Difference between pages "Journey Into Imagination with Figment" and "Epcot"

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{{Infobox Disney ride |
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{{Template:Infobox amusement park
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| image=Figmentnigel.jpg
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| image=Spaceship Earth.jpg
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| caption='''Dr. Nigel Channing with Figment.'''
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| caption='''Spaceship Earth, the icon of Epcot.'''
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| opened= June 2, 2002
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| theme=Technology, The Future, Internationality
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| theme= Imagination
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| opening_date=October 1, 1982
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| duration=6:00
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| homepage=[http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/ Epcot Homepage]
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| park= Epcot
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| custom_label_1= Previously Known As
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| land=Future World
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| custom_value_1= EPCOT, EPCOT Center, EPCOT 94, EPCOT 95
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| vehicle_type= Train
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| icon=Spaceship Earth
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| host= Dr. Nigel Channing and Figment
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| custom_label_1= Theme Song
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| custom_value_1= One Little Spark
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| custom_label_2= Formally Known As
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| custom_value_2= Journey Into Imagination (1983-1998) <br> Journey Into Your Imagination (1999-2001)
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|custom_label_2= FastPass +
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|custom_value_2= Yes (Group B)
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}}
 
}}
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Journey Into Imagination With Figment is an attraction located in the [[Imagination!]] pavilion within [[Epcot]]. If you are looking for the attraction that was housed in the pavilion from 1983 until 1999 see: [[Journey Into Imagination]].
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Epcot is a theme park located in Walt Disney World.
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==Attraction History==
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==History==
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===Walt Disney's Experimental Community of Tomorrow===
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The genesis for what would one day be known as Epcot began in the early 1960s with Walt Disney himself. After having many grandchildren, Walt began to worry about the world that they would grow up in <ref name= "florida"> https://sites.google.com/site/theoriginalepcot/the-florida-project </ref>. As he looked around at the cities of America, he saw places that were full of crime, disorganization, dirt and chaos. Disneyland on the other hand, was the opposite of these things, and Walt decided that he could take the Disneyland philosophy and apply it to the real world.  To go along with this, Disneyland had also proved that Walt and his company were very efficient in the art of constructing and designing buildings. With this information in mind, he began to read about how to start a city.
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[[Image:WaltEpcotVideo.jpg|thumb|400px| Walt explaining his vision for Epcot]]
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Walt’s plan for a Utopian city got its name in 1966, when Disney narrated a video in which he described his dream <ref name= "film"> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLCHg9mUBag </ref>. The city would be a part of Walt's secret Florida Project in central Florida, and would be called the Experimental Community of Tomorrow, or EPCOT<ref name= "film"/>. Walt called EPCOT, “the most exciting, by far the most important,” and the heart of what he planned to do in Florida. The city would take its cues from the new ideas and technologies of American industry and would be a “community of tomorrow”<ref name= "film"/>. Walt wanted to plan and design every detail of the city, in order to meet the public's needs <ref name= "florida"/>. Industry was also expected to partner with Disney to solve the problems of the society<ref name= "florida"/>. Walt said that EPCOT would never be finished, it would always be improving and he hoped that when it was built, it would house about 20,000 people <ref name= "florida"/>.
  
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===The Original Journey Into Imagination Attraction (1983-1998)===
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EPCOT was laid out to be the perfect city. It took its design from Disneyland, in that there would be a central hub that roads and monorails would connect to the other parts of the city. The center “hub” of EPCOT would have been a large business area <ref name= "film"/>. The area would have been under a dome that would control the temperature and weather. The business area would also have included office buildings, shopping, and the “crown jewel” of EPCOT, the Cosmopolitan Hotel, which would be located at the center of EPCOT and would be 30 stories tall<ref name= "film"/>. The hotel would also house (in the basement) the transportation lobby of the city<ref name= "film"/>. Underground, People Movers would transport passengers to the various parts of town, and cars and trucks would also have underground highways that they would be able to use (although no gas vehicles would travel above land)<ref name= "film"/>. The hub would also feature offices, theaters, nightlife, restaurants, and a shopping center that would sell items from around the world<ref name= "film"/>.
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What would one day be known as Journey Into Imagination, began as an idea from Imagineer Tony Baxter. Baxter was tasked with working on an attraction for EPCOT Center's Kodak Pavilion, with the only request being that they wanted something that would be "very imaginative". Based on this request, Tony came up with the idea of a Dream Catcher (as it is unofficially called); a machine which traveled through space collecting sparks of imagination.  
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Piloting the Dream Catcher, would be Dreamfinder, a whimsical inventor who collected and reused imagination. The Dreamfinder character actually began as the host of an unbuilt attraction called the Gallery of Illusion. This attraction was to be built in the never constructed Discovery Bay expansion of Disneyland, and it was to be hosted by an investor named Professor Marvel. In one of the scenes in this attraction, Professor Marvel showed how he domesticated dragons, even holding a baby one. When work began on Journey Into Imagination, Captain Marvel became the inspiration for Dreamfinder, with Joe Rhode serving as the model for the character.  
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Outside of the business area was to be the high density apartment housing<ref name= "film"/>. Citizens who lived here would have the luxury of being close to the business area. Outside of the apartment housing was to be the recreation area, which  would have consisted of things such as pools, parks, churches and schools<ref name= "film"/>. Beyond the recreation area would have been the residential neighborhood, where a large number of families would have lived. This area would have consisted of housing and small recreation areas such as playgrounds<ref name= "film"/>.  
  
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The second character created for the Journey Into Imagination attraction, was a purple, childlike dragon named Figment. Figment’s creation began when Tony Baxter was watching an episode of Magnum P.I. In the episode, Magnum had hidden a goat in Higgins’ yard, and the goad had predictably torn up the vegetation. When Higgins suggested that a goat was ruining his yard, Magnum replied that it was all just a figment of his imagination. Higgins’ response that “Figments don’t eat grass!” gave Baxter the inspiration for his new character, named Figment. Tony  would later explain that Figment was a character that everyone knows about and has never been visualized.  
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The final part of EPCOT would have been the industrial center<ref name= "film"/>. This is where companies from around the world would work on various projects<ref name= "film"/>. Walt wanted guests to be able to visit these companies, and hopefully take some inspiration for industry home with them <ref name= "florida"/>. Citizens of EPCOT would take a monorail to the rest of Walt Disney World and the EPCOT industrial center. The monorail and the [[People Mover]] were expected to be the main methods of transportation in EPCOT thus eliminating traffic<ref name= "film"/>.
  
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Taking some inspiration from the Gallery of Illusion attraction, Figment was initially sketched by Disney artist Steve Kirk who turned in a rough drawing of the character. Imagineer X Atencio then slightly altered the drawing to, "make the character lovable, in a way that kids could relate to".   With their two main characters designed, Imagineers set about finding voices for the duo. Although finding a voice for Dreamfinder was relatively simple (with actor Chuck McCann filling the role) finding a voice for Figment proved to be much more difficult. Disney had men, women, boys and girls all audition for the role, but no voice was deemed suitable. Eventually, they found Figment's voice in veteran voice actor Billy Barty, who was deemed perfect for the role. When talking about the role of Figment, Tony Baxter said:
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===From City to Theme Park===
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[[Image:Dreamfindermodel.jpg|400px|thumb|The original model of Dreamfinder.]]
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When Walt Disney died in 1966, the future of EPCOT was forever changed. In 1967 the Reedy Creek Improvement District was signed into law giving Disney more liberties when it came to construction <ref name= "widen"> http://www.omniluxe.net/wyw/epcot.htm </ref>. Furthermore, the state of Florida created the cities of Bay Lake and Reedy Creek, which were essentially governed by the Walt Disney Company <ref> http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2004/02/23/story1.html </ref>.  Although this seemed like the first step towards the construction of EPCOT, Disney’s board of the directors decided that they did not want to build the city. Despite Roy O. Disney’s desire to see EPCOT built, when Walt Disney World opened in 1971 it consisted of only the [[Magic Kingdom]], the Contemporary, the Polynesian and the Fort Wilderness Campgrounds.  
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{{Quotation| "The story needed to describe the complex process in an engaging, interactive way without seeming like a lecture. A persona was needed to give the process personality, but having a human character seemed too selective. A friendly imaginary being that could delight in the wonders of imagination would be more inclusive."| Tony Baxter}}
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[[Image:EpcotConcept.jpg|thumb|400px|EPCOT Center concept art.]]
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By 1975, Disney had determined that EPCOT as a day to day community was not a feasible idea. Instead, Disney announced that they would be taking the ideals and goals of EPCOT and building it in the form of a theme park. In July of 1975 Disney announced that their plans for EPCOT would have three main components <ref name= "florida"/>. The first component would be the EPCOT Institute, which would have helped facilitate the flow of research and information from EPCOT’s other components to the park's sponsors and the general public<ref name= "florida"/>. The second component of EPCOT would be various “satellites” where research and development of future products and new systems in fields such as: energy, communication, agriculture, and education would take place<ref name= "florida"/>. The EPCOT satellites would be located both on Walt Disney World property and off<ref name= "florida"/>. The third, and most perhaps most prominent component of the 1975 EPCOT plan, was the Future World Theme Center<ref name= "florida"/>. Here, guests would be able to visit various pavilions that showed the research that was being done at EPCOT. Fields including communication, science and technology would all be showcased in the Future World Theme Center<ref name= "florida"/>.
  
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With their characters in place, it took Disney nearly six months to come up with an idea for the Journey Into Imagination attraction. To help them with their understanding of imagination, Disney brought in various scientist and artists. Eventually they came to the conclusion that while everybody’s imagination was different, how people get their imagination is the same. Thus  they decided to focus on how we gather, store and recombine ideas.  
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To go along with the scientific and futuristic components of EPCOT, Disney also announced related plans for World Showcase and International Village <ref name= "showcase"> https://sites.google.com/site/theoriginalepcot/the-world-showcase </ref>. World Showcase was to be an area that allowed guests to experience the different cultures of the world. Each country would have its own exhibits space, in a vein similar to a World’s Fair<ref name= "showcase"/>. Furthermore, the showcase would show how technology and communication could promote the betterment of all nations. The International Village on the other hand, would be a place where the international cast members that worked in World Showcase would live <ref> https://www.mouseplanet.com/8907/The_Other_Epcot </ref> The World Showcase area was to be built separately from the Future World Theme Center; however the two locations would be connected by monorail <ref> http://jimhillmedia.com/editor_in_chief1/b/jim_hill/archive/2004/06/18/415.aspx </ref>. This new version of Walt’s original EPCOT idea was described in the 1975 annual report:
  
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Despite originally scheduled as an opening day attraction, Journey Into Imagination opened on March 5, 1983, five months after EPCOT Center’s opening day. Although the rest of the pavilion opened with the rest of EPCOT Center, technical issues with Journey Into Imagination’s turntable, loading and unloading mechanisms caused the attraction to be delayed. According to Tony Baxter however, the attraction was up an running, yet Disney executives did not think would be reliable and thus it was delayed. After opening, Journey Into Imagination remained essentially the same until 1998, when it was closed for refurbishment.
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{{Quotation| EPCOT will be to respond to the needs of people by providing a Disney-designed and Disney-managed forum where creative men and women of science, industry, universities, government and the arts - from around the world - can develop, demonstrate and communicate prototype concepts and new technologies, which can help mankind to achieve better ways of living. <ref> http://jimhillmedia.com/editor_in_chief1/b/jim_hill/archive/2011/08/01/how-disney-s-dream-of-building-epcot-the-city-sank-in-lake-buena-vista.aspx#sthash.7aK1GHnl.dpuf </ref>}}
  
