins, cuckoo clocks, and German snacks.

Snow White can often be found greeting guests near the wishing well—she’s one of the easiest princesses to catch without a long wait.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Check the My Disney Experience app to find when Snow White is out meeting guest

🍽️ Dining at the Germay Pavilion

Table Service: Biergarten Restaurant
Quick Service: Sommerfest
Snack/Bar: Karamell-Küche (caramel cart)

🇮🇹 Italy Pavilion

Ciao bella! The Italy Pavilion is elegant, romantic, and a great place to take a break with a glass of wine or a scoop of gelato. Modeled after Venice, it features beautiful fountains, charming bridges, and even a replica of the iconic bell tower from St. Mark’s Square.

While there’s no ride here, it’s a lovely spot to explore, snap a few photos, and enjoy some of the best food and wine in the park. Whether you’re craving pizza, pasta, or just something sweet, Italy delivers.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This is one of our favorite places to sit and people-watch while sipping something cold. There is a seating area that looks out onto the World Showcase Lagoon that is fabulous for this.

🍽️ Dining in the Italy Pavilion

Table Service: Tutto Italia Ristorante, Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria
Quick Service/Snack: Gelateria Toscana, Pizza al Taglio window
Lounge: Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar

🇺🇸 The American Adventure Pavilion

Right in the center of World Showcase is the American Pavilion—your halfway point around the lagoon and a celebration of classic Americana. The colonial-style building houses The American Adventure, a stage show with animatronics and stirring moments from U.S. history (great place to cool off, too!).

Outside, you’ll often hear live music from the American Gardens Theater, especially during EPCOT’s festivals. And if you’re in the mood for something smoky and satisfying, this is the place to grab some BBQ.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Keep your ears open—concerts here are included with your park ticket and often feature surprisingly big-name acts during festivals!

🍽️ Dining at the American Adventure Pavilion

Quick Service: Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue
Snack Carts: Funnel Cake Stand, Fife & Drum Tavern, Block & Hans
Coffee: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

🇯🇵 Japan Pavilion

This pavilion is a favorite for good reason—it’s peaceful, scenic, and full of cool things to explore. The five-story pagoda and torii gate along the water make for stunning photo spots, and if you time it right, you’ll hear the Matsuriza drummers putting on a powerful live show.

Wander back through the paths and you’ll find tranquil gardens, koi ponds, and one of the best shops in all of EPCOT: Mitsukoshi, a giant Japanese department store filled with everything from Pokémon merch to fine kimonos.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This is one of the quietest corners of World Showcase. If you need a little break from the crowds, head back behind the pagoda—you might forget you're even in a theme park.

🍽️ Dining at the Japan Pavilion

Table Service: Takumi-Tei, Teppan Edo, Tokyo Dining, Shiki‑Sai: Sushi Izakaya
Quick Service: Katsura Grill
Snacks & Drinks: Kabuki Café, Garden House

🇲🇦 Morocco Pavilion

The Morocco Pavilion feels like stepping into another world—narrow alleys, beautiful tile work, and detailed architecture make it one of the most unique and immersive areas in World Showcase. It’s also the only pavilion where the actual country helped design the space, and it shows in every corner.

Wander deeper into the pavilion and you’ll find quiet courtyards, colorful markets, and even a meet and greet spot for Princess Jasmine. It’s a great place to take a breather or explore a little off the main path.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This pavilion is usually less crowded than others, so it’s a perfect place to rest in the shade—or snap some amazing photos with fewer people in the background.

🕌 Looking for a magical evening in the World Showcase?Make a reservation at Spice Road Table—Morocco’s vibrant, waterfront spot known for flavorful small plates and stunning lagoon views. It’s one of the only two pavilions that offer a fireworks dining package, giving you a cozy seat to watch Luminous: The Symphony of Us while you dine.

👉 Want all the details on fireworks packages and special experiences? Check out our full guide: Disney World Fireworks Dessert Parties & Dining Packages

🍽️ Dining at the Morocco Pavilion

Table Service: Spice Road Table
Quick Service/Snack: Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (open seasonally)
Note: Restaurant Marrakesh remains closed as of 2025, but we’re still hoping for a comeback!

