EPCOT often has the reputation for being an adult park with its seasonal festivals and past-time of “drinking around the world.” However, as the mom of a toddler, I can honestly say it is also one of my son’s favorite parks. Let’s take a closer look at why EPCOT might just be your little one’s new favorite park.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana
This walk-through attraction is a total game changer for my family and quite possibly my son’s favorite thing at Disney World right now. Parents of young children know that a splash pad reigns supreme with kids. Moana is the world’s best version of a splash pad and so much more, with plenty of room for your kids to play and explore. To best prepare, bring a swimsuit and towel for your kids and plan to spend a lot of time here. In other words, don’t come hungry, and maybe bring a drink for mom or dad to enjoy while your kids have the time of their lives.
Other Kid-Friendly Attractions
My son is also obsessed with Gran Fiesta Tour, aka the Three Caballeros, and I often hear the same from other parents. The best part? It usually has a short wait time, so you can ride again and again. Not to mention, it’s an almost 10-minute relaxing boat ride. Win-win for everyone! Other kid-friendly attractions with low wait times include The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Living with the Land, and Journey Into Imagination with Figment. Bonus point – these attractions are all a short walk from each other. While typically not a short wait time, Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, are huge hits with little ones and give another opportunity for kids to do something fun in World Showcase. If you’re utilizing Genie+, both Frozen and Remy are now included in your EPCOT Lightning Lane options.
Plenty of Room for Play
EPCOT offers so many great opportunities for your kids to get out of their strollers and explore. A highlight for my toddler is always the playground typically added for whichever festival is in season. This gives him the opportunity to play with other kids in an area where I don’t have to worry about him being able to run off or easily get lost. The new World Celebration Gardens is also a great open space for toddlers to get out their wiggles and meet characters like Pluto and Daisy. Also nearby, The Seas is a large aquarium that is easy for kids to navigate and even has a Nemo-themed play area and the always-funny Turtle Talk with Crush.
World Showcase
As an adult, my favorite area of EPCOT will always be World Showcase and I’m pleased to say my son now loves it too. Even as a baby, the World Showcase offered so much for my son to look at without having to park the stroller, wait in a line, or commit much time. Now as a very busy toddler, he enjoys dancing to the musical performances, character meet and greets, shopping, and snacking…. just like his mom!
Magic Kingdom may still hold the title for the most kid-friendly park but don’t sleep on EPCOT and all the ways the little ones and the adults can have a great time!
