Final week, we informed you about an important resort for drone pilots this winter. That was the Orlando World Middle Marriott, which is the primary resort to host its personal recurring drone present. However as for a resort that’s nice for drone pilots yr spherical? That’s the Lodge Polaris, which opened on Nov. 14, 2024 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Along with reporting on the drone trade for greater than 10 years, I’ve additionally been a journey reporter. And the Lodge Polaris presents a drone-pilot-approved amenity that I’ve by no means seen earlier than within the U.S.: a flight simulator.
When you’re a drone fanatic or skilled pilot in search of a resort that caters to your distinctive passions, the newly opened Lodge Polaris on the U.S. Air Power Academy would possibly simply be your excellent touchdown spot. Combining state-of-the-art aviation facilities with luxurious lodging, this property is a dream vacation spot for tech-savvy vacationers who like to discover the skies — nearly or in any other case. There’s no higher flight simulator than this.
Right here’s the whole lot it’s essential to know concerning the Lodge Polaris, together with how one can take a look at out the drone flight simulator:
Every little thing it’s essential to know concerning the Lodge Polaris
How the Lodge Polaris took place
The Lodge Polaris is positioned on the U.S. Air Power Academy, although anybody can e book a keep there.
The entire venture took place by way of a public-private partnership between the Affiliation of Graduates and Air Power Academy Basis, the Metropolis of Colorado Springs, Blue & Silver Improvement Companions and Provident Assets Group.
CoralTree Hospitality manages the resort. That administration group is famously behind different area of interest, luxurious properties in standout places together with the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, Calif. It’s even affiliated with some main resort manufacturers together with The Woodlands Resort in Houston (a part of the Curio Assortment by Hilton) and the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Nation.
However you got here to be taught concerning the Lodge Polaris, which takes issues to new heights, actually.
Flight simulators on the Lodge Polaris
The Lodge Polaris is the one resort in america with immersive flight simulators. With it, company can step into the cockpit of an F-16 fighter jet or a Boeing 737 Max. These superior simulators put primary drone simulators just like the DRL SIM and Zephyr flight simulator (which you’d usually simply use in your laptop at residence) to disgrace.
The resort’s three simulators ship a tactile and visually gorgeous expertise. With elements like seats, throttles, switches, pedals and yoke really sourced from actual plane — mixed with a 200-degree HD wraparound display — that is as shut as you’ll get to actual flying with out leaving the bottom.
For drone pilots, these simulators present a chance to hone navigation abilities, perceive aviation dynamics and immerse themselves in different kinds of flight past simply drones. So far as the precise flights, you’ll be able to select a variety of flying kinds. You would possibly go for an F-16 canine combat, otherwise you would possibly attempt your hand at simulating what it’s like taking off from Denver Worldwide Airport within the 737 Max.
The resort’s aviation-inspired design
Lodge Polaris doesn’t simply cater to aviators by way of its facilities; all the property pays homage to the historical past and great thing about flight. From hanging replicas of the F-35 and B-2 Stealth Bomber within the foyer to aviation-inspired art work all through the rooms, the décor is a love letter to aerospace. The mid-century trendy structure, complemented by wealthy hues of blue and silver, echoes the Air Power Academy’s aesthetic. The entire vibe is each nostalgic and cutting-edge.
Luxurious with a view on the Lodge Polaris
With 375 meticulously designed rooms, together with unique Ninth-floor Membership Degree lodging, the resort ensures each visitor enjoys consolation and elegance. Membership-level perks like a complimentary breakfast, night drinks and elevated décor make it splendid for vacationers looking for luxurious.
Even in case you’re not within the Membership stage, rooms are luxurious. A lot of the furnishings is {custom}, together with built-in headboards and custom-made facet tables. Rooms even have aviation-style art work, which you’ll additionally see outdoors the rooms in public areas too.
Look out for the mosaic of an airplane canine combat, hanging replicas of F-35 and a B-2 Stealth Bomber, images from the Academy’s archives and a custom-made aerial sculpture impressed by the Ursa Minor constellation.
The property’s expansive home windows provide views of the Entrance Vary and the Academy’s historic campus. Simply working from the general public house could possibly be inspiring setting for leisure or inventive brainstorming. Contemplate it excellent for drone photographers enhancing their footage.
Actions past the flight simulators
When you’re touring with household or buddies, Lodge Polaris presents one thing for everybody. That features the Junior Cadets program for youths to glider-building actions and the dog-friendly K9 Cadets initiative. For these needing to unwind, the Ascend Spa & Wellness Middle presents a variety of remedies and wellness actions.
When it’s time to refuel, the resort boasts six eating shops. These embody The Aviator Bar for cocktails with a view, and Pamela’s for elevated American delicacies. Doolies soda store has a enjoyable, informal family-friendly vibe.
There’s additionally indoor assembly house, an out of doors pool and health middle. Oh, and it’s pet-friendly.
Exploring the Pikes Peak area
The resort’s location is handy for folks visiting the U.S. Air Power Academy, maybe forward of a faculty tour or for a commencement ceremony. It sits simply outdoors the North Entrance of the Academy. But it surely’s not only for folks affiliated with schooling.
All of the onsite facilities are the right complement to a day spent capturing aerial footage of the close by Rocky Mountains or the long-lasting U.S. Air Power Academy chapel.
Drone pilots and nature lovers alike will recognize the resort’s proximity to a few of Colorado’s most scenic areas. The Rocky Mountains present ample alternative for exploration, whereas the town of Colorado Springs presents cultural and historic sights.
The resort is positioned about half-hour from the Colorado Springs Airport and an hour from Denver.
Lodge Polaris: is it value it?
It simply opened — and I haven’t stayed there myself — so I can’t say for certain whether or not the Lodge Polaris is value it. But it surely’s actually compelling.
Whether or not you’re a drone pilot trying to refine your abilities or an aviation fanatic looking for a one-of-a-kind keep, this resort units a brand new commonplace for traveler-friendly innovation. So pack your gear, cost your batteries and put together to soar. Lodge Polaris may take your subsequent trip to new heights.
For extra info or to e book your keep, go to www.theHotelPolaris.com or name (833) 311-5581. Charges begin at $229 per night time.
Associated
Uncover extra from The Drone Lady
Subscribe to get the most recent posts despatched to your e mail.
