Best Places To Go On A Hot Air Balloon Ride Near Los Angeles
(credit: GizaDog/shutterstock)
Going up, up and away in a beautiful balloon's woven wicker basket makes for an awe inspiring adventure ideal for Angelenos looking for a thrilling thing to do. In fact, for many this practice of floating through the air is on their bucket lists, while others who have already enjoyed the experience are typically keen to ride above the treetops and beyond whenever the opportunity presents itself. That said, following are five of the best places to go on a hot air balloon ride convenient to the City of Angels.
Adventure Balloon Rides
2091 Goetz Road
Perris, CA 9257
(951) 678-4778
www.balloonridesovercalifornia.com
This outfit is ready to give you the full hot air ballooning experience right from the start. You'll see and experience how your new ride inflates into a full blown soaring vehicle and you'll get some great concepts on how to best photograph this picturesque event. Then you will be given thorough safety instructions before drifting off into the wild blue yonder and the chance to get a new perspective on all things on the ground from a very fresh angle. The actual flight pattern will depend on weather and wind conditions, but be prepared to be awed and also expect a celebratory toast after touching back on Earth. Then, get refueled during a post-flight breakfast at the Bomb Shelter Restaurant where you'll pick up your personalized flight certificate commemorating this very nifty experience.
Los Angeles Balloon Rides
198 S. Main St
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(323) 406-8464
www.losangelesballoonrides.com
Gently crash through the clouds with Los Angeles Balloon Rides and you'll discover a new world while sharing the experience with up to seven other passengers. Among the sites you'll see from above, Los Angeles landmarks will be most evident. So will the towering palm trees and orange groves that dot our particular and very ripe landscape. Regular special offers from this enterprising firm are on hand throughout the year, so consider taking a hot air balloon ride for any occasion, like a special anniversary that spells romance in a most pronounced kind of way.
Balloons Above
Washington St.
Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203
(760) 347-0410
www.balloonsabovethedesert.com
Looking for a peaceful desert experience where you don't need to exert yourself? Get above it all on a hot air ballon from which you'll take in the landscape of the Coachella Valley. From the world-famous golf courses that populate Palm Springs and the surrounding areas to the polo fields that are in high demand in the same terrain, you'll get a beautiful view. Also look forward to seeing otherworldly dessert haunts as your balloon dips down for a better than bird's eye view. This particular outfit flies during the season when the conditions are just right, so sign up any time between November and May.
California Dreamin' Balloon Adventures
33133 Vista Del Monte Road
Temecula, CA 92591
(951) 699-0601
www.californiadreamin.com
Get a bird's eye view of verdant citrus and olive groves as well tempting vineyards and wineries by picking a balloon ride with this family enterprise, in business for more than three decades. Among the tours available is one called Vindema Wine Package, which includes what the powers that be call "picture perfect views" as well as European-style breakfast (bread, cheeses, fresh fruits) and vouchers for wine tastings at -- you guessed it -- local Vindema Winery. Note: Biplane rides are also available via this outlet.
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