Hot air balloon rides in San Francisco, CA
16 balloon rides around San Francisco with menus and prices taken from each operator's own site, from $79. Pick a time and book. No phone tag.
What hot air balloon rides is actually like
Up before dawn, then drifting with the wind while the sun comes up and the ground goes gold.
- Meet in the dark, usually an hour before sunrise. The crew checks the wind and picks a launch field.
- You help hold the envelope while fans and burners inflate it. It's a show in itself.
- Climb into the basket. Liftoff is so gentle you may not notice you've left the ground.
- Float for about an hour. Balloons go where the wind goes, so every flight is a different route.
- Land in a field, sometimes with a bump. Many operators pour a toast after touchdown.
Bring: Layers, it's cold at dawn, Closed-toe shoes for wet grass, A hat, the burner is warm overhead, Camera with a strap. Good for: Anniversaries, proposals, and anyone who wants calm rather than adrenaline.
How much does it cost?
Published prices here start at $79. Most operators list a few options by duration or group size; the exact menu is on each listing.
Do I need to call to book?
No. Pick a listing, choose a time and the number of guests, and book. The operator confirms on Outset.
Where does this information come from?
From each operator's own website and public listings. Operators can claim their page and correct anything.