How to Go Hot Air Ballooning in Wisconsin

Hot air ballooning has been around since the mid-1700s and has challenged and enthralled pilots and passengers ever since. With the event and success of the first world-wide journey in a hot air balloon in the 1990s, a resurgence of interest and a proliferation of hobbyists and pilots has brought the possibility of hot air ballooning to the average man and woman in Wisconsin. Whether you want to celebrate an anniversary or make an engagement proposal, find serenity while floating over pastoral views or river flows, or are just looking for a new experience, hot air ballooning is within your reach nearly everywhere in Wisconsin.

Things You'll Need

• A reservation for a hot air balloon ride
• Comfortable clothing appropriate for weather

Instructions

1. See the Green Lake County area with the Majestic Balloon company. You'll find an affordable ride over pastures and lakes and then a fun trolley ride back from your landing spot. Floating over the beautiful Green Lake area, you'll enjoy the oldest resort area west of Niagara Falls and will have a memorable time from beginning to end. Prices begin at about $175 and you must be able to step into the wicker travel basket so wear comfortable clothing. Call them at [phone]

2. Float over the state capital building. Token Creek Balloon company is a "balloon port" for the Great American Balloon Company. This large business offers many take-off points and comfy customer areas before and after your flights. Food is provided for your ride as well and most rides are very "customizable," to meet your needs and expectations. You can contact them at [phone]. Nothing is prettier than the view of that magnificent building from the air.

3. Give a gift to a Milwaukee resident. "Flying in Harmony" offers meeting places (depending on conditions) in Milwaukee, Pewaukee, West Bend, Colgate and Slinger, and is easy to get to from the Milwaukee area. They offer very affordable champagne flights for a romantic twosome and you can meet the crew at events such as The Monroe Balloon rally and Waukesha Skyfest. You'll be able to make your reservation online (see Resources).

4. View Holy Hill from the air. Balloons Unlimited offers flights over the Sullivan County area including Holy Hill, a well-known religious landmark of Wisconsin. Bring your camera and up to five friends for a float over rural Wisconsin. An autumn flight will offer plenty of photographic opportunities as well as a terrific way to end the warmer weather season. You'll find contact information in the resource area below.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan ahead if you want a summer season flight.

• Bring just what you really need as there is not a lot of room in the basket.

• Plan a special treat for friends and share the ride.

• You should be in good health and fairly agile to go on a hot air balloon ride. You'll need to step in and out of the basket with minimal assistance.

Resources

• Wisconsin Balloon
• Flying in Harmony
• A Balloon Flight