Adventure begins where the city ends.
Many of our guests start their adventure in Etobicoke and Toronto’s west end, then make the drive to our main launch area near St. Jacobs for unforgettable sunrise and sunset hot air balloon flights.
Living in Etobicoke, you already have quick access to highways and the lakeshore — but it still surprises many locals to learn that real hot air balloon rides are available just a drive away. Most people assume you need to go to the mountains or out of province, until they discover they can simply head west and lift off over peaceful Ontario farmland.
Our balloons don’t launch directly from Etobicoke, but most guests make an easy drive along Highway 401 or 403 to our primary launch area near St. Jacobs, Ontario. Depending on exactly where you’re starting and the time of day, the drive from Etobicoke is usually about 70–90 minutes by car. Trade apartment towers and city streets for quiet back roads, open fields and a wide-open sky — and still be home the same day.
Hot air balloon rides are one of Etobicoke’s most memorable unique gifts for Christmas, anniversaries, birthdays, proposals and special occasions. When you want something bigger than another night out, a balloon flight feels like a once-in-a-lifetime surprise — without needing a plane ticket.
Flights for Etobicoke guests typically depart from one of two countryside locations. The exact site for your flight is chosen on the day based on weather and wind conditions to keep things safe and scenic:
Most Etobicoke guests fly from our countryside launch area near St. Jacobs, just north of Waterloo. With wide-open fields, gentle hills and classic rural views, it’s a beautiful place to drift quietly above the countryside.
View St. Jacobs launch area on Google MapsOn some days, the safest and most enjoyable flight path begins closer to Stratford. Our team will tell you which site is in use in your pre-flight weather update before you leave Etobicoke.
View Stratford launch area on Google MapsMany guests from Etobicoke and Toronto’s west end turn their flight into a mini escape: drive up the day before, stay overnight near St. Jacobs or Elora, and wake up just a short distance from the launch field. It’s an easy way to feel worlds away for a night — without really going far at all.
If you’d like to drive up from Etobicoke the day before your flight, here are some guest-favourite hotels near our St. Jacobs and Elora launch areas.
Unwind in suite comfort steps from St. Jacobs Market, then rise above the countryside with Sundance Balloons for breathtaking sunrise views.
Modern rooms, hot breakfast, and the market at your doorstep—then float over rolling farmland with Sundance Balloons.
Spacious suites with kitchens and a warm breakfast—cap your stay with a peaceful sunrise flight with Sundance Balloons.
Relax poolside or stroll the village shops before your sky-high adventure with Sundance Balloons.
Contemporary design meets rural charm—perfect rest before your morning flight with Sundance Balloons.
Five-star luxury perched above Elora Gorge—relax in the spa, dine on local cuisine, then float above it all with Sundance Balloons.
Before you drive back to Etobicoke, spend a few extra hours exploring the villages and countryside around our launch areas.
Browse fresh produce, local crafts, and food vendors at Ontario’s most famous farmers’ market—just minutes from many of our launch areas.
Wander through charming streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries in this historic Mennonite village.
Explore riverside trails, limestone cliffs, and a picturesque downtown filled with shops and restaurants—a favourite day-trip spot for guests from the west GTA.
Pair your balloon flight with world-class theatre, dining, and riverside strolls in Stratford before heading back to Etobicoke.
Whether you’re planning a proposal, celebrating an anniversary, or searching for a unique Christmas or birthday gift in Etobicoke or Toronto’s west end, our team is ready to help you take flight. Booking and gift certificate purchases are handled directly through Sundance Balloons. If you still have questions, you can also review our FAQs on the main site.
Pricing and Purchasing
Sundance Balloons
Office Address: 48 Crampton Drive, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0
Phone: 416-239-4242
Email: info@sundanceballoons.com