From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Great Park Balloon Ride.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Great Park Balloon: Irvine's Iconic View
Ascend to breathtaking heights on the Great Park Balloon, offering panoramic views of Orange County and a tranquil escape above the city.
Soar 400 feet above Orange County in the Great Park Balloon, a unique tethered helium balloon offering unmatched 360-degree views. A comfortable gondola accommodates passengers for a 15-20 minute ride, showcasing the park's development and the surrounding landscape.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Great Park Balloon Ride
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Great Park, Balloon Ride-Parking lot #3, 8307 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, Great Park, California, 92618, US
Thursday
10 am-3 pm
Friday
10 am-3 pm
Saturday
9 am-3 pm
Sunday
9 am-3 pm
Discover more about Great Park Balloon Ride
The Great Park Balloon is Irvine's signature attraction, providing a tranquil and breathtaking experience for all ages. Ascend 400 feet in a spacious gondola, where you'll be treated to panoramic views stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day. See the Pacific Ocean, the San Gabriel Mountains, and even Disneyland from this unique vantage point.
Unlike traditional hot air balloons, the Great Park Balloon is filled with helium, making it an environmentally safe and virtually silent ride. As one of the largest helium balloons in the United States, it offers a smooth and gentle ascent, tethered securely to the ground. The ride lasts approximately 15-20 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery and capture memorable photos.
Located in the heart of Orange County Great Park, the balloon is just one of many attractions. Before or after your flight, explore the park's visitors center, enjoy a ride on the carousel, or relax in the sprawling lawns. The Great Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, farmers markets, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Southern California, the Great Park Balloon offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
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Getting There
Driving
The Great Park Balloon is located within the Orange County Great Park, accessible via the 5 or 405 freeways. Take the Sand Canyon Avenue exit and follow the signs to Great Park Boulevard. Enter the park at the intersection of Sand Canyon Avenue and Great Park Boulevard. Free parking is available in Lot 3; follow the signs to the balloon. During special events at Great Park Live, preferred parking may be available for an additional fee. Check for event-specific parking instructions.
Ride-Sharing
For drop-off via taxi or rideshare, instruct your driver to enter the park at Sand Canyon Avenue and Great Park Boulevard. Follow the signs to the designated pick-up/drop-off location at the Great Park Tennis Complex Parking Lot (Orange P4). From the drop-off point, follow the park's internal signs to reach the Great Park Balloon, a short walk away. Ride-sharing costs from nearby Irvine Spectrum Center typically range from $10-$15.
A brief summary to Great Park Balloon Ride
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