EPCOT is Disney’s World Showcase. Right from international cuisine and live entertainment to cultural experiences and global marketplaces, EPCOT has it all.
In fact, it is known to be the most relaxed of all Disney theme parks.
But, even in the midst of all this international fanfare, Disney drops in a few surprisingly scary and thrilling rides for all the adventure seekers out there.
You may not associate EPCOT with coasters and thrill rides. But we promise you will be surprised when you see our list.
There is definitely something for everyone out there. Here are the scariest, most thrilling rides you can immerse yourself in at EPCOT:
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
- Mission: SPACE
- Test Track
- Soarin’ Around the World
- Space 220 Restaurant (Technically, this is not a ride but a restaurant. But getting there is half the fun, and yes, it is spectacular and thrilling enough to be listed in the top 5.)
Be it science, technology, or futuristic arenas, EPCOT has something fun, exciting, and just enough scary for all age groups. Along with EPCOT’s global fare trademark, there is enough excitement and thrill to give adventure seekers something to scream about.
Top 5 Scariest Rides for Thrill Seekers at EPCOT
Scary and thrilling are not the descriptions that come to mind when one thinks of EPCOT.
But you will be surprised to know that just like every Disney theme park, EPCOT has its share of such exciting rides.
Agreed, they are not as hair-raising and spine-chilling as rides in other theme parks, but they do pack quite a punch.
1. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Being one of the newest additions to EPCOT, this attraction is the perfect combination of Disney Imagineering and Marvel adventure experience.
It is a reverse-launch coaster that takes riders on an intergalactic chase, where you travel between Earth and Xandar.
The coaster also rotates 360 degrees, so you don’t miss any action. It gives you an adrenaline rush at every turn
Just like other Disney attractions, here, too, you are summoned for action to help the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Gamora, Star-Lord, Rocket, and Groot—you will meet them all. This action-packed, fast-moving space pursuit should not be missed.
2. Mission: SPACE
Jet off on a thrilling mission to Mars in this NASA-inspired space ride, or get on a more subtle ride orbiting around the Earth.
Have you ever wondered what it is like to be an astronaut? Ever wanted to jet off into space?
Well, this ride is for you. This NASA-inspired attraction gives riders a perfect feel for space travel.
You can choose between two missions, depending on how extreme you want your experience to be.
The more intense Orange Mission takes you to Mars. For this ride, Disney uses a centrifuge that rotates and moves to mimic the speed and the g-forces like a real spacecraft.
It is the same technique that NASA uses to train its astronauts (not the same magnitude, though), which makes it one of the most unique rides of the theme park.
If you are not ready for this amount of intensity, then you can go for the family-friendly Green Mission, which orbits around the Earth.
This mission is by no means dull or slow. Along the way, you will be thrilled by the magnificent views of Earth, simultaneously evading meteorites and going over the moon.
But, no matter which mission you choose, they both offer stunning panoramic views of the Earth and outer space, enough to satisfy the inner astronaut in you.
3. Test Track
Here, you test drive a car at the Chevrolet Design Center. The highest speed for this ride is 65 mph.
You get to design your own concept car and take it for a test drive, overcoming obstacles and crossing rough terrain as your car swerves and zigzags along the way.
You loop through the most exciting twists and turns, scaling hills, and maneuvering through tough terrain while enjoying stunning visuals.
It is not so scary but thrilling enough to let out a scream or two.
Don’t get fooled by the slow start. It does get exciting along the way, as you test drive your car in different conditions.
Then, after a fairly quick acceleration, the car comes to a stop. You might wish it could go on a bit longer.
4. Soarin’ Around the World
This continues to be the most popular and most loved ride at EPCOT across all age groups.
It takes riders on a flying odyssey over picturesque US and newly added international destinations.
Furthermore, it offers spectacular views of natural and man-made wonders while riders seem to be hang gliding from aerial cable cars.
The entire attraction is housed in a dome-shaped theater. The movement of the cable cars is coordinated with the surrounding scenery, almost giving riders a hot-air balloon-like experience.
The ride takes you to popular destinations in America and around the world, like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Sydney Harbor in Australia, the Taj Mahal in India, the Pyramids in Egypt, and more.
Although it is a rather relaxed ride, it does offer some thrills while making quick drops and ascents as the scenery changes.
5. Space 220 Restaurant
Like I said earlier, this is a restaurant and not a ride, but it is still worth a visit.
Offering an out-of-the-world culinary experience, the restaurant is housed within the Mission: SPACE Pavilion.
You will get a boarding pass as you wait for your turn to get to the restaurant, adding to your excitement.
Once it’s your turn, you will get on the cylindrical space elevator that will give you spectacular views of EPCOT.
As you continue your thrilling ascent, you will seem to travel high above the surface of the Earth, offering breathtaking views of our home planet.
Finally, you’ll reach the restaurant, which is in the space station, 220 miles above the Earth.
The seating in the dining room offers magnificent views. Guests enjoy stunning daytime and nighttime views of the Earth.
You will also see different vessels flying past the space station. The food here happens to be out-of-this-world delicious as well.
This is definitely a must-see at EPCOT.
Conclusion
There is something scary, thrilling, and exciting for everyone at EPCOT.
It has been one of the favorite Disney theme parks for science and technology enthusiasts and people looking for futuristic attractions.
In addition to the rides mentioned here, there is still tons of other stuff to do and see.
In order to have a great Disney experience, it is always a good idea to plan out your day.
The Disney park map is a great tool to chalk out your list. Make sure you take one for each person and a couple of extras.
You can also download the app. But trust me, the map is a lot easier visually. Plus, it is a great souvenir to remember your magnificent trip to EPCOT.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Days To Visit EPCOT for the Shortest Wait Times?
The best days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Second best are Mondays and Thursdays for a shorter wait period.
Are Rides at EPCOT Wheelchair Accessible?
All attractions at EPCOT are wheelchair accessible. However, some rides may require guests to transfer from a chair to a standard ride vehicle.
Is There a Weight Limit on the Rides at EPCOT?
There is no weight limit on any EPCOT attractions, but a few rides might be a tad uncomfortable.
Are There Height Requirements on the Rides at EPCOT?
The majority of rides at EPCOT can be enjoyed by the whole family.
But some requirements are in place for kids’ safety in case of more intense rides. These can be checked online on the Walt Disney World website or the Disney App.
The height requirements are also listed on Disney maps and in front of all Disney attractions.
How Can I Have a Less Stressful Day at EPCOT?
Planning is the key. Do your homework. Make a list of rides everyone in the family wants to do.
The Disney park map is a great tool for outlining what you want to do and see. It also has the show times and the event calendar, which greatly helps.
The Disney app is another option. But, sometimes, due to low connectivity, it could pose a problem. Also, the map is visually more conducive than the app.
Avoid regular mealtimes at restaurants, so you don’t waste time dealing with crowds or standing in long lines.
Do You Need To Make a Reservation To Get Into Space 220 Restaurant?
You need to make reservations and have park tickets to get into the restaurant. The restaurant does not take walk-ins at all.
This newest addition to the EPCOT is one of the most popular dining choices right now.
Reservations can be made on the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app starting at 6.00 a.m.
You can even make a reservation by calling 407-WDW-DINE (939-3463) from 7.00 a.m.
