Rohr Balloons is a hot air balloon tethered ride operator for the Plano Balloon Festival in Plano, TX.
The Plano Balloon Festival is one of North Texas’s most iconic events, and Rohr Balloons is proud to be a part of it once again! 🎈 We’ve been flying high with the festival for years, sharing the joy of hot air ballooning with families, couples, and first-time adventurers. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing a balloon ride but aren’t quite ready for a full flight, a tethered hot air balloon ride is the perfect way to get started.
What Is a Tethered Hot Air Balloon Ride?
A tethered ride allows you to rise about 30–50 feet into the air while the balloon remains securely anchored to the ground. You’ll still feel the thrill of lift-off, see the festival from above, and enjoy the magic of ballooning — all in just a few minutes, making it ideal for families with kids or anyone who wants a taste of flight.
Please note: Tethered rides at the Plano Balloon Festival are cash only, so be sure to bring cash with you.
Tethered Ride Schedule at the 2025 Plano Balloon Festival
Here are the official times for tethered balloon rides at this year’s Plano Balloon Festival:
- Thursday Evening: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday Evenings: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday Mornings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
✨ Pro Tip: If you want the smaller crowd and the best chance to avoid traffic, aim for Thursday evening or early morning tethers.
Tethered Ride Tickets & Important Information
Tickets for tethered hot air balloon rides at the Plano Balloon Festival are only available for purchase onsite and are cash only. Be sure to stop by the balloon field to secure your spot.
Pricing:
- Adults: $30
- Children (ages 6–12): $20
Passenger Requirements:
- All passengers must sign a waiver before riding.
- Passengers must be at least 6 years old and able to see over the balloon basket.
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and the guardian must sign the release form for the child.
- There is no minimum height requirement, but for safety, adults cannot hold a child in their arms during the ride.
- All passengers must be in good health. If you are pregnant, recently released from the hospital, or have broken bones/casts, you will not qualify to ride.
- These balloons are not certified by the FAA to carry wheelchairs.
Festival Guidelines:
- Listen for announcements from the Main Stage about when tethered rides open and close.
- Tethered rides are weather-permitting and only offered while balloons are on the festival grounds.
- Please note: rides that fly away from the park are not offered — only tethered hot air balloon rides are available at the Plano Balloon Festival.
Learn more at https://www.planoballoonfest.org/p/about/rides
Weather Forecast Looks Favorable
The weather is looking excellent for this year’s festival — a big plus since balloon activities are always weather-dependent. While flight decisions are made on-site for safety, current forecasts suggest that conditions are favorable for both evening and morning tethered rides.
Don’t Miss the Evening Balloon Glow
One of the most breathtaking highlights of the Plano Balloon Festival is the balloon glow at night. During the glow, balloons line up on the field and light up in unison, illuminating the night sky with brilliant colors. It’s a magical experience that’s perfect for photos and an absolute must-see whether you’re riding tethered with Rohr Balloons or simply enjoying the festival atmosphere.
Why Choose Rohr Balloons at the Plano Balloon Festival?
Rohr Balloons isn’t just another balloon company — we’ve been bringing the wonder of ballooning to the Plano Balloon Festival for years. Our experienced FAA-certified pilots, professional ground crew, and family-run team are passionate about making every ride safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- 🎈 Decades of experience operating in the Dallas–Fort Worth area
- 💕 Family-owned & community-focused, proud to support North Texas events
- 🌟 Safety-first approach, with professionally maintained equipment and highly trained crew
- 📸 Photo-worthy moments — our tethered rides are a perfect chance to snap that unforgettable balloon selfie!
Plan Your Visit
The Plano Balloon Festival draws thousands each year, so planning ahead is key. Arrive early for morning rides to skip the traffic and heat, and don’t forget to bring your camera. With tethered hot air balloon rides by Rohr Balloons, you’ll create a memory that lasts long after the balloons drift down.
📅 Plano Balloon Festival Dates: September 18–21, 2025
📍 Location: Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve, Plano, TX
For full festival details, visit the Plano Balloon Festival official website.
Ready to Take Flight?
Whether it’s your very first time in a balloon or you’re back to relive the magic, Rohr Balloons is excited to welcome you at the 2025 Plano Balloon Festival. Stop by during our tethered ride sessions, stay for the balloon glow, and let us take you up for a sky-high view you’ll never forget.
✨ See you in Plano — and up in the air! ✨
Frequently Asked Questions About Tethered Rides at the Plano Balloon Festival
How much are tethered rides at the Plano Balloon Festival?
Tethered hot air balloon rides cost $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 6–12. Tickets are only available for purchase onsite and are cash only.
What are the times for tethered rides at the Plano Balloon Festival?
Tethered rides are scheduled for Thursday evening (6–10 PM), Friday & Saturday evenings (6–10 PM), and Saturday & Sunday mornings (7–10 AM). Morning rides are highly recommended because they’re cooler, less crowded, and easier to access.
Are tethered rides safe for children?
Yes — children ages 6 and up can ride, as long as they can see over the balloon basket. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and a waiver must be signed. Adults are not permitted to hold a child during the ride.
Do tethered rides at the Plano Balloon Festival fly away from the park?
No. These are tethered rides only, which means the balloon rises about 30–50 feet in the air while securely anchored. Full flights are not offered at the Plano Balloon Festival.
What should I bring for a tethered hot air balloon ride?
Bring cash for tickets, comfortable shoes, and your camera for amazing photos. Arriving early, especially in the morning, helps you avoid traffic and get the best experience.
