Canada

Pavilion Setting:

Although they are not necessarily known for their architecture, the Canadians did an impressive job constructing their World Showcase Pavilion. Or I should say, Disney did a nice job on their behalf. The Hotel du Canada, modeled after Ottawa’s Fairmont Chateau Laurier, is the Pavilion’s largest and most magnificently detailed building.  Although visitors are not allowed inside the Hotel, Le Cellier is located directly underneath it.

You can also walk through the gorgeous Victoria Gardens and gaze out at the Canadian Rockies complete with 30-foot waterfall. Overall, the Canada Pavilion is surprisingly sublime.

Attraction Info: Canada features a Circle-Vision 360 film similar to “Reflections of China.”

Updated in 2007 with new commentary by Martin Short, the 18-minute “O’ Canada!” is projected onto nine individual screens that surround the theatre. The film is presented in such a way that each screen shows the view looking out in that particular direction, so you feel like you’re right in the middle of the shot. It’s a neat technique and I would recommend taking the time to experience it. Wait times are usually only as long as it takes for the previous show to end, but be aware that the theatre is standing room only and there is no seating.

The other attraction in Canada is the high-energy Canadian Lumberjacks show. They usually perform six times daily at 12pm, 1:15pm, 2:15pm, 3:50pm, 5pm, and 6:15pm.

Dining Options:

Once the most popular restaurant in all of Walt Disney World, Le Cellier’s following took a hit after it moved to signature dining in 2013.

Still, it remains popular with its focus on Canadian-raised steak along with the popular Cheddar Cheese Soup. There’s no quick service option here.

Drink Around the World:

Canada Cart, home to Unibroue’s fabulous La Fin du Monde, is available here near the entrance to Le Cellier. You’ll also find Labatt and Moosehead, in addition to shots of Crown Royal and very good St. Abroise beers in bottles.

Character Sightings: Characters are not usually present in Canada, but check your Times Guide to make sure.

Shopping Opportunities: There are two main stores in Canada.

They’re conveniently connected to each other so you don’t even have to leave one in order to buy more stuff from another. The usual suspects make an appearance – clothing, jewelry, Christmas ornaments, candy, pins, mugs, and similar items. You’ll also find hockey jerseys and memorabilia, maple syrup, ice wine, and flannel shirts.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 9/10

Attractions: 5/10

Dining: 7/10

Drinking: 8/10

Shopping: 6/10