There’s no better way to start your day in wine country than with a sunrise hot air balloon ride above Napa Valley’s vineyard-covered hills. Peaceful, panoramic, and unforgettable, a Napa Valley hot air balloon ride offers one of the most extraordinary ways to experience wine country. If you’re staying at our charming Calistoga bed and breakfasts or visiting from nearby, a Napa Valley hot air balloon ride is one experience you won’t want to miss.
Why Choose a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Napa Valley?
Napa’s geography is perfect for ballooning. Cool morning air, open vineyard landscapes, and minimal wind conditions create an ideal environment for gentle, scenic flights. From your perch in the sky, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of lush vineyards, winding roads, and distant mountain ridges, including the iconic silhouette of Mount St. Helena near Calistoga.
However, what makes the experience truly special is the serene feeling it evokes. The only sound is the occasional burst of flame from the burner, and the view stretches endlessly in every direction. It’s a chance to pause and take in the region’s beauty in a way that’s both thrilling and deeply calming.
Fly with the Best: Napa Valley Aloft
Among the top-rated experiences in the valley is Napa Valley Aloft, one of the original hot air balloon companies in the area. Founded in 1978, Aloft has been offering agricultural aerial tours for decades. Their flights launch from the picturesque town of Yountville, set within the historic Estate Yountville and surrounded by some of Napa’s most acclaimed restaurants and resorts.
Aloft stands out for its attention to detail and exceptional service. Their hot air balloon baskets carry fewer passengers than most competitors, which means you get a more spacious, open-air experience. Whether you choose a classic, premier, group, or private flight, every adventure is led by an FAA-certified pilot with years of local ballooning experience and a genuine passion for sharing the valley from above.
Worried about fog in Yountville? Aloft is also the only company offering Northern Valley hot air balloon flights, shuttling guests to the scenic Pope Valley on the eastern edge of Napa when weather conditions require a change of launch site.
Other Top Hot Air Balloon Companies in Napa Valley
While Napa Valley Aloft offers a standout experience with its intimate baskets and exclusive launch site in Yountville, there are a few other balloon operators in the area worth considering.
Napa Valley Balloons, Inc.
Operating for over 40 years, Napa Valley Balloons is one of the most established companies in the region. They also launch out of the Estate Yountville and offer early morning flights that showcase the valley’s vineyards, hills, and historic towns from above. Their pilots are FAA-certified and known for their professionalism and smooth landings. Options range from group flights to private excursions, with add-ons like post-flight Champagne brunches at Domaine Chandon.
Balloons Above the Valley
Based in Napa, Balloons Above the Valley is another well-known operator offering scenic rides over the southern part of the valley. They launch closer to downtown Napa and offer a variety of packages, including group, private, and even seasonal flight specials.
A Family Legacy in the Sky
What do Napa Valley Aloft, Napa Valley Balloons, and Balloons Above the Valley have in common besides stunning views and smooth landings? They’re all proudly operated by the Kimball family, pioneers of ballooning in Napa Valley since the 1970s. Their dedication to safety, hospitality, and scenic storytelling has made them the gold standard for aerial adventures in wine country. No matter which company you choose, you’re flying with a team backed by generations of ballooning expertise.
Planning Your Flight
Most balloon rides take place at sunrise when the winds are calmest and the valley is just beginning to glow with soft morning light. You’ll want to dress in layers, as mornings can be chilly, even in summer, and wear comfortable shoes for standing in the basket. Flights typically last 45 minutes to an hour, and many packages include a post-flight toast or a light breakfast. Coffee stations are usually at the meeting point where guests are arranged into small groups who will then ride together in the shuttle van to the launch site and then will fly together.
Is a Napa Valley Hot Air Balloon Ride Romantic? Absolutely.
Hot air balloon rides are a favorite among couples, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of sweeping views, soft morning light, and cozy, shared adventure creates the perfect setting for proposals, anniversaries, and spontaneous romantic gestures. Looking for something truly special? Napa Valley Aloft offers private flights, ideal for unforgettable moments shared just between the two of you.
After You Land: Exploring Yountville and Beyond
The adventure doesn’t end when your feet touch the ground. One of the best parts about taking a morning flight is what comes next because you’re already in one of the most charming towns in the valley.
Start with Breakfast or a Toast
Many flight packages include coffee and a light breakfast, but if you’re still craving more, Yountville has no shortage of incredible spots to indulge. Walk over to Bouchon Bakery, owned by chef Thomas Keller, for a flaky croissant and coffee, or settle in at Bistro Jeanty for a heartier brunch with local flair.
Stroll Through Yountville’s Art Walk
After breakfast, take a relaxed walk through Yountville’s Art Walk, featuring outdoor sculptures by local and international artists. The pedestrian-friendly path meanders past boutiques, wine tasting rooms, and gardens, making it easy to keep the peaceful post-balloon vibe going.
Sip and Savor at Nearby Wineries
If you’re ready to shift from sky-high to cellar-deep, Yountville and nearby towns like Oakville and St. Helena offer some of the best wine tasting experiences in Napa Valley. You’ll find everything from boutique tasting rooms to legendary estates just a short drive away.
Make It a True Escape with Our Balloon Package
Want to take your adventure to the next level? Our exclusive Balloon Escape Package lets you experience Napa Valley from the ground and the sky. Stay at either The Craftsman Inn or Wine Way Inn, and enjoy an early morning hot air balloon ride out of Yountville, complete with panoramic views of the vineyards as the sun rises. The package also includes a personalized welcome gift of local wine or sparkling cider and chocolates. Add the Balloon Escape Package to your stay for an additional $589 for two guests or $315 for a solo traveler, with the option to add more guests for $275 each.
Book your stay and add a sunrise balloon flight for a getaway you’ll never forget. Comfort, charm, and convenience await right here in the heart of wine country.