Soar above Binghamton’s landscapes with Freedom Ballooning’s shared hot air balloon rides. Choose sunrise or sunset flights to capture unforgettable views and create lasting memories from a unique aerial perspective.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours total; 45–60 minutes flight time
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; be able to stand for an hour and climb into the balloon basket.
Wildlife
History
Binghamton played a key role in regional industry and transport through the 19th century, with river commerce shaping its growth.
Conservation
Freedom Ballooning practices environmentally responsible flights with minimal disturbance to wildlife and habitats beneath the flight paths.
Freedom Ballooning
Soar above Binghamton’s landscapes with Freedom Ballooning’s shared hot air balloon rides. Choose sunrise or sunset flights to capture unforgettable views and create lasting memories from a unique aerial perspective.
Freedom Ballooning is a hot air balloon operator based in Apalachin, New York. The company offers shared and private balloon rides across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, including flights over Binghamton, Owego, and Watkins Glen. Shared Balloon Ride options accommodate up to six passengers and are offered for departures near Binghamton or Owego, providing sunrise and sunset flight choices that suit celebrations, group outings, or scenic adventures.
A separate Shared Balloon Ride operates over Watkins Glen and Seneca Lake, delivering Finger Lakes panoramas during sunrise and sunset flights. Private Hot Air Balloon Ride packages cover Watkins Glen, Owego, and Binghamton for couples seeking an intimate experience; these private flights include a pilot and focus on romance and exclusive vantage points. Flight options emphasize scenic viewing times—sunrise and sunset—to maximize lighting and landscape visibility. Reservations can be made for shared seats or for private charters depending on guest preference. The business centers its services on creating memorable aerial experiences over familiar New York landscapes, blending calm flight rhythms with wide views of lakes, river valleys, and towns below. Freedom Ballooning operates locally from Apalachin and connects passengers with multiple launch areas across nearby communities. Prospective flyers should select the trip that matches their desired location and group size, choosing between shared flights for small groups or private rides for couples and special occasions. Flight schedules vary seasonally; passengers are encouraged to check availability, book early, and confirm meeting locations for specific departures in the Apalachin and Watkins Glen areas.
Passenger Capacity
Up to 6
Shared flights hold six passengers.
Service Area
Apalachin & Nearby
Flights over Binghamton, Owego, Watkins Glen.
Flight Times
Sunrise & Sunset
Scenic lighting windows for flights.
Private Rides
Couples & Groups
Intimate charters available.
Choose shared seats or a private charter over Watkins Glen, Owego, or Binghamton — limited seats per flight, book early.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled flight to complete the necessary pre-flight briefing and assist with balloon setup if you like.
Dress for Variable Temperatures
Wear layers as temperatures can be chilly in the morning or evening but warm up once aloft with the sun.
Secure Loose Items
Ensure your belongings, especially cameras and phones, are secured to avoid losing anything overboard during flight.
Weight and Weather May Affect Group Size
Passenger numbers can fluctuate depending on overall weight and weather conditions for safety.
Layered Clothing
Adjust layers to stay comfortable during cool morning or evening flights.
spring
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning aerial views and memorable moments throughout your flight.
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy shoes help with stable footing during launch and landing on uneven terrain.
Sunglasses and Hat
Protect your eyes and face from the sun during midday or sunset flights.
summer