Colonel Joe Kittinger Park

A Piece of Aviation History

Tucked along Crystal Lake Drive in Orlando, you'll find the 5.3-acre Colonel Joe Kittinger Park - a green space with a story to tell. Named after Colonel Joe Kittinger, this park honors a genuine American hero who pushed the boundaries of human possibility. If his name doesn't ring a bell, he's the daring U.S. Air Force pilot who, back in 1960, jumped from the edge of space, setting a parachute record that stood for decades.

The park first opened its gates in September 1992 and got a nice refresh before reopening in March 2011. Within the grounds, you'll spot informational displays that tell the tale of Kittinger's remarkable journey through aviation history.

Touch the Sky

The undeniable star of the show here is the restored F-4 Phantom aircraft - the same model Kittinger flew during the Vietnam War. There's something humbling about standing next to this piece of military history, its sleek form a testament to human engineering and courage.

One of the park's unique charms is its location right beside the Orlando Executive Airport. You can spend hours just watching planes take off and land - a simple pleasure that never seems to get old. If you're an aviation buff, you're in for a treat; some areas even have speakers broadcasting air traffic control communications, adding another layer to your plane-watching experience.

Get Moving

When you're ready to stretch your legs, the park connects to the Lake Underhill Path, great for a walk, jog, or bike ride through Orlando's urban landscape.

Got kids in tow? The children's playground offers slides and climbing equipment to burn off that endless energy. It's thoughtfully fenced in for safety and sits on one side of the park, separated by a drainage channel that cuts through the middle. The playground's mulch was recently refreshed - a small detail that makes a difference.

If you're looking to take a break, head to the covered pavilion with picnic tables. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a packed lunch while watching aircraft glide through the Florida sky. Just note that the park's layout spreads amenities across different areas, giving it a somewhat disjointed but interesting character.

Good to Know

Four-legged friends are welcome here as long as they're leashed. The quarter-mile pathway makes for a fantastic short dog walk with some scenic views thrown in.

One thing to keep in mind - there are no restrooms on site, so plan accordingly. Parking is plentiful, though, so you won't struggle to find a spot for your car.

The lake views add a peaceful backdrop to your visit, and the area often catches nice breezes that offer welcome relief during Florida's warmer months. While signs warn about potential alligator activity in nearby waters (this is Florida, after all), most visitors enjoy the natural setting without any wildlife drama.