Future World is the first of the two worlds of Epcot. It features 10 different areas that guests can visit - some especially made for the Millenium Celebration. Each one of these is a great deal of fun, and some of the newer ones are bound to be crowded for the Millenium year, I recommend going to these in the very early morning (before 10:00), or even better, later in the evening when the parks are cooler and less crowded.

This is one of the most increible offerings in Walt Disney World history. As guests enter Epcot, they will see huge stone pillars and walls filled with tiles of etched steel. For the first time ever, guests can get actual photos of themselves etched onto steel tiles and placed onto huge stone monuments for years to come. The cost of a tile is $35 for one person and $38 for two people (on the same tile). This is an amazing offering and returning guests will be able to come back and see their pictures for generations to come.

The huge 180 foot geosphere that stands in front of Epcot is an amazing symbol of man's acomplishments. It towers over everything in the park and is visible to a plane on a clear day in Florida. This year especially for the Millenium, it has been decorated with a huge 2000 over its side and top, which is acompanied with hundreds of little stars.

Inside of the gigantic attraction you will find a ride that takes guests on a trip through the history of communication. First you pass through a dark tunnel as your "time machine" goes back 40,000 years to the time of the cave men. Slowly you pass through generations; Egypt; Greece; Rome; the Renaissance, and then to the Industrial Age where you can see huge spinning steam powered machines that do all sorts of things. Finally you enter the present and future; video phones that let people in Japan talk to kids in America, Grandparents watching children's graduations thousands of miles away. Then as the grand finale your time machine spins around to give you an incredible view of the planet earth against a black and starlit sky.

This ride is a lot of fun; slow and a bit bumpy on your head as the cars are made of hard, blue, plastic. It is very realistic with Audio Animatronic figures in many of the scenes.

Special Note: While in the "Fall of Rome" scene, notice the fire effects and the musty, smoky smell that Disney Imagineers created to add to the realism of this section.

Directly past Spaceship Earth you will find the center of the Millennium Celebration; Millennium Central. Here guests will enter a blue canopy covered area that is full of tons of special activities and up to the minute updates on ride times, and other information. Also you will find the Walt Disney World 2000 pin trading headquarters. Disney has made a whole collection of pins for guests to buy and trade throughout the 4 theme parks. You can buy a started set of pins and trade them for others. Everyone is invited to trade; Disney cast memebers, and other park guests will be happy to exchange their Disney pins for some of yours.

This 100,000 square foot building is divided into two sections: Innoventions East and West. They are surrounder by all manner of spinning, sliding, brightly colored sculptures that spruce up the entire area

Inside this huge exhibition hall guests can view and in many cases; expirience new inventions and innovations that will soon be on the market. Kids can paint pictures and take photos that are put on the web, send e-mail to friends and do all sorts of other things at exhibits that are ever changing and amazing fun.

Special Note: This area is always crowded, so to experience it all will take a long time - at least an hour, but if you just want to take a quick look it shouldn't take more than 15 to 20 minutes. But be careful, once you get in you will never want to leave.

Horizons was, in my opinion, one of the best rides at Epcot Center. But sadly Disney has closed this attraction, rumored to make room for a new space attraction sometime between 2000-2002.

Special Note: A rumor has been floating around the net that Walt Disney World is planning to realease Fantasia 2000, the new updated classic in an Imax theatre at the previous site of Horizons. While this is only rumor, it would be really neat if they did this, so that people who do not have the special 6-story, amazing surround sound technology theatres in their cities can still see the amazing new version of Walt Disney's 3rd full length animated feature.

This huge attraction is dedicated to man's study of the oceans. Outside, the building is painted to resemble waves and there is a large 'Living Seas' sign surrounded by rocks, that constantly is soaked by reacuring waves from some underground apparatus that drenches nearby guests.

As guests walk into the ride, they pass by many relics of the ocean and ocean exploration such as an early diving suit, breath masks, and a model of the 20,000 leagues under the sea submarine. The first part of the attraction is a short 7 minute movie about the history of oceans and how they were first created. After the film, guest enter small elevater-like machines called hydrolators that take you to a Coral Reef Ride.

The hydrolators create the illusion that you are traveling several hundred feet under the ocean's surface. Actually this is a combination of several effects created by Disney Imagineers. In reality, guest travel down only about an inch and exit on the other side of the elevator.

