Balloon & Carousel

The Great Park Balloon and Carousel will be closed on Thanksgiving day, Thursday, November 28. These ammenities will reopen, weather-dependent, on Friday, November 29. 

Great Park Balloon

The Great Park Balloon is Great Park’s iconic attraction. With the ability to soar 400 feet above the surrounding landscape, it serves as a public observation deck for Great Park’s development and offers an unmatched 360° view that spans 40 miles on a clear day.

For up-to-date flight information and weather-related availability, call the Visitors Center at 949-724-6247.

Hours

Monday–Wednesday: Closed
Thursday–Friday Sessions: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and 7 p.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday Sessions: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. and 7 p.m.–10 p.m.

Parking & Admission

Cost: Effective November 1, 2024 balloon rides will be $10 for adults; kids are free. Payment must be made via a cashless method prior to boarding. Due to popularity, the flight list fills quickly. Check-in begins 30 minutes prior to each session. 
Parking is free. From parking lot #3, follow signs towards the balloon to join the line. Explore the Great Park through our interactive map here.

Boarding

  • Balloon rides are on a first-come, first-served basis. Check in upon arrival to join the list. Reservations are not available.
  • Payment will be collected prior to boarding.
  • All rides are weather permitting, are not guaranteed, and fill quickly.
  • Check-in begins 30 minutes prior to each session of flights. When at Great Park, follow the signs to the Balloon Line.
  • Each adult rider* must complete an online waiver the same day of the flight. Use the link below or scan the QR code at the Balloon Line. A completed waiver does not reserve a spot or guarantee a ride. 
    *A parent or guardian must sign for children younger than 18. Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Balloon Waiver

Flight Rules

  • Balloon pilots reserve the right to reprioritize or split groups. 
  • Wait times may vary based on demand and could be up to three hours. Flights are not guaranteed, are weather permitting, and sign-ups fill quickly. When you arrive at the park, check-in with park staff; if the line is full, staff will add your name and number to a waiting list; enjoy the park, you will be contacted via text message when to return to get in line. 
  • There are no age or height restrictions to fly on the Great Park Balloon. The Balloon is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECV) to remain in their seat during flight. Should a wheelchair or ECV exceed the maximum dimensions permitted (25″ wide by 48.5″ long), the options to transfer to a standard wheelchair or folding chair are available at the Visitors Center.
  • Leashed dogs are permitted.
  • Recommendations:
    • Visitors suffering from the following are advised not to fly:
      • Vertigo
      • Travel Sickness
      • Heart Problems
      • All other Conditions that are aggravated by flight
    • ​Flights are strongly discouraged for pregnant women.
    • Parents should not carry children on the gondola.

Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult on Balloon flights.

Did You Know?

The Great Park Balloon is one of the largest tethered helium (not hot air) balloons and the first of its kind in the United States. It is environmentally safe, non-polluting, and virtually silent.

Standing 118 feet tall with a volume of 210,000 cubic feet, the Balloon flies 6 to 16 passengers at a time based on flight conditions. Flying at an altitude up to 400 feet, it is always tethered to the ground by a steel cable with the strength of 99,000 pounds, making it a safe and fun experience for everyone.

Great Park Carousel

An Orange County tradition, updated with vintage-inspired scenic artwork, is a favorite for kids of all ages.

The Great Park Carousel was renovated in 2021. The City repainted 12 animals and the carousel floor, and added new artwork for riders to enjoy while taking a ride on one of the community’s favorite park attractions. Learn more about the new artwork and the artist behind the vision here.

Hours & Rates

Monday–Wednesday: Closed
Thursdays–Fridays: 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 
Saturdays–Sundays: 9 a.m.–10 p.m.

Rides on the Carousel are free. 

Please note: Balloon and Carousel hours may vary on holidays. For hours, directions, and park maps, visit yourgreatpark.org/maps. For questions, contact the Visitors Center at 949-724-6247.