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===Journey Into Your Imagination (1999-2001)===
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====Development and Construction====
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With the new millennium approaching, it was decided that Journey Into Imagination needed to be updated. While the  attraction remained popular, it had seen a recent decline in attendance and was beginning to look dated. Because of this, Kodak's renewal of their sponsorship of the Journey Into Imagination Pavilion necessitated that the attraction be updated before 2000 (when Epcot was planning on having its big millennium celebration). After a series of rejected ideas (including an attraction based on the 1997 movie Flubber, and another attraction that would have guests entering the mind of a celebrity),Walt Disney Imagineering pitched an idea for "must see" attraction that would use special effects, to challenge and confuse guest’s senses. After hearing the pitch, one executive said:
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[[Image:epcotconstruction.jpg|thumb|400px|The World of Motion (front), Universe of Energy (middle) and Spaceship Earth (back) under construction.]]
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[[Image:JOurneyintoyourimagiantion.jpg|400px|thumb|The entrance to the Imagination! pavilion during the Journey Into 'Your' Imagination era. Photo by Ckramer]]
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Following Disney’s announcement of EPCOT, plans for their newest theme park remained in flux. By 1976, the scope of the project had been narrowed, with one section of the park being the Future World Theme Center, and the other section being World Showcase. Imagineers Marty Sklar and John Hench literally had pushed models of the two areas together, creating the unified EPCOT that would eventually be built <ref> https://sites.google.com/site/theoriginalepcot/becoming-epcot-center </ref>. During the ongoing development, the name of the park was changed to EPCOT Center, and the parameters of what the park would include were more clearly defined. The Future World portion of EPCOT Center would contain various pavilions including: [[Spaceship Earth]], [[CommuniCore]], the Life and Health Pavilion, the [[Transportation pavilion]], [[The Seas]], [[The Land]], the [[Space pavilion]], and the [[Energy pavilion]] <ref> http://www.mainstgazette.com/2010/04/master-plan-5.html </ref>. Like Future World,  World Showcase had also changed dramatically since its initial incarnation. By 1977, World Showcase was designed so that all of the countries’ exhibits were now surrounding a central lagoon. Another change in the area had to do with the exterior architecture. Initially, Disney (and CEO Card Walker) had wanted the exterior facades of each country’s pavilion to be identical and interconnected <ref name= "primer"> Crawford, Michael. The Progress City Primer: Stories, Secrets, and Silliness from the Many Worlds of Walt Disney. N.p.: Progress City, L.L.C, 2015. Print. </ref>. Imagineer Harper Goff on the other hand, felt that the pavilions should be highly themed and unique, with landmarks from each country drawing guests towards the pavilion <ref name= "primer"/>. Although Goff’s idea was initially rejected, the Imagineer continued to press the issue. One day, when various international sponsors were touring the plans for World Showcase, Goff left paintings of the highly themed and aesthetically pleasing pavilions on display<ref name= "primer"/>. Due to the enthusiastic response of the investors, Goff won out, and the World Showcase pavilions were given unique exteriors<ref name= "primer"/>.
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{{Quotation|“If you were in that room hearing the pitch you would have been blown away. You'll be in this dark room and not be able to tell up from down. You will be surrounded by sound and not know the direction. It was all amazing, sounded state of the art and more importantly guaranteed to give the guests a terrific experience."| <Ref> http://www.epcotlegacy.com </ref>}}
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Initially planned as a six year project, construction on EPCOT Center began in October 1979, with a projected opening date of October 1, 1982 <ref name= "korkis"> https://www.mouseplanet.com/10081/Building_Epcot_Center_1982 </ref>. At this time, EPCOT Center was considered the largest construction project in the world<ref name= "korkis"/>.
  
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The new attraction was eventually given the blessing of both Kodak and Disney, and Journey Into Imagination was closed on October 10, 1998. Taking its inspiration from the [[Honey, I Shrunk the Audience]] attraction, it was decided that  the new Journey Into Imagination would become a part of the fiction Imagination Institute (which the entire pavilion would now be themed as). Renamed Journey Into “Your” Imagination, the new attraction took guests on a tour of the Imagination Institute, where they learned the “effects of sound, color, illusion, dimension and gravity on people's ‘imagination generator.’” Dr. Nigel Channing (Eric Idle), who had appeared in Honey, I Shrunk the Audience, was tapped as the host of new attraction.  Imagineer Orrin Shively (who had previously produced Test Track) produced Journey Into “Your” Imagination, and gave the show a minimal plot in order to allow guests to explore their own imagination.
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===Opening===
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Despite the massive amount of construction that was necessary, EPCOT Center was ready in time for its targeted opening day- October 1, 1982 <ref name= "day"> http://thisdayindisneyhistory.homestead.com/epcotgrandopening.html </ref>. When the park opened it featured nine pavilions in World Showcase and seven pavilions in Future World <ref name= "day"/>. On October 1, the International Ceremony of the Waters took place, where containers of water from 25 bodies of water, representing 29 countries were poured into The Fountain of Nations <ref> https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/10/vintage-walt-disney-world-fountain-of-nations-dedication-at-epcot/ </ref>.  A Grand Opening Week was then held from October 17-October 27, during which many of the park's individual pavilions were dedicated. On hand for the festivities were VIP Cast Members including Walt’s widow Lillian, key members of the press, celebrities (including Drew Barrymore and Marie Osmond) and top executives from sponsor companies <ref name= "allears"> http://allears.net/ae/issue678.htm </ref>. On October 24, Disney CEO Card Walker officially dedicated the new park:
  
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Journey Into Your Imagination was constructed in exactly one year, making it one of the fasted built, modern attractions, in Walt Disney World. During the construction, the attraction’s track length was shortened by 40% and the turntable (which had been a source of maintenance issues since the attraction opened) was removed. Also removed from the attraction, were popular characters Dreamfinder and Figment (although Figment made a few cameos in the new attraction). The entire Imagination! Pavilion (as it was now called) was dedicated on September 29, 1998, with Journey Into “Your” Imagination opening on October 1.
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{{Quotation|To all who come to this place of joy, hope and friendship—welcome.
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EPCOT is inspired by Walt Disney's creative vision. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, wonders of enterprise and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for all.
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May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire and above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man's ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.|
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E Cardon Walker<br />
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Chairman and Chief Executive Officer<br />
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Walt Disney Productions<br />
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October 24, 1982}}
  
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Following its reopening, Journey Into Your Imagination was bombarded by guest complaints. The attraction was described as cheap, boring, and condescending. Many fans further decided to boycott the attraction (and even Kodak) in order to show their displeasure. Besides angering fans, Journey Into Your Imagination also angered Kodak, who felt they did not get an attraction that was worth their investment. Due to the pressure asserted by fans, Kodak, and even Disney CEO Michael Eisner, Journey Into Your Imagination was closed for another refurbishment on October 8, 2001.
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Walker's dedication was followed by speeches from Florida Governor Bob Graham and AT&T president William Ellinghouse <ref name= "allears"/>. Also on hand for the opening were marching bands and dancers who performed, “We've Only Just Begun To Dream” and a new Sherman Brother’s song, “World Showcase March” <ref name= "planet"> https://www.mouseplanet.com/10072/EPCOT_Centers_First_October </ref>. Various musical acts from different countries also performed in World Showcase, and the festivities concluded with 1,000 doves and 15,00 balloons being released in celebration <ref name= "planet"/>. Also of note, CBS aired a television special, ''EPCOT Center: The Opening Celebration'', which was hosted by Danny Kaye and actually aired the day before the official dedication, October 23 <ref name= "planet"/>. The opening day EPCOT Center pavilions were:
  
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===Journey Into Imagination with Figment (2001-Present)===
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{| class="infoList"
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|-
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| '''Future World (Sponsor)'''
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| '''World Showcase'''
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|-
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| [[CommuniCore East]] (Sponsor by attraction)
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| [[Canada]]
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|-
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| [[CommuniCore West]] (Sponsor by attraction)
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| [[China]]
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|-
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| [[Journey Into Imagination]] (Kodak)
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| [[France]]
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|-  
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| [[The Land]] (Kraft)
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| [[Italy]]
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|-
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| [[Spaceship Earth]]/Earth Station (Bell System)
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| [[Japan]]
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|-
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| [[Universe of Energy]](Exxon)
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| [[Germany]]
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|-
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| [[World of Motion]] (General Motors)
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| [[Mexico]]
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|-
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|
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| [[The United Kingdom]]
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|-
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|
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| [[American Adventure]]
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|}
  
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Following the failure of Journey Into Your Imagination, it was decided that once again the attraction needed to be significantly changed. This time however, the budget for the refurbishment was extremely limited. Sponsor Kodak was unwilling to put more money into the attraction, and  the tourism industry as a whole had been devastated by the attacks on September 11, 2001. Working with these constraints, Imagineering was given a budget of less than 8 million dollars, and tasked with turning Journey Into Your Imagination into a respectable attraction. Based on guest feedback, Imagineering knew that the needed to reinstate Figment back into the attraction. To do this, Figment Audio Animatronics which had been stored in various offices on Disney property, were recollected and returned to the attraction. Furthermore, many of the show scenes were reshot, so that Dr. Nigel Channing now interacted with Figment.
 
  
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Besides just adding the purple dragon back into the attraction, Disney also changed the tone of the ride significantly. Instead of being a scientific tour, the new version of Journey Into Imagination was a comical journey through the Institute’s Sense Labs. Dr. Nigel Channing still ran the tour, but he was now interrupted by a significantly more troublesome Figment, who argued with the Dr. about the value of Imagination. Although the attraction track remained essentially the same, the show scenes were all significantly changed. More importantly perhaps, the ride vehicles now came to a stop in most of the different rooms, allowing Imagineers to focus guest’s attention on a specific scene, and create a more linear story. Also of note, Disney added the song One Little Spark back into the attraction, albeit with mostly new lyrics. The Sherman Brothers were once again hired to write the lyrics, with the song being performed by Dr. Nigel Channing and Figment.
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====History Since Opening Day====
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Journey Into Your Imagination reopened as Journey Into Imagination With Figment on June 2, 2002, a mere 236 days after it closed.
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====EPCOT Center (1982-1994)====
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[[Image:horizonspavilion.jpg|thumb|400px|In 1983 Horizons became the first pavilion added to EPCOT Center]]
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After the Grand Opening in October of 1982, EPCOT Center continued to expand rapidly. The  first expansion, known as Phase II, began on October 1, 1983 with the addition the Horizons pavilion <ref name= "horizons"> http://www.lostepcot.com/horizons.html </ref>. Horizons, which was sponsored by General Electric <ref name= "horizons"/>, was a dark ride attraction that took guests into the 21st century, to see what the future might be like. The attraction would be one of EPCOT Center's most popular rides in the 1980s. One year after the addition of Horizons, the [[Morocco]] pavilion opened in World Showcase <ref> https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/09/vintage-walt-disney-world-morocco-pavilion-opens-at-epcot/ </ref>. Although the pavilion didn't feature any new attractions, the popular Restaurant Marrakesh opened at this time.  Future World saw even more expansion in 1986 when [[The Living Seas]] opened on January 15th <ref name= "seas"> http://www.lostepcot.com/livingseas.html </ref>. Although a Seas pavilion had always been planned for EPCOT Center, changes in design and budget constraints delayed the pavilion’s construction. Sponsored by United Technologies, The Living Seas focused on oceanic study, and housed the world’s largest aquarium (at the time of its construction) <ref name= "seas"/>.  
  
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==Attraction Plot==
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World Showcase was the next area to expand, when in 1988 the [[Norway]] pavilion was completed <ref> https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2011/05/this-day-in-disney-history-norway-pavilion-debuts/ </ref>. Although not ready for the pavilion’s opening, the popular [[Maelstrom]] attraction opened later in 1988 <ref> http://thisdayindisneyhistory.homestead.com/July05.html </ref>. In 1989 the final pavilion was added to Epcot, The Wonders of Life. The pavilion was sponsored by MetLife and featured the popular motion simulator Body Wars, as well as Cranium Command and the Making of Me <ref> http://www.yesterland.com/erasing.html </ref>. The addition of the Wonders of Life signaled the end of EPCOT Center’s expansion.
  
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All three versions of Journey Into Imagination have been dark rides which focused on human imagination.  
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Beginning in the 1990s, EPCOT Center (specifically Future World) went through a series of refurbishments and change. From 1993 through 1994 The Land pavilion was altered through a sequence of refurbishments. At this time, Kraft assumed sponsorship of the pavilion and Food Rocks, [[Living with the Land]], and [[Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable]] replaced the pavilion's original attractions <ref> http://www.martinsvids.net/?p=654 </ref>.
  
