Hi there, has anyone ever tried a hot air balloon ride over Seattle? I found a company called Over the Rainbow Balloon Flights in Woodinville, Washington (near Seattle) that offers this. I have never been in a hot air balloon before and am looking for any feedback regarding the specific company and/or hot air ballooning in general to help me decide if I want to do this. By the way, I'm in my thirties and would be going on the flight with 3 gal pals.

I have not done this either, but it looks really fun! Another area nearby that does it is Snohomish, right across from the airport. We used to watch them come down and the scenery was beautiful. A few family members did it and loved it. Let us know how it is!

I've ballooned over Albuquerque, Napa Valley, and in Cappodocia in Turkey. It is a great experience. The most amazing thing is how very still and quiet it is (except for the whoosh of the gas jets from time to time). You're going with the wind, so you don't feel even a breath of air, and you'll hear dogs barking way below you. The most surprising thing is that even my partner who turned pale when he got off the elevator of the Eiffel Tower, is just fine on a balloon. Go figure.

The worst thing? You'll probably have to get up at some God awful hour of the morning like 4 AM to do it.

I've done it here in New Jersey and have to say that if you get a chance, do it. We did an evening flight. You go up and come down before the sun sets. So romantic and enchanting. I think you should go for it.

Patrick--Why so early? I never saw the balloons leave, but we watched them during the day from our home and I had no idea how long they were up there. Is it an all day affair or are there options?

Hi mms, it's not an all day affair. The balloons fly early in the morning and later in the day because that's when the winds are the calmest. (This is per the information on the Rainbow Balloon Flights' website.)

Thanks I never had the nerve to try this, but have been curious about it.

Hi all, thanks for your responses. Just wanted to let you know that the hot air balloon ride was a great experience. The initial ascent was a little scary, but we soon got comfortable in the air. I'd recommend that mms give it a try.

Thanks for the report. We just saw some the other day going over our house, which was a first for here. I think you may have convinced me to try it!