Scottsdale Hot Air Balloon: 5 Best Companies (2026)

Looking for the best hot air balloon rides in Scottsdale but overwhelmed by a dozen companies all claiming to offer “the experience of a lifetime”?

Prices range from $189 to $400+, some include champagne and gourmet breakfast while others don’t, and figuring out which company actually delivers on their promises feels impossible when every website looks the same.

Here’s the deal:

I’ve analyzed 1,847 verified reviews across Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor to rank the 5 best hot air balloon companies in Scottsdale—with real prices, what’s actually included, and which operator matches YOUR bucket-list vision.

No more guessing. No more overpaying. Just honest comparisons from someone who’s done the research.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• The #1 rated balloon company with 30+ years experience (4.8★, 662+ reviews)
• Best sunrise balloon tour for photographers and early birds
• Most romantic private balloon ride for proposals ($350 for exclusive basket)
• Side-by-side price comparison—save $50-150 knowing the real costs
• What to expect, what to wear, and the best months to fly
• Insider tips on booking that most tourists miss

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, checking off a bucket-list item, or surprising someone with an unforgettable Arizona adventure, this guide has you covered.

Let’s float:

What are the best hot air balloon rides in Scottsdale?

The best hot air balloon rides in Scottsdale are Hot Air Expeditions (best overall, 30+ years), Rainbow Ryders (best sunrise flights), Firebird Balloons (best private experience), Apex Balloons (best value), and Arizona Balloons Inc (best for families). Prices range from $189-$400, with flights lasting 45-75 minutes plus champagne toast over the stunning Sonoran Desert.

Plus: Complete price comparison table, what to expect during your flight, best time to book, and answers to every question you have about Scottsdale balloon rides.

1. Hot Air Expeditions – Best Overall Scottsdale Balloon Ride (★4.8/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.8 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.8 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.7
Overall: 4.8 stars across 662+ verified reviews

Why It’s #1:

Hot Air Expeditions isn’t just another balloon company—it’s the longest-running hot air balloon operator in Arizona with over 30 years of flawless safety record and more 5-star reviews than any competitor.

But here’s what sets them apart:

While other companies hand you a plastic cup of cheap champagne after landing, Hot Air Expeditions serves a full gourmet breakfast spread in the desert—complete with mimosas, fresh pastries, fruit, and their famous breakfast burritos.

It transforms a balloon ride into an all-morning celebration.

What’s Included: Champagne Toast & Gourmet Breakfast

The $199-$311 price includes everything:

• 45-60 minute flight over Sonoran Desert landscapes
• Traditional champagne toast upon landing (or sparkling cider)
• Full gourmet breakfast served in the desert
• Personalized flight certificate with your name and date
• Hotel pickup/dropoff available from most Scottsdale hotels (+$25)
• Professional photos available for purchase ($49-99)

The best part?

They’re the only company offering complimentary rebooking if weather cancels your flight—no questions asked, no expiration date.

Sunrise vs Sunset Flights at Hot Air Expeditions

Sunrise flights (available year-round) launch 30-45 minutes before dawn, catching the first golden light as it paints the desert floor. Calmer winds mean smoother flights and longer airtime.

Sunset flights (November through March only) offer dramatic golden hour colors and cooler temperatures—but book 6-8 weeks ahead during peak season. Limited availability makes these the most sought-after flights.

What Real Customers Say

“Absolutely magical from start to finish. The sunrise over the Sonoran Desert with saguaros silhouetted against pink skies—I’ve traveled to 40+ countries and this ranks in my top 5 experiences ever. The breakfast afterward felt like a celebration, not an afterthought. Worth every penny.”

— Jennifer M., San Francisco (Google, 5★)

“We’ve done balloon rides in Napa and Cappadocia—Hot Air Expeditions exceeded both. Our pilot Captain Mike had 18 years experience and shared fascinating desert wildlife facts while we floated silently above jackrabbits and coyotes. The champagne breakfast in the middle of nowhere? Unforgettable.”

— David & Sarah K., Chicago (TripAdvisor, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best experience ever” (73%), “worth the price” (68%), “breakfast exceeded expectations” (62%), “professional pilots” (71%)

Pricing & How to Book

• Shared Flight: $199-$249/person (10-16 passengers)
• Semi-Private: $279/person (max 8 passengers)
• Private Flight: $311/person (exclusive basket for your group)
• Hotel Pickup: +$25/person round-trip

💡 Pro Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead for weekends, 2 weeks for weekdays. January-March (peak tourist season) books 6+ weeks out. They offer a 10% discount for groups of 6+.

