GEO-82: Should You Try EPCOT’s New Adults-Only Lounge?
An Orlando Perk
Living in Central Florida comes with its own kind of magic—especially when it means spending time with friends in unforgettable places. This past week, I had the joy of meeting up with a friend at EPCOT’s newest hidden gem: the adults-only lounge, GEO-82.
Parking
After my short drive from Clermont, I was parked in a prime spot in Dory 402 around 5:15PM. Of course, I noted the parking information in the My Disney Experience App’s Car Locator feature. Even now, as a local, I know how easy it is to forget where I’ve parked at Walt Disney World.
Where is the entrance to GEO-82?
Walking around to the back of Spaceship Earth, I did not see an exterior sign for the restaurant. (Since my visit, I have read that one will be coming soon.) The only nearby door went into Project Tomorrow (the exhibit area usually encountered after riding Spaceship Earth.) I walked inside, and there it was…
Soon after, I ran into my friend and felt relieved to learn that she had also struggled to find the lounge.
Lobby at GEO-82
Our arrival was very welcoming. After checking in, we headed upstairs to the lobby. Guests can utilize the stairs or an elevator. From there, Cast Members greeted us with cooling towels and invited us to wait in the comfortable lobby.
With comfortable seating, low lighting, and gorgeous artwork, the lobby was a nice respite from the harsh (and hot!) Florida sunshine.
Nostalgia at Adults-Only Lounge
Upon entering, you can’t miss all the nostalgic references to the geodesic design of Spaceship Earth and EPCOT’s 1982 opening. This is quite sentimental for some of us, ahem, older folks.
You’ll enter a hallway where the floor resembles the old EPCOT walkways. Let me show you:
After a short wait, we were seated at a prime window table overlooking the World Celebration garden.
Hidden Mickey in Lounge
As you enter the main lounge at GEO-82, be sure to look closely at the gorgeous light fixtures. At a certain angle, I spotted a Hidden Mickey!
Service at GEO-82
Service at the lounge was excellent. Our server graciously went over the menu, and checked back with us at appropriate intervals.
Menu at GEO-82
So, let’s chat about the menu. In all fairness, I have a picky palate and therefore, I’m not the best judge of a menu’s popularity. If you haven’t dined elsewhere during your EPCOT day, a selection of small bites is available.
It will be helpful to know that the prices seemed very high. With cocktails around $25, that’s a steep price for tourists as well as locals seeking a friendly, drinking hole.
Therefore, I’m thinking this may be a cozy spot for a special date or a one and done for adults on vacation. But, if you appreciate creative mixology, perhaps the cost will be worth it to you.
Wine and Beverage Options
While I may have tried a couple of the cocktails (at lower prices), I opted for a more wallet-friendly glass of rosé—this was the perfect choice. Light and subtly fruity, my beverage was refreshing on a warm evening in EPCOT.
To quench your thirst, there are zero-proof cocktails, a bourbon flight, and beer options as well. You can find the full menu with current prices here.
We spotted striking glassware, including the wine glasses with delicate stems.
While we sipped our adult beverages, we noticed many adults (some solo) savoring their time at GEO-82. And despite some usual noise, it did not drown out our conversation.
Tidbits
A few more things to note:
This Lounge is for adults 21 and over.
GEO-82 is open during lunch and dinner hours.
Reservations are required.
Consider viewing Luminous The Symphony of Us from this location. There is an optional Fireworks Experience.
Overall Impression of GEO-82
GEO-82 is a stylish, nostalgia-soaked escape for adults craving a break from EPCOT’s more bustling corners (we’re looking at you, Mexico pavilion!).
While the menu leans upscale, there are still some budget-friendly sips to enjoy—or you can treat yourself to unforgettable cocktails and bites. But the real star? The stunning atmosphere and breathtaking views that make every moment feel extra magical.
What would you order? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Situated on a well-traveled corner of Main Street U.S.A. in Disney’s Magic Kingdom, the Main Street Confectionery is adored by first time visitors and repeat guests of Walt Disney World. Fashioned after a candy store from a bygone era, the sights and smells lure passersby during their morning, afternoon, and evening strolls.
Did you know that this beautiful venue is now sponsored by Mars?
Nostalgic sweets such as cotton candy, candy apples, and lollipops are always available to curb your snack cravings. And this beloved candy shop is also known to debut all-new treats and new flavors of already popular snacks.