Once off the hydrolators, guests board small, slow moving vehicles for a leisurely trip through a 6 million gallon, glass encased, tank filled with fish, plants, and every type of sea animal imaginable. After the short 3-5 minute ride, you enter 'Sea Base Alpha' a large "underwater" learning facility that includes several hands on activites and a small souvenir stand. To get out of the ride you have to take the hydrolators once more, they lead you out to a secluded, peaceful corner of Epcot that is a great place to sit and enjoy the warm sun for a few minutes before returning to the huge crowds of the park.

Special Note: This ride is barely ever crowded and the wait is only long between the 7 minute film showings, this is a great ride to go to if you're tired of the long lines at most of Future World. Also, take note to how the theme of the attraction changes over time: At firt, the ride is very gloomy and dark, the film adds to this atmosphere of unknown darkness below. But then, when guests reach the coral reef they are introduced to the bright colorful world of the Carribean Sea.

The Land

This huge pavillion includes several rides plus a huge food court. As guests walk in, they notice a gigantic mural filled with thousands of tiles marking the entranceway to this attraction. Inside, dark carpet and cold air conditioning make you comfortable as you get set to learn more about food- Everything from nutrition, to plants growing in space can be found at this attraction.

The Circle of Life: This 20 minute show is a story about preservation of nature, It features Timon, Pumba, and Simba from the lion king. In the show, Simba teaches Timon and Pumba how sometimes progress is bad and can hurt the enviornment.

Living with the Land: This 14 minute boat ride takes guests on a tour of many different aspects of nature. The line is usually pretty menacing, but a wait sign of 15-20 minutes is normal, and the wait doesn't get much shorter at specific times, so go for it!

Once you board the canvas topped boats that lead you on the journey, you enter a dark tunnel, wind blows onto your face, and you feel moisture. All around you, rain is falling down onto the cool, lush, plants and trees. A new year of growing is beginning. Then you enter the Rain Forest, as steamy wind gusts, and several waterfalls, transform the area to a tropical paradise. Next its off to the desert, where searing heat overcome you as you gaze up at the cliffs and the blazing sun. As the last artificial part of the ride you see a traditional American farm and grassland; roosters cluck, dogs bark, and rows and rows of crops are growing.

Then your boat enters a bright greenhouse as a guide at the front of your boat stands up and starts to give a detailed explanation of each of the growing displays you pass. The guide talks about every technique from natural fertilizers to drip irrigation to growing plants in space. You also see a fish farming exhibit. And as you depart the boat, your guide bids you farwell by saying: "...so that one day we may truly be 'living with the land.'"

Special Notes: Take note of some of the amazing effects in the various scenes at the beginning, the rain effects, and the wind, etc. Also, at some points in the ride people on the left side of the boat are subject to a small splash from the waterfall that feels very good, but if you don't want that, you may want to sit on the right. Also, for anyone who wants a more in depth tour of the greenhouses and growing techniques there is a special, walk through tour of some of the areas. You must make reservations to go on this and it costs extra(less than $10/person).

Food Rocks: This hilarious show is a great way to teach small children (and adults) about good nutrition. Half a dozen popular oldies hits have been re-worded to give messages of eating right. Huge cutouts of foods and utensils are on stage for this 15 minute presentation. In turn each comes up to sing there song. Some of the "artists" include Chubby Cheddar, and the Peach Boys. This show will definately leave you laughing.

The newly renovated Imagination! pavilion is actually two pyramid-like structures covered with glass panes that seem right from the imagination. Outside the pyramids you will find many different fountains that spurt water to cool steamy guests. Kids love to chase these spurts of water from planting to planting and get soaked. Inside this pavillion you will some incredible attractions that will definately spark your imagination.

Journey into Your Imagination: This 8 minute ride which has been re-done for the Millenium Celebration takes guests to see the Imaginator, a brand new invention that is the center of this ride. The ride features some dazzling visual displays and leaves guests with a new outlook on the imagination.

Honey, I Shrunk The Audience: This 25 minute 3D film takes guests to witness some of Wayne Szalinski's (The inventor from the Honey I Shrunk the Kids movies) newest inventions. As you walk into the theatre you are required to put on "saftey goggles" (3D glasses) and as soon as you're seated, Szalinski explodes on a hovercraft flying out over the audience. Tons of funny mishaps happen to everyone in the audience, including being shrunk, overrun by mice, and picked up by the inventor's son, Adam, before you are returned to normal size and allowed to leave.

