Traveling to Walt Disney World for the first time is an amazing experience that can be a bit of a sensory overload at times – which is why advance planning is really important, and it’s also important to have an idea of what kinds of rides and attractions await you too. There are definitely some rides and attractions that are a must do for first timers – and I recently wrote about the ones you will want to make sure you check out at Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom – so today I wanted to talk about the can’t miss rides and attractions at Epcot:

Spaceship Earth: You know that huge shimmery silver geosphere you see upon entering Epcot? Well step on into it, as it is home to this attraction that tells the story of communication through the ages. Audio – Animatronic scenes show you how we started and how far we have come – from the invention of papyrus, to the invention of the printing press, phone and everything inbeween! The wait is usually short for this one as it’s a continuous loading ride, so head over here when the day gets hot and relax and enjoy the ride! Fun fact: recognize that narrator? It’s the voice of Judy Dench!

Living With The Land: This 14 minute boat ride is fun as well as educational (but don’t worry, the kids won’t know they are learning!) as it leads you through The Land’s experimental growing areas – where any and every vegetable and plant you can think of are sprouting up everywhere you look! You’ll see tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables that are used in various Epcot restaurants, and you’ll see assorted fish, alligators, eel and more too! There are lots of environmentally friendly practices at work here, as well as some inventive ways to grow plans in the Creative Greenhouse – upside down plants, and plants without soil take root here

Test Track: Presented by Chevrolet – this ride was underwent a lengthy renovation in 2012 and the enhancements are not to be missed! As you walk through the queue you will see some pretty cool Chevrolet concept cars, and then you’ll find yourself in the “design center” where you design and then board and test your own virtual “Sim Car” – speed, heat, cold and brake tests are just some of what’s in store for your car as you head around the “test track” (the speed is the best part if you ask me!). Afterwards check out Chevy’s latest models in their sales/showroom. I highly recommend a fastpass reservation for this one – the lone gets long fast and tends to stay long throughout the day

Gran Fiesta Tour: Over in the Mexico Pavillion of Epcot’s World Showcase, you will find this “Three Caballaros!” themed Mexican boat ride – in which Donald Duck has gone missing and you get to help find him! Float along as live action footage of Mexico is interweaved with clips of the Caballaro’s adventures! It’s a cute little ride that kids and adults will like, and there’s usually not much of a wait and it’s indoors (which can matter a lot on a hot Orlando day)

KidCot Fun Spots: Pick up your Perry the Platypus or Duffy the Disney Bear on a stick and head around to each country in Epcot’s World Showcase to learn about the culture and traditions of the countries – and to collect a stamp/signature from each stop on the tour. Kids can color their Perry or Duffy – and it’s a great way to get them seeing all the countries and getting a taste of other cultures. I admit, it’s not just fun for kids – my husband and I did this on our last trip – and I loved it (no shame here!)

Epcot is a bit different from the other Disney Parks – as it is divided into two distinct parts – there’s Future World and then the World Showcase – which means there is a TON to explore! I recommend you give Epcot at least a full day in your touring plan, as you won’t want to miss these and all the other great rides and attractions!