Epcot Update: Universe of Energy Closed, Mission: SPACE Reopened, Food & Wine Prep and More

Last weekend we lost the Universe of Energy to the big Jeopardy dream in the sky. A new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction is slated to replace it and be open by 2021. Mission: Space has reopened after being closed for a much needed refresh during the summer. The Orange, more intense mission now has improved graphics created by Industrial Light and Magic. The Green side finally has its very own mission traveling around the Earth. The height requirement for the green side has been reduced by 4 inches as well so smaller children can now ride, thanks to the use of new “booster” seats. The preshow videos have been completely redone and the ride entrance has been reconfigured.

While we were at the park we also checked out the progress (or non-progress) of the new Choza de Margarita in Mexico. Most of the food booths for the upcoming Food & Wine Festival have been set up and decor is starting to go up around the park. The gondola station construction has started near the back entrance to park. And we look at where the new Ratatouille ride will be going in France. Check out the video and full photo report below and stay tuned for more theme park updates coming soon!

 

Photo Update

Welcome to Epcot during the rare time between festivals!

Universe of Energy closed permanently last weekend

A single sign is out front to let guests know the ride is now closed

Plants are blocking the entrances

And empty sign by the main entrance

Construction noise can be heard inside as they make way for Guardians of the Galaxy

Mission: SPACE has reopened after a brief refurbishment

Earth and Mars seen on sign now represent the two missions

New warnings sign with new rules for updated green mission

Height limit for green side has been decreased so smaller children can ride

Updated height stick

New signage for new mission outside the attraction

Entrance gates have been reconfigured so each mission has its own entrance

Green entrance

Orange entrance

Queue has been altered to accommodate two entrances plus Fastpass lines

Lighting has been toned down on the wheel (which still no longer rotates)

Mission Control looking good and nicely refreshed

Preshow briefing videos have been completely remade

Gary Sinise has been replaced by Gina Torres

New safety footage was shot as well for second preshow

Graphics for the Orange Mars mission have been completely re-done by ILM

The Green mission has been completely re-done, now around the Earth

The green mission uses “booster” seats for children between 40″ and 44″ inches so they can ride


Checking in on Choza de Margarita construction

There still hasn’t been any announcement on an opening day for this Magarita stand

They wanted it open in time for summer, but unfortunately it’s taking longer than planned

Mexico pyramid and accents were recently repainted

Pyramid is looking good as new now

Future World West path to World Showcase closed for Food & Wine prep

Lots of Food & Wine booths showing up around World Showcase

Lots of temporary work walls up around the park for festival prep as well

Ducks!


Quick check in on Gondola station construction near International Gateway

Work walls are up near the boat drop-off and resort walkway

Currently looks like their just clearing land to begin foundation work next

This giftshop at the International Gateway entrance may get a bit busier soon

Before we go, let’s check in on the France Pavilion

Ratatouille ride will be built behind pavilion and this path on the right might be one of the entrances to the new area

This backstage gate may someday soon be expanded and become one of the entrances to a new street behind France

Oh boy. This might need to be updated. That’s all for now! Subscribe to the news feed for more updates!


That’s all for this construction update.

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