5 Best Chicago Helicopter Tours: Experience the City from Above
Chicago has a rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views. One of the best ways to experience the Windy City’s beauty is by taking a helicopter tour.
Chicago helicopter tours offer a unique perspective of the city’s skyline, lakefront, and landmarks.
There are several helicopter tour companies in Chicago, each offering different routes and experiences.
These tours range from short 15-minute rides to longer 45-minute tours that cover more ground. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 helicopter tours in Chicago, so you can make an informed decision when planning your next adventure.
Key Takeaways
- This article will explore the top 5 helicopter tours in Chicago, so you can make an informed decision when planning your next adventure.
- Chicago helicopter tours offer a unique perspective of the city’s skyline, lakefront, and landmarks.
- There are several helicopter tour companies in Chicago, each offering different routes and experiences.
Overall best: Chicago Helicopter Tour Pro
Top 5 Helicopter Tours in Chicago
Chicago is a city that offers many attractions, but one of the best ways to experience its beauty is from the air. Helicopter tours in Chicago offer a unique perspective of the city skyline, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding areas. Here are the top 5 helicopter tours in Chicago that are worth experiencing.
1. Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour
The Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour is a 15-minute tour that takes you on a journey over the city’s iconic skyline. The tour starts at the Vertiport Chicago and takes you over the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and more. You’ll also have a bird’s eye view of Lake Michigan. The tour is perfect for those who want to experience the city’s beauty in a short amount of time.
2. Chicago City Lights at Night Tour
The City Lights at Night Tour is a 30-minute tour that takes you on a night flight over the city. You’ll see the city’s skyline lit up in all its glory, including the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, and the Chicago River. The tour is perfect for those who want to experience the city’s beauty at night.
3. Chicago Helicopter Tour Pro
The Downtown Chicago and Lakefront Tour is a 45-minute tour that takes you on a journey over the city’s downtown area and Lake Michigan. You’ll see the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, and Navy Pier. You’ll also have a bird’s eye view of the city’s beaches and parks. The tour is perfect for those who want to experience the city’s beauty from a different perspective.
4. Private Helicopter Experience
The Private Helicopter Experience is a customizable tour that allows you to create your own itinerary. You can choose to fly over the city’s iconic landmarks or venture out to the surrounding areas. The tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience.
5. Chicago Landmarks Tour
The Chicago Landmarks Tour is a 60-minute tour that takes you on a journey over the city’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll see the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, Navy Pier, and more. You’ll also have a bird’s eye view of the city’s parks, beaches, and museums. The tour is perfect for those who want to experience the city’s beauty in a longer amount of time.
Overall, Chicago offers a variety of helicopter tours that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you want to experience the city’s beauty in a short amount of time or a longer duration, a helicopter tour is definitely worth the investment.
Overview of Chicago Helicopter Tours
Chicago helicopter tours offer a unique and exciting way to explore the Windy City from above. With several tour options available, visitors can choose from various routes and durations to suit their preferences.
One of the most popular tour providers is Vertiport Chicago, offering a range of tours such as the Chicago City Sights Helicopter Tour. During this tour, visitors can soar above the city streets in a state-of-the-art helicopter while enjoying a guided tour via a two-way headset. This tour takes visitors on a 24-mile route, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park.
Another popular tour provider is Chicago Helicopter Experience, which offers tours ranging from 12 to 45 minutes. Visitors can choose from various tours, including the Downtown Chicago Helicopter Sightseeing Tour, which takes passengers on a 14-mile route over the city’s most famous landmarks.
For those looking for a more personalized experience, Chicago Helicopter Tours offers private tours that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Visitors can choose from a variety of routes or create their own, ensuring a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Overall, Chicago helicopter tours offer a thrilling and unique way to experience the city from a different perspective. With several tour providers and routes to choose from, visitors are sure to find a tour that suits their interests and preferences.
Safety and Regulations for Helicopter Tours
Helicopter tours are an exciting way to see Chicago from above, but safety should always be the top priority. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates all commercial helicopter tours in the United States to ensure they are safe for passengers and pilots alike.
