Epcot World Showcase - Canada

Canada Pavilion

When you head to our neighbor to the north, the first thing you'll notice is the the mansard-roofed Victorian-style "Hotel du Canada." The Canada pavilion's centerpiece was inspired by the Chateau Laurier, a historic hotel found in Ottawa.

It's amazing how they manage to feature an entire country's landscaping into the setting. The colorful grounds are reminiscent of the Butchart Gardens found in Victoria.

The majestic Canadian Rockies are featured complete with a boulder strewn stream that rushes to a 30' waterfall.

There's also a totem pole, and displays of snowshoes and kayaks. The railings have maple leaf cutouts. (There's no shortage of photo ops as you stroll the grounds.)

• Canada Shopping Photos
  

There are two shopping options in the Canada pavilion, the Northwest Mercantile store and The Trading Post.  Upon entering Northwest Mercantile, you will see Kitras Art Glass.  These gorgeous ornaments are handmade in Canada to resemble one of the four seasons.  The store offers Hatley clothing, Roots fragrances and athletic wear, Deauville perfume, Ice Wines, body care items, and Canadian hockey gear.  Christmas ornaments depicting woodland creatures are also found here.  At The Trading Post maple products abound.  You can find syrup, candies, tea, and cookies.  If you are looking for handmade native jewelry this store offers ‘O Canada’ (made on Prince Edward Island) and ‘Monague’ (made in British Columbia).  Their other souvenirs include Maplefoot Babies stuffed animals, Anne of Green Gables books, BOMA totem poles, and faux raccoon and skunk skin caps.
The outdoor kiosks feature Off Kilter and Illuminations CDs, personalized leather and pewter, Canadian flags, t-shirts, pins, mugs and other collectible items.

One of Canada's most popular attractions is the "Off Kilter" band. These kilt clad, bagpipe playing performers put on a fantastic show. Billed as "Celtic rock", traditional favorites are given a lively twist. This is one show that's worth making time for during your visit.

In the Maple Leaf Mine, the 360º Circle-Vision theatre shows the film "O Canada!" Canadian native Martin Short is the host. His comedic talents combine with the vocals of Canadian Idol winner Eva Avila singing "Canada (You’re a Lifetime Journey)."  Footage was filmed at Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and Niagara Falls, combined with current images provided by the Canada Tourism Commission.

• "O Canada" Reviews

Le Cellier - This sit down restaurant at the Canada pavilion is one of Disney's most requested dining venues. It's popularity combined with its small size has led to problems getting reservations.

If you are able to get a table, one of the "musts" is the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup. The menu also features steaks, prime rib and salmon.

To accompany your meal, there's a selection of Niagara wines as well as Canadian beers.

If you don't get into the restaurant but crave a Canadian brew, just stop at the outdoor kiosk for a Molson.

All areas of the Canada pavilion are wheelchair accessible.