Hi Kathryn,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for your question. My daughter chose to spend the morning of her ninth birthday in Epcot! We rode Soarin’ Around the World, had macarons in the France Pavilion for breakfast, wandered the World Showcase, and spent lots of time shopping and snacking. It ended up being one of my favorite Walt Disney World mornings!
I think your 8.5-year old can easily enjoy at least one full day of fun in
Epcot, Kathryn. There are so many great attractions for that age group; my daughter especially loves Test Track, Soarin’ Around the World, and Spaceship Earth. There's a variety of fantastic
activities and events at Epcot, and we try to learn something, taste something, and ask a Cast Member a question in each World Showcase country. At the Kidcot Fun Stops, Guests can interact with Cast Members from each country and complete activity cards. As you explore the World Showcase, you’ll often stumble across performances you’ll want to see, like the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats in China, or characters you’ll want to meet, like Belle in France.
The Disney Phineas and Ferb: Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure is another really fun option. Activate the game using the My Disney Experience mobile app on your smartphone and then receive clues that take you on a mission from The Agency to foil the plans of the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz. This adventure takes you on mini-missions in various World Showcase Pavilions, with each stop lasting about 45 minutes.
Kathryn, I hope this helps you plan a magical Epcot day with your kiddo. Please come back and see us if you have any more questions you continue to plan your upcoming vacation.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn