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A wonderful surprise park very close to the Orlando International Airport. The park is well maintained. The absence of bathroom facilities limits picnicing.
I think this is a fantastic park to visit in Orlando. I think I might even classify it as a hidden gem because it is tucked away in a small corner right next to Orlando International Airport. But because it is hidden away, it is a nice quiet park that very few people visit. You also get a chance to see a real B-52 bomber. How awesome is that?! It truly leaves you awestruck when you stand underneath the plane and you see the massive engines and the fuselage. Finally, if you like aviation in general, this is a fantastic place to catch planes landing at the airport. So if you get a chance, visit this place! Great place to go if you want some personal quiet time at a park instead of going to a park that is super crowded with people :)
If I hadn't seen the B52 from the Beachline I would have never realized this little park existed. My toddler is fascinated with planes and he kept asking to go see this one up close. It's a nice park with a few picnic tables, a few grassy areas, and the highlight of it all, the B52! While this is a park, there is no playground. It's more of a place to relax and past some time. There also isn't a bathroom; so go before you go. It's in an isolated area, with no one around, so you'll definitely find quiet here.
Growing up in Conway during the early 70's, I witnessed literally thousands of B-52's taking off and landing for their missions. McCoy AFB was training base and I grew enamored with the B-52. This park is a great place to visit. I like to come here and pay respects to the pilots and crews who flew these enormous airplanes, and to remember my childhood. It is also simply awesome just to see the sheer size of the B-52 and to be able to walk around and check out every part of the plane. Overall, it is also a quiet place just to contemplate life. If you are dropping somebody off at the airport, make sure you stop on the way home and visit- you won't be sorry!
What a fantastic little gem this park is. I have driven past here a million times and while I noticed the B-52, I never knew you could stop by and get up close. On my recent adventures I've been looking for new picture spots in Orlando and on my hunt to photograph planes taking off and landing, i came across this park. Now I know other reviews say that it's full of ride share cars, but just to clarify, something must have changed recently because they have their own separate lot just next door and it seems like the park is patrolled regularly because nobody else came and parked in the b-52 lot which has about 10 spaces. There is no charge to get in here, simply drive in the gates and park up. What I love about this is that you can walk all the way up to and around the plane and get hands on. You can even see some of the inner workings in and around the wheel wells. The grass is maintained and walking around the plain won't cause you any trouble. There is a large concrete pad which explains what this particular aircraft was used for and where it flew, along with a permanent war memorial. What I love is that directly in front of the nose, and above the memorial, there are steps so you can go up so you are about level with the cockpit. This is the PERFECT spot to get some pictures (see my pics). So whether you are using your cell phone or have a camera with a tripod, this is your spot! It's just something so different and interesting to visit. I highly recommend stopping by!!
I'm going to make a bold statement and say The B52 Bomber Park is one the true Orlando gems that has to best seen at least once. Actually the chances are that you more than likely drove right by the park as you pull into MCO Airport from the Beachline / 528....you've really got to look for it cause it's nestled into trees and the darn thing is Painted camouflage! Ok, so here's the deal...you have to take cargo road to access road to some other crazy road and the further you go towards the parks (yes there is signage for the park!) then right when you're about to say...ok we should turn around....BAM! You're there. The park is really nothing more than a really lovely setting of trees and shade, couple of picnic tables and of course this MASSIVE b52 bomber.....whoa. Ok ok ok....so yeah we all know they are big, but I had no idea it would be THAT big. I mean come on how were they flying these beasts during WWII?!?! And it truly is huge. Look at my pics and you'll see the tires are taller than my 7 year old kid. I love airplanes and we live near the airport. Still to this day I'm fascinated with these marvels of technology. With that being said, take a half hour out of your life to go someplace neat, maybe with some people you like to hang with and just go chill. You'll be glad to say, hey....I always wondered about that place and it's pretty cool. Another little gem awaiting you to find it!
Looking for a unique experience? Waiting for someone at the airport? Or waiting for your flight?? Want to see a b52 up close!?! Truly up close too... You can touch, go under, look into the openings... It really is a marvel. It is a huge plane... And to take it all in... Well bring a picnic or a book. Or just stare in awe... There is a platform you can walk up so you can get an elevated vantage point. Or just sit on a bench... If you have time-- highly recommend this quick stop!!
Pretty cool spot to go to if you're waiting on someone at the airport of just in the area really! We went on a pretty hot day but it would be even better during the cooler months. I highly recommend coming here to kill an hour if you're waiting for someone at the airport tho. It makes for a great picture and better than driving around the terminal a million times.
