Epcot’s Gardens of the World Tour – Fall Edition gives guests a look at edible plants

Are you a foodie who loves the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival and looks for new experiences each year? Or perhaps you have a green thumb would enjoy learning how Walt Disney World horticulturists grow edible plants right at Epcot. In either case, the Gardens of the World Tour — Fall Edition just might be for you.

The long-running tour used to only be offered during the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, but now guests can have this experience during other popular times of the year. I took this tour several years ago and really enjoyed my three-hour walk around Epcot.

Our guide and horticulturist used a microphone and we wore audio headsets, which meant it was easy to hear all the details that were being shared. The tour does take guests through all 11 countries in World Showcase and it mostly stays in the main guest areas, not going “back stage,” unlike some other tours. There are ample opportunities to stop, use the bathroom and refill water bottles.

Those who complete the Gardens of the World Tour receive a collectible pin that is only available to participants. Tours take place from 9 a.m. to noon on select days — usually Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays — during the festivals.

Here are some some things to keep in mind:

** The Gardens of the World Tour — Fall Edition can be booked by calling 407-WDW-TOUR.

** The cost is $85 plus tax per guest. Discounts for Disney Visa cardholders, Disney World annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members apply. Admission to Epcot is NOT included in this price and is required for this tour.

** Bottled water will be provided during the tour.

** This tour is delivered in English only. Simultaneous translation is not provided, nor is it allowed.

** Tour itinerary, content, duration and availability are subject to change without notice.

** Guests must be at least 12 years of age to participate in this tour. Guests younger than 18 must be accompanied at all times by a parent or guardian who is registered for the tour.

** On the morning of your tour, enter Epcot through the “breakfast” line. Check-in is located behind Spaceship Earth – near the Epcot tip board and Pin Central. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the tour start time.

** No-shows will forfeit the entire price of the tour unless canceled at least 48 hours prior to the start of the tour.

** As this is a 3-hour walking tour through World Showcase, comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.

There are three weeks left in the festival, so what are you waiting for?