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===Journey Into Imagination (1983-1999)===
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====Epcot (1994-2017)====
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In 1994 the name of the park itself also changed to "EPCOT '94" as an illusion to the World’s Fair atmosphere that now defined EPCOT <Ref name= "year"> http://www.disneydrawingboard.com/WDW/ECArea/EC%20Park/ECPark.html </ref>.  Also in 1994, CommuniCore closed its doors for a lengthy renovation <ref name= "communicore"> http://www.lostepcot.com/communicore.html </ref>. In order to revive the dated CommuniCore’s popularity, new interactive exhibits featuring hands-on activities were added. On July 1, 1994, the pavilion reopened as [[Innoventions]] <ref name= "communicore"/>. Besides changing exhibits, Innoventions also featured darker and metallic looking aesthetics<ref name= "communicore"/>. Another change hit Epcot in 1994 was General Electric ending its sponsorship of Horizons <ref name= "horizons"/>. Although the pavilion initially closed, it later reopened in 1995 due to the renovations taking place in The World of Motion and [[Universe of Energy]] pavilions<ref name= "horizons"/>. Also in 1995, the name EPCOT '94 was updated to EPCOT '95, before Disney finally settled on simply “Epcot” in 1996 <ref name= "year"/>. Of note, is the fact that the new name was not capitalized as it had been in the past; which meant that the name was no longer an acronym. In January of 1996, The Universe of Energy closed for a major refurbishment <ref name= "energy"> http://www.martinsvids.net/?tag=the-universe-of-energy-pavilion</ref>. The pavilion reopened in September of that year, as [[Ellen's Energy Adventure]] <ref name= "energy"/>. Although the main focus and some of the attraction’s scenes remained intact, with the addition of Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science Guy, the pavilion took on a more comedic tone <ref name= "energy"/>.
  
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Main Article: [[Journey Into Imagination]].
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More closures hit Epcot in 1996 when the [[World of Motion]] closed <ref name= "motion"> http://www.lostepcot.com/worldofmotion.html </ref>. After a series of delays, the pavilion reopened in 1999 as [[Test Track]] <ref name= "motion"/>. Still sponsored by General Motors, Test Track took guests through the rigors of automobile testing procedures, including a speed test where guests reached a maximum speed of 65 mph<ref name= "motion"/>.
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[[Image:TestTrackPavilion.jpg|thumb|400px|Test Track replaced the World of Motion pavilion. Photo by HarshLight]]
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Change continued to be a constant at Epcot, as the park got ready for its Millennium Celebration. In 1998, the popular [[Journey Into Imagination pavilion]] closed for refurbishment <ref name= "imagination"> http://www.martinsvids.net/?p=95 </ref>. During the renovation, the [[Journey Into Imagination attraction]] was replaced by the unpopular [[Journey Into Your Imagination]], and the upstairs [[ImageWorks]] was closed off to guests (a smaller ImageWorks reopened in the pavilion's first floor) <ref name= "imagination"/>. Following the renovation, the pavilion was renamed simply Imagination! <ref name= "imagination"/>.  
  
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The original Journey Into Imagination attraction, was a dark ride hosted by the Dreamfinder and his creation Figment. On the attraction guests would explore various aspects of imagination. Scenes on Journey Into Imagination included, the Dreamport, an art scene, a nightmare scene, a theater scene and a finale. The ride ran from 1983-1998. For a more detailed plot summary visit the [[Journey Into Imagination]] page.
+
The following year, in January of 1999, Horizons closed for good <ref name= "horizons"/>. The pavilion had remained unsponsored since GE ended its sponsorship in 1994, and it was beginning to look dated<ref name= "horizons"/>. As opposed to repurposing the pavilion, Disney instead chose to demolish it, to create room for the previously announced [[Mission: Space]] pavilion<ref name= "horizons"/>.  In 2000, Disney also decided to add a large mickey arm holding a wand to the top of Spaceship Earth <ref name= "wand"> http://www.yesterland.com/icontower.html </ref>. The large dedication “2000” was also added at the end of the wand, although this was subsequently changed to “Epcot” starting in 2001 <ref name= "wand"/>.
 +
 +
Following the addition of the wand, Epcot stayed relativity stagnant until 2003 when [[Mission: Space]] finally opened <ref name= "space"> http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/guides/epcot/epfw-mission.htm </ref>. The new attraction was a motion simulator thrill ride which was themed as an astronaut training program for the first flight to Mars <ref name= "space"/>. In 2005, another simulator was added to the park, this time to the Land pavilion, in the form of the new attraction [[Soarin' Over California]] <ref name= "soarin"> http://www.martinsvids.net/?p=208 </ref>. Initially created for Disney’s California Adventure, this motion simulator gave guests the feeling they were hang gliding over California <ref name= "soarin"/>.  
  
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===Journey Into 'Your' Imagination (1999-2001)===
+
In 2006, The Living Seas was rethemed to tie in with the Disney-Pixar movie Finding Nemo and subsequently renamed [[The Seas with Nemo & Friends]] <ref name= "seas"/>. The pavilion now housed a dark ride attraction (also called the Seas with Nemo & Friends), as well as Turtle Talk with Crush, and the interactive exhibits in Sea Base<ref name= "seas"/>. Overall, the pavilion took on more of a fantasy tone, as opposed to the previous scientific tone of the pavilion.
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[[Image:Journeyyour2.jpg|thumb|400px|Guests inside the Gravity Lab on Journey Into Your Imagination.]]
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Journey Into Your Imagination’s plot began in the queue, where guests could see signs for the Imagination Institute. A directory showed that the institute was made up of six different departments: color, dimensions, gravity, illusions, sound, and the [[ImageWorks]]. Dr. Nigel Channing then appeared on the monitors in the queue, to inform guests that besides just touring the lab, they would also be test subjects for the new Imagination Scanner experiment. This video was one of the few places in the attraction where guests could still see Figment.  
+
  
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After entering their ride vehicles, guests moved forward and stopped in front of a large mirror. Here the Imagination Scanner would scan them, to determine what they were imagining. Dr. Nigel Channing would then inform guests that there was, "Not much going on" in their imagination (with the scanner showing cobwebs and even a “vacancy” sign), which was perfect for the experiment. The tour of the labs then began in the Sound Room, where guests were challenged to "see what you hear". The room was almost completely dark, but inside guests could hear various noises such as: a baby crying, a trumpet, a toilet flushing and finally, a train roaring by. As guests transitioned into the Illusion Lab, Nigel informed them that “"When the laws of physics and common sense are shattered, imagination takes over". In the Illusion Lab, guests could see a looking glass illusion that seemed to magnifying a room, as well as and a cinder block breaking through a glass table (that actually had no glass). Continuing on, riders based by  giant cage which appeared to be empty, after further inspection however, guests could see a camouflaged giant butterfly. Another illusion in the lab was a fish that seemed to by swimming out of water, although this was obviously not actually the case.  
+
The next major change to Epcot came in 2007, when the Wonders of Life Pavilion closed <ref> http://www.yesterland.com/erasing.html </ref>. The pavilion had not been sponsored since 2001 when MetLife dropped its sponsorship, and had seen a decrease in popularity <ref> http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2001/06/25/story7.html </ref>. The Wonders of Life pavilion remains closed to guests, except during special events like the Flower and Wine Festival.
  
−
After exiting the Illusion Lab, guests entered the Color of Sound room. Here, large screens showed how imagination relates colors to sound. For example, when the screen was red, guests would hear something cooking, when it was green they could hear rainforest sounds, and finally a metallic color allowed guests to hear a space ship blasting off. After leaving the Color of Sound guests would enter the Connection Room, where they were surrounded by stars, which when connected properly, could create images of animals. The final room in the tour was the Gravity Lab, where everything that was supposed to be down was up. In this room, guests could look on the ceiling to see upside down rooms, including a bathroom and a kitchen. There were also mirrors located here, which showed guests upside down.  
+
In March of 2015, Disney announced that all of the Innoventions West exhibits would be closing <ref> http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-blog/os-disney-epcot-innoventions-west-closing-20150320-post.html </ref>. Despite these closures, the Chase Character Meet & Greet remained open <ref> http://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/innoventions/news/24apr2015-epcot's-chase-meet-and-greet-to-continue-at-inventions-west.htm </ref>.
 +
====A Remimagined Epcot (2017-Present)====
 +
[[Image:Epcotneighborhoods.jpg|thumb|400px|Concept Art showing the "neighborhoods" of Epcot.]]
  
−
After completing their tour, guests were once again scanned by the Imagination Scanner. This time however, their imagination was so strong that they broke the machine. After the machine had malfunctioned, the lights would go out in the room, and projections of all the objects that guests were imagining could be seen above. Dr. Nigel Channing would then invite guests to visit the [[ImageWorks]], concluding the attraction.
+
At the 2017 D23 Expo, Disney announced that a series of major changes would be coming to Epcot <ref name="expo"> https://insidethemagic.net/2017/07/d23-expo-2017-big-changes-announced-epcot-ratatouille-guardians-galaxy-rides-future-world-overhaul-much/ </ref>. As a part of the park-wide refurbishment, it was announced that the Universe of Energy would close for the addition of a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction<ref name="expo"/>. Furthermore, Epcot President Tom Fitzgerald announced that a new space themed restaurant would open next to [[Mission: Space]], which would also be receiving a new "Green Team" mission.  At this time, Disney also revealed concept art for a redesigned entrance area for Epcot<ref name="expo"/>.  
  
−
===Journey Into Imagination With Figment (2002-Present)===
+
Like Future World, as part of the Epcot overhaul, a number of changes were also announced for World Showcase. Most significantly, Disney announced that the Ratatouille attraction from Disneyland Paris would be added to an expanded [[France]] pavilion<ref name="expo"/>. Additionally, Fitzgerald stated that the [[China]] pavilion would be receiving a new seamless CircleVision film.
  
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Like Journey Into ''Your'' Imagination, Journey Into Imagination With Figment begins with guests entering the Imagination Institute. Here, guests see a directory of  the six departments of the institute: smell, sight, sound, taste, touch and the [[ImageWorks]]. In the Institute's lobby  [[Weebo]] the yellow robot from the 1997 movie Flubber can be found.  As guests meander through the queue, they can see portraits of the Inventor of the Year award winners including: Dr. Nigel Channing, Wayne Szalinski (from the Honey, I Shrunk series) and Professor Philip Brainard (from the movie Flubber).Continuing through the queue, guests pass by the labs of the three scientists, before eventually reaching their ride vehicles.  After boarding, Dr. Nigel Channing introduces himself, and welcomes guests to the institute. He informs them that they will be taking a moving, open house tour, which will show how the five senses affect imagination. Figment then appears, and tells the doctor that he wants to go on the tour too. Although the doctor introduces the purple dragon as one of the Institute’s discoveries, he tells Figment that he cannot go on the tour. When Dr. Channing tells him he doesn't want him out of his sight however, Figment disappears and guests begin their tour.
+
True to previous announcement, on August 13, 2017, the Universe of Energy pavilion closed for the addition of a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction <ref> https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2017/07/guardians-of-the-galaxy-ratatouille-attractions-coming-to-epcot/ </ref>.
  
−
The first room that the ride vehicles enter is the sound lab. The professor begins his demonstration by playing a series of tones, which shows how people hear out of either their left or right ear. As the test is going on, all of the sudden, guests here a phone ringing. As Figment appears holding a phone, he explains that you do not need to hear with your ears, but with your imagination. Dr. Nigel Channing then declares that he has completely lost his train of thought. With is queue, Figment replies “no you haven’t, its right here”, as guests hear a train go roaring by. Figment then begins to sing a new verse to the song "One Little Spark"
+
On February 21, 2019, Disney announced that a new "play pavilion" would be coming to the former Wonders of Life pavilion <ref name="play"> https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2019/02/first-of-its-kind-play-pavilion-new-park-entrance-part-of-epcots-historic-transformation/ </ref>. Imagineer Zach Riddley noted that the pavilion would be  "Built on the power of play, it introduces an immersive and interactive ‘city’ where you can explore, create, and interact with some of your favorite Disney characters. This is an experience worthy of our bold vision for Epcot – and another signature element of our transformation.<ref name="play"/>" Although an official opening date was not given, the pavilion is expected to open in time for Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary in 2021.
  
