Hiya Thomas,
Welcome back to planDisney! We are so excited that you continue to visit us here for help with planning your Walt Disney World Resort Vacation.
Connections Eatery is a welcome new quick-service dining location at EPCOT. Some of my fellow panelists had a chance to visit and dine at Connections Eatery and raved about the experience.
I completely understand your commitment to outdoor dining at Walt Disney World Resort. Your Walt Disney World vacation should be one that you enjoy, and if it makes you and your family feel more comfortable dining al fresco, you should 100% do so. Luckily, Connections Eatery does have outdoor dining space, and even better, it is shaded! During Orlando summers, that shade will come in handy and help you and your family feel more comfortable. Speaking of tips to battle the heat, make sure to stay hydrated. When you are busy enjoying all of the attractions or exploring the World Showcase at
EPCOT, sometimes water intake gets put on the back burner. I always suggest bringing an empty water bottle with you during Theme Park days and filling it up throughout the day. Many of the quick service dining locations offer free ice water at Walt Disney World, so I always grab some and use it to fill up my water bottle. There are also water fountains found in multiple locations, so keep an eye out.
I hope you and your family have the most magical and safe vacation! If you need anything else, please come back and see us.
Happy Planning,
Ashley F.