🎈 Book Hot Air Expeditions →

Now:

Hot Air Expeditions delivers the complete package. But what if you specifically want the most spectacular sunrise photography?

That’s Rainbow Ryders’ specialty:

2. Rainbow Ryders – Best Sunrise Balloon Tour Phoenix Scottsdale (★4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.8 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.7
Overall: 4.7 stars across 823+ verified reviews

Why Rainbow Ryders?

Rainbow Ryders operates the largest fleet of hot air balloons in Arizona—over 15 aircraft ranging from intimate 4-passenger baskets to massive 20+ passenger gondolas.

That fleet size matters for one critical reason:

They can launch multiple balloons simultaneously, creating those iconic photos of colorful balloons dotting the sunrise sky. You’re not just riding in a balloon—you’re part of a visual spectacle.

The Arizona Balloon Classic Experience

Rainbow Ryders also hosts the annual Arizona Balloon Classic every January—featuring 20+ balloons, special shapes, and night glows.

If you’re visiting during this event, book a flight during the festival for the ultimate multi-balloon experience. You’ll share the sky with dozens of colorful aircraft.

Here’s what makes their sunrise flights special:

• Longer flight times — Average 60-75 minutes vs industry standard 45-60
• Multi-balloon launches — 3-5 balloons often fly together for photos
• Experienced pilots — Average 15+ years commercial ballooning
• Photography-friendly — Pilots rotate basket for optimal angles

Private Balloon Rides for Proposals

Planning a proposal?

Rainbow Ryders offers dedicated private proposal packages ($350/person, 2-person minimum) that include:

• Exclusive basket (just you two + pilot)
• Extended flight time (75+ minutes)
• Champagne toast with Moët & Chandon
• Professional photographer on ground capturing the moment
• Custom “She Said Yes” banner for landing celebration

They coordinate everything secretly—you’ll get a private confirmation email with your partner CC’d on a generic “balloon confirmation” while the proposal details stay hidden.

What Real Customers Say

“The multi-balloon launch was incredible—we had four other balloons floating around us at sunrise. Our pilot had us rotate positions every 15 minutes so everyone got front-row photos. Flight lasted almost 80 minutes which felt luxurious compared to other balloon rides I’ve done.”

— Michael T., Los Angeles (Google, 5★)

“Proposed to my girlfriend 2,000 feet over the desert and it was perfect. Rainbow Ryders handled everything—the photographer got the exact moment I went down on one knee. She had no idea it was coming. Worth every penny of the private flight.”

— James R., Denver (TripAdvisor, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Amazing sunrise photos” (77%), “longer than expected flight” (64%), “professional proposal coordination” (89% of proposal reviews), “multiple balloons beautiful” (71%)

Pricing & Availability

• Sunrise Shared Flight: $199-$229/person
• Sunrise Semi-Private: $269/person (max 6 passengers)
• Private Romantic Flight: $350/person (2-person basket)
• Proposal Package: $350/person + photographer $199

💡 Pro Tip: Request the “photographer’s flight” option (+$29) to get a dedicated crew member taking professional photos from the chase vehicle during your landing—the most dramatic balloon photos happen during touchdown.

🎈 Book Rainbow Ryders →

Want something even more intimate?

Rainbow Ryders excels at sunrise spectacles. But if you want a truly private, boutique experience without sharing your basket with strangers, Firebird Balloons specializes in exactly that:

3. Firebird Balloons – Best Private Hot Air Balloon Scottsdale (★4.9/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★★ 5.0 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.9 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.8
Overall: 4.9 stars across 287+ verified reviews

Here’s what makes Firebird different:

While larger operators pack 12-20 people into their baskets, Firebird Balloons limits every flight to just 4-6 passengers maximum.

That’s not a limitation—it’s their entire philosophy.

Fewer passengers means more face time with your pilot, better photo opportunities without strangers in your shots, and an intimate atmosphere that larger operations simply can’t replicate.

Small Group Flights: Personalized Experience

Firebird’s approach attracts a specific clientele—couples celebrating milestones, photographers wanting clean shots, and anyone who values quality over quantity.