Before taking a helicopter tour, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable company with a good safety record. Look for companies that have been in business for several years and have experienced pilots with a good safety record.
In addition to choosing a reputable company, passengers should also follow all safety guidelines provided by the tour company. This may include wearing a seatbelt at all times, staying seated during the flight, and not leaning out of the helicopter.
The FAA also requires commercial helicopters to undergo regular maintenance and inspections to ensure they are safe to fly. Before each flight, the pilot should perform a pre-flight inspection to check for any issues that could affect the safety of the flight.
Overall, helicopter tours can be a safe and exciting way to see Chicago from above as long as passengers choose a reputable company and follow all safety guidelines provided by the tour company.
Related: Soaring High: Exploring Dubai’s Iconic Landmarks with a Helicopter Tour
Booking Tips for Helicopter Tours
If you are planning to book a helicopter tour in Chicago, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience.
1. Book in Advance
Helicopter tours in Chicago are popular, and it is best to book in advance to secure your spot. Most tour companies offer online booking options, which makes it easy to reserve your spot ahead of time.
2. Check the Weather
Weather can affect your helicopter tour experience, and it is important to check the forecast before booking your tour. If the weather is bad, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. Most tour companies have a cancellation policy, so be sure to read the terms and conditions before booking.
3. Choose the Right Tour
There are several helicopter tours available in Chicago, and it is important to choose the one that suits your needs. Some tours focus on the city skyline, while others offer views of Lake Michigan. Some tours are shorter, while others are longer. Be sure to read the tour descriptions carefully to choose the one that best fits your interests and schedule.
4. Dress Appropriately
Helicopter tours can be chilly, and it is important to dress appropriately. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Avoid wearing loose clothing or hats that may fly off during the tour.
5. Follow the Rules
During the helicopter tour, it is important to follow the rules and instructions given by the pilot and tour guide. This includes wearing your seatbelt, staying seated during the flight, and not leaning out of the helicopter.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable helicopter tour experience in Chicago.
Best Time of Year for Chicago Helicopter Tours
Chicago helicopter tours can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time of year depends on personal preference and weather conditions. Here are some things to consider when planning your helicopter tour:
Spring and Summer
Spring and summer months (March to August) are the most popular times for helicopter tours in Chicago. The weather is usually mild and pleasant, and the city comes alive with festivals and events. The lush greenery of the parks and the blooming flowers make for a beautiful backdrop during the tour. However, these months can also be the busiest and most expensive times to take a helicopter tour. It is recommended to book in advance to secure a spot.
Fall
Fall (September to November) can be a great time to take a helicopter tour in Chicago. The weather is cooler, but still comfortable, and the changing colors of the leaves provide a stunning view of the city. Additionally, the crowds are thinner, and prices may be lower than during peak season.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can be a magical time to take a helicopter tour in Chicago. The city is covered in a blanket of snow, and the holiday lights add a festive touch to the tour. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and the extreme cold may not be suitable for everyone. It is recommended to dress warmly and check the weather forecast before booking a winter helicopter tour.
Overall, the best time of year for a Chicago helicopter tour depends on personal preference and the weather. Spring and summer are the busiest and most expensive times, while fall and winter can offer a unique and more affordable experience.
Related: Helicopter Sightseeing A Fantastic View Of The World
Photography Tips for Aerial Tours
Chicago helicopter tours offer a unique opportunity to capture stunning aerial views of the city. To make the most of your helicopter tour, here are some photography tips to keep in mind:
1. Use a Fast Shutter Speed
When shooting from a moving helicopter, it’s important to use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion and prevent blur. A shutter speed of at least 1/1000th of a second is recommended to capture sharp images.
2. Choose the Right Lens
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing expansive views of the city from above. A lens with a focal length of 24mm or wider is recommended. However, it’s important to keep in mind that shooting with a wide-angle lens can cause distortion, so be mindful of your composition.
3. Avoid Reflections
The windows of the helicopter can cause unwanted reflections in your photos. To minimize reflections, try to shoot at an angle and use a lens hood or your hand to block any light that may be reflecting off the glass.
