The Wicked Balloons Journal
Ballooning stories, history & how-tos
Everything about hot air ballooning — from the very first flight in 1783 to planning your own sunrise ride over New England.

How Much Does a Hot Air Balloon Ride Cost?
Wondering how much is a hot air balloon ride? Here's what shapes the price, shared vs. private flights, and how to fly…

Breitling Orbiter 3 and the Record That Stunned the World
The Breitling Orbiter 3 made history in 1999 as the first balloon to circle the globe nonstop. Here's the story behind the…

Ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey: Everything to Know
Planning a Cappadocia hot air balloon flight? Here's what to expect, when to go, and how to choose an operator for this…

How Custom-Shaped Balloons Are Designed and Built
Curious how are special shape balloons made? Go inside the design, fabric-cutting, and sewing process behind custom hot air balloons.

What to Expect on Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride
Wondering what to expect on your first hot air balloon ride? Here's exactly what happens from sunrise launch to landing and champagne…

The First Nonstop Balloon Flight Around the World
The true story of the first balloon around the world, the 1999 Breitling Orbiter 3 flight, and what it still teaches every…

What to Wear on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Wondering what to wear on a hot air balloon ride? Here's how to dress in layers for sunrise flights in every New…

Hot Air Balloon Rides as a Gift: The Complete Guide
Thinking about a hot air balloon ride gift? Here's how to buy, present, and time it perfectly for any birthday, anniversary, or…