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5 Best Helicopter Rides in Chicago for Aerial Views

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By Destinations.aiPublished: September 18, 2023Last modified: June 25, 2024
0 min read
5 Best Helicopter Rides in Chicago for Aerial Views

Helicopter rides offer a unique and exhilarating way to experience the breathtaking beauty of a city, and Chicago is no exception. From soaring high above the city’s famous landmarks to getting a bird’s-eye view of its shimmering lakefront, helicopter tours in the Windy City provide an unforgettable sightseeing adventure. In this article, we will explore some of the best helicopter experiences available to both residents and tourists alike, showcasing the allure and charm of Chicago from a new perspective.

The city’s skyline, rich with architectural wonders, and vibrant neighborhoods make it an ideal location for aerial exploration. Chicago helicopter tours cater to various interests and budgets, offering customizable packages and convenient downtown heliports. With an array of options to choose from, including daytime flights, evening excursions, or event-focused tours, passengers can expect a truly unparalleled perspective on the bustling city below.

Whether you’re a sports fan eager to catch a glimpse of iconic stadiums like Wrigley Field and Soldier Field or a history buff wanting to admire the majestic skyscrapers that define the Magnificent Mile, there’s a helicopter tour tailored to your passions. From state-of-the-art aircraft with two-way headsets for guided commentary to stunning panoramas of Navy Pier or Willis Tower, Chicago’s best helicopter rides promise a memorable experience with captivating views that will leave you wanting more.

Overview of Chicago Helicopter Rides

Red Helicopter Flying Above Chicago
katy_89 / Adobe Stock

Chicago helicopter rides are an exceptional way to experience the city’s iconic skyline, stunning architecture, and breathtaking waterfront. From high above, passengers can fully appreciate the urban landscape while creating unforgettable memories.

Multiple tour operators provide unique experiences to cater to diverse interests. For example, Vertiport Chicago offers the Chicago City Sights Helicopter Tour, which soars above the streets while a knowledgeable guide shares city insights via two-way headsets. This aerial adventure gives passengers an incredible view of popular landmarks.

Another notable helicopter tour is the Downtown Chicago Helicopter Sightseeing Tour. Featured in Travel Magazine, this excursion showcases top attractions such as Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the captivating architecture surrounding the Chicago River. Sightseers will be amazed by the panoramic vistas that can only be seen from this vantage point.

For those seeking a more personalized experience, Heli Chicago has a Private Skyline Tour. Accommodating up to three passengers, this tour includes noise-canceling headsets and allows for intimate city commentary from the pilot. Highlights include some of the most recognizable landmarks and stunning skyline views.

Regardless of the chosen package, safety and customer satisfaction are paramount for these tour operators. By comparing tour options, prospective passengers can find the experience that best suits their preferences and creates a once-in-a-lifetime adventure over the captivating city of Chicago.

Best Chicago Helicopter Tours

Aerial view of Chicago, Illinois from a Helicopter Ride
Chuck Place / Adobe Stock

When it comes to helicopter tours in the Windy City, there is no shortage of options for enthusiasts and tourists alike. Several reputable companies offer exhilarating excursions that showcase Chicago’s iconic landmarks from a bird’s eye view. Here are some of the top choices for helicopter tours in Chicago.

  1. Vertiport Chicago is a popular provider of helicopter tours, offering the Chicago City Sights Helicopter Tour. This journey allows passengers to soar above the streets of the city in a state-of-the-art helicopter, enjoying guided commentary via a two-way headset. During the flight, you can expect to see famous attractions such as Soldier Field, Willis Tower, and much more.
  2. Heli Chicago is another renowned helicopter tours provider, offering flights in their MD500 Helicopter. You can expect to fly past notable landmarks in Chicago, such as Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and Lake Shore Drive. This option is perfect for those interested in a blend of adventure and sightseeing.
  3. For those looking for a highly-rated experience, don’t forget about the Tripadvisor recommendations. The platform features the best Chicago helicopter tours and rides, allowing you to easily find experiences with positive reviews and ratings from fellow travelers.
  4. Adrenaline is yet another provider offering Chicago helicopter tours, rides, and flights. Fly in a state-of-the-art Robinson R44 Helicopter, and enjoy the breathtaking views of attractions like Wrigley Field, John Hancock Building, North Avenue Beach, and Shedd Aquarium. What sets Adrenaline apart is their knowledgeable and friendly pilots, like Ryan, who is widely praised for his awesome flying skills.
  5. Finally, Vertiport Chicago’s FBO experience offers a comprehensive experience for helicopter travelers. With 30,000 sq ft of hangar space, 24/7 line service, and a dedicated business center and office space, Vertiport meets the unique needs of those chartering helicopters for business or leisure purposes.

