The International Gateway is just the entrance to Epcot from the Boardwalk and for guests at Epcot area resorts. If you exit through the gateway, you can walk to your left to the Boardwalk. There is a little bit of shopping there and lots of fun carnival type attractions on the weekends and during peak season. There are also some great restaurants. You can catch the boat right there when you leave Epcot to the Boardwalk, the resorts, or even to MGM. It's a great alternative to the bus.