Sucheta Rawal

There's something magical about hot air balloons—their bold colors, their graceful ability to float across stunning landscapes, and their spirit of adventure. And there's something even more enchanting about hundreds of them ascending into the sky at once—creating a kaleidoscope of colors and stunning backdrop. These mass ascensions are a hallmark of hot air balloon festivals around the world. In the U.S. alone, many cities host events that bring people together to enjoy the romance and beauty of hot air balloons. From the iconic Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta to lesser-known but equally captivating gatherings like the Chester County Balloon Festival in Pennsylvania, we've compiled the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. that will bring you a sense of romance, tranquility and exploration.  RECOMMENDED: The most romantic places in the USA—and they're all in the great outdoors

I packed neutral colored clothing, a safari hat and a pair of boots in my carry-on. Then I loaded my car and drove from my home in the suburbs of Atlanta along Interstate-20. But this time, I did not turn into the exit towards Atlanta airport. Instead, I headed straight to the Georgia Safari Conservation Park near Madison.  After checking in with the park ranger, we drove to my lodging—a luxurious one-bedroom safari tent with a king-size canopy bed, zebra-striped cushions and handcrafted decor from South Africa. There was a spacious bathroom with hotel amenities, an outdoor shower and bathtub, plus a kitchenette stocked with everything I needed for a meal in. Unlike the safari camps I stayed at in Africa, this one had air conditioning and heating to brave the Georgia weather. From my expansive deck overlooking a private savanna, I had a clear view of wildlife: giraffes straight ahead, rhinos to the left, and ostriches hopping around to the left.  Surrounded by a private, boma-like enclosure, it felt quiet and peaceful. I could lounge on the rocking chairs, watching wildlife roam the open grasslands for hours on end. The best part? What would have been a 16-hour flight to an African safari was instead a little over an hour’s drive from Atlanta. About Georgia Safari Conservation Park  Opened in the summer of 2024, Georgia Safari Conservation Park was built with one goal in mind: to conserve threatened and endangered species through programming, guided tours and interactive expe