All About Orlando

At Fantasy of Flight you’ll find the world’s greatest aircraft collection all housed within a 1940’s airport village. When you visit this nostalgic airport you’ll learn how old aircraft are restored to their original condition, see a stunning exhibit honoring the courageous Tuskegee Airmen, and get the chance to see vintage aircraft in flight among other things.

Kermit Weeks, the founder of Fantasy of Flight, has taken his lifelong love of aircraft, and created a place where everyone can enjoy and learn about the mysteries of flight.

There are over 40 vintage aircraft housed in three separate hangers, many of which have been restored to their original condition. Board the Short Sunderland, the only airworthy flying boat still in existence, and be witness to the only B-26 Marauder still flying in the entire world. But, there’s even more.

Take one of the private tours where you’ll see first-hand how these old aircraft are restored, including the wood and fabric aircrafts first designed by the Famous Wright Brothers to their sheet metal cousins who came years later. You can also take the Tram tour.

Go to previously-restricted areas of the airport including and the private airfield and the maintenance hanger where the collection of aircraft are repaired and maintained for flights. You can also experience what they have labeled the Realistic Immersion Environment.

Not only will you personally experience things like man’s first attempts at flying, but you’ll be allowed to climb aboard an authentic B-17 Flying Fortress, and feel for yourself the tension your ancestors felt during a World War II bombing mission. But, if you’re looking for the ultimate in a vintage aircraft experiences then you’ve got to take the Ultimate Flying Adventure.

Hop aboard a Boeing Stearman PT-17 and take a hold of the controls. You will actually fly the aircraft during a 30 minute flight. Even if you’ve never flown before, the cockpit is equipped with dual controls so you can safely have a turn all the while knowing the real pilot is only a seat away. The ride is a bit pricy but it’s worth every cent.

Before you leave, be sure to stop for a bite to eat at the Compass Rose. This 1930’s/1940’s diner will whisk you back to an era gone by. One you will always remember after visiting Fantasy of Flights.

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Filed under: Day Trips