Norway Pavilion - Attractions On Epcot Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Why is it that Epcot's Norway Pavilion is one of just two pavilions that has an actual ride in it? I love learning about new things and new places, but if I can do that learning on some type of ride, make that any type of ride, then I will enjoy the experience that much more.

The ride in this case is the Maelstrom which is a short, but fun, boat ride that even has a small drop in in it. If this were a ride at the Magic Kingdom or even Epcot's Future World you wouldn't be impressed by it at all, nor would you wait in line for it. But you're in World Showcase which lacks good rides (Mexico's Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros is an exception) so the second people find a ride over here, any ride, they'll wait in line for it. It's so popular that it has FastPass+!

Every other pavilion should have an attraction that's on par with Maelstrom, but they don't which is a major problem with World Showcase in general. So ride Maelstrom, it's only a few minutes long but fun. At the end is a movie that literally nobody will sit down and watch but it's there, it's short, and if you're still hot it's a good place to cool off.

They even went one step further and added the Stave Church Gallery which is a tiny exhibit that showcase some of Norway's viking culture. It's very much a non-event and overall a bit boring.

For dining, check out Akershus Royal Banquet Hall for table service or Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe for counter service. If you want a souvenir or have kids looking for the Kidcot Fun Stop then head into The Puffin's Roost.

So it's an all around good pavilion since it has a major ride, food options, shopping options, and I think Norway also wins for friendliest cast members. Most (but not all) are incredibly friendly, more so than most other countries in my opinion.