Soaring up, up, and away on a hot air balloon ride in NJ can be an exhilarating, one-of-a-kind adventure that lets you view the Garden State’s landscapes and waterways above the treetops. The experience captures all the thrills of actually being in the sky—step into the wicker basket and go where the wind takes you (and for the anxious, don’t sweat it, since there’s no sensation of height when you’re in it). Most flights come with a glass of champagne, a tradition dating back to the first balloonists in France, a nice touch for celebrating your first (or any) journey. Feel like you’re ready to take flight? Scroll on for the best places to have an adventure in the sky. And for more summer fun, check out the best things to do this summer. (featured photo image: istock/Mirexon)
Where to Go For A Hot Air Balloon Ride in New Jersey
A-Lot-A Hot Air Balloon Rides
Fly high above the rolling hills of Hunterdon County to catch a bird’s-eye view of wildlife, forests, and farmland. If the weather is just right, you might even catch a glimpse of the NYC or Philadelphia skylines. Colorful fall foliage rides are particularly popular, but the one-hour flights are offered year-round.
Clinton, NJ area
Prices start at $350 per person
Balloons in Flight Over NJ
This company will take you to the skies year-round, so when there’s snow on the ground or trees begin to bloom, you can see NJ change with the seasons, offering a unique perspective. They meet behind the Spanish Inn II Restaurant in Clinton, letting you have dinner before or after your flight.
Clinton, NJ, and Asbury, NJ area
Rates start at $350 per person
Balloons Over Clinton
You’ll get the celebrity treatment with chief pilot and owner Ken Loesser, who once flew Nick Cannon for an America’s Got Talent opening segment. Your ride will take you over the bucolic countryside in this quaint and peaceful region of New Jersey before returning to the launch field for a champagne celebration.
Clinton, NJ area
Contact for rates
Balloonatics & Aeronuts
If you are looking for a ride like no other, book an early morning hot air balloon ride and watch the sun come up. You can also take tethered rides at one of the balloon festivals they frequent, such as the Warren County Farmers’ Fair and the Warren Community College.
Washington and Phillipsburg, NJ
Prices start at $375 and up
Hunterdon Ballooning, Inc.
This hot air balloon ride in NJ is a hands-on, family-friendly activity. You can participate in preparing for inflation and flight (with pros overseeing it all), a process almost as thrilling as the ride itself.
Whitehouse Station and Asbury locations
Prices start at $775 for a two-person flight
Just Ducky Balloon Experiences
Soar into the sky and explore New Jersey from up above—Just Ducky will go up and away if the wind is right, even in winter. Looking for a romantic experience? The Bed + Breakfast + Ballooning Package includes a two-night stay at a local bed and breakfast, so you can wake up and take a flight to watch the sunrise.
Western NJ site varies based on wind
Prices vary depending on the package
Skylands Ballooning
This husband-and-wife team, who serve as pilot and crew chief, have lived in the NJ Skylands region for most of their lives and will bring you to some of the area’s most picturesque spots.
Asbury and Belvidere, NJ
Prices start at $825 for a two-person ride
Tewksbury Balloon Adventures
Tewksbury Balloon Adventures is the only hot air balloon ride in NJ to offer its licensed, private Balloonport, which means you won’t be near any venue or crowded area, so you’ll have an exclusive experience. Rides are from May through October.
29 Oldwick Road, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889
Prices start at $375 per person.
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