Window Displays
After making your purchases, take your treats outside and admire the creative window displays.
Store Decor
While waiting in line (yes, this place gets busy!), take a close look at the decor.
Or watch the Cast members as they create some of the amazing confections that are oh-so appealing.
Holiday Decor
Look for seasonal decor to add whimsical ambiance during holiday seasons.
Halloween at the Main Street Confectionery.
Seasonal Treats
Best of all, step inside to admire (and taste test) the featured treats.
Holiday Rice Krispy Treats in the Bakery Case.
Bakery and Candy Case
Sometimes in holiday colors, get delectable sweets to eat on-the-go.
Popular with many guests, candy apples are decorated before making their way to the candy cases. These creations are stunning. Candy apples are decorated with various candies and/or in festive themes.
Beautiful Candy Apples.
Watch your favorite treats being made.
Lollipops are in abundance!
Another option: Curb your sweet tooth with a marshmallow pop — Mickey-shaped, of course.
Mickey Marshmallow Pops.
Cotton Candy
During your visit, watch eye-catching cotton candy being spun by Cast Members, then purchase a fresh bag.
Cotton Candy Window.
Fresh cotton candy.
Kids and kids-at-heart love cotton candy.
Jolly Berry Strawberry Flossugar by Gold Medal is pre-mixed and boasts vibrant colors.
Flossugar for cotton candy making.
Popcorn
Another favorite theme park snack — popcorn! Scan the shelves for your favorite flavor or a new-to-you variety.
Pre-packaged popcorn.
Now that you’ve chosen a delightful goodie, it’s time to find a nearby table. I love finding hidden nooks within the Magic Kingdom and highly recommend the side streets along Main Street U.S.A. for quaint seating during morning or late evening hours.
Find tables down this side street off of Main Street U.S.A.
Main Street Confectionery Tips
Avoid the park closing rush and get your goodies earlier in the evening.
Utilize your snack credits if you are on the Disney Dining Plan.
Contact Us, Follow Us on Twitter, or comment below to share your must-have treat from the Main Street Confectionery.
The Florida sunshine is simply gorgeous (and warm!) during springtime at Walt Disney World. Flowers, smiles, and magical experiences are blooming in every park and resort.
And as spring arrives, pastel colors explode! It’s a whimsical time to visit the Happiest Place on Earth.
Stop by Contempo Café for delicious treats!
Also, springtime in Walt Disney World brings the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, Spring Break, Easter, and the Star Wars Half Marathon. Plus, Mother’s Day and more!
Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival
Even before the official start of the season, Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival gets underway. I can’t wait to see what’s blooming next year!.
Find out what’s blooming at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival.
Here, you’ll want to dig into the tasty bites at the Outdoor Kitchens. Or listen to a concert. My favorite part of the festival? The stunning topiaries! This event is fun for all ages.
You won’t want to miss the topiaries at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival.
Spring Break Brings Crowds
Spring Break is a popular and thus crowded time to visit WDW; this makes the month of March very crowded. You’ll find springtime touring less chaotic from around the second week of April to mid-May. Of course, the timing of Easter is also a factor.
Still, Spring Break is a great time to visit Walt Disney World. If you’re traveling from a colder climate, you’ll really appreciate the warm, Florida sunshine. You can explore the theme parks day and night or opt to relax by your hotel pool. With so many things to see and do, this is a Spring Break location that promises fun for all ages.
Easter at Walt Disney World
Look for treats, eats, and customized baskets. Buy a pre-made basket or build your own! You’ll find Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny greeting guests in the Magic Kingdom. Look for other Easter activities at the resorts.
Don’t miss a smorgasbord of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Disney Springs.
Vera Bradley bags are great for Easter and Mother’s Day gifts.
Look for colorful merchandise.
Star Wars runDisney Event
Runners will want to start prepping for this event usually held in April. Get your race on!
Spring Activities at Walt Disney World
Find a place to picnic. We love these outdoor tables at All-Star Music Resort.
Swimming at your resort pool.
Visit a water park.
Have an outdoor picnic.
Watch an outdoor movie.
Go fishing.
Sit by a campfire.
Watch your resort’s activity schedule for Easter festivities.
Rent a boat — cruise on a lagoon, go fishing, or take a fireworks cruise.