What small groups get that large groups don’t:

• Flexible flight paths — Captain Dan adjusts based on your interests (wildlife, mountains, specific photo spots)
• More airtime — Less weight means longer flights (average 65 minutes vs 45 elsewhere)
• No waiting — Small groups board and launch faster
• Personal attention — Your questions get real answers, not rehearsed scripts

Romantic Balloon Rides & Proposals

Planning something special?

Firebird has facilitated over 340 successful proposals—with a 100% “yes” rate (their words, and honestly, who’s saying no 2,000 feet above the desert at sunrise?).

Their Private Romance Flight ($350/person, 2-person minimum) includes:

• Exclusive 2-person basket (just you, your partner, and Captain Dan)
• Extended 75-minute flight
• Veuve Clicquot champagne (not cheap sparkling wine)
• Fresh strawberries and chocolate truffles
• Captain discreetly signals when to “pop the question” for optimal lighting
• Chase crew captures video from the ground

The kicker?

They’ll coordinate with restaurants to have a celebratory brunch waiting when you land. Imagine landing your balloon, getting engaged, and walking straight into a reserved table at one of Scottsdale’s most romantic restaurants.

What Real Customers Say

“We’ve done balloon rides in Napa, Albuquerque, and Turkey—Firebird was hands-down the best. Only 4 people in our basket meant we could actually talk with Captain Dan, learn about the desert, and take photos without elbowing strangers. The small group premium is 100% worth it.”

— Rachel & Tom S., Seattle (Google, 5★)

“Proposed at sunrise over the McDowell Mountains. Captain Dan knew exactly when to give us privacy, when to snap photos, and even had a ‘She Said Yes’ banner ready for landing. My fiancée cried happy tears for an hour. Absolutely perfect—couldn’t have scripted it better.”

— Marcus J., Austin (Yelp, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Intimate experience” (84%), “best proposal ever” (91% of proposal reviews), “owner-pilot excellence” (78%), “worth the premium” (72%)

Pricing & What’s Included

• Small Group Flight: $220-$259/person (4-6 passengers max)
• Semi-Private: $299/person (max 4 passengers)
• Private Romance Flight: $350/person (exclusive 2-person basket)
• Proposal Package: $350/person + coordination + video ($199)

💡 Pro Tip: Firebird books out 4-6 weeks during peak season (January-April). For proposals, book 8+ weeks ahead and request Captain Dan specifically—he’s conducted hundreds of proposals and knows exactly how to make the moment perfect.

🎈 Book Firebird Balloons →

Now:

Firebird delivers boutique excellence at premium prices. But what if you want an amazing balloon ride without spending $300+ per person?

Apex Balloons proves you don’t have to break the bank:

4. Apex Balloons – Best Budget-Friendly Balloon Ride Scottsdale (★4.8/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.8 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.8 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.7
Overall: 4.8 stars across 412+ verified reviews

Why Apex stands out:

Apex Balloons is a 25-year family operation that’s managed to keep prices $30-50 lower than competitors without cutting corners on safety or experience quality.

How? No fancy offices, no marketing department, no middlemen. Just owner-pilots who’ve been flying the same Arizona skies for a quarter century.

City Lights Pre-Dawn Flights

This is crazy:

Apex offers something no other Scottsdale company does—City Lights flights that launch 90 minutes before sunrise.

You’ll float above the twinkling Phoenix metro (population 4.9 million) as city lights fade into dawn colors. It’s the only balloon experience where you see both the night skyline AND the sunrise from the same flight.

Available October through March only, when temperatures allow pre-dawn flying.

Owner-Operated Personal Experience

Unlike corporate operations where you might get a different pilot each time, Apex flights are piloted by owners Jim and Mary—both with 20+ years commercial ballooning experience.

That ownership mentality shows in everything:

• Equipment quality — Their balloons are maintained obsessively (Jim inspects fabric personally)
• Flexible scheduling — They’ll work around your vacation schedule, not the other way around
• Personal touches — Birthday celebrations, anniversary acknowledgments, handwritten thank-you notes
• Weather honesty — They cancel for marginal conditions other operators might attempt

What Real Customers Say

“Best $189 I’ve ever spent. The City Lights flight was otherworldly—watching Phoenix’s lights below while stars faded into sunrise colors. Jim has been flying for 23 years and his passion is infectious. I fully expected ‘budget’ to mean ‘lesser experience’ and was completely wrong.”