Special Notes: This attraction will most likely be very crowded for the entire Millenium year as it is brand new. Early morning or late evening would be good times to avoid the really long lines at this attraction.

Test Track

This new addition to Future World takes guests through the little known world of car design and testing. Presented by GM, this ride looks very impressive from the outside, with its bright lights and giant murals on the walls.

Once inside, past the outside line, you find more of a typically long, but somehow entertaining line. When you finally get in to the ride, you are taken on a 20 minute tour of the "testing plant" and you are given a lot of information on the real world of car safety, and performance testing. Then you board a 6 seater test car, and you begin your jorney.

Highlights of the ride include: accelerating 3 stories in a mater of secconds, tons of very sharp turns, heat and cold chambers, and a near collision with a huge truck.

Special Note: As Test Track is currently the longest and fastest ride in all of Walt Disney World, it is a bit intense. You must be over 7 years old or accompanied by an adult to ride. Also you must be at least 40 inches tall, and free of any physical limitations to ride.

This gigantic, pink, dome shaped attraction is noticeable by a huge 72-foot model of a DNA strand next to a small pond near the entrance. All around the pavillion, you will see trees and plantings in one of the more off-set locations of Future World.

Inside of the dome, you will be greated with a rush of cold air, a soft, eye pleasing carpet, and tons of amazing things to do! You can try one of the electric bikes that use video screens to make you feel like you are pedaling through the theme park of your choice, test your sense of touch by discerning several objects, or participate in tons of other hands on activities. Or you can go on the two main rides at this pavillion. Whatever you choose, you will have a lot of fun learning about the human body!

Cranium Command: At this attraction you enter a 200 seat theatre and watch Buzzy, a comical audio-animatronic figure, pilot the brain of a 12 year old kid. The stage of the theatre is shaped like the inside of a giant head, and through the eyes of the kid, you see the world, as Buzzy tries to help the subject make good descisions, with the help of the other parts of the body with voices played by various actors.

Body Wars: As you board your vehicle: Bravo TwoTwo Niner for this amazing journey through the human body, you might notice that there is no room for the car to move. In fact, it uses a principle similar to the one at Star Tours at the Disney Studios, where video is combined with special motion effects to create a realistic ride.

Suddenly you are shrunk to the size of a blood cell and transported into the body of a human test subject to view a white blood cell attack on a splinter. As your vehilcle gets close to the doctor already on the scene, the white blood cells attack you! You are shot throught numerous parts of the body, and after many mishaps, and with a fresh boost of energy from the nerve cells in the brain, you manage to escape.

Special Note: Body Wars is a very rough ride, take caution when choosing whether or not to ride it. Also, there is a lot of realistic blood throughout the ride that might make the weak stomached a bit queesy. Note: You must be at least 40 inches tall to ride this attraction.

The new version of this ride, which opened a few years ago, makes it both more interesting, and a lot more informative than before. The outside of this attraction is a very sleek looking structure that houses the main ride - no interior attractions here, but nontheless a great attraction.

As you get into the theater you see a women named Ellen watching a tv game show that her roomate is partcipating in. Ellen trys to play along and as the host asks questions about energy, she is very confused. Slowly she drifts off to sleep and dreams she is on the show. As she doesn't know any of the energy questions she decides to ask her neighbor for help.

Her neighbor, who is conviniently Bill Nye the Science Guy, suggests that she go back in time to see how energy all started. And suddenly, the seats break up into sections and begin to travel slowly through a prehistoric enviornment. Dinosaurs, whose oil is now a main source of energy roam the planet and after seeing some amazing larger than life animals you are left with an amazing new outlook on the Universe of Energy.

Special Note: This entire attraction takes about 45 minutes so give yourself at least an hour considering possibly long lines. Also, don't forget to take notice of the huge roof of this attraction covered with solar panels that power part of the ride.

World Showcase is the second half of Epcot Center. Spread wide around the World Showcase lagoon, this land features 11 uniquely themed nations, in which guests can experience the sights, sounds, and foods, of many cultures around the world. This year, especially made for 2000, Millennium Village, a 60,000 sq. foot building has been added to the World Showcase festivities. It features dozens of new contries added to World Showcase's already impressive collection.

