Walt Disney’s Epcot – Day Trip from St Pete

Published on 10/26/20: For those with children or simply young at heart, one of the great aspects of living in the Tampa Bay Area is the close proximity to Disney Parks! In this case we’re talking about Epcot! While we’ve done Disney day trips, we planned this vacation well in advance for a 3 day adventure. All Disney parks are currently on a reservation system, capping the number of visitors – and masks are required unless sitting while eating or drinking.

First day was Epcot which has a ‘modified’ Food & Wine Festival this year. The crowds were noticeably thinner while strolling along, however the waits for some activities were still a bit too long for us. Ie An hour to enter Mexico for lunch, drinks, & ride. Since plenty of other activity options were simply 5-20 minutes, we chose accordingly.

We usually try for Epcot Fast Passes

Fast Passes are usually our preferred option…simply riding four rides with practically no wait, and the rest of the day we simply take in the magic of Epcot. However these days there are no fast passes, though it all seemed to work out fine for the most part. We will definitely return, especially when the temp falls even a few more degrees. We didn’t take many ‘Epcot’ pictures on this family trip, however you get the idea. Bottomline is that people fly in from all over the world for a fantastic Disney park system that’s just a 90 minute drive away for those of us around Tampa Bay!

Google Reviews: 112,976 with a 4.3/5 Average

Address: 200 Epcot Center Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL

Phone: 407-939-5277

Follow along with over 56K people who follow my LovingStPete on Social Media. If you are interested in buying or selling a property in the Tampa Bay Area, simply contact the locally trusted St Petersburg Realtor, Mike Braswell. My past includes developing a vacation rental advertising company that I ran for more than a decade before HomeAway/VRBO acquired. I would love to earn your business as a Saint Petersburg Real Estate Agent,

A Magical Day Trip: Exploring Epcot from St. Petersburg

If you’re based in St. Petersburg and looking for a fun-filled day trip, why not set your sights on Epcot? Located at Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida, Epcot is a captivating destination that promises a blend of futuristic innovation and cultural experiences. Here’s how you can make the most out of your day trip from St. Petersburg to Epcot.

Morning: The Journey Begins

Start Early: To get the most out of your Epcot adventure, plan for an early start. The drive from St. Petersburg to Epcot typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Aim to leave by 7:00 AM to avoid rush hour and to ensure you arrive when the park opens.

Arriving at Epcot: Once you arrive, park in the expansive parking lot. Keep an eye out for the signs guiding you to the Epcot entrance. After passing through security and ticketing, you’ll be greeted by the iconic Spaceship Earth, the giant geodesic sphere that symbolizes the park.

Morning Exploration: Future World

Spaceship Earth: Start your day with a ride inside Spaceship Earth. This classic attraction takes you on a journey through the history of human communication, offering both educational and entertaining elements.

Innovations in Future World: Afterward, explore Future World, which showcases cutting-edge technology and innovation. Check out attractions like Test Track, where you can design your own virtual car and then experience a thrilling high-speed test drive. If you’re into space, Mission: SPACE offers an exhilarating simulated space mission.

Breakfast Options: If you’re hungry, grab a bite at Connections Café & Eatery or Cool Ship, which offer a range of quick-service breakfast options to fuel your day.

Midday: World Showcase

Around the World: After enjoying Future World, head to the World Showcase. This area features 11 pavilions representing different countries. Take your time to wander through each pavilion, soaking in the unique architecture, cultural displays, and traditional cuisine.

Lunch at World Showcase: For lunch, consider dining at one of the many international eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi in Japan, bratwurst in Germany, or a delicious taco in Mexico, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Le Cellier Steakhouse in Canada and Rose & Crown Dining Room in the UK are also great sit-down options.

Cultural Experiences: Don’t miss the live performances and cultural demonstrations scattered throughout the World Showcase. From the acrobats in China to the traditional music in Italy, these experiences add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.

Afternoon Fun: Attractions and Entertainment

The Seas with Nemo & Friends: After lunch, head to The Seas Pavilion. The Nemo & Friends ride is charming for all ages, and the adjacent Seabase offers an impressive aquarium where you can observe marine life up close.

Soarin’ Around the World: Next, take a ride on Soarin’ Around the World. This breathtaking flight simulation offers stunning aerial views of some of the world’s most famous landmarks. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Epcot.

Shopping and Relaxing: Explore the shops in the World Showcase for unique souvenirs and gifts. The relaxed pace here allows you to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy a coffee break, or simply enjoy the scenic views around the World Showcase Lagoon.

Evening: A Magical Conclusion

Dinner and Dining: As evening approaches, consider dining at one of the signature restaurants in the park. Monsieur Paul in France and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Norway offer delightful dining experiences with unique menu options.

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth: Cap off your Epcot adventure with a viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, a spectacular nighttime show that features fireworks, music, and lasers, celebrating the spirit of humanity and the achievements of our world.

Departure: After the show, head back to your car, reflecting on the day’s adventures. The drive back to St. Petersburg might be a bit of a wind-down time, so perhaps play some relaxing music or chat about your favorite moments of the day.

Tips for a Successful Trip to Epcot

1. Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance to save time and avoid long lines.
2. Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you’ll be on your feet a lot.
3. Hydration and Sunscreen: Florida sun can be intense, so stay hydrated and apply sunscreen regularly.
4. Park Map: Grab a park map and show schedule upon arrival to plan your day effectively.

Epcot is a blend of fun, learning, and cultural enrichment, making it a perfect destination for a day trip from St. Petersburg. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture enthusiast, or just looking to have a good time, Epcot has something for everyone. Enjoy your adventure!