Adventure begins where the city ends.
Guests from Richmond Hill and across York Region make the short drive to our main launch area near St. Jacobs for unforgettable sunrise and sunset hot air balloon flights.
If you live in Richmond Hill, you already enjoy big-city access with plenty of green space—but there’s nothing quite like seeing Ontario from a hot air balloon. Many people don’t even realize this kind of adventure is possible so close to home and assume it’s only available on faraway trips or at special festivals.
Our balloons don’t launch directly from Richmond Hill, but most guests make a comfortable drive to our countryside launch area near St. Jacobs. Depending on the time of day and traffic, the drive is usually around 75–100 minutes by car. Leave Yonge Street and the 407 behind, follow the country roads, and before long you’re standing beside a colourful balloon as it rises into the morning or evening sky.
Hot air balloon rides are one of Toronto and Richmond Hill’s most memorable unique gifts for Christmas, anniversaries, birthdays, proposals and milestone celebrations. When you want to give someone an experience they’ll talk about for years, a balloon flight is hard to beat.
Flights for Richmond Hill and York Region guests usually depart from one of two countryside locations. Your pilot will confirm the exact meeting point in your pre-flight weather update based on wind direction and conditions.
Our main launch area is just outside St. Jacobs, north of Waterloo. With wide-open fields and quiet rural roads, it’s the perfect place to leave the city behind and let the wind decide your path.
View St. Jacobs launch area on Google MapsOn some dates, your pilot may choose a launch location closer to Stratford for the safest and most scenic flight path. Our team will let you know which site is being used well before you set out from Richmond Hill.
View Stratford launch area on Google Maps
Many Richmond Hill guests choose to drive up the evening before their sunrise flight. Staying overnight near St. Jacobs or Elora means you can relax, enjoy dinner, and wake up only a few minutes from the launch field—no pre-dawn drive down the 404.
If you’re driving from Richmond Hill for an early morning launch, these guest-favourite hotels near St. Jacobs and Elora make it easy to turn your balloon ride into a relaxed overnight escape.
Suite-style comfort with kitchenettes and an easy drive to the launch field and famous St. Jacobs Market.
A favourite for families and groups, with modern rooms and breakfast included before your balloon adventure.
A luxurious riverside escape perched above Elora Gorge—perfect if you’re turning your Richmond Hill balloon ride into a romantic weekend.
Before you drive back to Richmond Hill, spend a few extra hours exploring the villages and landscapes that make this part of Ontario so special.
Browse fresh local produce, Mennonite baked goods, handmade crafts and food vendors at one of Ontario’s best-known markets.
Wander through historic streets, visit boutiques and galleries, and experience the slower pace of village life after your flight.
Explore trails, cliffs and river views around the gorge, then enjoy a meal or drink in downtown Elora before heading home.
Pair a sunset balloon flight with live theatre, dining and riverside walks in Stratford for a truly memorable day trip from Richmond Hill.
Whether you’re planning a proposal, celebrating an anniversary, or searching for a unique Christmas or birthday gift, 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