This pavillion captures the scenic beauty and rushing wilderness of Canada. Here you will find huge, beautiful flower gardens, perfectly manicured lawns, and sea blue fountains. Next door, you will see the might of Canada, as you pass by a huge mountain and waterfall and come upon an indian trading post and totem pole.

O Canada! Come in, and relax in the cool darkness, as you view a 17 minute film about the splendor of Canada. Filmed using a special technique called Circle Vision 360, you will see a panoramic view of majestic rivers, huge mountains, and vast forests. You also view the sea-side provinces of this land, and even the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Please take note: The theater in which this film is shown does not have any seats.

Special Notes: Canada is a fabulous place to eat lunch or dinner, be sure to take note of the great dining oppurtunities offered there. Also, a little known secret of Canada: Go into the walkway for Le Cellier Steakhouse even if you don't plan on eating there, why? If you pass by the entrance, there is a pathway that you can climb up onto some of the mountain to get a great vew of the waterfall there.

Travel now to Europe to sample incredible hedge, and rose gardens, a wonderfully themed shopping quarter (Shopping is explained later in this page), and buildings that look like they have been standing for centuries and encorporate amazing styles of architexture. Don't forget to bring an appetite for many varieties of beer and ale that are served in the local pub. Also, check you're guidemap for the show times of the British Invastion - a four man group that sings Beatles songs periodically throughout the day.

Special Notes: While this land is great for shopping it is often overlooked for families with young children. Also, there is a small wagon that sells fish fries and baked potatoes throughout the day. This is a great place to eat a quick lunch for cheap, and you can sit out at one the tables near the lagoon for a beautiful view of all of Epcot. Watch out for pidgeons!

This quaint, representation of Paris, surrounds you with everything from the Eiffel Tower, to some of the most delicious wines and cheeses in the world. As you enter this country, you will notice a large fountain in the center of the town. To the left and right, you will find all manner of live entertainment throughout the day; from mimes, to clowns and artists. As you enter the small village, you will be enticed by shops with all manner of French pastries, cakes, and breads.

Impressions de France: Enter the beautiful, Palais du Cinema theatre for this 18 minute show that delights guests with many of the sights and sounds of France. Visit huge manor houses with vast, manicured, gardens. Vineyars growing grapes to produce some of the world's best wines, and many other locations throughout France. A truly amazing film.

Special Notes: Contrary to some web sites, Impressions de France is not a Circle-Vision 360 movie. While it is someone circular, it does not completely surround you. This enables guests to focus on a certain area and not miss any of the beautiful scenenry.

This is a very small, and intricate land. For the first time visitor it is mildly interesting, and for the veteran, it is downright boring. On the up side, there is some amazing architexture and entertainment that can be found here. The tower, in addition to many of the other buildings here were based on actual Moroccan buildings, including a huge assortment of mosaics created with tiles shipped strait from Morocco, and built by Moroccan archetects. Also, don't miss the musical performances throughout the day, as well as the belly dancers in the main square.

Special Notes: This might be a good place to do some shopping. There is a large selection of brassware, pots, and other traditional Moroccan merchandise. For more information check the shopping section later in this page.

Beautiful, visually pleasing and balanced gardens are the theme of this far east land. As you enter, you see a huge pagoda to the left, and a large department store to the left. As you walk further into the area, you see on your left a large pond filled with japanese fish called koi. There are many paths and streams to walk along as you come across small pools of water and rippling brooks. Take special note of the many Japanese plants or plant substitutes (ones that can survive in Florida) along the scenic journey. Emmerse yourself in a culture that is purely scerene and respectful of nature.

Bijutsu-Kan Gallery: Enter this small building at the back of Japan, to see various displays of Chineese artifacts at different times throghout the year.

Special Notes: Don't miss the very intricate workings of some of the water powered mechanisms near the stream and koi pond. Look out for a large bambo pole that carries fast running water to an amazing little machine that makes a bonking noise every 5 or 6 seconds - the Japanese used to use these thousands of years ago to scare deer away from there fields.

The centerpiece of World Showcase, America is truly a great, patriotic emblem of our 50 states. The huge stucture that takes up most of the land, including the main attraction, was created with over 100,000 handmade bricks. Outside, you can find a large fountain, several gardens, and marks of traditional American style and archetexture.

Special Notes: Don't forget to check your guidemap for showtimes at the American Garden's theatre - a wonderful outdoor theatre that features many shows throughout the year. It is set against the beautiful World Showcase lagoon and can be a refreshing place to take in a quick show in the afternoon.

