Finger Lakes: Hot Air Balloon Ride｜United States

Meet your pilot and crew at the launch site, where you can watch and even help with the exciting process of inflating the balloon. As the envelope fills with air and the burners ignite, see the balloon slowly rise to life before stepping into the basket for takeoff.

Once airborne, experience the peace of hot air ballooning. Unlike airplanes or helicopters, hot air balloons move with the wind, creating a smooth and quiet flight. The only sounds you’ll hear are the occasional burst of the burner and the wind drifting past as you glide above the landscape.

Flights typically last about one hour in the air, though the entire experience from launch to landing generally takes 2–3 hours depending on wind conditions and landing location. Because balloons travel with the wind, every flight is unique. Your route may take you over forests, farmland, rivers, vineyards, or even along the beautiful Finger Lakes such as Seneca Lake near Watkins Glen.

Sometimes fly low enough to wave to people below, and other times climb higher for sweeping views stretching for miles. The balloon baskets are designed for comfort and safety, including unique door baskets that make entering and exiting the basket easier for passengers. Flights can accommodate individuals, couples, families, and groups, with baskets capable of carrying multiple passengers so you can share the experience with friends.

After landing, the adventure continues as the chase crew meets the balloon and helps pack it up. Many flights end with a traditional post-flight toast and celebration, a long-standing hot air ballooning tradition dating back to the earliest days of balloon flight.