Kid-Friendly Activities at EPCOT and Where to Find Them
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear from guests visiting the Walt Disney World Resort is that EPCOT isn’t very kid-friendly–and some families even consider skipping it during their trip.
I’m here to lovingly say...don’t do it!
EPCOT is full of hands-on fun, character moments, and interactive adventures that kids absolutely love (I know my kids love it)--especially during the colorful and creative EPCOT International Festival of the Arts!
Here’s where to find the magic for your little ones:
1. KidCot Fun Stops (World Showcase)
If your child enjoys crafts, stickers, and collecting little treasures, KidCot Fun Stops are a must! Located inside each country pavilion around World Showcase, these stations let kids create a free souvenir while learning fun facts about different cultures. You can also purchase a fun “passport” for your child to keep all of their fun treasures they collected at each KidCot Fun Stop.
Parent Tip: It’s a great way to explore at a relaxed pace while giving kids something exciting to look forward to in each country.
2. Character Meet and Greets
EPCOT is one of the best parks for unique character experiences. You’ll often find characters around World Showcase pavilions connected to their home countries. For example, you can find Anna & Elsa in their home country of Norway at “Royal Sommerhus”.
Another wonderful spot to meet beloved Disney pals like Mickey and friends is at World Celebration by CommuniCore Hall. This is my kids’ favorite place to meet some of their favorite characters!
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring your autograph books to collect the signatures of your favorites!
3. Journey of Water: Inspired by Moana
One of EPCOT’s newest additions, this walk-through attraction lets kids interact with water in playful, hands-on ways. It’s perfect for curious explorers who love water! It is located in World Nature.
Parent Tip: On warm summer days, this can double as a refreshing break! Make sure to bring your little one an extra pair of clothing; they will get wet!
4. SeaBase Aquarium
This is EPCOT’s incredible aquarium experience! Inside, kids can watch manatees and sea turtles up close, explore interactive exhibits, observe divers in the massive aquarium tank, visit Turtle Talk with Crush, and learn ocean facts in a relaxed setting.
This pavilion located in World Nature is calm, air-conditioned, and perfect for a mid-day break.
During the Festival of the Arts, it’s also a great reset spot between exploring outdoor art displays and performances.
5. Festival of the Arts Scavenger Hunt: “Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt”
If you’re visiting during the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, don’t miss the festival-themed scavenger hunt (often featuring Figment, EPCOT’s mascot). Kids search for hidden art pieces around World Showcase and earn a small prize at the end when completed. I love it because it turns exploring into a game and keeps little legs moving happily around the lagoon.
6. Celebración Encanto!
For families who love music and dancing, don’t miss the lively Celebracion Encanto show on the CommuniCore Plaza Stage. This interactive high energy performance invites guests to sing and dance along to beloved songs from Disney’s Encanto. You’ll hear fan favorites like “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”, enjoy trivia, and even meet Mirabel and Bruno themselves as part of the fun!
It’s perfect for kids (and adults) who love to move, sing along, and be part of the action–and it’s offered multiple times throughout the day, so you can plan it into your park schedule easily.
Parent Tip: Check showtimes in the My Disney Experience mobile app to plan around meals and rides!
7. Interactive Art Installations, Photo Ops Around the Park, and Chalk Art
During Festival of the Arts, EPCOT becomes a living art gallery with colorful sculptures, murals, and interactive pieces that are perfect for kids to explore, touch, and discover. Kids often love watching artists work on live pieces throughout the day, spotting characters made of mosaics or kinetic art, or finding hidden details in murals.
Another of the most beloved parts about Festival of the Arts is the giant chalk art around the World Showcase Promenade. These stunning 3D illusions make for fantastic photos and get kids talking about perspective and color in a fun, hands-on way.
Why EPCOT is actually PERFECT for Families
EPCOT offers wide walkways (hello, stroller space!), interactive attractions, educational fun disguised as adventure, and incredible seasonal events like EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts that bring creativity to life for kids.
Instead of skipping EPCOT, consider slowing down.Let your kids paint, explore, collect, splash, and snack their way around the world!
You might just find that it becomes one of your family’s favorite park days!
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