🇫🇷 France Pavilion

Bonjour from one of the prettiest spots in all of EPCOT! The France Pavilion brings Paris to life with cobblestone streets, charming cafés, and the Eiffel Tower rising above the rooftops. It’s romantic, it’s photogenic, and it’s packed with things to see (and eat).

One of EPCOT’s newer rides, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, is tucked in the back here—and it’s super family-friendly. You’ll also find a rotating film experience inside the Palais du Cinéma, where you can catch Impressions de France or sing along with Beauty and the Beast.

There are also character meet and greets—Belle and Aurora are the regulars—and more treats than you can count. Save room for dessert!

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: You could easily make a meal out of strolling this pavilion and sampling sweets. Start with a croissant and end with a crêpe—no regrets.

🍽️ Dining at the France Pavilion

Table Service: Chefs de France, La Crêperie de Paris
Quick Service/Snacks: Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie, L’Artisan des Glaces, Crêpes À Emporter, Les Vins de Chefs de France

🚠 International Gateway

Tucked between the France and UK pavilions is the International Gateway, EPCOT’s “secret entrance” and exit. If you’re staying at one of the EPCOT-area resorts, this is likely how you’ll be coming and going.

You’ll find access here to the Disney Skyliner, Friendship Boats, and walking paths to Disney’s BoardWalk, Yacht Club, and Beach Club Resorts. It’s also a handy shortcut if you’re heading to or from Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: You can sometimes meet Daisy Duck here in her stylish European look—check the MDE app for times!

🍽️ Dining at the International Gateway (Outside Epcot)

Snack & Coffee Cart: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

🇬🇧 United Kingdom Pavilion

Welcome to the UK! This pavilion is a snapshot of British charm, from the flower-filled gardens to the cozy pub and traditional shopfronts. As you wander through, you might catch a band playing classic British rock from the gazebo—check MDE for times!

In the back, you’ll discover a peaceful park area with a hedge maze, plus character greetings from Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, and even Winnie the Pooh. The gardens behind the shops are one of our favorite spots to relax—with a drink in hand—while watching guests go by.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Grab some fish and chips from the stand and head to the covered tables near the lagoon—the perfect place to chill with a view.

Rose & Crown is also one of just two restaurants in the World Showcase that offer a fireworks dining package, giving you a waterside table with a view of Luminous: The Symphony of Us.

👉 Dive deeper with our full guide to Disney World Fireworks Dessert Parties & Dining Packages to see if it's right for you:Disney World Fireworks Dessert Parties & Dining Packages

🍽️ Dining at the United Kingdom Pavilion

Table Service: Rose & Crown Dining Room & Pub
Quick Service

🇨🇦 Canada Pavilion

O Canada! This pavilion is a quiet little escape that blends rustic charm with sweeping garden views. It’s often overlooked, but it’s definitely worth a visit—especially if you’re looking for a peaceful spot away from the crowds.

Take a stroll through the Victoria Gardens, snap a photo of the majestic Hotel du Canada, or catch the Canada Far and Wide Circle-Vision film for a quick trip across the country's stunning landscapes. And if you're hungry, Le Cellier Steakhouse is tucked away here—it’s a cozy, fan-favorite spot for steak lovers.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the snack cart! Grab a sweet maple popcorn and pair it with an Ottawa Apple cocktail—it’s one of our go-to treats when we’re circling the lagoon.

🍎 Want more drink recs? Head over to Kim’s Ultimate Adult Drink Guide to Walt Disney World for even more favorites to sip and savor!

🍽️ Dining at the Canada Pavilion

Table Service: Le Cellier Steakhouse
Snack Cart: Popcorn Cart (serving maple popcorn & specialty drinks)

🌍 Wrapping Up Your Trip Around the World

From margaritas in Mexico to maple popcorn in Canada, the EPCOT World Showcase offers something for everyone—whether you're here to snack and sip, meet beloved characters, take in a few cultural shows, or just soak up the atmosphere. Each pavilion has its own personality, hidden gems, and delicious surprises.

Whether you stroll the full loop in one day or explore it in pieces throughout your trip, don’t rush it—there’s so much magic in the details. Relax in the gardens, try something new, and enjoy the global adventure, Disney-style.

🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Want to make the most of your visit? Pair this guide with our EPCOT Festival Guides, Adult Beverage Picks, and EPCOT Downloadable Maps and Cheat Sheets to plan your perfect path around the lagoon.