Beginning this week, guests at Epcot will have the option to hang around a little longer and extend their day at the Orlando theme park. Thursdays through Sundays, now until September 15, you may purchase an After-Hours Wind Down pass for $35 per person. This pass will let you enjoy smaller crowds, exclusive access to one of four lounges and have an appetizer and drink.
Usually a day at Epcot is finished after the IllumiNations fireworks show around 9:00 p.m. With the After-Hours pass, you’ll get to experience the park with fewer guests and perhaps try something a little different at one of these World Showcase lounges:
- Spice Road Table – Morocco
- Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar – Italy
- La Cava del Tequila – Mexico
- Rose & Crown Pub – United Kingdom
You’ll need to make reservations, but they can be made from within the park while you are already enjoying the day. Stop by Epcot Guest Relations and see if space is available. If you know for sure that you want to take part in this extended day at the theme park, call 407-939-3463 or go to disneyworld.com/spring and get your passes ahead of time.
The cost is a little pricey, but for many guests, it is a fun way to experience the park and places within the park, that are often crowded during the day. The pass comes with a beverage sampling appropriate for the lounge you are at, and a selection of Hors d’oeuvres, or small bites. Additional beverages are available at cost. If you’ve signed up for the Disney Dining Plan, this event is not included, nor are there any discounts available at this time.
ORLANDO TOURIST TIP: Because of the popularity of the Rose & Crown, as well as the La Cava del Tequila, this After-Hours pass is a great way to experience this part of Epcot. On Thursdays, it may not be difficult to get into these lounges, but on the weekends, you should purchase your pass early and get a reservation. Also…Since most of the guests at the park will be gone by 11:00 p.m., having an After-Hours pass offers a great time to take photographs without crowds in the background. Epcot is spectacular at night!
If the After-Hours pass is received well, it may be continued past the September 15 date. However, with the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival starting on the 19th of September, it might be even harder to sell the $35 ticket. Perhaps after that festival, it will be brought back, but why take the chance? Stay a little later and enjoy Epcot and the exclusivity now.
