Soar High Above Irvine: The Great Park Balloon Ride
Elevate your adventure at the Great Park Balloon Ride and enjoy breathtaking views of Irvine and the surrounding landscapes.
A brief summary to Great Park Balloon Ride
- Great Park, Balloon Ride-Parking lot #3, 8307 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, Great Park, California, 92618, US
- +1949-724-6247
- Visit website
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3 pm
The Great Park Balloon Ride is an iconic attraction nestled within the scenic Great Park of Irvine, California. This unique experience allows visitors to ascend high into the sky, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape, including the stunning cityscape of Irvine, the picturesque mountains, and the vast Pacific Ocean on clear days. A ride in the vibrant balloon is not just about the elevation; it’s about the breathtaking panorama that unfolds beneath you, making it a perfect activity for families, couples, and adventure-seekers alike. The balloon ride operates on a schedule that accommodates both daytime and nighttime flights, allowing you to choose the perfect time to experience the beauty of the setting sun or the twinkling city lights at night. The Great Park itself is a well-maintained recreational area featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and various family-friendly attractions, providing visitors with ample opportunities for exploration before or after their balloon ride. Don’t forget to capture the moment with plenty of photographs; the balloon’s colorful ascent creates a striking backdrop against the clear blue sky or vibrant sunset hues. The Great Park Balloon Ride is a fantastic addition to your itinerary, ensuring a memorable experience that showcases the beauty of Irvine from a unique vantage point.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.
- Check the weather before your visit; clear skies offer the best views.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery from above.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat, as you may be exposed to the sun during the ride.
- Consider visiting the surrounding park attractions for a full day of fun.
Getting There
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Public Transit (Bus)
From any location in Irvine, you can take the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus service. First, locate the nearest bus stop using the OCTA bus schedule or the OCTA website. Look for the route that services the Great Park area, such as Route 86 or Route 55. Board the bus and pay the fare. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop nearest the Great Park, which is typically marked with signage. Once you disembark, follow the signs directing you towards the Great Park Balloon Ride. It is a short walk from the bus stop to the balloon ride area.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to ride a bicycle, Irvine has a network of bike paths. Start by locating a bike rental service if you don't have your own. Head towards the Great Park by following the bike paths that lead to the area. You can use Google Maps to find the safest and most direct route. Once you arrive at the park, look for signage guiding you to the Great Park Balloon Ride, which is located near Parking Lot #3.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to the Great Park Balloon Ride can be an enjoyable experience. Start by using a maps application on your phone to get directions to '8307 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618'. Follow the pedestrian pathways to navigate through the park. Look for signs that lead you to the balloon ride, which is located within the Great Park area, specifically near Parking Lot #3. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the walk may take some time depending on your starting point.
Attractions Nearby to Great Park Balloon Ride
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Great Park
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Parasol Park
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Old Town Irvine
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Beacon Park
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The Escape Game Irvine
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Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel
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Terrace Garden Park
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Irvine Spectrum Center Carousel
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Coral Tree Square Park
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Pretend City Children's Museum
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Blue Gum Park
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Cascade Park
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Heritage Community Park
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Northwood Gratitude and Honor Memorial
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North Lake Park
Landmarks nearby to Great Park Balloon Ride
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Irvine HD
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Portola Expedition Monument
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OC Library - Heritage Park Regional Branch
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Eastern Transportation Corridor Cell Tower – Site 10
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Irvine Ranch Conservancy Native Seed Farm
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Irvine Ranch Conservancy
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City of Irvine
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Pao Fa Buddhist Temple
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Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
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Aliso Creek Adobes, County Of Orange Historical Site No. 44
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Beall Center for Art + Technology
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Infinity Fountain
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California Historical Site No 203
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Google Irvine Building 1
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David Hewes House