While the Eureka zeppelin technically is berthed in San Francisco, it makes frequent trips south to offer L.A.’s thrill-seekers sky rides aboard the only passenger airship in America. The zeppelin is 60 feet longer than the biggest blimp and 15 feet longer than a 747, with a cabin that holds just 12 passengers. But despite its small size, it already has flown more than 5,000 people for special events, custom charter flights and a variety of public tours, cruising at a steady speed of 35 to 40 miles an hour. The ship’s hull is made from material that comes from the same company that makes NASA’s space suits and is filled with non-flammable helium. On windy days, boarding can be a challenge, but once inside the cabin, it’s quiet and peaceful, with big windows that allow for extended sightseeing; even the bathroom has a view. One of only three zeppelins in the world, Eureka serves as a modern-day example of historic aviation, but with innovative, high-tech components that look to the future. Thirty-minute flights start at $199 per person. But don’t you dare call it a blimp; it’s a zeppelin. airshipventures.com/
tours-los_angeles.php. —Tanja M. Laden

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