High-altitude balloons have been employed for space science experiments and verification for over 70 years. This extended history has resulted in a mature technical foundation for manned high-altitude balloon flight tests, which have been conducted on numerous occasions throughout history. Compared to other options, manned high-altitude balloons offer a potentially more economical and safer method for near-space exploration and tourism. Recent business plans from domestic and international companies targeting edge-of-space tourism are examined in this article. The article also conducts a comparison of the defining characteristics associated with each company"s manned high-altitude balloon space tourism plan. Furthermore, an analysis of some key technologies crucial for high-altitude balloons in the context of edge-of-space tourism is provided. Suborbital flight, the primary competitor to manned high-altitude balloons, is introduced in the article. It then proceeds to offer a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of suborbital flight relative to high-altitude balloon travel. Finally, the article explores the potential for commercialization within the space tourism industry and presents various viewpoints on this developing field.