Outdoor Activities at Polynesian Village Resort
Spring in Walt Disney World is rejuvenating! Are you ready to say goodbye to winter hibernation, boots, and heavy coats?! If so, plan a weekend or week-long stay at the Walt Disney World resort in Central Florida.
What’s your favorite time of the year to visit Walt Disney World? Do you have a favorite spring activity that you must do on every WDW trip?
Bienvenue à Paris – welcome to our Paris Travel Theme.
An iconic landmark.
You’ll never forget your first trip to Paris. Steeped in romance and indulgence, the streets lined with bakeries and boutiques are sure to delight your senses. Around every corner, history and art merge in memorable architecture. And if you love the Eiffel Tower (and puzzles) as much as I do, try the Eiffel Tower 3D Puzzle!
Arc de Triomphe.
Paris, France
Paris will likely stop you in your tracks — countless times as you explore this very special city. From the labyrinth hallways at The Louvre to the awe-inspiring, sky-scraping Eiffel Tower, there are sights to take in all around you. Step inside the treasured buildings for jaw-dropping scenery.
Inside Notre Dame.
Paris captures hearts and makes you fall in love with architecture, history, art, food, and wine.
Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
While the splendors of Paris are difficult to duplicate elsewhere, travelers can find a small taste of Paris while vacationing in Las Vegas. At Paris Las Vegas you’ll find the excitement of the City of Lights. There’s even a crepe stand inside. YUM!
A small dose of Paris in Las Vegas.
Full hotel review — coming soon!
France Pavilion in Epcot
Walking through Epcot’s France pavilion, Walt Disney World guests can sample Parisian food and wares.
View of France Pavilion in Epcot.
From the bakery to the ice cream parlor to the crepes on the street, Epcot’s France pavilion serves up plenty of sweet treats. Table service dining is a huge draw here too. Ever since Chef Bocuse first opened Les Chefs de France at Epcot in 1982 (it was the first and only Bocuse-affiliated restaurant in the U.S.A.), guests have been savoring the sips and bites at this family-friendly location.
We always start our meal with the French Onion Soup.
Baked to perfection!
Bonus Paris Travel Theme: LEGOLAND
Even built with LEGOs, Paris themes are recognizable.
LEGOLAND California features The Paris Las Vegas Hotel among the other hotels on the Las Vegas strip. Want to impress the kids? Take them to a LEGOLAND park!
Paris Hotel built from LEGOs.
Paris Las Vegas Hotel at LEGOLAND Florida.
Paris is love at first sight. Travel to Paris via France, Epcot at Walt Disney World, or Las Vegas!
What’s your favorite place to tour in Paris? Do you have a Paris themed travel idea to share?
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Ten Expedition Tips for Pandora
Pandora – The World of Avatar opened on May 27, 2017 in Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World. While fans of “Avatar” and the Animal Kingdom wondered how this mythical land would come alive, the unveiling of Pandora quieted the skeptics with out-of-this-world scenery. Nearly ten years after “Avatar” touched viewer’s hearts at cinemas, Pandora is now experiencing intense fandom.
With peak crowds rushing to Pandora and waits for Flight of Passage over two hours, I wanted to share these tips before you journey to this exotic land. Don’t miss a thing; Pandora is worth the effort!
It’s time to step inside the Valley of Mo’ara; here are your expedition tips:
Welcome to the Valley of Mo’ara.
FastPass Plus for Pandora Attractions
My Disney Experience and FastPass+ (FP+) are going to be your must-use tools for a visit to Pandora.
I recommend narrowing down your FastPass+ choices before your booking window opens. Book your Animal Kingdom day first, and grab any availability for Flight of Passage. If it’s not available on your first-choice touring day, go to your second choice, and so on. You can go back and edit your FastPasses and touring plans once you secure a FastPass for this incredible attraction.
Flight of Passage Queue.
What if you don’t secure a FastPass+ before your Walt Disney World Arrival day? Don’t panic. In fact, the same thing happened to us recently. I kept looking for availability and one popped up while we were at Walt Disney World. It was about midnight when I secured the FP+ for a late Animal Kingdom morning that was three days away. Score!
What if you are unable to reserve a FastPass for Flight of Passage? You have two options: one, plan to be at the Disney’s Animal Kingdom one hour before opening and put yourself in the swarm of early-risers headed for Flight of Passage. Two, enter the standy-by line about 60-90 minutes before park closing.