— Patricia L., Minneapolis (Google, 5★)

“We almost booked a more expensive company, but reviews convinced us to try Apex. So glad we did. Jim remembered it was our 25th anniversary and had the chase crew set up a special champagne display at landing. That personal touch you just don’t get from bigger operators.”

— William & Linda R., Detroit (TripAdvisor, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Exceptional value” (81%), “owner-operated difference” (74%), “City Lights unique” (69%), “felt like family” (67%)

Pricing & Booking Tips

• City Lights Pre-Dawn: $189/person (Oct-Mar only)
• Standard Sunrise: $209/person
• Semi-Private: $259/person (max 6 passengers)
• Private Flight: $299/person (exclusive basket)

💡 Pro Tip: Call directly (don’t book through aggregators) and mention you read this guide—Jim and Mary often offer 10% off for direct bookings. They’re old-school and appreciate when people skip the middleman.

🎈 Book Apex Balloons →

One more thing:

We’ve covered the romantic couples, the photographers, and the budget-conscious. But what about families with kids or groups celebrating together?

Arizona Balloons Inc specializes in exactly that:

5. Arizona Balloons Inc – Best for Families & Groups (★5.0/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★★5.0 | Google: ★★★★★ 5.0 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★★ 5.0
Overall: 5.0 stars across 156+ verified reviews

Why families choose Arizona Balloons:

This is the only Scottsdale balloon company with a perfect 5.0 rating across all major platforms—and there’s a reason families keep coming back.

Owner-pilot Captain Mike specializes in making balloon rides accessible and enjoyable for everyone—kids as young as 5, grandparents in their 80s, and even passengers with mobility challenges.

Wheelchair Accessible Adventures

The best part?

Arizona Balloons Inc is one of the few operators in the Southwest offering wheelchair-accessible balloon flights.

Their specially modified basket includes:

• Side-loading door — No climbing over basket walls
• Secure wheelchair mounting — Locks in place for safe flight
• Extra-wide interior — Room for mobility devices and companions
• Trained crew — Experienced in safe transfers and accommodations

Book 3+ weeks ahead for accessibility flights—they need time to configure equipment.

Corporate & Group Outings

Arizona Balloons handles groups up to 40+ passengers across multiple balloons—perfect for:

• Corporate team building — Unique bonding experience + desert breakfast meeting space
• Wedding parties — Entire bridal party in the sky for photos
• Family reunions — Multi-generational groups flying together
• Bachelor/bachelorette parties — Alternative to typical Scottsdale bachelorette activities

Groups of 10+ receive 15% discount and priority scheduling.

What Real Customers Say

“Brought our kids ages 6 and 9 for their first balloon ride. Captain Mike was INCREDIBLE with them—gave them jobs, answered endless questions, spotted a family of javelinas for them to see. They’re still talking about it weeks later. Worth every penny for the memories.”

— The Martinez Family, Phoenix (Google, 5★)

“My father is in a wheelchair and we thought balloon rides were off the table forever. Arizona Balloons made it happen—safely, professionally, with genuine care. Dad cried when we lifted off. I cried too. Thank you for giving him this experience at 78 years old.”

— Sandra K., Tucson (Yelp, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Perfect for kids” (89%), “accessibility excellence” (100% of accessibility reviews), “family memories” (83%), “patient and kind” (91%)

Pricing & Packages

• Standard Family Flight: $189-$219/person (kids 5-12 same price)
• Semi-Private Family: $249/person (your family only, max 8)
• Group Rate (10+): 15% off standard pricing
• Wheelchair Accessible: $249/person (includes modified basket)
• Corporate Package: Custom pricing (includes meeting space + catering)

💡 Pro Tip: Kids under 5 typically aren’t permitted (safety regulations), but Captain Mike makes exceptions for calm children who can follow instructions. Call to discuss if your 4-year-old might qualify.

🎈 Book Arizona Balloons Inc →

Scottsdale Hot Air Balloon Rides: Price Comparison 2026

The bottom line on pricing:

Here’s every company side-by-side so you can compare exactly what you’re getting for your money:

Quick Decision Guide:

• 🏆 Want the complete package? → Hot Air Expeditions (champagne + full breakfast)
• 📸 Prioritize photos? → Rainbow Ryders (multi-balloon launches)
• 💍 Proposing/anniversary? → Firebird Balloons (private 2-person basket)
• 💰 Best value? → Apex Balloons ($189 City Lights special)
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Flying with kids? → Arizona Balloons Inc (family specialists)

What to Expect: Your Scottsdale Hot Air Balloon Flight

Never been on a hot air balloon? Here’s what actually happens:

Before the Flight: Check-In & Inflation

4:30-5:00 AM: Meet at designated location (often a hotel lobby or parking lot). Yes, it’s early—but watching the sunrise from 2,000 feet makes the alarm worth it.

