There are 11 countries in the World Showcase, the USA is the 6th if you are going clockwise around the lagoon.
As you would expect this is one of the largest pavilions in the World Showcase, and when viewed from across the Lagoon is completely central, it is built at a slightly higher elevation than the surrounding pavilions.
The architecture of the building is classical English Georgian in style and was inspired by Independence Hall, Boston’s Old State House, Monticello and Colonial Williamsburg. The bricks are made from clay that has been coloured and aged to make them look authentic.
From the lobby of this building you head towards the theatre either by climbing the stairs or on the escalator you pass through the Hall of Flags. This display includes Revolutionary War flags, Colonial flags as well as foreign flags that have in the past, had a claim to the land.
As you enter the theatre with it’s 72 foot wide screen, you will see twelve statues, 6 either side of the screen. They are the Spirits of America and represent Individualism, Innovation, Tomorrow, Independence, Compassion, Discovery, Freedom, Heritage, Pioneering, Knowledge, Self-Reliance and Adventure. The thirty minute show highlights lots of events and personalities in American History.
The American Gardens Theatre, this plays host to live stage shows and concerts. Some of the featured events here are the Candlelight Processional in late November/December, Eat to the Beat concerts during the Epcot Food and Wine Festival October/November, Flower Power concerts during the Flower and Garden festival in the spring. As well as these special events there are performances every day except Monday, and they are included in the Epcot admission.
Under the dome in the rotunda you can watch and listen to the a cappella musical ensemble American Vybe – they perform a diverse selection of American music from gospel, rhythm & blues, swing and jazz.
Or for a really rousing performance why not watch the Spirit of America Fife and Drums Corps, they perform in the courtyard with such patriotic favourites as Yankee Doodle Dandy and God Bless America.
There are several shops selling hand made goods, Americana and Coke items – there is also a Kodak kiosk with 2 hour film processing.
Liberty Inn – This counter service restaurant offers traditional “American fare” such as burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips and fries. There is air conditioned indoor seating or if you prefer there are outside tables.
For those guests with a sweet tooth why not try a Funnel Cake from the kiosk, we always do!