For years, guests at Fantasy of Flight in Polk City, Fla., have been able to experience the thrill of flight vicariously through the stories of daring pilots, told both live and through multimedia exhibits. Many have even upgraded their experience to include a hot air balloon ride or biplane ride. But now, virtually every Fantasy of Flight guest can experience firsthand the excitement of “flight” and the rush of wind in their hair with the addition of Wing WalkAir — a new outdoor attraction featuring a 600-foot zip line suspended four stories above water and a three-level ropes course with 33 midair challenges.
Safely harnessed and tethered to the zip line, guests get to “fly” through the air a total of 600 feet, to the landing tower and back again, giving them double the chance to take in the scenery or to see it for the first time if they were too scared to open their eyes, Fantasy of Flight officials said. Meanwhile, the ropes course tests participants’ balance and bravery with a series of 33 elements to be navigated while tethered to an overhead line, including exercises that mimic walking a tightrope, balance beam, and horizontal and vertical ladders, all while suspended as high as four stories off the ground. Three levels of challenges offer something for children to adults, whether mildly adventurous to absolutely fearless. And, while zip lining or navigating the ropes course, guests will get a birds’ eye view of Fantasy of Flight, scenic Lake Agnes and the rare and vintage airplanes on display on the tarmac.
“Our mission has always been to inspire our guests and instill the confidence in our youth that they can achieve their dreams, no matter what they are. Our new Wing WalkAir zip line and ropes course not only adds a whole new element of fun and excitement to a visit, but also leaves participants with a great sense of accomplishment when they go home,” said Kim Long, General Manager of Fantasy of Flight.
Regular, one-time admission for the zip line and ropes course is $22, or $15 for the zip line and $12 for the ropes course when purchased separately. Pricing is for children and adults and does not include 7% sales tax. Combo pricing is available with and without general admission included. Fantasy of Flight admission is not required for admission to Wing WalkAir. General admission is $28.95 for adults, $26.95 for seniors ages 55 and over and $14.95 for children, ages 6-12, plus 7 percent sales tax.
To participate, guests must be at least 48 inches tall or must be accompanied by an adult. All guests must be able to understand and follow safety rules as given by the safety personnel. The participant weight limit is 300 pounds and guests must be able to fit in the harness. Athletic shoes are recommended; no flip flops or loose shoes are permitted.
The opening of Wing WalkAir takes place in plenty of time for Fantasy of Flight’s signature event, its Fifth Annual Roar n’ Soar, Saturday, Nov. 12 and Sunday, Nov. 1,3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (gates open at 9 a.m.) The two-day racing extravaganza showcases the finest classic racing machines ever built for land, sea or air and promises to feature a roster of events, including aerial demonstrations, classic car slalom competitions, exhibition fly-bys from vintage race boats, an aerial “dog fight” by powered paragliders, and a sports showcase featuring skilled motocross riders.
For more information: 863-984-3500 or FantasyOfFlight.com