Hi Judy!
You have a great memory! At the 2014 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival there was in fact a Disney-Pixar “Cars” garden and playground. This area was such a wonderful place for the kids to be able to unwind and play. I vividly remember watching my son interact with another child who was from out of the country. Even though they didn’t speak each other’s language, they played as if they had known each other for years. At the 2015 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, there was also a “Cactus Road Rally” which was a Disney-Pixar Cars themed garden that had a southwest type theme.
The Flower & Garden Festival is typically held in the spring and usually runs between early March and lasts until about mid May. While the 2016 topiaries, gardens, and interactive play zones haven’t been announced yet, it seems that every year the festival gets bigger and better. Each year they do showcase a different theme for the interactive play zones, so if you are traveling during this time period be sure to check it out!
If you are looking for Disney-Pixar Cars areas, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a really fantastic photo opportunity with Lightning McQueen and Mater. Meet the Stars of Cars near Streets of America is one of my son’s favorite places to have his photo taken. You may even get to hear the Stars rev their engines!
If you’re really into Cars, another great place to feel like you’re part of the action is at
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Here you can swim in the Cozy Cone Pool and stay in the Cars themed family suite. In my opinion walking around the Cars themed area makes you feel like you are really in the movie.
I hope that I have helped to answer your question! Please come back for any additional vacation planning advice!
~Heather~