Is this 8-minute Balloon Ride at Disney Springs worth it?
Formally known as Characters in Flight, the tethered balloon ride at Disney Springs is called Aerophile – The World Leader in Balloon Flight. Is the ride worth it? In my humble opinion, yes! Here are 7 tips & reasons why it’s worth it!
7 tips & reasons why it’s worth it:
1. The view alone is worth it to try once! Guests will fly up to 400 feet in the sky with 360-degree views of Disney Springs and surrounding Disney World property. On clear days, guests can see up to 10 miles away!
2. It is a novelty experience, custom-built from France. Did you know this is the world’s largest hand-painted helium balloon? It was also custom-built in France for Disney by AĆ©rophile S.A., a Paris-based company.
3. The cost is very reasonable, for Disney prices! Ticket prices are $20 per adult (age 10+) and $15 per child (age 3-9). Therefore an adult couple would pay just $40 + tax, which for an experience at Disney is not a bad price! It is cheaper than many souvenirs that end up getting tossed or donated, for a memorable Disney experience instead.
4. If you have a chance to FLY, GO! If you happen to be there on a clear, bright and calm day, I suggest taking advantage and grabbing tickets. Capacity and height are affected by wind speeds. In fact, the balloon will not fly if wind is 22mph+, or in stormy weather. Some guests have missed chances to fly because the weather just never cooperated!
5. Ride at Sunset. Consider trying to take a flight around sunset for incredible views and photo opportunities! Tickets are sold on a first come-first serve basis at the attraction.
6. Ways to Save. There are actually a few ways to save on the cost. One is to check groupon prior to your trip, as this attraction is often featured on there (be sure to read the fine print, for instance sometimes groupon may not be used within 24hrs so plan ahead). Secondly, Disney Visa card holders and Annual Pass Holders often get discounts, be sure to check your benefits. Finally, past guests have reported a discounted price for early birds (prior to 10am), it’s worth checking out.
7. A certified pilot rides with you. If you are scared of heights (like me), it is comforting to know that an Aerophile-certified pilot rides with you, even better some of them are quite funny. The balloon’s basket holds up to 29 guests.
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.