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The first US hotel with flight simulators is opening this fall

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Have you always dreamed of engaging in a virtual F-16 battle? Do you wish to play commercial airline captain for a day while attempting a landing at the world’s busiest airport? You don’t have to wait too long or travel too far to fulfill your AvGeek fantasies. 

When the Hotel Polaris opens this fall, it’ll have a total of three flight simulators — the first ones at a U.S. hotel. Hotel Polaris is a 375-room upscale lifestyle property at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

HOTEL POLARIS

Two of the simulators will represent the U.S. Air Force’s F-16 Fighting Falcons. A full cockpit mock-up with working controls and switches — as well as a mixed reality headshot with a 360-degree view of flying in formation — will offer a truly immersive experience.

The fighter jet simulators’ networks are linked, too. This means two riders can fly together, participate in the same mission, challenge one another, go for a joyride through the valley, try to hit ground targets or take on enemy aircraft.

The third simulator will be a fully functioning cockpit of a Boeing 737-MAX, with a pilot’s vantage point and a 200-degree field of view curved, seamless screen. Guests will be able to engage in a variety of different flight activities, such as taking off or landing in some of the world’s coolest and most challenging airports. They’ll also have the option to do a full flight originating from any domestic, commercial airport and landing at another commercial airport; this is great fun for aviation fans as well as a nostalgic virtual journey for a current or retired pilot.

“The simulators are designed to provide the curious all the way up to the aviation enthusiast an immersive pilot experience,” general manager Curtis Bova said. “This level of technology allows them to feel as if they are soaring through the air.” 

Though rates haven’t yet been set, the simulators will be available for hotel guests, visitors and groups; reservations will be bookable online. Pricing will correlate to the length of time it takes to complete an activity; you can book ability a specific number of hours to fly your selected mission. For example, you could fly a two-hour journey from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). 

About 25 miles from Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and 80 miles from Denver International Airport (DEN), the hotel is meant to be a getaway to Pike’s Peak and Colorado Springs. It’s part of a mixed-use development that includes the Air Force Academy’s new 32,000-square-foot Hosmer Visitor Center. Its architectural design draws inspiration from the Rocky Mountains and the Air Force Academy’s midcentury modern elements.

There are fun nods to aviation throughout the hotel. You’ll find brass desks in rooms resembling airplane wings and a mosaic art wall adjacent to the conference area using AI to create keywords specific to the flight industry.

HOTEL POLARIS

In addition to the simulators, the hotel will operate six food and beverage concepts. The Aviator will offer sweeping views and craft cocktails, while Pamela’s will serve elevated American cuisine. There will be a rooftop bar with designs inspired by the constellations, which is a fun touch.

The hotel’s full-service, six-room spa and wellness center will offer fitness classes, yoga, group hikes and dietary recommendations. Plus, there will be an outdoor pool, a sun deck and 26,000 square feet of meeting space.

However, the hotel’s main draw is bound to be those unique opportunities for quintessential plane nerds and would-be military and commercial pilots. “Inspired by the hotel’s namesake, we want to encourage each guest to experience it in their own way and to find their true north,” Bova said.

So, prepare for departure.

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