Monday, May 25, 2020

Mapping the Magic: Epcot 82 and 83 Part 1


We all know that the 21st Century began on October 1st, 1982. So when better to start taking a look at park maps from Epcot Center. But let's also compare the 1982 map to that of the early 1983 map. We know that this 1983 map is from before October 1st of that year because the map still shows horizons as coming soon. So what we ultimately have is two maps less than a year apart with some interesting changes.


First off we see two very different art styles on the maps above. I personally like the 82 map more with its cartoonish details. So why the change? Well if you look at the next few pages you'll see that the beautiful pavilion icons have been replaced by the images of the pavilions from the above map. This was most likely done to help guests identify locations of attractions and also help them find their location in the park. Remember in the early '80s not everyone knew that that big golf ball was called Spaceship Earth.


We also see that the descriptions of the attractions in each pavilion are featured more in the 83 map. This would make it easier for guest to understand that World of Motion is located inside World of Motion... yeah I get it now. Joking aside it does help guests understand that the main attraction was just part of what was offered inside each pavilion.


One last major change we see is that the images of each attraction have changed from concept art to photos from inside the pavilions. This was a luxury that they didn't have in 82 as most of the attractions were completed just days before and in some cases after opening day. One to note is that for Journey into Imagination we see the Rainbow Tunnel from the Image works and not a Photo of the Attraction. This was because Journey into Imagination was one of those attractions not completed by opening day and would not be open till March of 83.

Join us tomorrow for Part two when we look at the early days of World Showcase. Besides missing Morocco and Norway we'll see any other changes it may hold.

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