Hidden Gems in EPCOT: Exploring World Showcase

Today I will be discussing the hidden gems you can find in the 11 countries represented around world Showcase. Each country has its own architecture, dining, entertainment and shops you can enjoy, but something can be easily missed or overlooked.

The number 1 Hidden Gems in World Showcase are the galleries hidden throughout the countries. Usually when you are at a theme park you tend to look for character meet and greets, food, rides and shows, but in the world showcase don't miss out on the art and cultural galleries in some countries.

Mexico - The front room of the Mexico pavilion is called the  "Remember Me!" La Celebración del Día de Muertos exhibit. It showcases art, traditions and the culture around Dia de los Muertos.

Norway - "The Royal Sommerhus" is the gallery in this pavilion, it combines Norwegian lore and how it influenced Frozen. It includes clothing, artifacts and more.

China - "House of the Whispering Willows" is the gallery found here, it showcases the art, history and culture of China. It includes an exhibit on Shanghai Disneyland.

Germany - "Künsterkabinett", which means Artist's Cabinet, this gallery gives a look at German culture through art, literature and artifacts. Recently they had an exhibit on Grimm's Fairy Tales.

Italy - The entirety of Italy is its own gallery, immersing people in the different architectures Italy. They do not have a dedicated gallery because of this.

United States - "American Heritage Gallery" is the gallery in the American Adventure Pavilion. Right now they have an exhibit called "Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change in American Indian Art". It showcases the rich traditions and cultural contributions of Native American tribes.

Japan - "Bijutsu-kan Gallery." This gallery has an exhibit called "Kawaii: Japan's Cute Culture." Which showcases the highlights of Kawaii culture, or Japanese "Cute" culture.

Morocco - "Race Against the Sun: Ancient Technique to Modern Competition." This gallery showcases equipment, photographs and artifacts highlighting competition in desert environments.

France - "Pavilion Art Gallery." This gallery showcases the art and culture of France, usually includes paintings, sculptures and other works of art.

United Kingdom - "The British Invasion: The Music That Changed the World." This gallery showcases memorabilia, photographs and artifacts from iconic British music artists.

Canada - "O Canada!" Gallery. This gallery showcases artifacts and displays that highlight diverse cultures, landscapes and history.

Other than galleries there are other things you can see and do in the different pavilions.

Mexico

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros

This is the ride found in the back up the Mexico Pavilion. If you look at the back of the pavilion you will see a pyramid, and that is part of the ride. Some people might miss this ride because it is tucked in the back of the pavilion, but I think it is worth a ride. It is a slow moving boat ride, full of Donald Duck's hijinks. The ride is mostly made up of screens with Donald doing silly things, but in the end the Three Caballeros give a very nice concert.

Norway

The Stave Church

This is a gallery found in Norway. It is filled with cultural exhibits, art and decorations as well as historical information. It is a beautiful exhibit that should not be missed.

China

House of Good Fortune

Don't miss the shopping to be done in this store found in the back up the China Pavilion. You can find clothes, accessories, gifts and housewares.

Germany

The German Tiny Town

Although this tiny town is right in our view, not all people usually stop to see what is going on in the tiny town. There are trains that make their way around the tracks, and you check out the positions of the tiny people. Sometimes they are even celebrating the festivals that we are! Stop for a little and check out the tiny intricacies here.

Italy

Sergio

Streetmosphere is important in the World Showcase and if we don't stick around in some Pavilions we might miss it. Sergio is a master juggler and mime, take some time out of your day to enjoy his show.

The American Adventure

The American Adventure

This show isn't really hidden but it is a gem. Some people may skip this one because it is long, taking about 30 minutes out of your day. It is definitely worth seeing, with the history and the awesome animatronics. One even walks up a staircase.

Japan

Matsuriza

This entertainment includes giant drums. The drummers use an ancient form of Japanese drumming called Taiko. It is highly entertaining as well as being a cultural experience.

Morocco

Courtyard of the Fes

This small area is a great way to get away from crowds and take a rest from being on your feet. It has intricate tilework and benches so you can enjoy the beautiful ambience of the area.

France

Impressions De France

This is one of the movies shown in the France Pavilion, it is shown at the beginning of the day and the end of the day, sometimes it is easy to miss. It is absolutely gorgeous with its visuals, you see beautiful vistas, and towns and other places in France that are great.

United Kingdom

Meet a Friend from the Hundred Acre Woods

This meet and greet tucked in the back of the UK pavilion, and if you don't know its there you may miss it. Its always fun meeting characters like Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, so if you enjoy them, come see them here.

Canada

The Waterfall

Traverse the wooden walkways of Canada and you will find some great scenery, including a waterfall that you can get misted by.