ORLANDO, Fla. — Big changes are on the way for Epcot and, on Thursday, Disney World revealed what some of those changes will be.

  • Major changes coming to Epcot
  • Park to get a redesigned entrance, interactive pavilion
  • Experience Center to open with exhibits about Epcot's plans

The two projects include a new park entrance and an interactive play pavilion inside the former Wonders of Life Pavilion.

Epcot's main entrance will be redesigned to include new pathways, green spaces and a re-imagined fountain, according to Disney. The change will "pay homage to the original park entrance."

As part of the transformation, the Leave a Legacy displays will be moved to an area just outside the park. Changes will be made to the area between Spaceship Earth and the World Showcase Promenade as well. Details about those changes will be shared later, Disney said.

Another change coming to the park will be a new interactive pavilion. The area will feature an interactive city where visitors will encounter games, hands-on activities and Disney characters. The as-of-yet unnamed pavilion will open in time for the Disney World's 50th anniversary celebration.

"Epcot has always been, and always will be, an optimistic celebration of the real world that is brought to life through the magic of Disney," Walt Disney World president George A. Kalogridis said in a statement. "The exciting plans we have on the horizon will honor Epcot's rich legacy of creativity and innovation while continuing to exceed the expectations of our guests for decades to come."

Later this year, a new Experience Center will open inside the Odyssey Events Pavilion and include exhibits that showcase Epcot's future plans.

Disney first announced plans to transform Epcot at the D23 Expo in 2017. The park will also get two new rides — a Guardians of the Galaxy coaster and a Ratatouille ride in the France pavilion. 

Other projects around Disney World include a Tron-inspired coaster at Magic Kingdom, the Disney Skyliner transportation system, a Mickey Mouse-themed ride at Hollywood Studios and a Star Wars-themed land, which is set to open later this year.

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