While this land has many archetextural masterpieces - including archs, and sharp angled building and statues, it has little else. Some shopping can also be done in this area but unfortunately this land has no special attractions to boast.

Special Notes: Italy sometimes features some live entertainment througout the day. Check your guidemap for daily information.

This land, as with its predecesor, features much traditionally german building styles and shopping, but not much else. This country is probably a good idea to skip if you are falling behind schedule or if you have small children. Though it does feaure some great shopping.

Special Notes: Be sure to check out the restuatant: Biergarten, which features some traditional German foods as well as beers, that are a great way to celebrate a day at Epcot Center.

Come experience the bright splendor of an ancient land. China is surrounded by many beautiful plants and trees. It features some incredible shopping and restaurants. Don't forget to notice the pond in the center of this pavillion that shows a beautiful reflection of the Temple of Heaven - the Disney representation of a structure in Beijing.

Wonders of China: Land of Beauty, Land of Time: As it's title explains, this 19 minute Circle Vision 360 film, shows guests the majesty and vastness of this land as old as time. Visit the Great Wall, The Forbidden City and numerous other sites in this seatless theatre. A magnificent experience.

Special Notes: Don't miss the live entertainment that can be found here throuhgout the day. Magicians, Acrobats, and other performers come out at different times during the day to delight and impress guests at this pavillion.

One of only two pavillions in World Showcase with an acutal ride, Norway captures the essence of the Scandinavian countries of the world. The old-looking buildings and wooden stuctures make it look like it comes strait out of the 1300's. Be sure to expore the many shops and fine stores that sell everything from legos to wooden trolls.

Malestrom: This incredible ride is definately worth the usually 15 - 25 minute wait. One you board your Viking ship, you are warned of the peril of Norway by a shimmering voice. Suddenly, you are watching a group of Norweigans getting ready to go out to sea. You pass by many scenes, including one where several trolls banish you to go over a waterfall. On your way to the fate, you pass by a polar bear in the snow, and you just barely avoid the waterfall as your boat suddenly changes routes to whisk you down a dark tunnel, not a frightening drop, this one adds speed and excitement to your journey. After the ride, you are invited to see a film on Norway, but you can avoid it by passing quickly through the open exits.

Special Notes: Notice on the mural at the begginning of Malestrom that there is a "hidden mickey" - a person with mouse ears in one of the boats - can you find him?

Whether the begginning or the end to a World Showcase journey, Mexico is a bright colorful land full of fun! On one side, you can find a fast food restaurant that serves up all kinds of Mexican specialities. On the other, you can enter an ancient Mayan temple and come upon a Mexican plaza at dusk. Tons of cart shops offer all manner of bright colorful merchandise and music lights up the atmosphere, in this happy Mexican village.

El Rio Del Tiempo - The River of Time: At this, the only ride in World Showcase besides Malestrom in Norway, guest are greeted by a very short line, and a very happy, cheerful, boat ride presentation of Mexico's history, featuring many small dancing dolls. Many scenes of this ride have been recently refurbished and it truly captures the flavor of this country.

Epcot Center is famous for having some incredible shopping oppurtunties with merchandise from all around the world. Below you will find a description of what every shop at Epcot has to offer.

Film and other camera equipment

Disney wathces, candy, key chains, jewelry, and t-shirts. This is a huge shop so it might take a while to explore.

Animated cels, sculptures, and other fine art.

Plants, seeds, and books.

Bumper stickers, Liscence plates, etc.

Maple syrup, outdoor clothing,

jewelry, ceramic stuff, and giftware

British toys, Winnie the Pooh merchandise

Coins, chess sets, beer mugs, and similar products

Knitted shirts, socks, mittens, and other clothing

Expensive collectors crystal statues.

Pottery, jewelry, handcrafted gifts.

Paintings, miniatures, and small souvenirs

Tons of various souvenirs

Wines

All of these shops offer similar gifts such as brass products, woven rugs, many fezes, and small leather objects

Kimonos, various Japanese clothing, origami supplies, and various plastic toys, Bonsai.

American flag colored clothing, baseballs, and books.

Glass sulptures, jewelry, and other fine souvenirs.

Wines, pasteries and chocolates

Silk robes, coins, various chinese pictures, and glass trees.

Norweigian gifts and clothing, candy and toys.

Paper flowers, pinatas, wooden bowls, baskets and pottery.