My dad and I had an awesome day at EPCOT’s International Flower and Garden Festival! Today, I am sharing a few must-trys on the menus, including delicious seasonal dishes that highlight the best local ingredients, rides to go on that provide thrilling adventures and mesmerizing views, and topiaries to view that are intricately crafted to depict beloved characters from Disney films. The vibrant colors and stunning floral displays were absolutely breathtaking, making every corner an Instagram-worthy sight. If you are visiting Orlando, add these to your list! Trust me, it’s an experience that you and your family won’t want to miss.
Here are some of our favorites from the food/drink menus:
- Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina: Moroccan spiced lamb Moroccan Wrap with tomato-cucumber relish and garlic sauce served on warm Moroccan flatbread. The blend of spices in the lamb creates a delicate balance of flavors that truly showcases Moroccan cuisine. I love this one with chicken, as it provides a tender and juicy alternative, and my dad really enjoyed the lamb for its rich taste. Overall, a great choice for anyone looking to explore bold and exciting flavors in a warm and inviting setting!
- Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market: Toasted Pretzel Bread topped with black forest ham and melted cheese. This delectable dish was not only salty and tasty, but it also offered a generous shareable portion.
- EPCOT Farmers Feast: Scallop with spring pea risotto, lemon-beurre blanc, and gremolata, presented beautifully to highlight the delicate flavors of the dish, ensuring a delightful culinary experience, and Blueberry Crumble Cake with blueberry-lemon zest soft-serve and blueberry compote, which adds a delightful contrast of textures and a perfect balance of sweet and tart. I can not recommend these enough! They were absolutely delicious and refreshing, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
On my list to try:
- Very Berry Matcha Latte: Milk, strawberry syrup, and matcha topped with whipped cream
- Cinnamon Beignets tossed in lemon sugar, lemon glaze, and honey mead-blueberry compote
- Seafood Bake with shrimp, mussels, clams, andouille sausage, red potatoes, corn on the cob, persillade butter, white wine broth, and grilled sourdough
- Tuna Poke Bowl with edamame, avocado, mango, pickled red onions, seaweed salad, furikake, and umami sauce on a bed of sticky rice
Rides:
- Highly recommend Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind, if you can get on without a super long wait. Anything under 60 minutes is a win in my opinion and well worth it for this thrilling fun ride! The ride combines a compelling storyline with stunning visuals, taking you on a journey that feels both exhilarating and immersive. The music and storytelling make it a standout attraction in the park.
- Spaceship Earth is a classic ride, a must-do at EPCOT. This iconic journey through time showcases the history of communication, and it features a beautifully narrated storyline that makes it educational yet entertaining. The slow-paced ride allows you to soak in the elaborate scenes as you travel through the ages, making it perfect for all ages.
- Soarin’ is a classic favorite. It will soon switch to Soarin’ over America, which is so exciting! For now, enjoy Soarin’ all over the world in a nice air-conditioned venue. The breathtaking aerial views of landscapes and landmarks are mesmerizing, and the feeling of flight adds to the experience. It’s a gentle ride that can be enjoyed by everyone, and it’s always a delightful escape.
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure has been reimagined so you no longer need 3D glasses. Such a cute ride! It immerses you in the charming world of Ratatouille, where you get to experience the sights and sounds of Gusteau’s restaurant from a unique perspective. The attention to detail in the design is remarkable, and the delightful storyline will definitely put a smile on your face.
A few topiaries I love to see include:
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: This classic scene is beautifully crafted and a favorite among guests.
- Mike and Sully from Monsters, Inc.: Except this year, Sully is super thin… not sure why, but it certainly adds an interesting twist to the display!
- Tow Mater and Lightning McQueen from Cars: These beloved characters are always a hit, especially for fans.
Overall, I highly recommend a trip to this festival, as it offers a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of activities that appeal to people of all ages. Weekdays tend to be less busy, making it easier to explore the various attractions without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Additionally, with spring break upon us, it’s worth checking the calendar for any blackout dates for annual passholders, as this can help you plan your visit more effectively.
During your time at the festival, you’ll have opportunities to indulge in delicious food, enjoy live entertainment, and partake in fun games and competitions, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone in your group.

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