You’re on a boat ride in EPCOT. A flute and other folklore instruments play a melodious tune. There is a screen showing people of different cultures who contribute to the unity of our planet by tending to the land. Can you guess what ride this is? If you guessed ‘Living with the Land,’ you are correct! This peaceful and quaint ride is found in The Land pavilion, adjacent to The Seas and Journey into Imagination with Figment. In this article, I will be sharing 4 reasons why this ride should be greatly appreciated, rather than overlooked. Let’s get started!
1. Low Wait Times
One of the greatest perks of Living with the Land is the low wait times. Disney World is known to get very busy during the summer months and holiday seasons. However, a wonderful perk of this ride is that, due to the extensive boat size, many guests can board a boat at the same time. Thus, making way for the next group of guests and speeding up the boarding process. The wait times are relatively low throughout the year, however, there may be an increase in wait times when Glimmering Greenhouses launches in December.
2. Relaxing and Educational
This ride is a fan-favorite for the excellent facts shared. First, you are taken through simulated biomes, where you learn how different crops are yielded based on the environment. The ride then explains agriculture techniques, aquatic farming, sustainability and shows the various produce that comes from our land, all found in a greenhouse. Personally, I enjoy an educational ride that teaches us about our planet. Another perk is that this ride is indoors, therefore it is a cooling, relaxing experience throughout. Some guests feel very refreshed after riding Living with the Land. Therefore, if you value learning and want to take a break from the heat, this ride would be great for you.
3. Food Production
Living with the Land is not just a ride; it is a space where produce and seafood are grown and served to guests in restaurants. The two restaurants that partake in this are: Sunshine Seasons (quick service) next to the ride and the Garden Grill (sit-down restaurant), located above the ride. This is a unique tidbit because the ride serves as a space to grow various food products that are fresh and healthy. How many rides can you say you went on and provided your lunch?
4. Coincides With Walt’s Original Idea For EPCOT
Walt Disney once said that EPCOT was made to be “a community of tomorrow, […] that will always be introducing and testing and demonstrating new materials and systems.” He believed that Epcot would be a step into the future. Living with the Land is a ride that proves that finding innovative, environmental methods especially for our planet’s wellbeing, is exactly what Walt had in mind. Therefore, this ride encompasses what it means to thrive in a technological world without forgetting our roots.
I hope the 4 reasons given in this article prove to you, dear reader, that Living with the Land is underrated. However, if you still believe it is skippable, I urge you to give it a chance on your next visit to Disney World. You never know, it may end up surprising you and becoming one of your favorite rides!
Written by
Maria Mora
For as long as Maria can remember, there was always a Disney movie playing in her house. Whether it was The Little Mermaid, Dumbo, or Tarzan, she became enthralled with all things Disney. She has visited the Disney Parks over 100 times and on different continents! Her love of Disney goes hand in hand with her love of reading, which has motivated her through the years to become a zealous writer. She hopes that whatever she does helps her community. After all, with a little faith, trust, and pixie dust, anything is possible!
