What not to miss at SUN ‘n FUN

Take our word for it — these are the activities, exhibits, and stops we wouldn’t miss at Florida’s largest aerospace expo.

The massive NASA Super Guppy transport plane stands open on a runway as visitors climb wooden stairs to tour the interior.

This year, the massive NASA Super Guppy aircraft is the big draw, and guests can take a look inside.

Photo by LALtoday

The LALtoday team is taking on SUN ‘n FUN this week, and we’re bringing you pro tips + must-dos galore. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned pro, take our advice if you’re heading to the expo through Sunday, April 19 before it flies away until next year.

First off, this event is huge, covering 1,000+ acres. Drop a pin on your GPS app to save your parking location and wear comfortable shoes (but maybe not those new Hokas — our shoes got pretty dirty after just a few hours on the grounds). There are also trams available.

A crowd watches an airshow from a grassy seating area as a plane flies over the runway and another taxis.

There’s plenty of space to sit near the flightline on the north side of the campus.

Photo by LALtoday

If the name didn’t give it away, be aware that most of the event is outdoors. With sun in this week’s forecast, sunscreen is a must, and we’d advise bringing a small umbrella for shade.

Several adults ride on a trailer pulled by a tractor around the SUN 'n FUN campus.

Hop on the flightline tour for $5 — proceeds benefit Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 797.

Photo by LALtoday

The daily airshows are a big draw, and performers start flying at 1 p.m. most days. There’s a composite airshow at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15 and a night show at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 18.

Reserved seating is available, but the free seating areas in Warbird Country offer great views too. Bring a blanket or chairs and sit wherever you’d like — we set up under the shady tail of a plane.

The interior of the Florida Air Museum, filled with historic and miniature airplanes, some hanging from the ceiling.

Guests of all ages will learn something new in the Florida Air Museum.

Photo by LALtoday

Airshows aren’t the only fun to be had. Hop on a flightline tour near the entrance to Warbird Country to see thousands of planes. Plus, the Florida Air Museum is free to enter with expo admission, and you can see what’s new in aviation at the Future ‘n Flight Plaza.

A hand holds a large lemonade cup with a fairground stand and a crowd in the background at SUN 'n FUN.

Grab a cup of freshly squeezed lemonade or fizzy limeade from this stand in the west food court.

Photo by LALtoday

Hungry? There are plenty of food vendors on site, including local eateries like LoveBird and Family Kettle. Don’t forget to stay hydrated — you’re never more than a few steps from a lemonade stand. There are also indoor restrooms nearby, a welcome respite from the plethora of portable restrooms.

If you’re visiting this weekend, save our guide for even more info about this event.