In conclusion, Chicago boasts numerous helicopter tours that cater to various preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, a helicopter tour of the city is an unforgettable way to experience its beauty and grandeur.

See Related: Best Hotels in Chicago, Illinois

Rotor Zen Helicopters Experience

Rotor Zen Helicopters Chicago Helicopter Tours
Rotor Zen Helicopters / Rotor Zen Helicopters

Experience the thrill of a helicopter ride in Chicago with Rotor Zen Helicopters. As the only helicopter tour company based within the city, they offer unparalleled views of downtown Chicago and its iconic landmarks. Their tours provide passengers with an unforgettable journey, showcasing the city’s renowned architecture, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Board one of their state-of-the-art helicopters and embark on an aerial adventure, soaring by famous sites such as Grant Park, Lincoln Park, and Navy Pier. Marvel at the towering heights of the Willis Tower, Trump Tower, and the John Hancock Building. Discover the beauty of Lincoln Park Zoo, Soldier Field, and the many other attractions that define the Windy City.

Rotor Zen accommodates both small groups and private tours, catering to parties of two to four passengers. They also offer custom experiences, allowing guests to tailor their tour according to personal preferences and interests. For added convenience, bookings can be made online or over the phone, ensuring a smooth reservation process.

In addition to their standard public tours, Rotor Zen Helicopters provides specialized services such as private charters for transportation between locations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, their helicopter rides present an unparalleled perspective of Chicago, day or night, all year round.

Experience Chicago’s breathtaking skyline and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history with Rotor Zen Helicopters. Their knowledgeable team is committed to offering a safe, unforgettable, and enjoyable tour of this dazzling urban landscape.

See Related: Longview

Booking a Nighttime Helicopter Tour

Helicopter for Chicago Helicopter Tour Nighttime Experience
Chicago Helicopter Experience / Viator

A nighttime helicopter tour in Chicago is a one-of-a-kind experience that offers unparalleled views of the city’s illuminated skyline. To ensure a memorable adventure, it’s essential to pick a reputable helicopter tour provider and secure your reservation in advance.

Viator showcases several attractive options for nighttime helicopter tours in Chicago. One popular choice is the “Chicago by Night Helicopter Tour.” This 15-minute tour takes passengers over iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower, Millennium Park, Lincoln Park, and the Shedd Aquarium, while the expert pilot shares insightful commentary throughout the journey.

Another noteworthy option on Viator is the “Chicago Helicopter Tour Nighttime Experience.” With a duration of 12 to 15 minutes, this tour provides stunning aerial views of Chicago’s most famous sites, accompanied by engaging stories and fascinating facts from your skilled pilot. Typically, mobile tickets are offered, and tours are conducted in English, ensuring convenience for a wide range of travelers.

Tour2Sky also offers nighttime helicopter tours, including the “Chicago City Lights Helicopter Tour.” This 15-minute flight covers over 25 miles of the Chicago skyline and operates from a private downtown heliport. The unparalleled views of the enchanting city lights complement the overall experience.

To book your nighttime helicopter tour, visit the tour provider’s website and choose your desired tour. It’s crucial to make reservations in advance, as helicopter tours can sell out quickly. Additionally, confirm details such as meeting location, duration of the tour, and any additional requirements to guarantee a seamless and unforgettable adventure in Chicago’s night sky.

See Related: 20 Top Tourist Attractions in Chicago

The Cost of a Helicopter Ride in Chicago

Private 45-Minute Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour
Heli Chicago / Viator

A helicopter ride in Chicago offers a unique perspective for experiencing the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks. Prices for these tours vary based on the duration, specific attractions covered, and other included amenities.

For instance, Heli Chicago’s Private Skyline Tour accommodates up to three travelers and provides noise-canceling headsets for comfortable listening to the pilot’s city commentary. However, the cost for a 45-minute helicopter tour with Heli Chicago is $795 for a group of up to three people.

