Chicago’s famous cityscape is a sight to behold from any vantage point, but perhaps nowhere more so than from the skies.
(Photo: Breeze Helicopters / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
With breath-taking panoramic views afforded by their wraparound windows, helicopters offer a unique perspective on the world around us. In Chicago, there are a number of companies offering helicopter tours that take you high above the Windy City, including several custom and themed tours. To help inspire you, we’ve looked into all of those currently available and picked out 3 of the best.
Downtown Chicago Helicopter Sightseeing Tour
Downtown landmarks like the Willis Tower, Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, and Soldier’s field (home of the Bears football team) are impressive enough from the ground, but even more so from the sky. On this 15-minute helicopter tour, you and your tour group will soar over Chicago aboard a Bell 206 turbine-engine helicopter as your pilot points out the notable attractions and places of interest way down below. Marvel at the sublime views as you fly north over the Chicago River and past downtown, before looping over iconic Wrigley Field and flying back south along the famous Chicago beaches and Navy Pier, culminating with a smooth but exciting landing. From $233 per person.
Downtown Chicago Helicopter Sightseeing Tour
(Photo: Heli Chicago / Courtesy Viator)
For an extended and more exclusive experience, this 45-minute private tour could be for you. During the tour, you and your intimate group of up to 3 friends or family members will get to take in sweeping views of Chicago from the air. Ideal for a special occasion, you’ll get an aerial look at landmarks such as Millennium Park, Navy Park, and Wrigley Field. The tour price includes the use of noise-cancelling headsets to hear the pilot clearly as he highlights the landmarks to look out for below. From $840 per group (max 3 people).
Aerial Photography Tour
(Photo: Chicago Helicopter Tours)
For photography fans visiting Chicago, this 40-minute customised tour offers the chance to shoot the city from up high. In order to help you get you that perfect pic, the doors of the helicopter are removed, eliminating any glare from the plexi-glass. To determine the exact route you take, before the flight your pilot and guide will sit down with you to discuss the sites you’d like to get shots of, as well as the altitude and angle you’d like to take them from. You’ll also receive an extra safety briefing to ensure that your gear doesn’t fall out and you’re strapped in safely. Cameras are not provided on this tour. From $298 per person (max 2 people).
Book at ChicagoHelicopterTours
By Paul Joseph