−
{{Quotation|"For every sound<br>
+
As part of the ongoing transformation of Epcot, in July 2019, Disney gave updated information about the future of Innoventions <ref name="wdwmagicepcot> https://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/epcot/news/03jul2019-summary-of-all-the-closures-coming-to-epcots-future-world.htm </ref> . At this time, Disney announced that [[Innoventions East]] and the nearby Fountain of Nations would be permanently closing on September 8, 2019 <ref name= "wdwmagicepcot"/>. Furthermore, it was announced that the [[Electric Umbrella]] and Club Cool would be closing in the Winter of 2019. Also closing at this time is Innovention's other dining option, the [[FountainView]] and the Mouse Gear store, which are expected to reopen in a temporary location <ref name= "wdwmagicepcot"/>.
−
Your ears are hearing<br>
+
−
A thousand thoughts<br>
+
−
Can start appearing<br>
+
−
And each of us imagines different things<br>
+
−
From just a sound<br>
+
−
Your mind has wings"}}
+
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[[Image:ImaginationInstituteLogo.jpg|400px|thumb|The Journey Into Imagination pavilion was transformed to the Imagination Institute in 1999.]]
+
−
After exiting the sound lab, guests enter the sight lab. Here Dr. Nigel Channing alerts guest’s attention to a large eye chart in the room. While guests are told to read the charts third line, they can see the silhouette of Figment creeping across the screen. Soon, Figment gets rid of all the other letters, and spells out his name. He then explains that “"Sure You Can see with your eyes, but imagine what you can see if you use your imagination”, before singing another new verse of "One Little Spark" as guests continue their tour of the Institute.  
+
  
−
{{Quotation| One spark of light<br>
+
On August 25, 2019, Disney announced that as part of Epcot's overhaul, "Epcot will be unified with four neighborhoods that each speak to important aspects of the world and its people: World Showcase, World Celebration, World Nature and World Discovery. These neighborhoods will be filled with new experiences rooted in authenticity and innovation that take you to new destinations, where the real is made fantastic in a celebration of curiosity, hands-on wonder and the magic of possibility. <ref name="newepcot"> https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2019/08/new-details-revealed-for-the-historic-transformation-of-epcot-underway-at-walt-disney-world-resort/ </ref>"
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Can light your fancy<br>
+
−
Your mind sees more<br>
+
−
Then what your eyes see<br>
+
−
Your sense of sight<br>
+
−
Can make your fancy fly<br>
+
−
There's more to sight<br>
+
−
Then meets the eye!}}
+
  
−
The next room in the tour is the smell lab. As guests enter the lab, Figment and Dr. Nigel Channing argue about whether imagination should be controlled or set free. After passing by a giant butterfly which seems to appear out of nowhere, Dr. Nigel Channing explains that senses (especially pleasant or familiar ones) can spark imagination. At this point, Figment takes control and sets off a slot machine that features different smells. The machine comes up with three skunks, leading guests to get sprayed by a skunk smell. As the ride vehicles are set in motion, guests pass by the other smell containers and Figment then begins to sing "One Little Spark" again.
+
At this time, Disney stated that Epcot's new World Celebration neighborhood would incorporate an updated [[Spaceship Earth]], a new three story festival center, the park's redesigned entrance plaza, and a new view of World Showcase from Dreamers Point <ref name="newepcot"/>. This neighborhood is also expected to feature a statue of Walt Disney. Although not mentioned by Disney, it appears as if the [[Imagination!]] pavilion will also be a part of r aWorld Celebration <ref name="newepcot"/>.
  
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{{Quotation| One awful whiff<br>
+
World Nature, the park's second new neighborhood, will include [[The Land]] and [[The Seas with Nemo & Friends]] pavilions, as well as a brand new interactive experience titled Journey of Water, inspired by Disney's Moana<ref name="newepcot"/>. On this lush exploration trail, guests will get to meet and play with magical water, while also learning about the importance of the natural water cycle.
−
Can send you reeling<br>
+
−
One lovely sniff<br>
+
−
Can be appealing<br>
+
−
Your mind defines<br>
+
−
What enters through your nose<br>
+
−
That's how you tell<br>
+
−
A skunk is not a rose!}}
+
  
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[[Image:Figmenthouse.jpg|400px|thumb|Figment in his house, which is upside down.]]
+
The final new neighborhood coming to Epcot is World Discovery. This area will will be composed of [[Test Track]], [[Mission: Space]], Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind and the new Space 220 Restaurant<ref name="newepcot"/>. Due to these changes, the Future World label that had been a staple of Epcot since it opened will not longer be used.
  
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After the skunk catastrophic, Dr. Channing decides to skip the touch and taste labs. He also questions whether or not to end the tour altogether. Figment says that ending the tour of the Institute is a great idea, and that they should instead tour his house. Guests then move off the normal track, as they head towards Figment's house. As Nigel laments that everything has been turned upside down, Figment gets an idea. He decides that upside down sounds like a great idea, and decides to turn his house upside down. Before guests enter his house, they see all kinds of surreal signs pointing them in the right direction. Figment can be heard singing "One Little Spark" again.
+
On September 30, 2019, ImmuniNations: Reflections of Earth was performed for the final time <ref> https://insidethemagic.net/2019/04/illuminations-closing-date-epcot/ </ref>. The following night, October 1, 2019, Epcot Forever made its debut. This new nighttime spectacular allows guests to "celebrate the past, present and future of Epcot through this dazzling fireworks and special-effects spectacular".
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{{Quotation|"With just a spark, <br>
+
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Of Inspiration<br>
+
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I made my house<br>
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An innovation<br>
+
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Imagination really comes around<br>
+
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Makes downside up<br>
+
−
and upside down!}}
+
  
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When guests finally reach Figments house everything is upside down, as advertised. The rooms are located on the ceiling, where guests can see his kitchen, living room and bathroom. Audio Animatronic Figments can be seen here, eating in front of the TV, in the bath, and looking into the refrigerator. As Figment and Dr. Channing argue over whether imagination should be controlled or set free, Figment explains that imagination is the brain’s open house. This convinces the Dr. that Figment had been right about imagination all along, and he declares that they need to go back to the Institute. As guests take Figment’s shortcut back to the Institute, Dr. Channing and Figment sing another verse of "One Little Spark".
+
Also on October 1, 2019, the Epcot Preview Center opened in the former Odyssey Restaurant location <ref> https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/201910/7037/M/</ref>. Inside the Preview Center, guests can see a stylized model of Epcot's future, as well as a 12 minute 360 degree film that celebrates the park's past while giving guests a glimpse at its future. In addition to this look ahead, the Preview Center also features artifacts from Epcot's past and merchandise locations.
  
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{{Quotation|"We all have sparks<br>
+
==Current Future World Pavilions Pavilions==
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Imagination!<br>
+
To see the current Epcot map [http://www.wdwinfo.com/maps/Epcot-map.pdf '''Click Here'''.]
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That's how our minds<br>
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Create creations<br>
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We set them free<br>
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And oh, what they can do<br>
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Our magic sparks<br>
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From me and you!"}}
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Arriving back at the Imagination Institute, Dr. Nigel Channing informs guests that he has learned it's best to let imagination go free. Figment replies, "yeah imaginations a bang!" At this point, a loud popping sound is heard, and guests enter a room with many Audio Animatronic Figments celebrating, as they sing "One Little Spark". Inside the room, guests can see Figment flying by a rainbow and hitchhiking on a planet, among other things. Dr. Nigel's face can also be seen here, singing on the moon. After going through this scene, guests are invited to explore the [[ImageWorks]] to further their study of imagination. The final verses to "One Little Spark" which are played in this scene are:
+
[[Image:EpcotGuidemap2030.jpg|thumb|400px|The 2020 Epcot map (click to enlarge).]]
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[[Image:Fiigment.jpg|400px|thumb|Figment celebrating in the ride's finale.]]
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===Imagination!===
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{{Quotation|"Imagination, Imagination<br>
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Main Article: [[Imagination!]]
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A dream (A dream)<br>
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Can be (Can be)<br>
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A dream come true<br>
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With just that spark<br>
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From me and you<br>
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Imagination <br>
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Formally known as Journey Into Imagination, the Imagination! pavilion opened in 1982 and is located in Future World West. Inside Imagination! guests can visit the dark ride [[Journey Into Imagination With Figment]], and the [[Disney-Pixar Short Film Festival]]. Also located within the pavilion is the interactive [[ImageWorks]], which houses individual exhibits that allow guests to explore their imagination.
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One little spark, of inspiration
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Imagination<br>
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Is at the heart, of all creation<br>
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Right at the start (The start) of everything that's new<br>
+
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One little spark, lights up for you!}}
+
  
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==Cast==
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===The Land===
  
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'''Dave Goelz'''- Figment
+
Main Article: [[The Land]]
  
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'''Eric Idel'''- Dr. Nigel Channing
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Perhaps the most popular pavilion in Epcot, The Land opened with the park in 1982 and is located in Future World West. Inside the pavilion guests will find [[Soarin' Around the World]], a motion simulator attraction that takes them hang gliding over various world landmarks, as well as the boat ride [[Living with the Land]]. The Land pavilion also houses a working greenhouse, which grows much of the food that is used in the pavilion's restaurants- the [[The Garden Grill Restaurant]] and the [[Sunshine Seasons]].
  
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==Fun Facts and Trivia==
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===Mission Space===
 +
Main Article: [[Mission: Space]]
  
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* When Figment returned to the attraction in 2002, many of the old Figment Audio Animatronics from the original Journey Into Imagination attraction were reused.  
+
Mission: Space opened in 2003 in Future World East, in the location originally occupied by the Horizons pavilion. Mission: Space is a motion simulator attraction that allows guests to experience astronaut training for the first manned trip to Mars. After riding Mission Space guests can explore the Advanced Training Lab which features a competition game and interactive exhibits.
  
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* When the attraction was changed to Journey Into Imagination With Figment, songwriters Richard and Robert Sherman were asked to write new verses to their song "One Little Spark".
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===The Seas With Nemo & Friends===
 +
Main Article: [[The Seas with Nemo & Friends]]
 +
[[Image:SeasWithnemo.jpg|thumb|400px|The Living Seas was renamed The Seas with Nemo and Friends in 2006. Photo by Josh Hallett]]
 +
Formally known as the Living Seas, this pavilion opened in 1986 in Future World East. Initially known for its large Caribbean Coral Reef aquarium,  The Seas With Nemo & Friends now features a dark ride (also named The Seas with Nemo and Friends) that takes guests through the story of the Disney-Pixar film Finding Nemo. Also located in the Seas pavilion is Turtle Talk With Crush, an interactive “digital puppetry” show that allows guests to interact with Crush the turtle from Finding Nemo. Finally, the Seas with Nemo & Friends also houses Sea Base, an underwater research facility with Finding Nemo themed exhibits. The only restaurant in the pavilion is the [[Coral Reef Restaurant]] which specializes in seafood.
  
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* Figment used to appear around the pavilion as a meet and greet character, however he has not been seen since 2008.
+
===Spaceship Earth===
  
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* Three bubbles rising out of Figments bath, create a hidden Mickey.
+
Main Article: [[Spaceship Earth]]
  
−
* Many of the props from Journey Into Your Imagination were reused in Journey Into Imagination with Figment.
+
The icon of the park, Spaceship Earth opened in 1982 in Future World East. The attraction is a dark ride that takes guests through the history human communication. From 2005 until 2017 Spaceship Earth was sponsored by Siemens, who added and emphasis on new technology, and how it could impact the future.
  
