Chicago - September 14, 2004

Up, Up, and Away

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Around here, a quick getaway is no easy feat.

A couple of hours in the car will only land you at an outlet mall, a water park, or smack-dab in the middle of a cornfield — no matter which way you go.

Unless, that is, you go up.

Next time you’re hankering for an escape, book a flight in a hot-air balloon with A Great American Balloon Company. Here’s how it works: Hop aboard at the Windy City Balloon Port in Fox River Grove (just about an hour outside the city). Rise up out of the basin of the Norge ski jump and fly over the Fox River, its picturesque parks, and its wooded shore. Come out of the clouds an hour later for a champagne toast. But be sure to call ahead and check the weather before heading out for your flight, because 50 percent of the trips get delayed due to inclement weather.

Some things about Chicago will never change.

A Great American Balloon Company, LLC (877-933-6359 or wedofly.com).