It’s Growing on Me - Epcot's Behind the Seeds Tour!

Have you ever been on the Living with the Land Boat Tour in the Land Pavilion in EPCOT, and wondered who those people are walking in the greenhouses?  I was always curious about that as well, so one year I decided to find out for myself.  The Behind the Seeds tour in Epcot’s Land Pavilion is one of those little gems that tends to get passed up in the mad dash to get to a ride.  It is also a reasonably priced little gem.  The cost is under $20 and will only take about an hour of your time. I can say that it is definitely worth the time to slow down and smell the sunflowers.  Getting to walk behind the scenes is a unique experience and waving at the people in the boats that are on the Living with the Land ride is lots of fun too!



The Land Pavilion in Epcot

Every year I would take my nephew for our annual trip to Walt Disney World and our goal would be to do something different besides the rides.  When looking over the various tour options, he decided on this one.  So that day we assembled at the desk in front of the Soarin’ Ride to check in for our tour.  No special preparation was needed and this tour is great for people of all ages, as it isn’t very strenuous.  The member of the science team that guided our tour was very informative, telling us what they were working on and answering all of our questions.  It was very educational, but you didn’t feel as though you were in a classroom, it was very casual. Walt Disney had said that "I'd rather entertain and hope that people learn, than teach and hope that people are entertained."  This backstage tour accomplishes that beautifully. 

When we arrived by the fish farming area, the few children that were on our tour were asked if they’d like to feed the fish. Naturally, they jumped at the chance and so did the fish when the food was tossed into the tank.  Our favorite thing however, was they gave us a taste of a cucumber that was grown there.  It was delicious and it didn’t hurt that it was in the shape of a mickey either so that in itself probably made it taste even better.  I would do this tour again since each time you go, the experience can be different depending on the science guide and questions asked, as well as the activities being done by the science team at that time.

You can make reservations up to 180 days in advance by calling 1-407-939-8687 or you can do a walk-up by going to the tour desk which is located to the left of the Soarin’ entrance. And of course your favorite Kingdom Konsultant agent can also make these arrangements for you.  There are discounts available, such as Annual Passholder, DVC, Disney Visa discounts, etc. Be sure to inquire about this savings!  The tour is open to all ages, unlike many other backstage tours, and, therefore, makes a great outing for the whole family.  Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome, but wheelchairs must be the push type, not motorized.  Be sure to bring along your cameras and video equipment as photography and video recording are allowed on this tour.

What is your hidden gem in Walt Disney World?  I look forward to hearing from you!!!

Gloria