Another option is the Chicago City Sights Helicopter Tour from Vertiport Chicago. This guided tour features a state-of-the-art helicopter and utilizes two-way headsets for an enjoyable and informative experience. Although specific pricing for this tour wasn’t mentioned in the search results, Vertiport Chicago’s offerings generally come at a premium due to their high-quality equipment and services.

For those who value an all-inclusive experience, consider the helicopter tour that covers all fees and taxes, live commentary on board, noise-canceling headsets for all passengers, free parking, and complimentary photos in front of the helicopter. This tour package lasts for 45 minutes and operates between 9 am to 6 am with a total cost of $849 per group (up to 3 people).

On the more affordable side, Adrenaline offers helicopter tours in Chicago with prices starting from $173 per person. These rides cruise by the city’s hotspots and landmarks like Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, and the Magnificent Mile.

Exploring Chicago by Helicopter

Aerial view of Chicago cityscape
Iuliia Sokolovska / Adobe Stock

Taking in the breathtaking skyline of Chicago can be done in a variety of ways, but nothing quite compares to the excitement and thrill of a helicopter ride. From high up in the sky, you can witness the city’s magnificent architecture and beautiful landmarks in a way that simply cannot be experienced on the ground.

One highly recommended helicopter tour is offered by Vertiport Chicago. Their Chicago City Sights Helicopter Tour provides passengers with a state-of-the-art helicopter and a knowledgeable guide communicating via two-way headset. This unforgettable experience allows you to soar above the streets, capturing unique perspectives of the Windy City.

Another popular option is Adrenaline’s helicopter tour, with prices starting at $173 per person. This first-class experience takes you high above Chicago’s iconic skyline, offering unparalleled views of the city’s hotspots and landmarks. Some of the sights included on this tour are Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, Sox Park, and the Magnificent Mile.

For those seeking a more personalized experience, Heli Chicago’s chartered helicopter tours might be the perfect choice. Hop onboard their MD500 helicopter and fly past Chicago’s most famous landmarks, such as Soldier Field, the towering Sears Tower, bustling Navy Pier, and historic Wrigley Field. Heli Chicago also offers helicopter charters for an even more exclusive aerial adventure.

Finally, Chicago Helicopter Experience, or CHE, presents their guests with the opportunity to see the city’s skyline and holiday lights from a bird’s-eye view. This exhilarating helicopter ride is perfect for both private and group tours, adding a splash of adventure to your Chicago vacation.

In conclusion, exploring Chicago by helicopter offers an unparalleled experience with captivating views that simply cannot be seen from the ground. No matter which tour company you choose, a helicopter ride is sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your trip.

See Related: Best Spring Break Destinations in the US

Private Helicopter Tours in Chicago

Chicago 45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight
Heli Chicago / GetYourGuide

Experience the Windy City from a stunning vantage point with private helicopter tours in Chicago. These exclusive excursions take passengers high above the city’s iconic skyline, providing breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. With highly skilled pilots and top-of-the-line aircraft, these helicopter tours offer a unique and intimate perspective of Chicago’s architectural marvels and beautiful landscapes.

Beginning in Schaumburg, a popular choice for private helicopter tours is the 45-minute Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour. This exhilarating flight showcases the city’s famous landmarks, such as Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, and the Magnificent Mile. This tour is offered in English and includes mobile tickets for added convenience. Prices start at $795 for a group of up to 3 people, making it an affordable option for small groups looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Another trusted provider for Chicago helicopter rides is Adrenaline, whose flights start at $173 per passenger. They offer itineraries that cruise by all the city’s hot spots, ensuring guests capture every captivating moment from their airborne adventure. From soaring over the skyline to getting up close and personal with landmarks, Adrenaline’s helicopter tours leave no stone unturned.

Heli Chicago offers a wide range of services, including chartered helicopter tours within the city and Midwest Helicopter Travel options. They ensure timely transport from O’Hare to downtown Chicago or even a quick trip to Lake Geneva. Their helicopter tours boast an in-depth exploration of downtown Chicago, immersing passengers in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and captivating heritage.

In conclusion, private helicopter tours in Chicago offer a spectacular way to discover the Windy City from a refreshing perspective. With reliable providers like Viator, Adrenaline, and Heli Chicago, guests are sure to find the perfect tour that fits their preferences and budget. So buckle up and prepare for a breathtaking journey over Chicago’s impressive cityscape.

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