So, how many of you who have been to Epcot before have taken the time to stop into either Innoventions East or West? Well, if you haven’t you’re missing some pretty neat stuff. Mind you, Innoventions is meant to educate both adults and children, but in a very entertaining way. In my opinion it’s definitely something worth doing; especially on a hot, humid afternoon or a rainy day.

The first attraction inside Innoventions West (I’m right-handed so I started on the right side of the park first) is Kim Possible. Since I wrote about that in my last blog I’ll skip over that. Beyond that is “Where’s The Fire?” Guests are separated into teams and each person is given a device that looks like a large flashlight. Each team competes by moving from one room to another inside the house detecting unsafe and potentially dangerous fire hazards. (For example: in the kitchen there may be a small appliance near water.) You move from one room to another identifying hazards until time runs out. Once that’s completed there are other activities like teaching small children what to do in case of a fire and you can have your picture taken in front of a fire engine and emailed to yourself or whomever you want.

The next exhibit is “Think Place” by IBM. Here you become part of computer game. Pictures are taken of you running in place, jumping and doing a victory dance. After that, you control your image as you play a video game. When the game is completed you can send the video of that game to your email address.

“Slap Stick Studios” exhibit is sponsored by Velcro. A very entertaining master of ceremonies selects guests to come up on stage and play a couple of games that revolve around the use of Velcro. I found the Cast Member playing the part of the master of ceremonies to be quite funny and very quick-witted. The kids really loved this show!

“Rockin’ Robots” is where you control large robotic arms that play various musical instruments. Personally I didn’t spend much time there as it’s not something that will hold your interest for long.

Next to “Rockin’ Robots” is “Video Games of Tomorrow”. There are about 20 stations where you can play some of Disney’s latest video games.

“Segway Central” is where adults (not children) can take a short ride on a Segway. You’re first brought into a room where you watch a brief video about the history of the Segway. You sign a standard release and then queue up for your turn to ride. A Cast Member gives you personal instructions then walks in front of you and you ride the Segway up and back a 15 to 20 yard course. This is a must for anyone who’s ever said that riding a Segway looks like fun.

The first exhibit in Innoventions East (beyond another Kim Possible station) is “Storm Struck.” Here you experience the force of a hurricane in 3D. Then you get to choose measures in building your house (like type of roof, etc.) that will best withstand a hurricane. Those measures are put to a test to see how effective they are. If you want to get an idea as to the fury and strength of a hurricane then don’t miss this exhibit.

Waste Management sponsors the “Don’t Waste It” exhibit. Team up with family or friends and push a mini Waste Management truck to three interactive stations. At each station you play video-like games dealing with recycling and the environment. At the end you get a certificate that can be sent to your email address.

Presently, “The House of Innoventions” is being updated and no date as to when it will reopen has been given. However, I’ve been through this house before so I can tell you a little about it. A Cast Member gives you a tour of a house filled with the latest technology. You’re guided through a kitchen, bedroom and living room with all kinds of high-tech gadgets like keyless door locks that are programmed by finger prints.

“Test Labs” is much like “Rockin’ Robots,” only here you get to perform “tests” like UL would to certify certain products. As with the robots, the kids seemed to enjoy this more than I did.

Finally at the end is a wonderful Walt Disney timeline displayed on three large walls. If you have any interest in Walt and all his accomplishments then take the time to view the wall.

If you have some time before your next FastPass or dinner reservation I encourage you to stop by Innoventions East or West and try out some of these exhibits. You won’t be disappointed!

I hope this blog helped you as you plan your next trip to Epcot.
And, as my good friend says, “see ya real soon”.

Mike Bachand (aka DizneyMike) is a long time Disney Enthusiasts. Over the years Mike and family made numerous trips down to WDW from their home in Massachusetts. Now Mike and his wife live year round in the Orlando area. He is a Florida Annual Passholder who visits WDW on an average of once a week. Besides his love for WDW, Mike has a large collection of Disney books, figurines and ornaments and is a former Disney Cast Member working as a Concierge at the Contemporary Resort.

Post a Comment