Disney World’s Epcot a favorite in inclement weather for kids

Visitors bundled up at Epcot on Sunday when the high temperature was in the 50s. (Photo by Kristin Ford/Orlando Sentinel)

At Epcot on Sunday, I expected it to be cold and possibly crowded with those in town for the marathon. But what I didn’t expect was to see Christmas decorations everywhere and hear holiday music playing at the entrance.

The Candlelight Processional and Holidays Around the World are long over, so the giant Christmas tree at the center of the park and the smaller ones near restaurants surprised me. Many Disney World decorations were taken down this week, but perhaps the Epcot elves were reassigned to cold-weather preparations? We saw many plant beds neatly covered throughout the park; gloves, scarves and hats were on display in stores; and the hot chocolate was flowing.

Below-average temperatures make going to a theme park a different, and welcome, experience from most of the year when we’re battling the heat. The first indication of the cold: hiccupping FastPass machines. Cast members were available, though, to reset the machines more often than usual. Children in strollers were tucked securely under blankets for their rides between attractions, and the jumping water fountains kids play in were not only turned off, but roped off.

Epcot is my favorite Disney park for a visit with kids during inclement weather. Each building has many things to do, so you’re not forced to wander outside after each attraction. On days like Sunday, we tend to stay at the front of the park in Future World. My kids, ages 5 and 7, really love Innoventions East and West, and from there it’s a short walk to the The Land pavillion and Living With the Seas With Nemo and Friends. Spaceship Earth and the Electric Umbrella Restaurant also are nearby.

The best part about the Electric Umbrella? Free refills on hot chocolate, which is always a crowd-pleaser.