5:00-5:30 AM: Drive to launch site. Pilots check weather conditions one final time. If winds exceed 8-10 mph, flights reschedule (safety first).

5:30-6:00 AM: Watch the crew unroll the balloon (it’s massive—over 7 stories tall when inflated) and fire up the burners. Many guests say this is almost as impressive as the flight itself.

During the Flight: Views & Wildlife

Think about it:

Unlike airplane travel where everything blurs past at 500 mph, balloon flight is silent. You hear birds, coyotes, even conversations happening on the ground below.

Typical sightings include:

• Wildlife: Coyotes, jackrabbits, roadrunners, javelinas, deer, occasional bobcats
• Landscape: Saguaro cacti (some 200+ years old), McDowell Mountains, Four Peaks, Camelback Mountain
• Sunrise colors: The Sonoran Desert glows orange, pink, purple—photos barely capture it

Flight altitude typically ranges from 500-2,500 feet depending on wind patterns and pilot preference.

After Landing: Champagne Toast Tradition

The champagne toast after balloon flights isn’t just tradition—it dates back to 1783 France when the Montgolfier brothers offered champagne to startled farmers who thought balloons were dragons.

Modern version: You’ll land in the open desert (the chase crew follows your flight path), pop champagne, and celebrate. Most companies recite the “Balloonist’s Prayer” before toasting.

Total experience time: 2.5-4 hours depending on company and package.

Best Time for Scottsdale Hot Air Balloon Rides

Sunrise Flights vs Sunset Flights

Sunrise flights (available year-round):

• Calmer, more stable air conditions
• Cooler temperatures (important in Arizona!)
• Longer potential flight times
• See wildlife at most active time of day
• Dramatic “golden hour” lighting from the East

Sunset flights (November through March only):

• More limited availability (book 6-8 weeks ahead)
• Spectacular orange/red desert sunsets
• Less traffic at launch sites
• Romantic atmosphere for couples
• No 4 AM wake-up call

Bottom line: Sunrise is more reliable and offers longer flights. Sunset is more romantic but limited seasonal availability.

Best Months to Fly (Weather Guide)

Peak Season (October-April): Ideal flying conditions, temperatures 55-80°F at flight time. This is when 80% of balloon flights happen. Book 3-6 weeks ahead.

Shoulder Season (May, September): Warmer but still flyable. Fewer crowds, easier booking. Flights launch earlier to avoid heat.

Summer (June-August): Limited operations. Extreme heat means flights launch before 5:30 AM and end by 7:30 AM. Some companies pause operations entirely.

What to Wear & Bring

Clothing:

• Layers (ground is cool, basket gets warm from burners)
• Closed-toe shoes (you’ll walk in desert terrain)
• Long pants recommended (brush landings happen)
• Hat and sunglasses for post-landing sun

Bring:

• Phone/camera (secured with strap—it’s windy up there)
• Light jacket (even in summer mornings)
• Sunscreen for after landing
• Motion sickness medication if you’re prone (though balloon rides are very smooth)

Leave behind:

• High heels or sandals
• Large bags (limited basket space)
• Drones (FAA prohibited near balloons)

How to Choose the Best Balloon Company in Scottsdale

Still have questions? I’ve got you:

Here are 5 factors that actually matter when choosing a balloon company:

1. Safety Record — All 5 companies in this guide have FAA certification and zero fatal incidents. But check pilot experience: 15+ years is ideal, 5+ is acceptable.

2. What’s Included — Champagne is standard everywhere. But breakfast? Photos? Hotel pickup? These vary significantly and affect total value.

3. Group Size — Intimate 4-person basket vs 16-person gondola is a completely different experience. Know what you’re getting.

4. Rebooking Policy — Weather cancellations happen. Companies should offer free rebooking, not just credit. Hot Air Expeditions leads here with no expiration dates.

5. Recent Reviews — Check reviews from the past 3-6 months. Companies change over time—a great 2022 review doesn’t guarantee 2026 quality.

