3 Balloons Tours in the USA That Still Read Well a Year On

1.Phoenix Morning Hot Air Balloon Ride with Bubbly + Breakfast

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,049 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $260Our pick

Meet at Deer Valley Airport before sunrise, or add Phoenix hotel transport, then fly 45 to 60 minutes with an FAA-licensed pilot above the Sonoran Desert. Expect views of Camelback Mountain and Downtown Phoenix, a traditional balloonist ceremony, Champagne or sparkling cider, breakfast, and a flight certificate. Captains such as Don and Jonathan are praised for calm flying and good stories.

“It’s amazing and the personal are wonderful. Had so much fun with the captain and crew. The food was wonderful after the ballon ride.”

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2.Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,305 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $189Best value

Meet Rainbow Ryders before dawn for a shared hot-air balloon flight over Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley. Your pilot, possibly Alfred, Brad, Troy, Anthony, or Kris, explains ballooning and local geography while the crew prepares the balloon. Expect a one-hour flight, changing routes, a soft or lively landing, snacks, sparkling wine, and a certificate.

“Had an overall amazing time and experience. Brad was as amazing pilot and definitely is a people’s person. Made everyone feel comfortable and laugh though out the whole experience. Definitely recommend this!”

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3.Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 471 reviews · 2 to 3 hours (approx.) · from $375

Meet Black Hills Balloons in Custer before sunrise, then ride about an hour above the Black Hills National Forest. Watch the crew prepare the balloon, enjoy calm views from the basket, and finish with Champagne, snacks, water, and a short ballooning story. Pilots have included Damien, Mike, Don, Kay, and Sam.

“Flew with an Eagle. Family thrilled with experience. Seeing it from set up to take down educational. Pilot and crew friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely a bucket list experience. Not scary at all. Go for it”

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