Hang Gliding anyone?  If you're looking for something exciting and different during your stay in Central Florida then look no more.  Downtown Historic Sanford is only 30-minutes away from Wallaby Ranch where you can spend the day hang gliding  Although there are no mountains to jump from in Florida, Wallaby Ranch has overcome this problem by flying you up to 2000 feet via Aerotow behind a ultralight aircraft.  I was turned on to this place by a friend and it has since become an obsession that will never be overcome. 

The day begins with a check in and a ride to one of three runways.  There you will wait with other guests while you watch them one by one join a tandem pilot as they secure you tightly in their hang glider.  The best part is when your turn is up and you are gently pulled by the tow plane at a rate that is not even noticeable to those with fear of flight.  Most of the time I spent on the way up was marveling at the ultra-light that was in front of me.  It was only when he released us for free flight that I became aware that we were flying, gliding and sailing.  Looking down it seemed as though we weren't even moving until the pilot swirled us around a low flying cloud.  It was certainly the most invigorating 20-minutes I've experienced above ground without the perpetual fear of a roller-coaster.  At 11:00 sharply, a loud bell rings signaling to all the pilots that it's time for their lunch break.  All pilots and guests get to enjoy a sit down breakfast, coffee and drinks during a much needed 1-hour break.  When everyone is refreshed and full, it's time to get back to another round. These are some of our most memorable flights at the Wallaby Ranch.

As you plan your next vacation in Florida, please check out our helpful pages that outline Favorite Places, Vacation Guide, Cultural Center, and our very own Calendar of Events.  If you're looking for other recreation and leisure activities and places, then check back to that section where you will find information on parks, springs, trails and nature.

For more information on the Wallaby Ranch and hang gliding in Central Florida, you can contact them directly at:

Wallaby Ranch

800-wallaby (800) 925-5229 or visit them on the web at www.wallaby.com