4. Shoot in RAW
Shooting in RAW format allows you to capture more detail and gives you greater flexibility when editing your photos. RAW files contain more information than JPEG files, which means you can adjust exposure, color, and other settings without sacrificing image quality.
5. Be Mindful of Safety
While it’s important to focus on getting great shots, it’s equally important to be mindful of safety. Always follow the instructions of your pilot and keep your seatbelt on at all times. Avoid leaning out of the helicopter or taking any unnecessary risks to get the perfect shot.
By following these photography tips, you can capture stunning aerial views of Chicago that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Comparing Costs and Value of Tours
When it comes to choosing a helicopter tour in Chicago, cost is an important factor to consider. The prices of the tours can vary greatly depending on the length of the tour, the number of passengers, and the type of helicopter used.
Here is a comparison of the costs and value of the top five helicopter tours in Chicago:
- Chicago Helicopter Experience: This tour offers a 15-minute flight over the city and costs $178 per person. It is the most expensive tour on the list, but it includes a pre-flight tour of the hangar and a post-flight champagne toast.
- Chicago Helicopter Tours: This tour offers a 14-minute flight over the city and costs $149 per person. It is slightly less expensive than the Chicago Helicopter Experience tour and is a good option for those who want a shorter flight.
- Vertiport Chicago: This tour offers a 12-minute flight over the city and costs $149 per person. It is a good option for those who want a shorter flight but still want to see the major landmarks of the city.
- Ride Chicago Helicopter Tours: This tour offers a 12-minute flight over the city and costs $148 per person. It is slightly less expensive than the Vertiport Chicago tour and is a good option for those who want a shorter flight.
- Chicago Aerial Tours: This tour offers a 30-minute flight over the city and costs $349 per person. It is the longest tour on the list and is a good option for those who want to see more of the city.
Overall, the Chicago Helicopter Experience tour is the most expensive but also offers the most value with its pre-flight tour and post-flight champagne toast. However, the other tours on the list offer a great experience at a more affordable price. It is important to consider the length of the tour, the number of passengers, and the type of helicopter used when choosing the best tour for you.
Related: How to Start a Helicopter Tour Business in 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical prices for helicopter tours in Chicago?
The prices for helicopter tours in Chicago can vary depending on the duration of the tour and the time of day. Typically, a 15-minute tour will cost around $150-$200 per person, while a longer 30-minute tour can cost upwards of $300 per person. It’s important to note that prices may vary depending on the tour operator and the time of year.
Which Chicago helicopter tours are considered the most romantic?
For those looking for a romantic helicopter tour in Chicago, there are a few options to consider. The private 45-minute Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour offered by Cool Destinations is a popular choice, as it allows couples to enjoy stunning views of the city skyline while sipping on champagne. Another romantic option is the Chicago Helicopter Experience’s Nighttime Helicopter Tour, which offers breathtaking views of the city’s illuminated skyline.
How do customer reviews rate the top helicopter tours in Chicago?
According to customer reviews on TripAdvisor and Cool Destinations, the top-rated helicopter tours in Chicago include the Chicago Helicopter Experience, Adrenaline365, and Rotorzen Helicopters. Customers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly pilots, as well as the stunning views of the city skyline.
What are the differences between daytime and nighttime helicopter tours in Chicago?
The main difference between daytime and nighttime helicopter tours in Chicago is the view. During the day, passengers can enjoy unobstructed views of the city’s architecture and Lake Michigan, while nighttime tours offer breathtaking views of the illuminated skyline. Additionally, some tour operators offer special packages that include a romantic dinner or a champagne toast.
Can you book a Chicago helicopter tour for a group of four?
Yes, many Chicago helicopter tour operators offer private tours that can accommodate groups of up to four people. Prices for private tours may vary depending on the duration of the tour and the time of day.
What is the average duration of a helicopter tour in the Chicago area?
The average duration of a helicopter tour in the Chicago area is around 15–30 minutes. However, some tour operators offer longer tours that can last up to 45 minutes or more. It’s important to note that the duration of the tour may affect the price.