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* After guests leave the Sound Room, the attraction vehicles pass by the Computer Room. Outside of the room is a college jacket with a "M" on it. This is a reference to Medfield College (see the final trivia fact), the setting of the 1969 Disney film The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes.
+
===Test Track===
  
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*Also outside of the Computer Room is a sign that reads  "No Tennis Shoes Allowed". This is another reference to The Computer Who Wore Tennis Shoes.
+
Main Article: [[Test Track (Pavilion)]]
  
−
*One of the doors found in the queue is marked Flubber Storage.  
+
The fastest attraction in Disney World, Test Track opened on December 19, 1998 in Future World East. Test Track replaced the World of Motion attraction, which had been open from 1982 until 1996. The attraction allows guests to design their own cars and then test them on the "SimTrack". The apex of the attraction is a 65 MPH speed test that concludes the attraction. General Motors has sponsored the pavilion in both its World of Motion and Test Track forms.
  
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* A reference to Merlin Jones and his monkey from the 1964 film The Misadventures of Merlin Jones can be found in the queue.
+
==Former Future World Pavilions==
 +
[[Image:FormerEpcot.jpg|thumb|400px|Former Epcot pavilions: CommuniCore (top), Horizons (middle), and Wonders of Life (bottom)]]
 +
===Horizons===
 +
Main Article: [[Horizons]]
  
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* One of the doors in the queue reads Eugene Higgins, Dean of Medfield College. Medfield College was the setting of numerous Disney live action films including: "The Absent-Minded Professor" (1961), "Son of Flubber" (1963), "The Misadventures of Merlin Jones" (1964), "The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes" (1969), "Now You See Him, Now You Don't" (1972), and "The Strongest Man in the World" (1975).
+
Horizons was a dark ride attraction that opened in 1983 in Future World East. The attraction was considered to be a sequel to the [[Magic Kingdom]] attraction the [[Carousel of Progress]], however instead of showing progress that had already happened, Horizons focused on what life could be like in the 21st century. Unlike other pavilions which had a singular theme, Horizons tied together all the other themes of Future World including: communication, community, energy, transportation, anatomy, physiology, along with man's relationship to the sea, land, air, and outer space. Sponsored by General Electric from 1983 until 1993, Horizons was finally closed in 1999 and eventually demolished to make room for Mission: Space <ref name= "horizons"/>.
  
−
==References==
+
===Wonders of Life===
 +
Main Article: [[Wonders of Life]]
  
−
http://www.intercot.com/edc/Imagination/jiiscript1.html
+
Originally sponsored by MetLife, The Wonders of Life Pavilion opened in 1989 in Future World East. The pavilion housed three main attractions: Body Wars (a motion simulator), Cranium Command (an Audio Animatronic show) and the Making of Me (a humorous educational video). Following the end of MetLife's sponsorship in 2001, the pavilion began to see a decline in popularity, which led to it only operating seasonally  beginning in 2004. In 2007 Wonders of Life was permanently closed. The pavilion has since been used as the main center for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival and the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.
 +
===CommuniCore===
 +
Main Article: [[CommuniCore]]
  
−
http://www.hiddenmickeyguy.com/catalog/epcot/future-world-west/journey-imagination-figment-bath-bubbles
+
CommuniCore opened with the park in 1982 and housed exhibits that featured new technology. The pavilion was divided into two parts: CommuniCore East and CommuniCore West, which each offered unique experiences. In 1994 CommuniCore was closed and redesigned, eventually reopening as Innoventions. When the pavilion reopened it still featured technology exhibits, but they now tended to be more interactive.
  
−
http://www.epcotlegacy.com/historical-expositions/2011/3/28/gather-store-re-combine-a-history-of-imagination-part-3.html
+
===Universe of Energy===
  
−
http://www.lostepcot.com/imageworks.html
+
Main Article: [[Universe of Energy]]
  
−
http://vimeo.com/5777117
+
The Universe of Energy opened with the park in 1982 and was located in Future World East. The pavilion was home to the Universe of Energy attraction from 1982 until 1996, when the attraction was refurbished and renamed [[Ellen's Energy Adventure]]. The new attraction featured three films and a seven minute dark ride, which explored the history and future of energy and starred Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science Guy. On August 13, 2017 Ellen's Energy Adventure closed to make way for a new attraction titled Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind.
  
−
http://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/journey-into-imagination-with-figment/news/20jul2001-journey-into-your-imagination-to-be-reworked-into-journey-into-imagination-with-figment-.htm
+
===Innoventions===
 +
Main Article: [[Innoventions]]
  
−
http://www.waltdatedworld.com/id102.htm
+
Innoventions opened in 1994 and houses exhibits that feature new technological advancements. Located in the center of Future World, Innoventions took over the buildings that formally hosted CommuniCore from 1982-1994. Initially divided into Innoventions East and Innoventions West, by 2016 all of the exhibits in Innoventions West had closed. Currently Innoventions East features the Colortopia and Nanoze Break exhibits. In addition to these exhibits, Innoventions is also home to the Coca Cola sponsored Club Cool, and the Epcot Character Spot. All of Innoventions East is expected to closed on September 8, 2019 as part of Epcot's ongoing transformation.
  
−
Pedersen, R.A. The EPCOT Explorer's Encyclopedia:. United States: Epcyclopedia, 2011. Print.
+
==World Showcase Pavilions==
 +
 
 +
===Mexico===
 +
Main Article: [[Mexico]]
 +
 
 +
The Mexico pavilion opened in 1982, and is the first pavilion guests reach if they go left at the entrance to World Showcase. The pavilion itself is shaped like a large Mesoamerican pyramid and it houses the boat ride attraction, [[The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros]]. Also located within the pavilion is the San Angel Inn (a Mexican restaurant) as well as a Mexican shopping area. Outside of the pavilion guests can eat at either the [[Cantina de San Ángel]] or the [[La Hacienda de San Angel]] which are counter service restaurants located on World Showcase Lagoon.
 +
===Norway===
 +
[[Image:Illuminations.jpg|thumb|400px|Illuminations taking place on World Showcase Lagoon. Photo by CL Photographs]]
 +
Main Article: [[Norway]]
 +
 
 +
If guests continue to go around World Showcase clockwise, the next country they will find themselves in is Norway. Norway opened in 1988 and is themed to resemble a small Norwegian town. The Norway pavilion was formally home to [[Maelstrom]]- a boat ride that took guests through scenes depicting Norse and Viking mythology. Norway is also home to a detailed Stave church and a large shop, as well as two dining options-  Kringla Bakeri og Kafe  and Princess Storybook Dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall. A new attraction, [[Frozen Ever After]], opened in 2016.
 +
 
 +
===China===
 +
Main Article: [[China]]
 +
 
 +
The China pavilion is located next to Norway, and opened with the park in 1982. The pavilion is themed to look like an ancient Chinese town, and features the Circle Vision 360 film [[Reflections of China]]. Also in China is the table service restaurant [[Nine Dragons]] which features gourmet, traditional Chinese food. A quick services restaurant, the [[Lotus Blossom Cafe]] also sells Chinese cuisine.
 +
 
 +
===Germany===
 +
Main Article: [[Germany]]
 +
 
 +
As guests pass through China the next pavilion they will come across is Germany. The Germany pavilion opened with the rest of World Showcase in 1982, and is themed to look like a small German town. The pavilion was supposed to have a boat attraction like Norway and Mexico, however due to lack of funding the attraction was never built. The Germany pavilion is home to [[Biergarten]] (a buffet style German restaurant) and [[Sommerfest]] (a quick service restaurant).
 +
 
 +
===Italy===
 +
Main Article: [[Italy]]
 +
 
 +
The Italy pavilion is located next to Germany and is the farthest point from the World Showcase entrance. The pavilion opened in 1982 and is adorned with architecture from Venice, Florence, and Rome, along with recreations of Italian landmarks such as St. Mark's Campanile and Dodge's Palace. Although Italy does not have an attraction (a planned boat ride was never built), it does feature two table service restaurants, [[Tutto Italia Ristorante]] and [[Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria]].
 +
 
 +
===The American Adventure===
 +
[[Image:AAPicture.jpg|400px|thumb|The American Adventure pavilion is the centerpiece of World Showcase]]
 +
Main Article: [[The American Adventure]]
 +
 
 +
The next pavilion guests encounter after passing through Italy is The American Adventure. The American Adventure opened in 1982, and is themed to look like a colonial American town. The pavilion is located in the center of World Showcase due to the fact that America is the host pavilion of the showcase. Inside of the American Adventure pavilion, guests can see the Voices of Liberty perform before experiencing the [[American Adventure attraction]], which uses film, images and Audio Animatronics to take guests through America’s history.  The pavilion is also home to the [[Liberty Inn]]- a counter service restaurant that sells American cuisine, and the American Gardens Theater, which is an outdoor amphitheater.
 +
 
 +
===Japan===
 +
Main Article: [[Japan]]
 +
 
 +
The Japan pavilion opened with the park in 1982, and is located next to the American Adventure. The Japan pavilion is themed with various Japanese buildings including tori gates and a Japanese castle. Although the pavilion does not have an attraction, it does have an exhibit called the Bijutsu-kan which displays Japanese art. The Japan pavilion is also home to three restaurants: [[Teppan Edo]] (a stir fry restaurant), [[Tokyo Dining]] (sushi), and finally the [[Katsura Grill]] (traditional counter service restaurant).
 +
 
 +
===Morocco===
 +
Main Article: [[Morocco]]
 +
 
 +
After guests pass through Japan, the next country they enter is Morocco. Morocco is the only pavilion in World Showcase to have been sponsored by a country, not a corporation. When it opened in 1984, Morocco was the first pavilion to be added to World Showcase, and it is themed to look like a realistic Moroccan town that even features a real minaret. Although the pavilion does not have an attraction, it does feature the Fes House, which shows guests what a typical Moroccan house looks like. The Morocco pavilion is also home to two restaurants, [[Restaurant Marrakesh]] and [[Tangierine Café]], which are table service restaurants that serve typical Moroccan cuisine.
 +
 
 +
===France===
 +
Main Article: [[France]]
 +
 
 +
The France pavilion is located next to Morocco and opened with the park in 1982. The pavilion is themed to look like a Paris neighborhood, and even features a model Eiffel Tower. In total the France pavilion houses three restaurants- the table service [[Monsieur Paul]], the quick service [[Boulangerie Patisserie]], and finally the bakery [[Les Chefs de France]]. The France pavilion is also home to one attraction, [[Impressions de France]], which is a travelogue film set to classical music and shown on a 200 degree screen.
 +
 
 +
===The United Kingdom===
 +
Main Article: [[The United Kingdom]]
 +
 
 +
Neighboring France on the right is the United Kingdom pavilion. The United Kingdom opened with the park in 1982 and is themed to look like a typical English village. Although there is no attraction in the pavilion, there are two restaurants and six stores. The [[Rose & Crown]] is a table service restaurant that specializes in English food, while the [[Yorkshire County Fish Shop]] is a quick service restaurant that sells fish, chips and shortbread.
 +
 
 +
===Canada===
 +
Main Article: [[Canada]]
 +
 
 +
The final pavilion located in World Showcase is the Canada pavilion. Canada is located between the United Kingdom and the entrance to World Showcase and opened with the park in 1982. The pavilion is themed to showcase the Canadian outdoors with features including a canyon, a waterfall, and fountain. The Canada pavilion also features the Circle Vision 360 Film, [[O' Canada]] as well as the [[Le Cellier Steakhouse]].
 +
 
 +
==FastPass +==
 +
The FastPass + attractions at Epcot are broken up into two tiers. Guests may choose one experience from Tier One and two experiences from Tier 2.
 +
===Tier One===
 +
Guests may choose ONE of the following attractions:
 +
{| style="padding-bottom:0px; padding-top:0px;"
 +
|-
 +
|
 +
* [[Frozen Ever After]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Soarin']]
 +
|
 +
* [[Test Track]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Epcot Character Spot]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Illuminations: Reflections of Earth]]
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
===Tier Two===
 +
Guests may choose TWO of the following attractions"
 +
{| style="padding-bottom:0px; padding-top:0px;"
 +
|-
 +
|
 +
* [[Journey Into Imagination With Figment]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Living with the Land]]
 +
|
 +
* [[The Seas with Nemo & Friends (Attraction)]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Spaceship Earth]]
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|
 +
* [[Mission: Space]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Turtle Talk with Crush]]
 +
|
 +
* [[Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival]]
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==Fun Facts and Trivia==
 +
* Guests can see a model of Walt Disney's Experimental Community of Tomorrow when riding the [[Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover]] <ref> http://www.imagineeringdisney.com/blog/2010/7/22/a-look-at-the-progress-city-model-then-and-now.html </ref>.
 +
 
