The information below was compiled from multiple internet sources. When we were planning our first big trip to WDW together, I wanted to make sure that we got to see as much cool stuff as possible. So, when I ran across a cool tip, I would paste it into a Word document. I sorted all the tips out by park and had it all ready to use at WDW when we finally went. This stuff was a huge help back in September, 2002. I hope this helps. Maggie
A character always hangs out at the back of Innoventions Plaza East, and there is hardly ever a wait. The character is inside, and there is a small sign that most people miss.
The Reverse Waterfall outside the Imagination Pavilion in Epcot's Future World -- the water actually seems to flow *UP*!
EPCOT has a board between the Innoventions plazas that offers the wait times for each ride in both the Future and World showcase.
Test Track is open one hour past park closing, so you can ride it after Illuminations.
One show to sit up front on is The American Adventure. Everyone will push for the middle. But the best seat is front and center. You will see every movement and expression made by the characters, and the movie portions are near the back of the "stage".
It's much easier to walk to World Showcase through the International Gateway than to park at the entrance or even take the bus or monorail from anywhere else.
Butterfly Garden - near entrance to Test Track.
Wander through the gardens of the World Showcase.
Italy - must see Imaginum!!!
Germany - miniature train and village
The best place to view Illuminations! is the pavilion between Mexico and Canada.
A good location to view Illuminations: Reflections of Earth at Epcot's Showcase, some sources recommend snagging a lagoon side table at the Rose & Crown Pub in the United Kingdom pavilion.
There are three talking water fountains at Epcot:
-1- Outside Mouse Works shop
-2- behind Innoventions West, near the restroom, between Innoventions and Honey I Shrunk the Audience Pavilion
3- near the play fountain between Future World and World Showcase.
Talking Trash Can - near the Electric Umbrella.
Characters are on a bus that travels around EPCOT. Check your map schedule for where and when they will be around. Also in the back of Morocco there is a meet and greet area for Aladdin characters.
Cooler Spots
Spaceship Earth (Don't do this first. Save till later in Day. 17 min ride)
Universe of Energy (45 minute show, starts every 17 minutes)
Wonders of Life
Body Wars (5 minute ride)
Cranium Command (open 10am - 8 pm) (17 minute show)
Living with the Land (13 minute show)
Circle of Life (Open 10am - 8 pm) (13 minute show)
The Living Seas (Open 9 am -7 pm)
Mexico "El Rio del Tiempo" boat ride (6 minute ride)
China "Wonders of China" 360 degree movie
United States "The American Adventure" show. Show every 35 minutes
France "Impressions de France" film, shows every 30 minutes
Canada "O' Canada" 360 degree film. Shows every 20 minutes.