Expert Tips for Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival First-Timers

Every spring, flowers, topiaries, international food and drink, nature exhibits, and more return to Epcot.  Each year, spring brings an expanded “Must Do” list at Walt Disney World. However, if you haven’t done your research it is easy to miss out on the best of that slate. Luckily, we’ve compiled expert tips for Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Specially compiled for first-timers just like you. (And for the pros looking to get up-to-date with this year’s offerings!).

Expert Tips for Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival First-Timers

Julie Bigboy of Mom Rewritten

“Definitely plan ahead what you want to see, do, and eat. It can be a challenge to fit in both the regular theme park attractions and the Flower and Garden events. To do so, arrive early and plan to stay late. Work strategically around the park to minimize your walking time.” (I say that’s especially wise in this HUGE park- I consistently track 9 miles a day at Epcot!)

Flowers and Topiaries

Mike Ellis of  My Dreams of Disney

“Take your camera, and make sure you take pictures of all the great arrangements you see.”

And at this Festival, color is king. It takes the form of multiple flower beds, ornate flower displays at the park entrances, and carefully cultivated topiaries which are strategically placed throughout. With over 25 topiaries at this year’s Festival it is easy to miss them all. Trust me! In taking my compulsory shot of Beauty and her Beast this week, I walked right past the brand new Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog displays right in the same pavilion!! Don’t let this happen to you- check the location of the best Disney shrubs HERE before you go.

Interactive Play

JENNIFER KAUFMAN: Delightful Life

“If traveling with kids, be sure to look for the ‘Garden Passport’ and other fun activities- both paid and free- to keep them engaged!”

Engaged, entertained, AND educated. This goes for big kids too! We could spend hours at the free Goodness Garden Butterfly House. For more family interaction, the paid scavenger hunts (each $6.99)- Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration and the Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt- take you around World Showcase lagoon in search of your prize. (Note, the Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt will only be available April 5- 21 as part of Walt Disney World’s Easter celebration.)

Finish off all that learning with a jaunt at one of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Interactive Play Areas. The brand-new Bo Peep’s Playtime Training Grounds and Play Full Garden will make the littles blossom.

Food and Drink

Lisa and James Cameron of Adventures in Familyhood

“Don’t make lunch or dinner reservations. Take advantage of the numerous Outdoor Kitchens and eat around the world.”

MY advice to first-timers is to do their culinary homework! In particular, with the now 18 Outdoor Kitchens, review the menus beforehand. (I always go straight to the Disney Food Blog for the most up-to-date park food info and photos.)

Plot your “course” before you leave home. If you expend your budget and fill up at Mexico’s Jardin de Fiestas, you may not have the appetite or wallet when you get to Japan’s Hanami. (And oh, that Frushi!!)

An expert favorite is to grab your well-researched food and drink and head to America Gardens Theatre for the evening’s performances. The Garden Rocks Concert Series returns, now for seven days a week! Shows begin at 5:30, 6:45, and 8:00 nightly, Each show last approximately 30 minutes. A mix of local bands and well-known headliners complete the lineup. Don’t forget to bring your dessert!!

Now that you see all that this spring season has to offer, we hope you’ll use our curated expert tips for Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival to the make your first or 100th trip BLOOM.