 +
* Epcot cost nearly 1.4 billion dollars to create <ref> http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/wdw/page20.html </ref>.
 +
 
 +
*Every fifteen minutes throughout the day, the Innoventions Plaza Fountain, which is located between Innoventions East and West, presents a spectacular water ballet set to music <ref name= "trivia"> http://www.wdwradio.com/2007/09/epcot-trivia-general/ </ref>.
 +
 
 +
*As part of the Millennium Celebration, Disney installed 35 granite and steel “Leave A Legacy” sculptures in front of Spaceship Earth. Digitally etched onto these works of art are photos of  guests who had their pictures taken at one of Epcot’s “Capture Stations” <ref> http://www.yesterland.com/legacy.html </ref>.
 +
 
 +
*The Fountain of Nations in Epcot can shoot water more than 150 feet into the air. If all of the water cannons were fired at the same time, 2,000 gallons of water would fill the air <ref name= "trivia"/>.
 +
 
 +
*There is a marker in Epcot showing the exact center of the park. It is located just to the west of [[Innoventions West]] (on that path that leads straight to [[The Land]]) <ref name= "trivia"/>. Around the center, guests can see the names and inventions of history's greatest inventors <ref> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcPo2mtUnf8 </ref>.
 +
 
 +
==References==

Revision as of 19:38, 30 January 2020

Epcot
Spaceship Earth.jpg
Spaceship Earth, the icon of Epcot.
Theme Technology, The Future, Internationality
Website Epcot Homepage
Opened October 1, 1982
Icon Spaceship Earth

Epcot is a theme park located in Walt Disney World.

History

Walt Disney's Experimental Community of Tomorrow

The genesis for what would one day be known as Epcot began in the early 1960s with Walt Disney himself. After having many grandchildren, Walt began to worry about the world that they would grow up in [1]. As he looked around at the cities of America, he saw places that were full of crime, disorganization, dirt and chaos. Disneyland on the other hand, was the opposite of these things, and Walt decided that he could take the Disneyland philosophy and apply it to the real world. To go along with this, Disneyland had also proved that Walt and his company were very efficient in the art of constructing and designing buildings. With this information in mind, he began to read about how to start a city.

Walt explaining his vision for Epcot

Walt’s plan for a Utopian city got its name in 1966, when Disney narrated a video in which he described his dream [2]. The city would be a part of Walt's secret Florida Project in central Florida, and would be called the Experimental Community of Tomorrow, or EPCOT[2]. Walt called EPCOT, “the most exciting, by far the most important,” and the heart of what he planned to do in Florida. The city would take its cues from the new ideas and technologies of American industry and would be a “community of tomorrow”[2]. Walt wanted to plan and design every detail of the city, in order to meet the public's needs [1]. Industry was also expected to partner with Disney to solve the problems of the society[1]. Walt said that EPCOT would never be finished, it would always be improving and he hoped that when it was built, it would house about 20,000 people [1].

EPCOT was laid out to be the perfect city. It took its design from Disneyland, in that there would be a central hub that roads and monorails would connect to the other parts of the city. The center “hub” of EPCOT would have been a large business area [2]. The area would have been under a dome that would control the temperature and weather. The business area would also have included office buildings, shopping, and the “crown jewel” of EPCOT, the Cosmopolitan Hotel, which would be located at the center of EPCOT and would be 30 stories tall[2]. The hotel would also house (in the basement) the transportation lobby of the city[2]. Underground, People Movers would transport passengers to the various parts of town, and cars and trucks would also have underground highways that they would be able to use (although no gas vehicles would travel above land)[2]. The hub would also feature offices, theaters, nightlife, restaurants, and a shopping center that would sell items from around the world[2].

Outside of the business area was to be the high density apartment housing[2]. Citizens who lived here would have the luxury of being close to the business area. Outside of the apartment housing was to be the recreation area, which would have consisted of things such as pools, parks, churches and schools[2]. Beyond the recreation area would have been the residential neighborhood, where a large number of families would have lived. This area would have consisted of housing and small recreation areas such as playgrounds[2].

The final part of EPCOT would have been the industrial center[2]. This is where companies from around the world would work on various projects[2]. Walt wanted guests to be able to visit these companies, and hopefully take some inspiration for industry home with them [1]. Citizens of EPCOT would take a monorail to the rest of Walt Disney World and the EPCOT industrial center. The monorail and the People Mover were expected to be the main methods of transportation in EPCOT thus eliminating traffic[2].

From City to Theme Park

When Walt Disney died in 1966, the future of EPCOT was forever changed. In 1967 the Reedy Creek Improvement District was signed into law giving Disney more liberties when it came to construction [3]. Furthermore, the state of Florida created the cities of Bay Lake and Reedy Creek, which were essentially governed by the Walt Disney Company [4]. Although this seemed like the first step towards the construction of EPCOT, Disney’s board of the directors decided that they did not want to build the city. Despite Roy O. Disney’s desire to see EPCOT built, when Walt Disney World opened in 1971 it consisted of only the Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary, the Polynesian and the Fort Wilderness Campgrounds.

EPCOT Center concept art.

By 1975, Disney had determined that EPCOT as a day to day community was not a feasible idea. Instead, Disney announced that they would be taking the ideals and goals of EPCOT and building it in the form of a theme park. In July of 1975 Disney announced that their plans for EPCOT would have three main components [1]. The first component would be the EPCOT Institute, which would have helped facilitate the flow of research and information from EPCOT’s other components to the park's sponsors and the general public[1]. The second component of EPCOT would be various “satellites” where research and development of future products and new systems in fields such as: energy, communication, agriculture, and education would take place[1]. The EPCOT satellites would be located both on Walt Disney World property and off[1]. The third, and most perhaps most prominent component of the 1975 EPCOT plan, was the Future World Theme Center[1]. Here, guests would be able to visit various pavilions that showed the research that was being done at EPCOT. Fields including communication, science and technology would all be showcased in the Future World Theme Center[1].

To go along with the scientific and futuristic components of EPCOT, Disney also announced related plans for World Showcase and International Village [5]. World Showcase was to be an area that allowed guests to experience the different cultures of the world. Each country would have its own exhibits space, in a vein similar to a World’s Fair[5]. Furthermore, the showcase would show how technology and communication could promote the betterment of all nations. The International Village on the other hand, would be a place where the international cast members that worked in World Showcase would live [6] The World Showcase area was to be built separately from the Future World Theme Center; however the two locations would be connected by monorail [7]. This new version of Walt’s original EPCOT idea was described in the 1975 annual report:

EPCOT will be to respond to the needs of people by providing a Disney-designed and Disney-managed forum where creative men and women of science, industry, universities, government and the arts - from around the world - can develop, demonstrate and communicate prototype concepts and new technologies, which can help mankind to achieve better ways of living. [8]

Development and Construction

The World of Motion (front), Universe of Energy (middle) and Spaceship Earth (back) under construction.

Following Disney’s announcement of EPCOT, plans for their newest theme park remained in flux. By 1976, the scope of the project had been narrowed, with one section of the park being the Future World Theme Center, and the other section being World Showcase. Imagineers Marty Sklar and John Hench literally had pushed models of the two areas together, creating the unified EPCOT that would eventually be built [9]. During the ongoing development, the name of the park was changed to EPCOT Center, and the parameters of what the park would include were more clearly defined. The Future World portion of EPCOT Center would contain various pavilions including: Spaceship Earth, CommuniCore, the Life and Health Pavilion, the Transportation pavilion, The Seas, The Land, the Space pavilion, and the Energy pavilion [10]. Like Future World, World Showcase had also changed dramatically since its initial incarnation. By 1977, World Showcase was designed so that all of the countries’ exhibits were now surrounding a central lagoon. Another change in the area had to do with the exterior architecture. Initially, Disney (and CEO Card Walker) had wanted the exterior facades of each country’s pavilion to be identical and interconnected [11]. Imagineer Harper Goff on the other hand, felt that the pavilions should be highly themed and unique, with landmarks from each country drawing guests towards the pavilion [11]. Although Goff’s idea was initially rejected, the Imagineer continued to press the issue. One day, when various international sponsors were touring the plans for World Showcase, Goff left paintings of the highly themed and aesthetically pleasing pavilions on display[11]. Due to the enthusiastic response of the investors, Goff won out, and the World Showcase pavilions were given unique exteriors[11].

Initially planned as a six year project, construction on EPCOT Center began in October 1979, with a projected opening date of October 1, 1982 [12]. At this time, EPCOT Center was considered the largest construction project in the world[12].

Opening

Despite the massive amount of construction that was necessary, EPCOT Center was ready in time for its targeted opening day- October 1, 1982 [13]. When the park opened it featured nine pavilions in World Showcase and seven pavilions in Future World [13]. On October 1, the International Ceremony of the Waters took place, where containers of water from 25 bodies of water, representing 29 countries were poured into The Fountain of Nations [14]. A Grand Opening Week was then held from October 17-October 27, during which many of the park's individual pavilions were dedicated. On hand for the festivities were VIP Cast Members including Walt’s widow Lillian, key members of the press, celebrities (including Drew Barrymore and Marie Osmond) and top executives from sponsor companies [15]. On October 24, Disney CEO Card Walker officially dedicated the new park:

To all who come to this place of joy, hope and friendship—welcome.

EPCOT is inspired by Walt Disney's creative vision. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, wonders of enterprise and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for all. May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire and above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man's ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.

— E Cardon Walker
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Walt Disney Productions
October 24, 1982

Walker's dedication was followed by speeches from Florida Governor Bob Graham and AT&T president William Ellinghouse [15]. Also on hand for the opening were marching bands and dancers who performed, “We've Only Just Begun To Dream” and a new Sherman Brother’s song, “World Showcase March” [16]. Various musical acts from different countries also performed in World Showcase, and the festivities concluded with 1,000 doves and 15,00 balloons being released in celebration [16]. Also of note, CBS aired a television special, EPCOT Center: The Opening Celebration, which was hosted by Danny Kaye and actually aired the day before the official dedication, October 23 [16]. The opening day EPCOT Center pavilions were:

Future World (Sponsor) World Showcase
CommuniCore East (Sponsor by attraction) Canada
CommuniCore West (Sponsor by attraction) China
Journey Into Imagination (Kodak) France
The Land (Kraft) Italy
Spaceship Earth/Earth Station (Bell System) Japan
Universe of Energy(Exxon) Germany
World of Motion (General Motors) Mexico
The United Kingdom
American Adventure


History Since Opening Day

EPCOT Center (1982-1994)

In 1983 Horizons became the first pavilion added to EPCOT Center

After the Grand Opening in October of 1982, EPCOT Center continued to expand rapidly. The first expansion, known as Phase II, began on October 1, 1983 with the addition the Horizons pavilion [17]. Horizons, which was sponsored by General Electric [17], was a dark ride attraction that took guests into the 21st century, to see what the future might be like. The attraction would be one of EPCOT Center's most popular rides in the 1980s. One year after the addition of Horizons, the Morocco pavilion opened in World Showcase [18]. Although the pavilion didn't feature any new attractions, the popular Restaurant Marrakesh opened at this time. Future World saw even more expansion in 1986 when The Living Seas opened on January 15th [19]. Although a Seas pavilion had always been planned for EPCOT Center, changes in design and budget constraints delayed the pavilion’s construction. Sponsored by United Technologies, The Living Seas focused on oceanic study, and housed the world’s largest aquarium (at the time of its construction) [19].

World Showcase was the next area to expand, when in 1988 the Norway pavilion was completed [20]. Although not ready for the pavilion’s opening, the popular Maelstrom attraction opened later in 1988 [21]. In 1989 the final pavilion was added to Epcot, The Wonders of Life. The pavilion was sponsored by MetLife and featured the popular motion simulator Body Wars, as well as Cranium Command and the Making of Me [22]. The addition of the Wonders of Life signaled the end of EPCOT Center’s expansion.

