Views from how high? See Niagara Falls from a bird's vantage point with new attraction

Article and Photos by Timothy Chipp

From high above Niagara Falls, the views are legendary. On a clear day, 500 feet in the air offers clear views along the horizon north to Toronto and south toward Western New York’s southern tier.

But, like it is on the ground, the true beauty is in the falls themselves.

And the views, if you’re willing to venture that high, can be yours thanks to Live! Incorporated’s new helium-filled balloon, Live On Air Fallsview Balloon Ride.

“We thought it would be something great,” said Melissa Morinello, group attractions sales manager for the Canadian-American company. “You’re not able to get that kind of view unless you’re in a helicopter. With the balloon, you’re able to get in, get up and see it all.”

The $2.5 million project sends the tethered, white balloon skyward. The height is controlled by a motorized winch system piloted by one employee on the balloon and one on the ground.

Together, the tandem ensures safety for everyone involved. Knowing the limitations of the balloon also helps protect people. So, if the wind exceeds 22 mph, the ride won’t launch.

“Safety is our No. 1 priority, along with getting an absolutely amazing experience,” Morinello said.

To ensure regular safety of the ride, a thorough, 30-minute safety check will precede launches, Morinello said. The pilots have all trained at a school in Florida, and the operation has received a number of licenses required to operate.

Once it is off the ground, the ride lasts about 15 minutes. Curated music, themed to match the ride, plays throughout the ride for guests to enjoy while they see the sights.

A ring “basket,” roughly the circumference of the balloon lifting it, offers up to 30 passengers the breathtaking aerial views, with the ride offering accommodations to any and all rider abilities. Including those who require wheelchairs, Morinello said.

Off the ground, the balloon rotates about 90 degrees depending on the air, so riders may – if they’re feeling brave and the crowd size allows – walk along the ring to enjoy the full experience.

But, riders beware. Even the most ardent thrill seekers may experience a moment or two of hesitation as the cable system bumps twice on its way up. The pilots do offer warnings before they happen.

Portions of the cage are open, allowing completely unobstructed photograph and video opportunities. It’s a long way down, though, so riders should keep their arms and cameras in the provided space at all times. No leaning out.

Rides are offered between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m., with the final ride able to offer an even more stunning view: It’ll coincide with the popular fireworks display over Niagara Falls through Oct. 14.

Employees of Live! Incorporated go through a pre-flight safety check on Friday, Aug. 30, for Live On Air Fallsview Balloon Ride, an attraction bringing new life to the north end of Niagara Falls’ tourist area.

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That’s not all, though. Late in the season, the owners are anticipating picturesque foliage scenes available to those who lift off. And the balloon will serve as a peculiar-yet-gorgeous place for an engagement proposal or wedding. There may be plans for one of those to happen in the not-too-distant future, Morinello said.

As for Morinello herself, she said her first ride left her “shocked.” Her two children, ages 6 and 9, have both taken the ride, as well. “They were excited,” she said.

“It’s nice to see some action at the north end of the tourist area,” Morinello said.

Ultimately, Live! Incorporated hopes to operate the balloon into November this year, weather dependent. Next year, they’ll look to lift off again in April, as soon as any lingering snow melts and temperatures rise from the inevitable Western New York winter.

As for pricing, Live! Incorporated is offering the rides at $50 per rider ages 10 and older. Children between the ages of 3 and 9 cost $45 and children ages 2 and under are free. The fireworks flight, through Oct. 14, will cost $70 per rider.

But if those prices are a bit steep, they’re throwing in a discount to Western New York residents who wish to try the attraction through the remainder of the 2024 season. The code “LOCAL” – all capital letters required – will reduce the price of adult tickets to $25 per rider.

All tickets can be purchased online, including with the discount code, at www.live-incorporated.com. Additional purchase options are available at the balloon’s launch site at 454 Main St., Niagara Falls.