100+ hot air balloons suspended over the horizon. 100+ baskets filled with skilled pilots from around the world, 100 roaring burners creating a whoosh that is both heard and felt. Imagine Indianola, Iowa, where the world’s best wander into town every summer and take over the sky. Iowa is not a flyover state; it’s a fly-through state, and we are ready to take flight with you!
Balloon rides are available every morning at 6:00 am or evening at 6:00 pm during the 2026 National Balloon Classic. Balloon rides are weather permitting; no morning flights on Friday, July 31. Balloon rides must be purchased through our official ride balloon operator, Galena on the Fly. Balloon rides DO NOT include gate admission.
