Life with Mrs C

A huge part of Epcot is the world showcase surrounding the lake. I’m taking a country by country look at what’s on offer and passing on some top tips for each pavilion. First Stop – MEXICO!

You know you’ve hit the Mexico pavilion when you see the Mesoamerican Pyramid. Mexico is also the only world showcase pavilion where most of its offering are inside, which is a great relief in the summer heat. Inside you will find numerous stalls and shops all offering traditional Mexican souvenirs and gifts, as well as the San Angel Inn Restaurante, tequila bar and the Three Caballeros ride.

Dining in Mexico:

The Mexico pavilion offers a handful of food options, depending on what style of meal you are after. If you are after a beautiful setting for a sit down meal then head to San Angel Inn Restaurante. You will find this restaurant at the back of the pyramid, you will find you usually have to make a reservation, you will sit under the stars against a backdrop of another Mexican pyramid and dine on tasty traditional Mexican dishes.

If you are after something with a brighter ambiance, then head towards Hacienda de San Angel which is located outside the main pyramid and is known for its fantastic fireworks views. TOP TIP: book your reservation for around 45 mins to an hour before the fireworks are and when you arrive request a window seat as this will give you a spectacular view of the night time Epcot fireworks.

If you are after a bite to eat or a drink, you still have options:

Choza de Margarita – serving up some fabulous margaritas; located just at the entrance to Mexico and the World Showcase, if you enter from Future World

La Cantina de San Angel – located just next door to Hacienda de San Angel outside the pyramid, you can find quick-service tacos, empanadas, and beverages.

La Cava del Tequila – located inside the Pyramid and serving up some of the best queso with an extensive tequila menu. This location is quick service and has a queue to order at the bar and/or grab a small table, some of which are standing, inside.  This is Mexico’s stop for tequila and top-shelf cocktails and mocktails

Rides and Attractions:

As well as the many food offerings, you will find a folk art gallery, a water ride, mariachi band and even Donald Duck knocking around the pavilion.

The Folk Art Gallery is located just inside the Pyramid and has no wait, no lines, no cost and changes from time-to-time to keep the offering to guests fresh. Last time I was there they had a Coco exhibit.

The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros is located inside the Pyramid, head left once you hit the shopping area.  Typically the Gran Fiesta Tour had a very minimal, if any, wait, but since its rise in popularity, you could be waiting a few minutes to get on. There is no Fast Pass option available for this attraction, so just stand by and enjoy the A/C and stunning endless starry skies within the pyramid. This attraction is family-friendly as you board a boat, and take a gentle tour with the Three Caballeros. Also worth noting – this ride is wheelchair accessible and has no height requirement.

Around Mexico, you can also enjoy the live music of Mariachi Cobre, a band playing traditional folk music from Jalisco, Mexico.  you can usually find them located outside of the Pyramid, just before you cross into Norway. When Mariachi Cobre is taking a break, Marimba de las Americas, a trio, can be found performing in the same location.

And you cant forget to stop by and see Donald Duck in poncho for a meet and greet opportunity. He is located just past the pyramid usually around a corner, and typically has a rather low wait time. you can check the app for his times and current wait time when you are in the area. He also has a photo pass photographer with him to capture your images – he’s also rather partial to a selfie so don’t forget to ask!

Shopping

One thing I always rate the world showcase for is shopping opportunities! The offerings are amazing and not just your typical Disney licensed products. Inside the pyramid at this pavilion, you will find the Plaza de los Amigos, an “open air” marketplace full of little shops and carts selling everything from Mexican glassware and crystal, toys and treats, local Mexican made accessories and jewelery, and of naturally, Mexico themed Disney gear and accessories.

Kidcot station

The kidcot station is located by the gallery inside the pyramid

Tips and Tricks:

Typically, Mexico ends up being the start or end of your trip around the world showcase, with it being located at one end of the half loop. If you want to ensure you have enough time to fully explore the Pyramid, and especially if you want to have a meal in Mexico, visit out of order or more than once. If you decide to start your journey in Mexico and want to participate in the Kidcot Stops, be sure to get your bag in Mexico along with your first card.

Photo Tip – The Epcot World Showcase is home to an endless amount of amazing photo spots!  A great place to grab a photo in Mexico is in front of the Pyramid; but, be careful since the steps up to the pyramid are also the entrance and exit.

Join me next time for Norway!!

xxx