Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

Cloud Nine balloon ride on Strip closes

Cloud Nine

Steve Marcus

Cloud Nine, the world’s largest helium-filled, land-tethered balloon, lifts off for an inaugural flight during the official opening Thursday, Oct. 8, 2009.

The Cloud Nine balloon attraction across from Mandalay Bay on the Strip has permanently closed after more than a year of operation, according to the attraction's website.

"The Cloud Nine balloon ride in Las Vegas has closed is no longer in operation. We want to thank the thousands of customers who had the opportunity to fly with us over the skies of Las Vegas. We bid you a fond farewell," the attraction's website reads.

The balloon recently returned to the skies in September after being grounded for six months because high winds deflated the attraction.

Cloud Nine first opened Oct. 9, 2009, as the world's largest helium-filled, land-tethered balloon. The attraction was owned and founded by entrepreneur Kevin Michaels.

The area where the balloon was located includes a ticketing building, picnic tables and a garden area.

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