Disney’s Characters In Flight - Review

September 8, 2009 by Bill Downs
Filed under Downtown Disney, Featured

Disney’s Characters in Flight is a welcome addition to Downtown Disney. With the recent closing of the Virgin Mega Store (a museum of Princess Diana “The Peoples Princess” has filled the space through Nov. 30, 2009 ) along with an ongoing revamp of Pleasure Island, it’s been a little bland downtown. Disney is trying to spice things up with Characters in Flight.

A bit of full disclosure: I am in the process of getting a hot-air balloon pilots license so my views are slightly skewed.

I wouldn’t call the ride ‘thrilling’ (see disclosure above) but it’s certainly interesting. While the roof of Bongos isn’t the most fascinating view to be had, you do get good picture opportunities of the Marketplace (Rainforest Cafe, etc.) and the surrounding lake. I haven’t had the opportunity to ride the balloon at night but people I’ve asked say it’s a little more interesting looking down at the lights. If you time it right, you can even see the fireworks from Epcot and the Magic Kingdom (far away) when they launch.

The only real tip for this ride is to be among the first to board the 30 person gondola. The gondola is surrounded by netting and while you can fit a camera lens through the holes, the balloon does not really spin. The best views seem to be had by those who get on first and stand facing the Marketplace. If you’re going up while Epcot’s fireworks are going off, boarding around the middle of the pack should afford the best view in the general direction of the Epcot ball - a.k.a. Space Ship Earth.

The ride is suitable for all ages 3 and up ($16 per adult - $10 per child 3-9) and lasts 10-15 minutes in total. It’s a generally sedate ride (landing can be a little bumpy) that might bore your average teenager looking to ride something more thrilling. All in all, it’s a good family experience to be had for those so inclined.

P.S. If your looking for a balloon ride with a little more adventure, I recommend Orlando Balloon Adventures. You might even see me out there on the weekends helping out.

Happy flying!