The character
Only one character has a consistent schedule of character meet and greets. Fortunately, the one is in the top tier of Disney characters. As you’ve likely guessed, it’s Donald Duck, and his outfit for the Mexico Pavilion is spectacular. He wears a massive sombrero and stylish poncho. He also has a fantastic backdrop of Mexican stonework, which leads to some unforgettable pictures. Have cellphone in hand as you approach Donald. This particular character greeting is satisfying enough to fill an entire scrapbook.
The shopping
Image: DisneyThe Mexico Pavilion offers some marvelous options for trinkets and more. Basically, if you are traveling with someone who is a hoarder, you should redirect them away from this pavilion. Otherwise, they’ll fill up a suitcase with new baubles and keepsakes.
The Plaza de los Amigos is basically an open, indoor bazaar, although not an authentic one. For that, you’d have to walk over to the Morocco Pavilion. At Mexico’s version, guests can buy glassware, pottery, and silverware. Plenty of authentic Mexican children’s toys are also up for grabs. Personally, I’m a huge fan of the blankets available here, and I don’t know anyone who leaves the plaza without buying at least some tequila and/or candy. This place is impulse buyer’s heaven.
The art gallery
Finally, the most engrossing part of the pavilion is the Mexico Folk Art Gallery. Here, a person can walk through several galleries. Each of them reveals the dense culture of Mexico. You can understand much of the country’s history by spending only a half hour in the gallery. Much of the work is hand-made by Oaxacan wood carvers. The breathtaking craftsmanship will leave you in awe.
The Mexico Pavilion is one of the original Epcot pavilions yet it still feels fresh and engaging after more than 35 years. It’s visually engaging, even from a distance, and the interior is equally stimulating. The food is spectacular, and the tequila lives up to the hype. This is my favorite get out of the sun locale in all of the World Showcase, and it’s top three in shopping, too.
Comments
"Drop Everything"? Good grief! I'm really hoping the author (or other regular article writers to the site) step up in defense of the other pavilions as well!
In it's defense though, I do agree that Mexico is a great pavilion. As a kid, the view inside blew me away, and it was nice to finally get on a ride after the long hike around World Showcase. Definitely a nice pavilion, I agree!