Why EPCOT Exists: The Story Behind World Showcase

Before EPCOT had pavilions, festivals, or a lagoon lined with countries, it was something entirely different.In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast, we’re laying the groundwork for a brand-new monthly series by diving deep into the history of how EPCOT came to be—and why half of the park is dedicated to the World Showcase.From Walt Disney’s original plans for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, to decades of annual reports, leadership changes, abandoned ideas, and major pivots, this episode traces the long and winding path that led to the EPCOT we know today. Along the way, we explore early concepts like International Street, Little Europa, permanent World’s Fair ideas, and the moment when EPCOT officially stopped being a city and became something else entirely.This episode sets the stage for what’s coming next: a pavilion-by-pavilion exploration of the details, stories, and design choices that make World Showcase such a unique place to wander.If you’ve ever wondered why EPCOT feels different from every other Disney park, this is where the answer begins.👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereintheparkFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/whereintheparkTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@whereintheparkYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark