Ever dreamed of floating above the Southwest … hot air balloon style? Scott Appelman, founder and president of Rainbow Ryders, not only dreamed it, he’s done it. Establishing his hot air balloon business in 1983, Appelman has enabled countless riders to fulfill their dreams of floating over Phoenix, Albuquerque and Colorado Springs. 

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A dream begins

All it took for Appelman was one hot air balloon ride and he was hooked.

“I have always had a passion for all things aviation,” he says. “After my first crew experience, I knew exactly what I wanted to do!” 

After 41 years — and four locations later, Appelman’s enthusiasm for flight has not diminished, and in fact, has only grown stronger. “I still have the same volume of passion as I did when I first got Rainbow Ryders off the ground, literally,” he confesses. 

Elevated service

Today, Rainbow Ryders consists of a 40-balloon fleet, recognized for its customer service, pilot expertise and safety, along with being an ultimate bucket list experience.

“There is nothing more serene than floating over stunning landscapes in a hot air balloon,” Applemean says. “The peaceful silence and calming atmosphere create an experience unlike any other. You get a unique perspective that simply cannot be matched by any other form of travel.” 

For those uncertain or trepidatious about ballooning, Rainbow Ryders has earned a reputation for safety. Its fleet of pilots has flown more than 100,000 hours, serving 40,000 passengers per year. 

“Hot air ballooning is the safest form of aviation,” Appelman explains. “Our impeccable safety record is due to our high standards and requirements for our pilots, crew and equipment.”

Appelman adds, “The experience is truly calming, so there is no reason to be afraid.”

Experiences for all seasons and reasons

Adventurers and memory-makers come to Rainbow Ryders for the company’s expertise in curating unforgettable experiences. In addition to specializing in family vacations, corporate events and wedding proposals (as a few examples), Rainbow Ryders is also the official hot air balloon ride operator at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift-Off.

Fly-high with these discounted deals

Phoenicians can experience an incredible sunrise flight for only $175 per person with the discount code “RYDELOCAL.” The savings vary by the day. In addition, lower fares are available for children, ages 5 and older, for $125 each. To book, visit https://rainbowryders.com/locations/phoenix/. The summer special runs through July 20. (Only valid in Phoenix) 

In addition, from July 8 to July 31, families who purchase two adult flights, get one child (ages 5 to 12) passenger without charge. Call (877) 976-9892 to book the reservation and mention the promotion to redeem. (Only valid in Phoenix and Albuquerque.)

Price matching is also available on flight options. 

To learn more, visit rainbowryders.com/.