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. And if you’re a fan of the NJ Festival of Ballooning, this 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 apprehensive, no worries since there isn’t a 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, and maybe a glimpse of the NYC or Philadelphia skylines if the weather is just right. Colorful fall foliage rides are particularly popular, but the one-hour flights are offered year-round.
Clinton, NJ area
(908) 996-4233
Prices start at $300-$350 each
Tewksbury Balloon Adventures
Tewksbury Balloon Adventures is the only hot air balloon ride in NJ to offer its licensed Balloonport for a more private, exclusive experience. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres once you’re back on solid ground. Rides are from May through October.
29 Oldwick Road, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889
(908) 439-3320
Prices start at $275 per person
Hunterdon Ballooning
Under the guidance of the pros, families can be part of the action of this hot air balloon ride in NJ by helping to prepare the hot air balloon for inflation and flight, a process almost as thrilling as the ride itself.
64 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ 08833
(908) 788-5415
Prices start at $775 for a two-person flight
Alexandria Balloon Flights
You won’t miss a single one of the fantastic photo ops because this company’s “chase crew” takes pics of your ride while the pilot captures the memorable moments from above. All of the digital images are then emailed at no extra charge.
48 Sky Manor Road, Pittstown, NJ 08867
(908) 479-4878
Contact for prices
Above & Beyond Ballooning — currently unavailable; check the website for updates.
The crew takes pride in providing flights soaring higher than usual, often reaching a mile above the earth. After getting high, swoop down the “splash and dash,” where you will skim the water’s surface without ever getting your feet wet.
Readington/Clinton, NJ area
(844) 9-HOT-AIR
Prices start at $200 per person, depending on the size of your group
Balloons in Flight Over NJ
If you’re looking for a more social adventure, book a multiple balloon launch experience, and you’ll feel like you’re at a mini balloon festival. Get to know the passengers of the other hot air balloons at a tailgate party and exchange pictures of your high-flying excursion.
PO Box 5339, Clinton, NJ 08809
(888) 301-2383
Rates start at $300 per person
Balloons Over Clinton
You’ll get the celebrity treatment with chief pilot and owner Ken Loesser, who once flew Nick Cannon for 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
(908) 996-3333
Call for rates
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.
PO Box 175, Blairstown, NJ 07825
(908) 229-1027
Prices start at $750 for a two-person ride
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 + Hot Air Balloon 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
(917) 609-9728
Prices vary depending on the package
Have you ever gone on a hot air balloon ride in NJ? Let us know!
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