Largest helium balloon ride coming to Niagara Falls this summer

By Elijah Robinson

Contributing Writer

This summer, locals and tourists alike will get a grand view of Niagara Falls, basking in the majesty of the sky as LIVE! Incorporated is getting ready to launch Niagara Falls’ newest attraction: LIVE! On Air Fallsview Balloon Ride on the world’s largest tethered helium balloon.

The attraction is set to open in mid-June and will offer a different view of the breathtaking Niagara Falls from above. The balloon ride will leave from 454 Main St., which is the former Rainbow Air and Hummingbird Helicopters landing pad. The first flight will take place in June and the attraction will be open for group bookings this summer.

Day trips will offer passengers views of the falls, with evening trips presenting views of the fireworks and falls illumination. According to the press release, LIVE! Incorporated will also offer private events and group bookings.

“We are excited to bring a major attraction to Niagara Falls, and see it as a huge opportunity,” said Jake Ventresca, assistant director of events and entertainment.

This trip will take riders more than 500 feet into the sky with panoramic views over the iconic Niagara Falls, and will host 180 riders of all ages per hour. The rides will be about 15 minutes in length, offering spectacular views of the falls.

According to a press release, each flight promises an awe-inspiring perspective that will leave you captivated and in wonder of the natural beauty below.

LIVE! On Air Balloon will have a rock ’n’ roll theme to enhance the experience, featuring fun music and lighting from takeoff to touch down. Ventresca said the balloon “will have music playing during the ride to help enhance our riders’ experience.”

Ventresca said safety is 100% LIVE! Incorporated’s main priority. He noted there are multiple safety features with the balloon, and the pilots will go through a full training course for the balloon.

He noted LIVE! Incorporated has had events in Muskoka and in Niagara Falls, and plans are in the works to open hotels in the near future.

For more information about the upcoming attraction, visit the LIVE! Incorporated website at https://live-incorporated.com/ and click the attractions page.