To appreciate Pandora’s beauty and excitement, it’s not necessary to see the film. However, your personal journey to Pandora will be somewhat richer after seeing the movie. Consider “Avatar” to be a familiarization travel video. Then, let yourself wander Pandora and experience the interactive power of nature.
The power of nature.
Visit Pandora Day and Night
Repeat visitors to Walt Disney World already know that many attractions should be seen in the daylight and after nightfall. However, this is absolutely a must for the bioluminescent world of Pandora.
Beautiful Bioluminescence.
You’ll see and hear details by day and by night that are of otherworldly beauty. Visually inventive, Pandora’s emotional resonance is memorable for the whole family.
Sample the Unique Food and Beverages at Pandora
Fortify your troops at Pandora’s Quick Service Restaurant — Satu’li Canteen.
The chocolate cake is one of my must eat snacks at Walt Disney World!
Chocolate Cake at Satu’li Canteen.
The friendly expats working at Pongu Pongu have concocted some unique frozen cocktails. Get one with a glowing Unadelta Seed!
Pongu Pongu in Pandora.
Bonus Tips: Satu’li Canteen is a welcoming refuge from the elements. However, this place gets jam-packed by lunch time. A word of caution: signs note that tables are for the canteen’s patrons only. Really need a respite? Get a beverage and small snack!
Dining Room at Satu’li Canteen.
To save time, use Mobile Order to pre-order your meal at Satu’li Canteen.
Save time with Mobile Order.
Plus, you’ll want to see the morning “entertainment” here:
Yes, we did jump the “rocks”!
Avatar Flight of Passage – a Pandora Thrill Ride
Relive one of the film’s powerful scenes by taking your own flight atop a banshee. Imagineering marvels outdid themselves when they created this 3-D simulator. It’s a multi-sensory thrill ride like none other at Walt Disney World.
RDA – Mining the Universe, together
So, there are no disappointments, note before your visit that the minimum height for riders is 44 inches.
Na’vi River Journey through Pandora
Gently floating down this mysterious river, your reed boat will journey through exotic caves filled with wondrous plants and creatures. Through music, the Na’vi Shaman of Songs fills the rainforest with positive energy.
Watch the Weather on Pandora
Disney’s Animal Kingdom has always been the park that our family avoids on rainy days. It’s also a really tough park to tour in the Florida heat and humidity. While the park is lush with greenery, it’s difficult to find air-conditioned spots to recharge and dry areas to get out of storms. This is even more of a concern in Pandora.
On a recent visit, we had to wait for our FastPass+ time at Na’vi River Journey underneath a sparse tree that did little to keep us from getting soaked in the pouring rain. After the attraction, we found a hidden cave to escape the downpour and lightning. Yet, a lot of Pandora visitors were heading to Discovery Island to seek shelter. Expect long walks to find a place to take cover and be prepared with rain jackets or ponchos.
Shop at Windtraders
Even on Pandora, the main attraction, Flight of Passage, dumps you right into a gift shop. Or you can enter at your leisure.
Windtraders has an assortment of mystical treasures to take back to Earth. Look for items that glow in the dark, an Avatar Maker, Adopt a Banshee opportunities, and all kinds of souvenirs.
Take a souvenir back to Earth!
Be an Explorer
Informative Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE) guides can teach you Na’vi phrases, point out special plants and creatures, and answer your questions about this exotic land.
In this interactive world, find the creatures and plants that react when touched by a human. Will it light up, mist, or spit? You’ll only find out if you take time to explore!
Flaska Reclinata, near the entrance to Pandora, sprays a mist of spores when humans transfer their energy by touching it.
Flaska Reclinata.
The landscaping is stunning!
Lush landscaping and floating mountains.
Bonus Tip: Look for two Wilderness Explorer stations in Pandora. Kids can begin Wilderness Explorers at any station throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom. These are fun and free activities for young trekkers.
Earn Wilderness Explorer Badges.
Visit During Extra Magic Hours for WDW Resort Guests
While you’ll be arriving Pandora with many other excited trekkers, Walt Disney World hotel guests can still get ahead of the masses by touring on a day that Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a scheduled morning Extra Magic Hour.
Explore nature in Pandora.
