Of all the changes that has occurred at Walt Disney World since I started visiting back in 1983, Future World in EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow) as it was known then has changed the most. In my opinion, not for the better. I remember it as a place of hope and openess. The plazas around the lands were open just like I envisioned future cities to be. The monorails moving quietly overhead and around the futuristic buildings. Walking through the gates and up to Spaceship Earth’s geodesic sphere was humbling and exciting. Today, the plazas have been closed in with paths and the Leave a Legacy stones. I hear guests thought the openess made the park feel to large and intimdating.
I really miss the EPCOT symbol water sculpture in front of Spaceship Earth. Today, there is nothing but a rock water fountain. While it is nice, I feel there should be something more there…like it was in 1989.
Epcot symbol water sculpture in front of Spaceship Earth in 1989.
Tomorrow, Deb is combining her Yesterland’s posts for the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Some really cool stuff!
Hi Scott –
I only experienced the “Original Epcot” once, in 1993. I always loved the entrance sculpture and was sad when it was replaced by the Leave A Legacy “tombstones” for the Millennium. The sculpture was always illuminated in colors at night. Imagine how it would look today if it were illuminated by LEDs that could produce an infinite number of colors.
– Jeff
Scott replies: LEDs would look amazing. Sure would brighten up the area, too.