Very nice - hard to get to. This is a hidden gem of a B-52 display nestled in the northwest corner of the Orlando airport. It is a little difficult to get to and has limited parking. The day that we visited the grounds were well kept. The plane looks well restored and maintained. There is a building in front of the plane that allows for a good place for observation and picture taking. It is a good place for B-52, WWII and aviation enthusiasts to visit.
The Orlando International Airport actually has a small park hidden on property. The B-52 Memorial Park is located on Bear Road adjacent to the 528 expressway. The park features a static display of a B-52D Stratofortress, Air Force Serial Number 56-0687, from the Strategic Air Command. You can get right up and touch the huge plane or check it out from an elevated viewing deck. There is a large grassy area as well as nice shade trees and picnic tables. The park is open from 9am until dusk and admission is free. Great for kids or plane buffs!
A great spot to relax amid the hustle and bustle of MCO. They've added a number of park benches and picnic tables since the last time I was here. It's a nice touch, and the picnic tables are conveniently located under the shade of some large trees. Of course, the main attraction is always awe-inspiring [see photos], but the park as a whole is a winner. Part of me didn't want to write this review, because I like the park as it usually is: mostly empty, quiet and peaceful.
Nice and quiet spot to relax at. If you're too early for a flight like I was or waiting to pick someone up, I highly suggest waiting here. It's nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy airport and just relax for a bit! I don't think many people know about this location and it's behind the cargo area so while driving there it gives a sense you shouldn't be going there but just keep going till you see the B52! It's massive. It's also a memorial site for the people and there's also a K9 memorial! It's a small park with only the memorial and B52 so don't expect too much. There's a viewing area to get higher to see the plane and picnic tables around.
A really wonderful visit, especially from today's thunderstorm which resulted in flight delays. Clean restroom w/limited parking. Certainly a great place to eat & drink all that you can't bring back with you. Lol! Just at the entrance of the airport so making way back to airport is easy. Regarding hours, you can still visit the site even if it's not opened. This is where lots of Uber/Lyft hang out, waiting for ride requests. They really appreciated the leftover water bottles we couldn't pack in our luggages.
McCoy Air Force Base was a former U.S. Air Force Installation located 10 miles southeast of Orlando. The site was initially known as Pinecastle Army Airfield, It was renamed in honor of Colonel Michael Norman Wright McCoy (1905-1957). McCoy was killed in the crash of a B-47 Stratojet while flying a practice demonstration during the annual Strategic Air Command Bombing Navigation and Reconnaissance Competition at Pinecastle Air Force Base. From 1940-1947 Pinecastle Army airfield was a WWII training base. From 1951-1975 it was a frontline Strategic Air Command base during the Cold War and Vietnam War. Before Disney World opened in 1971, It was Orlando's biggest employer and economic resource. Today Orlando International Airport occupies the site of the former McCoy Air Force Base. If you ever book a ticket from the Orlando Airport it will have the FAA airport code MCO for McCoy Air Force Base. In remembrance of the important military history that took place here, B-52 Memorial Park was created in a corner of the airport. The highlight of B-52 Memorial Park is a B-52D Stratofortress, Air Force Serial Number 56-0687, from the Strategic Air Command. The aircraft was assigned to the 306th Bomb Wing of McCoy Air Force Base. The B52 bomber was built in 1956 and retired in 1984. B-52 Memorial Park was dedicated in 1985. Standing next to this plane left me awestruck. It is so big and you can walk right up to it. The park also sidewalks and benches around the plane. There is an elevated viewing stand that lets you look directly at the nose of the aircraft. At the base of the viewing stand, there is information about the park. In a fenced off patch of gravel there is a small K-9 Memorial dedicated to the dogs of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. If you are a fan of history, especially aviation and military history, this is a fantastic place worth seeking out. One last interesting note: this the same kind of plane, a B-52D Stratofortress that crashed on March 31, 1972 after the engine pod caught on fire shortly after takeoff from McCoy Airforce Base on a routine training mission. The plane attempted to return to the runaway but before it could reach it, it crashed into a civilian residential area of Orlando immediately north of the airfield. The crash killed all seven crew members and spilled flaming jet fuel over an adult and children on the ground. A 10 year old boy, Anthony Ellington died three days later from his burns from the accident. When you see how large this plane is in person you can understand how terrifying the accident was. It was the worst plane crash in Central Florida history and a very sad chapter of aviation history. read more