Beginning in the 1990s, EPCOT Center (specifically Future World) went through a series of refurbishments and change. From 1993 through 1994 The Land pavilion was altered through a sequence of refurbishments. At this time, Kraft assumed sponsorship of the pavilion and Food Rocks, Living with the Land, and Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable replaced the pavilion's original attractions [23].

Epcot (1994-2017)

In 1994 the name of the park itself also changed to "EPCOT '94" as an illusion to the World’s Fair atmosphere that now defined EPCOT [24]. Also in 1994, CommuniCore closed its doors for a lengthy renovation [25]. In order to revive the dated CommuniCore’s popularity, new interactive exhibits featuring hands-on activities were added. On July 1, 1994, the pavilion reopened as Innoventions [25]. Besides changing exhibits, Innoventions also featured darker and metallic looking aesthetics[25]. Another change hit Epcot in 1994 was General Electric ending its sponsorship of Horizons [17]. Although the pavilion initially closed, it later reopened in 1995 due to the renovations taking place in The World of Motion and Universe of Energy pavilions[17]. Also in 1995, the name EPCOT '94 was updated to EPCOT '95, before Disney finally settled on simply “Epcot” in 1996 [24]. Of note, is the fact that the new name was not capitalized as it had been in the past; which meant that the name was no longer an acronym. In January of 1996, The Universe of Energy closed for a major refurbishment [26]. The pavilion reopened in September of that year, as Ellen's Energy Adventure [26]. Although the main focus and some of the attraction’s scenes remained intact, with the addition of Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science Guy, the pavilion took on a more comedic tone [26].

More closures hit Epcot in 1996 when the World of Motion closed [27]. After a series of delays, the pavilion reopened in 1999 as Test Track [27]. Still sponsored by General Motors, Test Track took guests through the rigors of automobile testing procedures, including a speed test where guests reached a maximum speed of 65 mph[27].

Test Track replaced the World of Motion pavilion. Photo by HarshLight

Change continued to be a constant at Epcot, as the park got ready for its Millennium Celebration. In 1998, the popular Journey Into Imagination pavilion closed for refurbishment [28]. During the renovation, the Journey Into Imagination attraction was replaced by the unpopular Journey Into Your Imagination, and the upstairs ImageWorks was closed off to guests (a smaller ImageWorks reopened in the pavilion's first floor) [28]. Following the renovation, the pavilion was renamed simply Imagination! [28].

The following year, in January of 1999, Horizons closed for good [17]. The pavilion had remained unsponsored since GE ended its sponsorship in 1994, and it was beginning to look dated[17]. As opposed to repurposing the pavilion, Disney instead chose to demolish it, to create room for the previously announced Mission: Space pavilion[17]. In 2000, Disney also decided to add a large mickey arm holding a wand to the top of Spaceship Earth [29]. The large dedication “2000” was also added at the end of the wand, although this was subsequently changed to “Epcot” starting in 2001 [29].

Following the addition of the wand, Epcot stayed relativity stagnant until 2003 when Mission: Space finally opened [30]. The new attraction was a motion simulator thrill ride which was themed as an astronaut training program for the first flight to Mars [30]. In 2005, another simulator was added to the park, this time to the Land pavilion, in the form of the new attraction Soarin' Over California [31]. Initially created for Disney’s California Adventure, this motion simulator gave guests the feeling they were hang gliding over California [31].

In 2006, The Living Seas was rethemed to tie in with the Disney-Pixar movie Finding Nemo and subsequently renamed The Seas with Nemo & Friends [19]. The pavilion now housed a dark ride attraction (also called the Seas with Nemo & Friends), as well as Turtle Talk with Crush, and the interactive exhibits in Sea Base[19]. Overall, the pavilion took on more of a fantasy tone, as opposed to the previous scientific tone of the pavilion.

The next major change to Epcot came in 2007, when the Wonders of Life Pavilion closed [32]. The pavilion had not been sponsored since 2001 when MetLife dropped its sponsorship, and had seen a decrease in popularity [33]. The Wonders of Life pavilion remains closed to guests, except during special events like the Flower and Wine Festival.

In March of 2015, Disney announced that all of the Innoventions West exhibits would be closing [34]. Despite these closures, the Chase Character Meet & Greet remained open [35].

A Remimagined Epcot (2017-Present)

Concept Art showing the "neighborhoods" of Epcot.

At the 2017 D23 Expo, Disney announced that a series of major changes would be coming to Epcot [36]. As a part of the park-wide refurbishment, it was announced that the Universe of Energy would close for the addition of a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction[36]. Furthermore, Epcot President Tom Fitzgerald announced that a new space themed restaurant would open next to Mission: Space, which would also be receiving a new "Green Team" mission. At this time, Disney also revealed concept art for a redesigned entrance area for Epcot[36].

Like Future World, as part of the Epcot overhaul, a number of changes were also announced for World Showcase. Most significantly, Disney announced that the Ratatouille attraction from Disneyland Paris would be added to an expanded France pavilion[36]. Additionally, Fitzgerald stated that the China pavilion would be receiving a new seamless CircleVision film.

True to previous announcement, on August 13, 2017, the Universe of Energy pavilion closed for the addition of a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction [37].

On February 21, 2019, Disney announced that a new "play pavilion" would be coming to the former Wonders of Life pavilion [38]. Imagineer Zach Riddley noted that the pavilion would be "Built on the power of play, it introduces an immersive and interactive ‘city’ where you can explore, create, and interact with some of your favorite Disney characters. This is an experience worthy of our bold vision for Epcot – and another signature element of our transformation.[38]" Although an official opening date was not given, the pavilion is expected to open in time for Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary in 2021.

As part of the ongoing transformation of Epcot, in July 2019, Disney gave updated information about the future of Innoventions [39] . At this time, Disney announced that Innoventions East and the nearby Fountain of Nations would be permanently closing on September 8, 2019 [40]. Furthermore, it was announced that the Electric Umbrella and Club Cool would be closing in the Winter of 2019. Also closing at this time is Innovention's other dining option, the FountainView and the Mouse Gear store, which are expected to reopen in a temporary location [40].

On August 25, 2019, Disney announced that as part of Epcot's overhaul, "Epcot will be unified with four neighborhoods that each speak to important aspects of the world and its people: World Showcase, World Celebration, World Nature and World Discovery. These neighborhoods will be filled with new experiences rooted in authenticity and innovation that take you to new destinations, where the real is made fantastic in a celebration of curiosity, hands-on wonder and the magic of possibility. [41]"

At this time, Disney stated that Epcot's new World Celebration neighborhood would incorporate an updated Spaceship Earth, a new three story festival center, the park's redesigned entrance plaza, and a new view of World Showcase from Dreamers Point [41]. This neighborhood is also expected to feature a statue of Walt Disney. Although not mentioned by Disney, it appears as if the Imagination! pavilion will also be a part of r aWorld Celebration [41].

World Nature, the park's second new neighborhood, will include The Land and The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilions, as well as a brand new interactive experience titled Journey of Water, inspired by Disney's Moana[41]. On this lush exploration trail, guests will get to meet and play with magical water, while also learning about the importance of the natural water cycle.

The final new neighborhood coming to Epcot is World Discovery. This area will will be composed of Test Track, Mission: Space, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind and the new Space 220 Restaurant[41]. Due to these changes, the Future World label that had been a staple of Epcot since it opened will not longer be used.

On September 30, 2019, ImmuniNations: Reflections of Earth was performed for the final time [42]. The following night, October 1, 2019, Epcot Forever made its debut. This new nighttime spectacular allows guests to "celebrate the past, present and future of Epcot through this dazzling fireworks and special-effects spectacular".

Also on October 1, 2019, the Epcot Preview Center opened in the former Odyssey Restaurant location [43]. Inside the Preview Center, guests can see a stylized model of Epcot's future, as well as a 12 minute 360 degree film that celebrates the park's past while giving guests a glimpse at its future. In addition to this look ahead, the Preview Center also features artifacts from Epcot's past and merchandise locations.

Current Future World Pavilions Pavilions

To see the current Epcot map Click Here.

The 2020 Epcot map (click to enlarge).

Imagination!

Main Article: Imagination!

Formally known as Journey Into Imagination, the Imagination! pavilion opened in 1982 and is located in Future World West. Inside Imagination! guests can visit the dark ride Journey Into Imagination With Figment, and the Disney-Pixar Short Film Festival. Also located within the pavilion is the interactive ImageWorks, which houses individual exhibits that allow guests to explore their imagination.

The Land

Main Article: The Land

Perhaps the most popular pavilion in Epcot, The Land opened with the park in 1982 and is located in Future World West. Inside the pavilion guests will find Soarin' Around the World, a motion simulator attraction that takes them hang gliding over various world landmarks, as well as the boat ride Living with the Land. The Land pavilion also houses a working greenhouse, which grows much of the food that is used in the pavilion's restaurants- the The Garden Grill Restaurant and the Sunshine Seasons.

Mission Space

Main Article: Mission: Space

Mission: Space opened in 2003 in Future World East, in the location originally occupied by the Horizons pavilion. Mission: Space is a motion simulator attraction that allows guests to experience astronaut training for the first manned trip to Mars. After riding Mission Space guests can explore the Advanced Training Lab which features a competition game and interactive exhibits.

The Seas With Nemo & Friends

Main Article: The Seas with Nemo & Friends

The Living Seas was renamed The Seas with Nemo and Friends in 2006. Photo by Josh Hallett

Formally known as the Living Seas, this pavilion opened in 1986 in Future World East. Initially known for its large Caribbean Coral Reef aquarium, The Seas With Nemo & Friends now features a dark ride (also named The Seas with Nemo and Friends) that takes guests through the story of the Disney-Pixar film Finding Nemo. Also located in the Seas pavilion is Turtle Talk With Crush, an interactive “digital puppetry” show that allows guests to interact with Crush the turtle from Finding Nemo. Finally, the Seas with Nemo & Friends also houses Sea Base, an underwater research facility with Finding Nemo themed exhibits. The only restaurant in the pavilion is the Coral Reef Restaurant which specializes in seafood.

Spaceship Earth

Main Article: Spaceship Earth

The icon of the park, Spaceship Earth opened in 1982 in Future World East. The attraction is a dark ride that takes guests through the history human communication. From 2005 until 2017 Spaceship Earth was sponsored by Siemens, who added and emphasis on new technology, and how it could impact the future.

Test Track

Main Article: Test Track (Pavilion)

The fastest attraction in Disney World, Test Track opened on December 19, 1998 in Future World East. Test Track replaced the World of Motion attraction, which had been open from 1982 until 1996. The attraction allows guests to design their own cars and then test them on the "SimTrack". The apex of the attraction is a 65 MPH speed test that concludes the attraction. General Motors has sponsored the pavilion in both its World of Motion and Test Track forms.

Former Future World Pavilions

Former Epcot pavilions: CommuniCore (top), Horizons (middle), and Wonders of Life (bottom)

Horizons

Main Article: Horizons

Horizons was a dark ride attraction that opened in 1983 in Future World East. The attraction was considered to be a sequel to the Magic Kingdom attraction the Carousel of Progress, however instead of showing progress that had already happened, Horizons focused on what life could be like in the 21st century. Unlike other pavilions which had a singular theme, Horizons tied together all the other themes of Future World including: communication, community, energy, transportation, anatomy, physiology, along with man's relationship to the sea, land, air, and outer space. Sponsored by General Electric from 1983 until 1993, Horizons was finally closed in 1999 and eventually demolished to make room for Mission: Space [17].

Wonders of Life

Main Article: Wonders of Life

Originally sponsored by MetLife, The Wonders of Life Pavilion opened in 1989 in Future World East. The pavilion housed three main attractions: Body Wars (a motion simulator), Cranium Command (an Audio Animatronic show) and the Making of Me (a humorous educational video). Following the end of MetLife's sponsorship in 2001, the pavilion began to see a decline in popularity, which led to it only operating seasonally beginning in 2004. In 2007 Wonders of Life was permanently closed. The pavilion has since been used as the main center for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival and the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.

