By Jolynn Woehrer   Published Oct 12, 2003 at 5:30 AM

Balloon rides offer the breath of breeze pushing you forward like a cloud, the sense of soaring above the emerald treetops and sapphire waters and the beginning of a lifetime relationship with the birds, planes and winds.

If you're curious to know what it feels like to be cradled in the arms of the benevolent, heavenly skies, Racine's Barn Floaters would be happy to satisfy your curiosity.

Offered all year round, balloon rides can accommodate from three to five passengers at a time, depending on weight. Most flights last about an hour and cover anywhere from five to 15 miles.

An opportunity for all ages (although it's very loud in a balloon which may scare young children), balloon rides offer ways to venture over the Racine county countryside and possibly a lake or two.

Weather permitting, flights are offered seven days a week, with celebratory champagne. The only restriction is that balloon travelers must be physically fit enough to get in and out of the basket.

Ticket prices average around $169 per person, ($250 for a sunrise journey) but the cost is worth it. Your memories of sailing the skies will undoubtedly linger for a lifetime.

For more information on balloon rides, contact Barn Floaters, 2026 Michigan Blvd., Racine, at (262) 637-4852