Colorful balloon-filled store interior at balloon saloon manhattan, with whimsical decorations and displays.

Inside Manhattan’s Balloon Saloon: Four Decades of Whimsy and Artistry

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-10-27

Time Out New York explored the colorful world of Sharon Hershkowitz, the spirited owner of Balloon Saloon, a vibrant novelty shop in Tribeca that has been delighting customers since 1981. The store, known as the “balloon saloon manhattan,” is renowned for its eclectic mix of custom balloon creations and nostalgic wonders.

Explore the Magic of This Iconic Manhattan Shop

Visitors stepping into the store are transported to a realm where vivid balloon art meets a treasure trove of quirky novelties and toys from yesteryear. The venue offers a unique experience that blends creativity and nostalgia.

For those captivated by nostalgic designs, Vibrant Retro Landlines revisit classic corded phones, blending nostalgia with modern twists for today’s youth.

The store’s origin story is as charming as its offerings. In 1981, Balloon Saloon began in Brooklyn, when a small advertisement in New York Magazine and a helium tank tucked inside a Volkswagen Rabbit laid its foundations. Today, it stands as a beloved landmark in Lower Manhattan, celebrated for creating large-scale installations, including those for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and curating a collection of retro toys that evoke childhood memories. This iconic shop is truly a testament to the enduring appeal of imaginative expression and playfulness.

Amongst her achievements, Hershkowitz highlights a particularly ambitious project — a “frozen balloon drop” at the Park Avenue Armory. This intricate spectacle featured balloons appearing to fall but never touching the ground, a venture that cost her a month of sleep but remains one of her proudest accomplishments. Beyond balloons, the Balloon Saloon is also recognized as a leading novelty shop nyc, capturing the hearts of both locals and tourists alike.

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Colorful balloon-filled store interior at balloon saloon manhattan, with whimsical decorations and displays.

Source: laughingsquid.com

Frequently asked questions

What is Balloon Saloon known for?

Balloon Saloon is renowned for its eclectic mix of custom balloon creations and nostalgic wonders.

Where is Balloon Saloon located?

Balloon Saloon is located in Tribeca, Lower Manhattan.

What was a significant project by the owner of Balloon Saloon?

A significant project by the owner, Sharon Hershkowitz, was a ‘frozen balloon drop’ at the Park Avenue Armory, where balloons appeared to fall but never touched the ground.

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