POLK CITY, Fla. (October 12, 2011) - For years, Fantasy of Flight guests 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 - an all-new outdoor attraction featuring an adrenaline- pumping, 600-foot zip line suspended four stories above water and a three-level ropes course with 33 midair challenges. The attraction is the first of its kind in Polk County, located midway between Tampa and Orlando.
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! 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. "The ropes course is a perfect team building exercise for corporate groups, Scouts, youth groups and family reunions because participants can work together to successfully navigate the course."
Groups interested in team building and group challenges can also take advantage of Fantasy of Flight's diverse meeting space and on-staff event planners to create a full day or multiday event. Group rates are also available, call 863-984-3500 for details.
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 percent 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. Special rates for groups and package combination tickets are available.
To participate, guests must be at least 48" 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. 13 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 an even more thrilling, jam-packed roster of events, including hair-raising aerial demonstrations, nail-biting classic car slalom competitions, exhibition fly-bys from sleek vintage race boats, an aerial "dog fight" by powered paragliders, an exciting sports showcase featuring skilled motocross riders. Meanwhile, the classic boat show and regatta, and classic car show provide entertainment for the slightly more faint of heart.
The zip line and ropes course comprise only the first phase of Fantasy of Flight's Wing WalkAir attraction. Plans are already underway for new additions to the area including a rock climbing wall and rappelling area to be installed this winter.
