Hi Mary,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. You are SO close to your visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth! Is there a better way to start a new year?
You are correct that there is ongoing construction at Epcot. A
"Historical Transformation of Epcot" was announced last summer and work is underway. I highly encourage you to make time for
Walt Disney Imagineering presents the Epcot Experience while you are visiting Epcot. The new attractions and experiences coming to Epcot are thrilling! As an added bonus there are some incredible Disney PhotoPass opportunities to capture fun photos of your group.
There aren't "official" picnic areas at Epcot but there are several places to take a break and enjoy your meal or snack. There are several benches located in Future World and many of the planters have a wide enough ledge to sit comfortably for a bit. My favorite place will take you to where Future World and World Showcase meet. Comfortable benches near the
Port of Entry shop are perfect. People-watching is prime and brand new restrooms are nearby. My family and I like to bring our refillable water bottles to the parks with us so I was excited to see a bottle-filler water fountain at the new restrooms.
Since Epcot offers so many delectable treats, try to save a little room for after your meal. I love visiting
Sunshine Seasons to see what new, seasonal sweets they have to offer.
Mary, thank you for visiting us with another great question. I hope you'll let us know if we can assist you with any other planning questions.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Amy H.