CommuniCore

Main Article: CommuniCore

CommuniCore opened with the park in 1982 and housed exhibits that featured new technology. The pavilion was divided into two parts: CommuniCore East and CommuniCore West, which each offered unique experiences. In 1994 CommuniCore was closed and redesigned, eventually reopening as Innoventions. When the pavilion reopened it still featured technology exhibits, but they now tended to be more interactive.

Universe of Energy

Main Article: Universe of Energy

The Universe of Energy opened with the park in 1982 and was located in Future World East. The pavilion was home to the Universe of Energy attraction from 1982 until 1996, when the attraction was refurbished and renamed Ellen's Energy Adventure. The new attraction featured three films and a seven minute dark ride, which explored the history and future of energy and starred Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science Guy. On August 13, 2017 Ellen's Energy Adventure closed to make way for a new attraction titled Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind.

Innoventions

Main Article: Innoventions

Innoventions opened in 1994 and houses exhibits that feature new technological advancements. Located in the center of Future World, Innoventions took over the buildings that formally hosted CommuniCore from 1982-1994. Initially divided into Innoventions East and Innoventions West, by 2016 all of the exhibits in Innoventions West had closed. Currently Innoventions East features the Colortopia and Nanoze Break exhibits. In addition to these exhibits, Innoventions is also home to the Coca Cola sponsored Club Cool, and the Epcot Character Spot. All of Innoventions East is expected to closed on September 8, 2019 as part of Epcot's ongoing transformation.

World Showcase Pavilions

Mexico

Main Article: Mexico

The Mexico pavilion opened in 1982, and is the first pavilion guests reach if they go left at the entrance to World Showcase. The pavilion itself is shaped like a large Mesoamerican pyramid and it houses the boat ride attraction, The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros. Also located within the pavilion is the San Angel Inn (a Mexican restaurant) as well as a Mexican shopping area. Outside of the pavilion guests can eat at either the Cantina de San Ángel or the La Hacienda de San Angel which are counter service restaurants located on World Showcase Lagoon.

Norway

Illuminations taking place on World Showcase Lagoon. Photo by CL Photographs

Main Article: Norway

If guests continue to go around World Showcase clockwise, the next country they will find themselves in is Norway. Norway opened in 1988 and is themed to resemble a small Norwegian town. The Norway pavilion was formally home to Maelstrom- a boat ride that took guests through scenes depicting Norse and Viking mythology. Norway is also home to a detailed Stave church and a large shop, as well as two dining options- Kringla Bakeri og Kafe and Princess Storybook Dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall. A new attraction, Frozen Ever After, opened in 2016.

China

Main Article: China

The China pavilion is located next to Norway, and opened with the park in 1982. The pavilion is themed to look like an ancient Chinese town, and features the Circle Vision 360 film Reflections of China. Also in China is the table service restaurant Nine Dragons which features gourmet, traditional Chinese food. A quick services restaurant, the Lotus Blossom Cafe also sells Chinese cuisine.

Germany

Main Article: Germany

As guests pass through China the next pavilion they will come across is Germany. The Germany pavilion opened with the rest of World Showcase in 1982, and is themed to look like a small German town. The pavilion was supposed to have a boat attraction like Norway and Mexico, however due to lack of funding the attraction was never built. The Germany pavilion is home to Biergarten (a buffet style German restaurant) and Sommerfest (a quick service restaurant).

Italy

Main Article: Italy

The Italy pavilion is located next to Germany and is the farthest point from the World Showcase entrance. The pavilion opened in 1982 and is adorned with architecture from Venice, Florence, and Rome, along with recreations of Italian landmarks such as St. Mark's Campanile and Dodge's Palace. Although Italy does not have an attraction (a planned boat ride was never built), it does feature two table service restaurants, Tutto Italia Ristorante and Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria.

The American Adventure

The American Adventure pavilion is the centerpiece of World Showcase

Main Article: The American Adventure

The next pavilion guests encounter after passing through Italy is The American Adventure. The American Adventure opened in 1982, and is themed to look like a colonial American town. The pavilion is located in the center of World Showcase due to the fact that America is the host pavilion of the showcase. Inside of the American Adventure pavilion, guests can see the Voices of Liberty perform before experiencing the American Adventure attraction, which uses film, images and Audio Animatronics to take guests through America’s history. The pavilion is also home to the Liberty Inn- a counter service restaurant that sells American cuisine, and the American Gardens Theater, which is an outdoor amphitheater.

Japan

Main Article: Japan

The Japan pavilion opened with the park in 1982, and is located next to the American Adventure. The Japan pavilion is themed with various Japanese buildings including tori gates and a Japanese castle. Although the pavilion does not have an attraction, it does have an exhibit called the Bijutsu-kan which displays Japanese art. The Japan pavilion is also home to three restaurants: Teppan Edo (a stir fry restaurant), Tokyo Dining (sushi), and finally the Katsura Grill (traditional counter service restaurant).

Morocco

Main Article: Morocco

After guests pass through Japan, the next country they enter is Morocco. Morocco is the only pavilion in World Showcase to have been sponsored by a country, not a corporation. When it opened in 1984, Morocco was the first pavilion to be added to World Showcase, and it is themed to look like a realistic Moroccan town that even features a real minaret. Although the pavilion does not have an attraction, it does feature the Fes House, which shows guests what a typical Moroccan house looks like. The Morocco pavilion is also home to two restaurants, Restaurant Marrakesh and Tangierine Café, which are table service restaurants that serve typical Moroccan cuisine.

France

Main Article: France

The France pavilion is located next to Morocco and opened with the park in 1982. The pavilion is themed to look like a Paris neighborhood, and even features a model Eiffel Tower. In total the France pavilion houses three restaurants- the table service Monsieur Paul, the quick service Boulangerie Patisserie, and finally the bakery Les Chefs de France. The France pavilion is also home to one attraction, Impressions de France, which is a travelogue film set to classical music and shown on a 200 degree screen.

The United Kingdom

Main Article: The United Kingdom

Neighboring France on the right is the United Kingdom pavilion. The United Kingdom opened with the park in 1982 and is themed to look like a typical English village. Although there is no attraction in the pavilion, there are two restaurants and six stores. The Rose & Crown is a table service restaurant that specializes in English food, while the Yorkshire County Fish Shop is a quick service restaurant that sells fish, chips and shortbread.

Canada

Main Article: Canada

The final pavilion located in World Showcase is the Canada pavilion. Canada is located between the United Kingdom and the entrance to World Showcase and opened with the park in 1982. The pavilion is themed to showcase the Canadian outdoors with features including a canyon, a waterfall, and fountain. The Canada pavilion also features the Circle Vision 360 Film, O' Canada as well as the Le Cellier Steakhouse.

FastPass +

The FastPass + attractions at Epcot are broken up into two tiers. Guests may choose one experience from Tier One and two experiences from Tier 2.

Tier One

Guests may choose ONE of the following attractions:

Tier Two

Guests may choose TWO of the following attractions"

Fun Facts and Trivia

  • Epcot cost nearly 1.4 billion dollars to create [45].
  • Every fifteen minutes throughout the day, the Innoventions Plaza Fountain, which is located between Innoventions East and West, presents a spectacular water ballet set to music [46].
  • As part of the Millennium Celebration, Disney installed 35 granite and steel “Leave A Legacy” sculptures in front of Spaceship Earth. Digitally etched onto these works of art are photos of guests who had their pictures taken at one of Epcot’s “Capture Stations” [47].
  • The Fountain of Nations in Epcot can shoot water more than 150 feet into the air. If all of the water cannons were fired at the same time, 2,000 gallons of water would fill the air [46].
  • There is a marker in Epcot showing the exact center of the park. It is located just to the west of Innoventions West (on that path that leads straight to The Land) [46]. Around the center, guests can see the names and inventions of history's greatest inventors [48].

References

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 https://sites.google.com/site/theoriginalepcot/the-florida-project
  2. ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLCHg9mUBag
  3. ↑ http://www.omniluxe.net/wyw/epcot.htm
  4. ↑ http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2004/02/23/story1.html
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 https://sites.google.com/site/theoriginalepcot/the-world-showcase
  6. ↑ https://www.mouseplanet.com/8907/The_Other_Epcot
  7. ↑ http://jimhillmedia.com/editor_in_chief1/b/jim_hill/archive/2004/06/18/415.aspx
  8. ↑ http://jimhillmedia.com/editor_in_chief1/b/jim_hill/archive/2011/08/01/how-disney-s-dream-of-building-epcot-the-city-sank-in-lake-buena-vista.aspx#sthash.7aK1GHnl.dpuf
  9. ↑ https://sites.google.com/site/theoriginalepcot/becoming-epcot-center
  10. ↑ http://www.mainstgazette.com/2010/04/master-plan-5.html
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 Crawford, Michael. The Progress City Primer: Stories, Secrets, and Silliness from the Many Worlds of Walt Disney. N.p.: Progress City, L.L.C, 2015. Print.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 https://www.mouseplanet.com/10081/Building_Epcot_Center_1982
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 http://thisdayindisneyhistory.homestead.com/epcotgrandopening.html
  14. ↑ https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/10/vintage-walt-disney-world-fountain-of-nations-dedication-at-epcot/
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 http://allears.net/ae/issue678.htm
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 https://www.mouseplanet.com/10072/EPCOT_Centers_First_October
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 17.5 17.6 17.7 http://www.lostepcot.com/horizons.html
  18. ↑ https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/09/vintage-walt-disney-world-morocco-pavilion-opens-at-epcot/
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 19.3 http://www.lostepcot.com/livingseas.html
  20. ↑ https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2011/05/this-day-in-disney-history-norway-pavilion-debuts/
  21. ↑ http://thisdayindisneyhistory.homestead.com/July05.html
  22. ↑ http://www.yesterland.com/erasing.html
  23. ↑ http://www.martinsvids.net/?p=654
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 http://www.disneydrawingboard.com/WDW/ECArea/EC%20Park/ECPark.html
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 25.2 http://www.lostepcot.com/communicore.html
  26. ↑ 26.0 26.1 26.2 http://www.martinsvids.net/?tag=the-universe-of-energy-pavilion
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 http://www.lostepcot.com/worldofmotion.html
  28. ↑ 28.0 28.1 28.2 http://www.martinsvids.net/?p=95
  29. ↑ 29.0 29.1 http://www.yesterland.com/icontower.html
  30. ↑ 30.0 30.1 http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/guides/epcot/epfw-mission.htm
  31. ↑ 31.0 31.1 http://www.martinsvids.net/?p=208
  32. ↑ http://www.yesterland.com/erasing.html
  33. ↑ http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2001/06/25/story7.html
  34. ↑ http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-blog/os-disney-epcot-innoventions-west-closing-20150320-post.html
  35. ↑ http://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/innoventions/news/24apr2015-epcot's-chase-meet-and-greet-to-continue-at-inventions-west.htm
  36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 36.2 36.3 https://insidethemagic.net/2017/07/d23-expo-2017-big-changes-announced-epcot-ratatouille-guardians-galaxy-rides-future-world-overhaul-much/
  37. ↑ https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2017/07/guardians-of-the-galaxy-ratatouille-attractions-coming-to-epcot/
  38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2019/02/first-of-its-kind-play-pavilion-new-park-entrance-part-of-epcots-historic-transformation/
  39. ↑ https://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/epcot/news/03jul2019-summary-of-all-the-closures-coming-to-epcots-future-world.htm
  40. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named wdwmagicepcot
  41. ↑ 41.0 41.1 41.2 41.3 41.4 https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2019/08/new-details-revealed-for-the-historic-transformation-of-epcot-underway-at-walt-disney-world-resort/
  42. ↑ https://insidethemagic.net/2019/04/illuminations-closing-date-epcot/
  43. ↑ https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/201910/7037/M/
  44. ↑ http://www.imagineeringdisney.com/blog/2010/7/22/a-look-at-the-progress-city-model-then-and-now.html
  45. ↑ http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/wdw/page20.html
  46. ↑ 46.0 46.1 46.2 http://www.wdwradio.com/2007/09/epcot-trivia-general/
  47. ↑ http://www.yesterland.com/legacy.html
  48. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcPo2mtUnf8
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