B-52 Memorial Park is it good place to hang out and wait for an arriving plane to pick someone up at Orlando International Airport. It is just outside of the airport and mere minutes from the terminals. I liked the elevated observation deck and took an opportunity to snap a photo of the B-52 on the property from it. Don't get me wrong, the observation deck is just a few steps up from ground level, but it was cool enough. If you are waiting to pick someone up at the airport, this is a cool enough area to wait for their plane to land and it is literally mere minutes from the terminals. read more
1 year ago
6 years ago
I think this is a fantastic park to visit in Orlando. I think I might even classify it as a hidden gem because it is tucked away in a small corner right next to Orlando International Airport. But because it is hidden away, it is a nice quiet park that very few people visit. You also get a chance to see a real B-52 bomber. How awesome is that?! It truly leaves you awestruck when you stand underneath the plane and you see the massive engines and the fuselage. Finally, if you like aviation in general, this is a fantastic place to catch planes landing at the airport. So if you get a chance, visit this place! Great place to go if you want some personal quiet time at a park instead of going to a park that is super crowded with people :) read more
11 years ago
If I hadn't seen the B52 from the Beachline I would have never realized this little park existed. My toddler is fascinated with planes and he kept asking to go see this one up close. It's a nice park with a few picnic tables, a few grassy areas, and the highlight of it all, the B52! While this is a park, there is no playground. It's more of a place to relax and past some time. There also isn't a bathroom; so go before you go. It's in an isolated area, with no one around, so you'll definitely find quiet here. read more
Growing up in Conway during the early 70's, I witnessed literally thousands of B-52's taking off and landing for their missions. McCoy AFB was training base and I grew enamored with the B-52. This park is a great place to visit. I like to come here and pay respects to the pilots and crews who flew these enormous airplanes, and to remember my childhood. It is also simply awesome just to see the sheer size of the B-52 and to be able to walk around and check out every part of the plane. Overall, it is also a quiet place just to contemplate life. If you are dropping somebody off at the airport, make sure you stop on the way home and visit- you won't be sorry! read more
What a fantastic little gem this park is. I have driven past here a million times and while I noticed the B-52, I never knew you could stop by and get up close. On my recent adventures I've been looking for new picture spots in Orlando and on my hunt to photograph planes taking off and landing, i came across this park. Now I know other reviews say that it's full of ride share cars, but just to clarify, something must have changed recently because they have their own separate lot just next door and it seems like the park is patrolled regularly because nobody else came and parked in the b-52 lot which has about 10 spaces. There is no charge to get in here, simply drive in the gates and park up. What I love about this is that you can walk all the way up to and around the plane and get hands on. You can even see some of the inner workings in and around the wheel wells. The grass is maintained and walking around the plain won't cause you any trouble. There is a large concrete pad which explains what this particular aircraft was used for and where it flew, along with a permanent war memorial. What I love is that directly in front of the nose, and above the memorial, there are steps so you can go up so you are about level with the cockpit. This is the PERFECT spot to get some pictures (see my pics). So whether you are using your cell phone or have a camera with a tripod, this is your spot! It's just something so different and interesting to visit. I highly recommend stopping by!! read more
I'm going to make a bold statement and say The B52 Bomber Park is one the true Orlando gems that has to best seen at least once. Actually the chances are that you more than likely drove right by the park as you pull into MCO Airport from the Beachline / 528....you've really got to look for it cause it's nestled into trees and the darn thing is Painted camouflage! Ok, so here's the deal...you have to take cargo road to access road to some other crazy road and the further you go towards the parks (yes there is signage for the park!) then right when you're about to say...ok we should turn around....BAM! You're there. The park is really nothing more than a really lovely setting of trees and shade, couple of picnic tables and of course this MASSIVE b52 bomber.....whoa. Ok ok ok....so yeah we all know they are big, but I had no idea it would be THAT big. I mean come on how were they flying these beasts during WWII?!?! And it truly is huge. Look at my pics and you'll see the tires are taller than my 7 year old kid. I love airplanes and we live near the airport. Still to this day I'm fascinated with these marvels of technology. With that being said, take a half hour out of your life to go someplace neat, maybe with some people you like to hang with and just go chill. You'll be glad to say, hey....I always wondered about that place and it's pretty cool. Another little gem awaiting you to find it! read more
Looking for a unique experience? Waiting for someone at the airport? Or waiting for your flight?? Want to see a b52 up close!?! Truly up close too... You can touch, go under, look into the openings... It really is a marvel. It is a huge plane... And to take it all in... Well bring a picnic or a book. Or just stare in awe... There is a platform you can walk up so you can get an elevated vantage point. Or just sit on a bench... If you have time-- highly recommend this quick stop!! read more
