Remember those days of tying a towel or sheet around your neck and running through the house at top speeds? You were the greatest superhero and not even your screaming parents could stop your destruction on your imaginary enemy.
Well thanks to the following attractions, your days of getting lost in a comic or glued to an action flick or TV show are not a thing of the past, because the excitement of Spider-Man and Superman have been brought to life at the following destinations. Whether dressing up in a costume of exploring Batman's bat cave, these action-packed destinations are every fan's dream come true.
San Diego, CA: Comic-Con International
Comic-Con International was created on a dream that one day superhero nerds and celebrities alike would come together to discuss their love for their favorite action heroes. On March 21, 2001 that dream became a reality when about 100 buffs of comic books and film migrated to the U.S. Grant Hotel in San Diego. A couple months later in the same year, the first three-day event called San Diego's Golden State Comic-Con made headlines, attracting more than 300 people that were driven by their passion for action.
Now many U.S. destinations have adopted the superhero craze, but Comic-Con International carries the standard as the biggest convention the world has ever seen, visited by tens of thousands or people. For four days, fans can be as crazy as they like, even making the sartorial decision of a costume if they really want to feel like a caped crusader. Celebs enthused by the superhero phenomenon are also known to make a special appearance during this summertime extravaganza.
Elkhart, IN: Hall of Heroes Museum
It's hard to avoid geeking out once you're immersed in the comic frenzy of the Hall of Heroes Museum. After all, two floors are dedicated to the mystical world of fiction, proving you don't have to search for Gotham or the planet Krypton to experience a day in the life of famous heroes.
The exterior of the Museum alone indicates that unearthly realm exists inside because the building emanates the '70s animation "Super Friends." And once inside, the Hall of Heroes Museum is decorated with thousands of the earliest comic books and movies, costume displays like Adam West's Batman outfit, a huge collection of never-before-seen toys in addition to a bat cave. Just about every space is ornamented with artwork as well as DC and Marvel trinkets, which is why it is considered "the world's only superhero museum."
Orlando, FL: Marvel Super Hero Island
Ever fantasized about swinging from the rooftops of New York City with Spider-Man? Want to witness the fury of the Incredible Hulk first-hand? Marvel Super Hero Island in Universal's Islands of Adventure will do the trick.
This theme park takes visitors through the scenes of their favorite superhero flicks and comics with adrenaline-pumping rides and artistic architecture mimicking the styles of famous places like the Daily Bugle. With a roar of the ferocious Hulk, visitors are directed to the monstrous "The Incredible Hulk" filled with huge gut-wrenching loops. And help Spider-Man save New York City while aboard the 3D simulator ride. Other adventures are found on the Marvel Super Hero Island including Doctor Doom's Fearfall, and the regular appearance of superheroes like Wolverine, Cyclops and the web-slinger himself.
San Francisco, CA: Superhero Street Fair
Of course an eclectic city like San Francisco would give superhero freaks another reason to bring their happy-go-lucky spirits to its streets. Because of the Superhero Street Fair, revelers don't have to wait for Halloween to dress in eccentric costumes because they can celebrate a month in advance. On Sept. 27, seven stages will produce one of the liveliest parties in the West, where celebrators are encouraged to show off their best moves as well as superpowers to the sounds of reggae, house music and other hits.
At the Superhero Street Fair the spirit is wild and the more strange the more normal, so if you're looking to have a good time with Wonder Women, the Wonder Twins and other characters that seem too bizarre to fathom, this is the place to be.
St. Pauls Valley, OK: Toy & Action Figure Museum
Wondering through the Toy & Action Museum will have the smallest to oldest enthusiast jumping for joy. That's because the museum bursts at the seams with a décor dedicated to the artistry of creating the greatest action figures. You may even call it a shrine because more than 13,000 figurines along with various artworks are displayed here, which means action galore!
Thanks to celebrated toy designer Kevin Stark and other artists of Oklahoma, the Toy & Action Figure Museum was created as the focal point for observing the craftsmanship that goes into making the toys that many have come to enjoy. Whether this is your chance to relive your childhood or let your inhibitions run free, you'll want to touch everything in sight here just for the fun of it.
Cleveland, Ohio: Superman Exhibit
It only makes sense that a Superman exhibit would be added to the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. After all, the world-famous character was created in Cleveland by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, and now there is no mistaking him for a bird or a plane (unless he somehow escapes his current position in the airport's baggage claim area).
Towering at an astounding seven feet tall, the Man of Steel casts and imposing stance as he teaches visitors of Cleveland about his origins in the city. Surrounding the gigantic statues are conversations placed in bubbles that are captivating enough to stop hurried travelers in their tracks.You don't need to look in the sky to see the Man of Steel because he is waiting to welcome you into his homeland at the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
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