Bonjour! Today we’re going to take a look and one of the most immersive pavilions within the World Showcase. Located between the International Gateway Entrance and Morocco, France is easily recognizable with its replica of the Eifel Tower, towering over the entire pavilion. We’re going to focus on three aspects of the pavilion experience, the fun, the food, and the shopping.
The Fun
While France does not offer a ride (yet), it does have one of the best films located in The World Showcase. Impressions de France is a 200 degree widescreen view film. This means that as you sit in your seat, and the film surrounds you on the front and sides, however, there is no film behind you. The film takes you through the hustle and bustle of the cities and towns of France to the bucolic countryside. It is a wonderful movie, albeit slightly dated (only noticeable through the interesting clothing choices). This is a great opportunity for a relaxing sit down world showcase experience. In the Florida heat, it provides great respite.
For those of you traveling with little ones, there is a Kidcot station in Souvenirs de France. At this station, kiddos will color a complimentary cardboard Duffy the Disney Bear. While there, Cast Members often share fun facts with the kids about their country and will give the kids a stamp of Duffy in France. Another great activity for kids is the Phineas and Ferb: Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure. France offers a mission for this adventure, participants solve clues to defeat Agent P’s enemy. This interactive activity takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and is very immersive.
If you’re into character meet and greets, Belle meets on the World Showcase Lagoon in France. Here, you can meet and take photos with Belle (in her blue dress). Also meeting in France is Princess Aurora, you can find her in the gazebo across from Chefs de France. If you’re looking for a show, you can take in Serveur Amusant in front of Chefs de France. Serveur Amusant climbs and balances on stacks of chairs. His act encompasses much more, and it’s definitely one of those things you have to see to believe.
The Food
France offers tons of opportunities to tempt your culinary palate. Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie is a quick-service and snack location in the back of the pavilion. Sandwiches, salads, quiche and desserts abound. The desserts are beautifully presented and a tasty way to utilize snack credits. Nearby, is another great place to grab a snack, L’Artisan des Glaces. This quaint ice cream shop serves up some amazing ice cream treats. On a hot day, the strawberry sorbet is a great way to cool off without feeling weighed down. You also cannot go wrong with the Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich – YUM!
Looking for a heartier meal? Chefs de France is the one credit, table service restaurant in the front of the France Pavilion. Serving lunch and dinner, this restaurant offers traditional French meals such as Salade Nicoise, Duck breast, and escargot. While the entrees are delicious, the desserts here really shine! You can’t go wrong with any of them, cream puffs, apple tart, crème brulee and sorbet, they’re all spectacular. If a more upscale meal is what your heart desires, Monsieur Paul is directly above Chefs de France. This two-credit eatery is arguably one of the best restaurants on property. While the price tag is steep, the food is decadent. If you don’t mind eating later on in the evening, the restaurant offers a bird’s eye view of Illuminations.
Also located outside of the France Pavilion is Crepes des Chefs de France. This kiosk offers a variety of sweet crepes and drinks. Including an ice cream crepe. Finally, Les Vins des Chefs de France is where you can find the Grand Marnier or Grey Goose Slushies. This kiosk is also outside of the main pavilion, and is along the World Showcase Lagoon.
The Shopping
Looking for French themed items? The France Pavilion has tons of items to offer you! For those looking to buy or try French Wines, look no further than Les Vins de France (located within the pavilion). Other shops include Souvenirs de France with clothing, accessories, and toys, La Signature which sells cosmetics and makeup, Plume et Palette where you can pick up designer purses and perfumes, and finally L’Esprit de la Provence which sells gifts and housewares. France’s shopping offers opportunities for visitors with all budgets and purchasing needs!
Make sure the next time you’re at Epcot to stop by the France Pavilion, it has so much to offer every visitor!
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