Experience it All at Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion
Your first stop on your tour of the Epcot World Showcase, get ready to step into the Yucatan peninsula. Enter the Mayan-style pyramid into the Plaza de Los Amigos and find a complete cultural experience.
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros
This ride has you helping Jose Carioca and Panchito from the 1944 animated film The Three Caballeros. They are searching for the missing member of their trio as Donald Duck has gone missing. They are en route to a performance in Mexico City and need to find him. After all, the show must go on.
This adventure takes place as a gentle boat ride around the sights of Mexico. As you cruise down the Rio Grande through the tunnels keep an eye out for the missing duck. This ride is a nice mix between It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean with dark tunnels, jaunty music, and silly hijinks.
Do not be put off by the seemingly long lines at this ride. Similar to most of Disney’s boat-style rides, this ride loads quickly and continuously. Additionally, there is the added bonus of cooling off in the air-conditioning as you experience the adventures of the Caballeros.
Shopping
As you enter the pyramid, experience the soft twilight that exists no matter what the weather outside. In addition, this dimly lit, air-conditioned area is a break from the Florida sun so browse while you enjoy it. With the smoking volcano in the background and a strolling mariachi band adding ambiance you will feel transported to Mexico.
The Plaza de la Amigos marketplace plays host to merchandise of all kinds. Looking for something unique? Here you can pick up trinkets from glassware to leather goods done in the traditional Mexican style. Alongside these, the apparel section ranges from options with your favorite Disney characters to handcrafted cultural apparel. It is in this market where you will find any Coco themed souvenirs you might want.
Working throughout the space are artisans creating crafts celebrating Mexican heritage to help you find something special to remember your visit. Many of the Artisans that work in the pavilion focus on crafts around Día de los Muertos so there is no shortage of creative art.
Table Service
San Angel Inn Restaurante provides an intimate lunch or dinner setting. Located inside the pyramid overlooking the plaza and boat ride this dining option is dimly-lit by lanterns to provide all the ambiance of a meal in Old-World Mexico. Falling on the upscale end of restaurants in Walt Disney World, munch on chicken, steak, and fish prepared in a variety of traditional and delightful sauces.
However, if you are looking for table service with a less intimate vibe, check out La Hacienda de San Angel. The home of an artistic family that has been opened to guests (or so the story goes), this eatery packs all the comfort of traditional Mexican cuisine with incredible views across the lake. In addition, try to get a seat here to experience Illuminations. Along with the perfect view, you will have the added bonus of air-conditioning.
Quick Bites
La Cantina de San Angel is the perfect quick stop to grab some food as you continue your journey around the World Showcase. This counter service establishment packs all the flavor in less time than some other options. Make sure to grab some churros for dessert.
Choza de Margarita is a stand offering a variety of margaritas along with some snacks and other drink options. Whether you like yours frozen or on the rocks, this stand has something to interest you and is a great stop for those attempting to drink their way around the world.
Lounge with a Drink
Inside the pyramid, La Cava del Tequila offers over 200 tequilas for those over 21 in your party to try. However, if a straight tequila flight is not your thing try one of the many margaritas offered here or check out their list of Mexican beer and wine. As you drink you can nosh on a light snack of chips with queso or guacamole to complete the experience.
With so much to eat and experience in the Mexico pavilion, you may never make it to the other destinations around the World Pavilion. Moreover, whether you are looking to just stop in or to stay a while, this country should definitely be on your list to check out while at Epcot.
Hello Disney Fans! I’m Kristy Ramer. I was a Disney kid growing up and now that I’m in college I love it even more. Whether its movies, music, parks, or games I just can’t get enough of it. I spend all my time planning my next trip to visit a park and love helping others learn more about Disney!