8 years ago
Pretty cool spot to go to if you're waiting on someone at the airport of just in the area really! We went on a pretty hot day but it would be even better during the cooler months. I highly recommend coming here to kill an hour if you're waiting for someone at the airport tho. It makes for a great picture and better than driving around the terminal a million times. read more
7 years ago
Very nice - hard to get to. This is a hidden gem of a B-52 display nestled in the northwest corner of the Orlando airport. It is a little difficult to get to and has limited parking. The day that we visited the grounds were well kept. The plane looks well restored and maintained. There is a building in front of the plane that allows for a good place for observation and picture taking. It is a good place for B-52, WWII and aviation enthusiasts to visit. read more
The Orlando International Airport actually has a small park hidden on property. The B-52 Memorial Park is located on Bear Road adjacent to the 528 expressway. The park features a static display of a B-52D Stratofortress, Air Force Serial Number 56-0687, from the Strategic Air Command. You can get right up and touch the huge plane or check it out from an elevated viewing deck. There is a large grassy area as well as nice shade trees and picnic tables. The park is open from 9am until dusk and admission is free. Great for kids or plane buffs! read more
A great spot to relax amid the hustle and bustle of MCO. They've added a number of park benches and picnic tables since the last time I was here. It's a nice touch, and the picnic tables are conveniently located under the shade of some large trees. Of course, the main attraction is always awe-inspiring [see photos], but the park as a whole is a winner. Part of me didn't want to write this review, because I like the park as it usually is: mostly empty, quiet and peaceful. read more
13 years ago
Nice and quiet spot to relax at. If you're too early for a flight like I was or waiting to pick someone up, I highly suggest waiting here. It's nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy airport and just relax for a bit! I don't think many people know about this location and it's behind the cargo area so while driving there it gives a sense you shouldn't be going there but just keep going till you see the B52! It's massive. It's also a memorial site for the people and there's also a K9 memorial! It's a small park with only the memorial and B52 so don't expect too much. There's a viewing area to get higher to see the plane and picnic tables around. read more
A really wonderful visit, especially from today's thunderstorm which resulted in flight delays. Clean restroom w/limited parking. Certainly a great place to eat & drink all that you can't bring back with you. Lol! Just at the entrance of the airport so making way back to airport is easy. Regarding hours, you can still visit the site even if it's not opened. This is where lots of Uber/Lyft hang out, waiting for ride requests. They really appreciated the leftover water bottles we couldn't pack in our luggages. read more
BUFF! No, I'm not describing myself. I'm not that much of a Jersey Shore-esque d-bag to do such a thing, and besides, I'm not that buff (yet). The BUFF I'm talking about refers to the nickname (acronym, actually) given to that wonderful Boeing aircraft known as the B-52. Any aviation buff, myself included, can appreciate such a fine aircraft, and if you're in the Orlando area, you can do just that at B-52 Memorial Park, adjacent to Orlando International Airport. So what is an icon of the Cold War, Vietnam, Persian Gulf War, and the current War on Terror doing at Orlando Int'l? Turns out Orlando Int'l used to be McCoy Air Force Base, a major base for B-52s up until 1975, when it was closed and re-developed into Orlando International. To help honor those that served, a retired B-52D was donated for display at the site. Today, the proud vet is the center of attention at a small park off to one corner of the airport property. There's a large observation platform in front of the plane so you can snap a few pics, or take in the big bombers' clean lines. Considering its been on display for several decades, it's in remarkably good shape, and painted in Vietnam-era black-belly camouflage. You can get right up and close to the big jet, and there's even a picnic table under one of the wings, in case you get the urge to dine under a huge slab of aluminum. The park overall is very well kept, and is a nice relaxing spot anyone, not just aviation buffs, can appreciate. If you're coming or going to Orlando International and have a few minutes to spare, check it out, and show some love to a classic piece of aviation history. And any non-aviation fans out there know what "BUFF" stands for? No googling! read more
9 years ago
13 years ago
Awesome hidden gem! Found this park while geocaching one day. We were the only ones there. Not much shade, but would be great if you wanted your own picnic or small party. Being able to get right under the plane is pretty cool! I grew up near here and had never been to this park. read more
15 years ago
7 years ago
7 years ago
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13 years ago
More info about B-52 Memorial Park
8100 Bear Rd
Orlando, FL 32827
Orlando International Airport
Directions
Hours
Outdoor Amenities
Ask the Community - B-52 Memorial Park
Why are there so many cars and people sitting around in the parking lot all times of the day?
I'll bet they are waiting to pick someone up at the adjacent airport....
