Hot air balloon rising at sunrise near Toronto, Ontario

Hot Air Balloon Rides Near Richmond Hill, Ontario

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.

For guests travelling from Richmond Hill & York Region

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From Richmond Hill to the Launch Field

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.

Guest enjoying a hot air balloon ride with arms outstretched over the countryside
What a typical balloon day looks like for Richmond Hill guests:
  • Book your flight or gift certificate directly with Sundance Balloons.
  • On flight day, drive from Richmond Hill to our launch area near St. Jacobs (about 75–100 minutes).
  • Meet your pilot and crew, watch the balloon inflate, then enjoy a calm 45–60 minute flight at sunrise or sunset.
  • Celebrate with a traditional toast, take photos, explore nearby villages, and either drive home or stay overnight.
Two guests posing between colourful Sundance balloons before launch
Sundance hot air balloon skimming over calm water with a clear reflection

Closest Launch Areas to Richmond Hill

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.

Primary Launch Area: Near St. Jacobs, Ontario

Approx. 75–100 minutes from Richmond Hill by car

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 Maps

Alternate Launch Area: Stratford Region

Used when wind and weather favour this area

On 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
Group of passengers smiling in a hot air balloon basket at sunrise
Group photo with the balloon and crew after landing

Make It a Countryside Getaway

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.

Sundance hot air balloons lifting above a suburban landscape at sunrise
A colourful cluster of Sundance balloons preparing for launch
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Places to Stay Near Your Flight

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.

Elora Mill Hotel & Spa

Elora

A luxurious riverside escape perched above Elora Gorge—perfect if you’re turning your Richmond Hill balloon ride into a romantic weekend.

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Things to Do Near Your Flight

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.

St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market

St. Jacobs

Browse fresh local produce, Mennonite baked goods, handmade crafts and food vendors at one of Ontario’s best-known markets.

Village of St. Jacobs

St. Jacobs

Wander through historic streets, visit boutiques and galleries, and experience the slower pace of village life after your flight.

Elora Village & Gorge

Elora

Explore trails, cliffs and river views around the gorge, then enjoy a meal or drink in downtown Elora before heading home.

Stratford Festival Theatre

Stratford

Pair a sunset balloon flight with live theatre, dining and riverside walks in Stratford for a truly memorable day trip from Richmond Hill.

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Ready to Plan Your Hot Air Balloon Ride?

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
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Contact

Sundance Balloons
Office Address: 48 Crampton Drive, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0
Phone: 416-239-4242
Email: info@sundanceballoons.com