Bonus tip: Get a FastPass+ for later in the morning so that you can ride Flight of Passage twice!
With some advance planning, your adventure to Pandora can be stress-free.
Contact Us, Friend Us on Facebook, or comment below to share your tips for exploring Pandora. Let us know when you’ll be traveling to Pandora!
Now that our family has made the exciting trek to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to explore the all-new Pandora – The World of Avator, it’s time to take a look at some of our latest Walt Disney World trip highlights. We discovered the treasures within this new land by day and by night, including a visit to Satu’li Canteen.
Pandora’s night time illumination is awe-inspiring.
During a quick walkabout to get more photographs, Michael and I surveyed the provisions available at Pandora’s Quick Service Restaurant — Satu’li Canteen.
As expected, the bounty grown in Pandora boasts fresh ingredients of wholesome grains, crunchy vegetables, and hearty proteins. Satu’li Canteen, therefore, features many health-conscious menu items that can be customized at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Menu Options.
Upon arrival, you’ll first notice the outdoor seating area tucked inside the Quonset-hut.
Outdoor seating.
Tables for Satu’li Guests only.
Indoor seating is also available. High chairs are stocked for smaller Pandora tourists.
High Chairs.
Weary travelers will discover that the venue is now owned and operated by Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE). ACE is the sole provider of eco tours to Pandora from Earth. And you’ll be so glad that you took the tour!
Cast Members.
Photos and letters are framed near the ordering queue.
Look for documents that explain the backstory of Satu’li Canteen, including a document signed by Marshall Lamm, ACE’s founder. Pictures show his successful efforts to partner with the Na’vi.
Backstory items are on display in the queue.
Photo Wall.
Upon closer inspection, Na’vi artifacts such as tapestries and cookware decorate the canteen.
Na’vi artifacts.
Satu’li Canteen Decor.
Na’vi art and culture is celebrated throughout this former RDA (Resources Development Administration) mess hall. Look for Earth references as well.
Some equipment has been offworld tested.
Former mess hall for the Resources Development Administration (RDA).
Na’vi cultural influences.
Satu’li Canteen
Satu’li Canteen.
Satu’li Canteen.
Our first visit to Satu’li Canteen was for an early afternoon snack accompanied by thirst-quenching beverages. We needed a quick recharge and hydration as the summer heat was zapping our strength as we hiked through the Valley of Mo’ara.
Valley of Mo’ara.
My husband and I shared a Chocolate Cake, Pandoran Sunrise, and Diet Coke from the fast-casual menu. One of the nice perks of dining here — your food selections will be served on beautiful dishes with nice cutlery. After dining, return your Earthly materials to these bins.
Return dishes here.
Chocolate Cake
The chocolate cake was quite airy. And while I wasn’t sure how the crunchy cookie layer would play out, it was an absolute winner. You’ll want to get some of that scrumptious banana cream topping and crunchy bottom in every bite.
Topped with healthy Goji Berries, the current cost is $5.29.
Stop by Satu’li Canteen for dessert.
Pandoran Sunrise
The Pandoran Sunrise is a refreshing balance of Tropical Juices blended with Powerade® Melon for a current price of $4.49. Since it’s non-alcholic, it’s fun for all ages.
Pandoran Sunrise.
Go ahead and take a sip when it’s time to hydrate. This drink is delicious! And not too sweet. Pineapple fans will appreciate the garnish.
The price is a hefty $3.29 as of July 2017, however you’ll enjoy free refills while you dine. For animal safety, Disney’s Animal Kingdom restaurants serve beverages with paper straws.
Diet Coke.
Draft Beer is also offered. You might want to taste test the Pandora Amber Ale or the green-tinted Pandora Grog Ale.
Beer on tap.
Recommendation and Tips
If you’re in a hurry to get back to Earth (or to delve deeper into Pandora’s gorgeous paths), consider Mobile Food and Beverage Ordering via the My Disney Experience app.
Note that picky eaters may have difficulty here although the kids menu will be a safe bet for most guests. Yes, adults can order kid food too!
Nestled within Pandora, Satu’li Canteen provides quick service meals for hungry travelers. We recommend stopping by during your tour.
What item do you most want to try on your tour to Satu’li Canteen? Contact Us, Follow Us on Twitter, or comment below to share your firsthand Satu’li experience.
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