Epcot for Seniors
Walt Disney World has a well-deserved reputation as a family destination. However, this may leave those whose children are grown with the impression that Disney holds nothing for them.
For Guests of all Ages
In reality, this is simply not true. Epcot is an excellent destination for guests of all ages. Senior citizens will find a wealth of activities that they can truly enjoy. The park is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes. ECVs and wheelchairs are available to rent if anyone in your party has difficulty with walking. Also be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as you will be spending a lot of time outside.
A Lot of Walking
Be Prepared Epcot is a very large theme park and most guests will average over 5 to 7 miles walked each day. You might want to consider using splitting Epcot up into 2 days (2-day Epcot Touring Plan). Most seniors really like to book one of our Disney condos which gives them much more room to spread out after a long day at Epcot.
Four Main Sections
Epcot is divided into four main sections (click here for a list of Epcot Attractions): World Discovery, World Nature, World Celebration, and the World Showcase. World Discovery is themed to space, science, and technology. World Nature is themed on the earth and its preservation. World Celebration is themed to connection and new experiences. The World Showcase is a World’s Fair-style celebration of world culture. All four areas hold attractions that may be of interest to seniors.
World Celebration
The icon for Epcot, and the first thing you will encounter on your arrival, is Spaceship Earth, known affectionately as the giant golf ball. Be sure to experience this attraction. It is a slow-moving dark ride that takes you through the history of communication from the dawn of man through the global communication of today. There is generally little wait, and the long ride provides an excellent opportunity to beat the heat, as well as providing a very well-done, interesting, and informative attraction.
Imagination Pavilion has a dark ride intended for a younger audience featuring Figment, the park’s mascot. However, seniors may enjoy being inside and the cute nature of the ride.
World Nature
This area is great for the whole family, especially those who may want to move at a slower pace. Here you will find the Land with Soarin and Living with the Land. Both rides are not thrills rides and are fun to experience indoors. You can also eat at the Garden Grill with Chip and Dale.
You will also find the Seas, which has Nemo and aquariums in Sea Base. The Nemo and Friends ride is indoors out of the sun and very cute and leads to aquariums with real-life sea life.
World Discovery
This area has the most thrills rides. Here are Test Track, Cosmic Rewind, and Mission Space. They are intense rides of speed and spins. These rides are extremely fun but may be too intense for seniors.
World Showcase
Pavilions of eleven nations ring the lagoon in the back half of the park. Each pavilion is laid out in a similar manner. One major attraction, often a boat ride or a film presentation, surrounds shops, eateries, and entertainment. Street performers are common, from acrobats to mimes to strength ballet.
Around the World… Showcase
An entire day could easily be spent making your way slowly around the World Showcase. Be sure to visit the shops. Many are arranged as outdoor straw markets or bazaars, and all carry products that are specific to the country represented. Although all of the entertainment is top-quality and definitely worth seeing, a few performers stand out as true must-sees. One is the preshow group at the American Adventure. Housed in the lower level of the main show building, the Voices of Liberty is a cappella singing group. They perform classic folk and patriotic songs, and their show is truly spectacular.
Festivals
This area houses the festivals. During each seasonal festival, kiosks are changed out with themed foods and drinks to try. This can be a fun experience for an evening to stroll easily through the park and see what new foods you can discover as a family.
