The future of Epcot is coming sooner than you think!
Looking back to our Parks and Resorts coverage from D23 2017, Bob Chapek unveiled the future of Epcot with new concepts seeming to hold true to Epcot’s original vision. An experimental prototype community of tomorrow.
Since then, we hadn’t heard much on what exact changes are in store for the park. That changed today, when D23.com dropped additional details on Epcot’s multi-year transformation.
What’s been confirmed? An all-new play pavilion, a re-imagined main entrance and an Experience Center showcasing the park’s future. All of this is in addition to the many projects which are already underway that I wrote about last week: An Epic 2019 Lineup For Walt Disney World
George A. Kalogridis, president of WDW, stated: “Epcot has always been, and always will be, an optimistic celebration of the real world that is brought to life through the magic of Disney, the exciting plans we have on the horizon will honor Epcot’s rich legacy of creativity and innovation while continuing to exceed the expectations of our guests for decades to come.”
The “play pavilion”, will feature first-of-their-kind experiences devoted to playful fun, games and hands-on activities, all set inside an innovative and interactive city. Guests will also interact with their favorite Disney characters unlike anything ever before seen at Epcot.
Zach Riddley, portfolio executive at WDI stated: “This innovative, new pavilion is beyond anything we’ve ever created and is completely unique to Epcot. Built on the power of play, it introduces an immersive and interactive ‘city’ where you can explore, create, and interact with some of your favorite Disney characters. This is an experience worthy of our bold vision for Epcot—and another signature element of our transformation.”
This new, yet-to-be-named pavilion will come to life within what was previously known as Wonders of Life (also recently used as the Festival Center), and will open in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary in 2021!
Epcot’s main entrance will also receive some upgrades . . . without the Leave a Legacy stones. There’s more room for pathways, fresh green spaces, and a re-imagined fountain (which looks very similar to the original prism fountain!). These beautiful additions will pay homage to the park’s original entrance.
Have no fear, the Leave A Legacy photos will move to a new setting outside the park’s gateway.
Disney also announced significant changes will commence between Spaceship Earth and the World Showcase Promenade – more details will be revealed about that project at a later time.
Adding to the 2019 WDW lineup, a new Experience Center will open later this year within the Odyssey Events pavilion. Guests will be able to preview all of the exciting plans for Epcot; with interactive exhibits that showcase the energy, excitement, and innovation driving the theme park’s future.
Kalogridis adds: “[Epcot is] a timeless place where the real is made fantastic through the magic of Disney. It has a very bright future ahead and the best part is that we’ve only just begun to dream.”
These exciting announcements join the other major projects which fans have been looking forward to: Guardians of the Galaxy coaster, a Ratatouille trackless dark ride, a new nighttime spectacular and a space-themed restaurant.
What do you think of the new entrance and pavilions coming to Epcot? What are you most excited for or concerned about?
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