That's the EPCOT Center I remember: huge and gorgeous, with tranquil paths leading to impressive, immersive rides. I concede the park needed some thrills to balance the collection of slow-moving Omnimovers, but the updates went too far and stripped many of the park's successful qualities too.
The park must have been more immersive back then. The thrillier rides were indeed needed, but even looking at these photos elevates the theming to something that screams "The future". I love Soarin',. but it seems to be closer to World Showcase than Future World themewise.
It's also interesting to note how comparatively few people seem to be walking around. I'd love to see crowds that light. Maybe some of these photos were staged, but seeing so few people would be a treat.
Finally, call me stupid, but I see that the Seas pavilion was apparently not built at opening. Must have come later. What they really need there is a water tunnel, with fish swimming alongside and over you.
Thanks, everyone, for the photos and constructive comments.