Travel Around the World With Our Definitive Ranking of the Countries in Epcot
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The 11 pavilions in Epcot are filled with authentic buildings, restaurants, and attractions from each of their respective countries. We've ranked them so you know what to check off your list when you visit The Most Magical Place on Earth.
11. United States
The colonial-style American pavilion is a little lackluster, especially in the food department, because it has every opportunity to showcase all the amazing dishes this country has to offer. However, in this area of the park, you'll only find a counter-service restaurant that has burgers and chicken tenders. The main attraction is the American Adventure, a half-hour show "hosted" by Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain, which takes the audience through the various concepts — Individualism, Innovation, Independence, Compassion, Discovery, Freedom, etc. — the country was founded on in a fun visual way.
More: Did You Know Epcot Has Room for Eight More Countries?
10. China
The Chinese food options in China won't have you rushing back, but the view of the World Showcase from the Nine Dragons restaurant is worth seeing. The attraction in the pavilion is called Reflections of China, and it's a 360-degree film that's currently in the process of being updated with the latest technology. Until it's updated, we'll keep the China pavilion at number 10.
9. United Kingdom
At a glance, the United Kingdom pavilion is amazing, mostly because the architecture will make you feel like you took a quick trip across the pond to walk along Great Britain's cobblestone streets. But besides the authentic buildings, there are only two eating spots: one walk-up food station and and one sit-down restaurant. Both have great fish and chips, but you might want to have lunch or dinner at one of the other countries.
8. Japan
Japan is your best bet for the souvenir shops. Located right in the replica of Japan's Imperial Palace is the Mitsukoshi Department Store that's filled with Japanese gifts and souvenirs. Outside, you'll find a pagoda that looks just like the seventh-century Horyuji Temple. If you're a fan of hibachi — or just need a break from the heat — head to Teppan Edo for a little entertainment and food.
7. Canada
Similar to China, the Canadian pavilion has a 360-degree movie attraction called O Canada!, and unfortunately it isn't included in the plans to get a technology update. What's the standout in the Canadian pavilion is the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup at Le Cellier, the sit-down restaurant. You'll have a hard time walking in and getting a table, so make a reservation ahead of time.
6. Morocco
What the Morocco pavilion lacks in entertainment, it makes up for in its beautiful architectural detail and unique food. The Spice Road Table, right on the water, offers small plates and live entertainment. You can even get a henna tattoo! To have a more filling meal, Restaurant Marrakesh offers many different traditional meals, like roast lamb, couscous, and kebabs. After dinner, don't forget to pick up a crepe at the Moorish Café and Pastry Shop.
5. Germany
Experience the lively energy of Oktoberfest in the Germany pavilion. The Biergarten is open for lunch and dinner with all the cultural classics; assorted sausages, rotisserie chicken, red cabbage, wine kraut, potatoes, and spaetzle. While you eat at the communal tables, you'll get to witness live yodeling and folk dancing. If you're looking for a quicker bite to eat, the counter-service restaurant, Sommerfest, offers bratwurst, frankfurter, sauerkraut, and soft pretzels.
4. Italy
Italian food is always a safe bet, and you'll be so satisfied with the brick-oven pizza that Via Napoli serves up. If you're looking to have a sit-down meal, Tutto Italia Ristorante dishes up all your classic favorites. They even have a 21-and-up wine cellar lounge next door, where you can choose from an extensive selection of wine and beer. It's a little disappointing that the authentic gondolas are just for show (... for now), but the food makes up for the lack of entertainment.
3. Norway
The Norway pavilion recently made its way to the top of many Frozen fans' lists thanks to Frozen Ever After. The ride, based off the hit movie, takes guests through snowy scenes from the film and features all the main characters. The country also offers Princess Storybook Dining for your little princess. Be sure to make a reservation beforehand.
2. Mexico
This Epcot country has it all. The San Angel Inn Restaurante, one of Mexico's two restaurants, is a perfect place to grab lunch or dinner at the base of a picturesque Mayan ruin. The boat ride, Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros, is relaxing and a great way to take a break from the heat. Also, there's a waterfront restaurant that not only has delicious authentic Mexican dishes, but a killer margarita as well.
1. France
If you're looking for a great culinary experience, France is where you'll want to enjoy a meal. Les Chefs de France, one of the two restaurants in the pavilion, is delicious (you've got to try the French Onion Soup), and it's a little more reasonably priced. If you're looking to spend a little more on a special meal, Monsieur Paul is nothing shy of elegant. Unfortunately, France lacks in the amusement department, but coming soon there will be a Ratatouille ride similar to the 4D ride Ratatouille: The Adventure in Disneyland Paris.
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