We recently (before COVID-19) visited an interesting attraction near LeLynn R.V. Resort in Polk County, Florida. We’d seen the signs for Fantasy of Flight many times from I-4, but never really knew what it was. If you’ve heard of Kermit Weeks, then you know what Fantasy of Flight is. If, however, you are like us and hadn’t heard of him, allow me to enlighten you.
Kermit Weeks is the founder of Fantasy of Flight. Growing up, Mr. Weeks was fascinated with aviation, and had a dream of opening an attraction dedicated to aviation and aircraft. For his complete bio, with too many accomplishments to mention, as well as more information on Fantasy of Flight, click here.
Mr. Weeks has amassed the largest private collection of authentic aircraft from all over the world. The photos below are just a small portion of his collection. The complex has several large airplane hangers, a small runway (because he has flown many of these aircraft personally), and property to expand the museum.
Fantasy of Flight is normally open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11-3 for viewing and guided tours. (Due to COVID-19 the museum is currently closed until June 19. The website recommends checking their calendar for updates on re-opening.)
Admission is $12/adults, $8/children (6-12), $10/Seniors (55+), before tax.
The best way to tell you about the vast inventory of planes is to just roll the photos and descriptions. I have included links to website descriptions, where available. Please note that these were the aircraft on display when we were there. The museum rotates their inventory every so often, so you may see something different.
My husband and I both agreed that this was one of the coolest museum experiences we’ve had.
1957 Lockheed Constellation L1649 Starliner
1917 De Havilland DH-4
1916 Sopwith Pup
1944 Consolidated B-24J Liberator
1945 North American P-51D Mustang
1944 North American P-51C Mustang
If you really want to know what it’s like to fly in a 1929 Travel Air vintage open cockpit aircraft, check out Waldo Wright’s Flying Service located on the property.
Jennifer Skinnell is the author of the Hope Springs Romance Series, currently available on Amazon. Check out her Amazon Author Page for details.