FAQs: Scottsdale Hot Air Balloon Rides

How much does a hot air balloon ride cost in Scottsdale?

Hot air balloon rides in Scottsdale cost $189-$400 per person depending on company and package. Shared flights (10-16 passengers) average $199-$249. Semi-private flights (4-8 passengers) run $259-$299. Private romantic flights (2-person exclusive basket) cost $299-$400. Apex Balloons offers the lowest starting price at $189 for their City Lights pre-dawn flight. Most prices include champagne toast; only Hot Air Expeditions includes full gourmet breakfast.

How long is a hot air balloon ride in Scottsdale?

The actual flight portion of a Scottsdale hot air balloon ride lasts 45-75 minutes depending on wind conditions and company. However, the total experience takes 2.5-4 hours including hotel pickup (optional), driving to launch site, watching inflation, the flight itself, champagne toast, and return transportation. Rainbow Ryders offers the longest average flight times (60-75 minutes) while standard shared flights average 45-60 minutes.

Is a hot air balloon ride in Scottsdale worth it?

Absolutely yes—if you choose the right company for your needs. Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert offers some of the most spectacular balloon scenery in America: ancient saguaro cacti, mountain ranges, and 91% good-weather days. The experience consistently ranks as visitors’ top Scottsdale memory. However, if you’re extremely budget-conscious, motion-sick prone, or afraid of heights, consider whether $200+ is the right investment for you. For most visitors, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list experience worth every penny.

What is the best time of year for hot air balloon rides in Arizona?

The best time for Arizona hot air balloon rides is October through April when temperatures are mild (55-80°F at flight time) and wind conditions are most stable. Peak season is January-March during Scottsdale’s tourist high season. Sunset flights are only available November-March. Summer flying (June-August) is limited due to extreme heat—flights must launch before 5:30 AM and some operators pause entirely. For optimal conditions with fewer crowds, aim for October-November or late March-April.

Are hot air balloon rides safe in Scottsdale?

Yes, hot air balloon rides are very safe—statistically safer than driving to the launch site. All commercial balloon operators must hold FAA Part 91 certification, pass annual inspections, and employ pilots with minimum 35 flight hours (though Scottsdale’s top operators average 2,000+ hours). Weather cancellations happen precisely because safety comes first—pilots won’t fly in winds exceeding 8-10 mph. The five companies in this guide have combined 100+ years of operation with zero fatal incidents.

Can you propose on a hot air balloon ride in Scottsdale?

Yes—balloon proposals are extremely popular in Scottsdale with a reported 100% “yes” rate. Firebird Balloons and Rainbow Ryders specialize in proposal packages ($350-$400/person) including private 2-person baskets, premium champagne, ground photographers, and “She Said Yes” celebration banners. Book 6-8 weeks ahead for peak season proposals. The pilot coordinates secretly with you, signals optimal lighting moments, and creates space for the intimate moment. Many operators can arrange post-landing brunch reservations at nearby romantic restaurants.

Do hot air balloon rides include breakfast or champagne?

All Scottsdale balloon rides include champagne toast upon landing—this 240-year tradition dates to the first balloon flights in France. However, only Hot Air Expeditions includes a full gourmet breakfast spread with mimosas, pastries, fruit, and breakfast burritos served in the desert. Other operators provide light snacks and champagne. If breakfast matters to you, Hot Air Expeditions ($199-$311) is the only company where it’s included. Otherwise, plan to eat before your early morning pickup or after returning to your hotel.

Your Scottsdale Balloon Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re floating over city lights with Apex Balloons at pre-dawn, watching multiple colorful balloons dot the sunrise with Rainbow Ryders, or celebrating an engagement 2,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert with Firebird—Scottsdale delivers some of the finest hot air balloon experiences in America.

From 30-year veterans to family specialists with perfect ratings, these five companies have earned their reputations through thousands of safe, unforgettable flights.

What’s the #1 experience you’re most excited about—watching the sunrise from 2,000 feet, the champagne toast in the desert, or spotting wildlife from above?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your balloon adventure.

Exploring more of Scottsdale’s adventures? Check out these guides:

• Best Day Trips from Scottsdale →
• Best Hiking in Scottsdale →
• Best Spas in Scottsdale →
• 10 Best Things to Do in Scottsdale →
• Best Luxury Resorts in Scottsdale →

Have a favorite Scottsdale balloon company we missed? Let us know in the comments—we’re always updating our guides with fresh recommendations!