The 5 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Nashville
Nashville’s a city built on music, and it’s also a place where seeing the skyline and landmarks from above adds a whole new perspective. Unlike crowded bus tours or walking routes, flying in a helicopter offers a quick, intimate, and memorable way to soak in the famous sights of Music City. From the historic Ryman Auditorium to the sprawling homes of country stars, each flight unveils a different aspect of this vibrant city—in just 15 to 30 minutes.
What makes Nashville especially appealing for helicopter tours is the diversity of sights — the downtown skyline, landmarks like Titan Stadium, and scenic natural areas all come alive from the air. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a unique way to kick off your trip, these tours promise a spectacular view of Nashville’s music, history, and natural beauty. For a full overview, check out the Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville.
Quick Overview
This guide covers five top-rated helicopter tours in Nashville, each offering a distinct experience — from a quick city overview to exclusive celebrity home views. Whether you want a 15-minute downtown sightseeing flight, a longer scenic river journey, or a luxurious tour of celebrity residences, there’s a helicopter adventure suited to your interests. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville
This 15-minute helicopter ride offers a fast-paced, luxurious overview of Nashville’s key sights. Starting at Helistar Aviation, you’ll ascend above landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium, Tennessee State Capitol, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. What makes this tour stand out is the private experience, reserved for your party, giving you a sense of exclusivity that larger group tours can’t match.
During this flight, you’ll fly over notable attractions such as a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, Vanderbilt Stadium, and the downtown Broadway strip, soaring just above roof level over the honky-tonks and bars. The pilot shares commentary about each site, making it both an entertaining and educational experience. Many reviews highlight the value for money, with a 5-star rating and comments like, “Highly recommended,” and “Worth every dollar.”
The short duration makes it perfect for travelers pressed for time or wanting a quick yet memorable preview of Nashville. The tour’s private nature and focus on top sights give it an edge for those seeking a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: For a quick, high-end overview of Nashville’s top landmarks with insider commentary, this 15-minute helicopter tour is the perfect choice.
2. Nashville: Downtown Helicopter Tour
For around $99, the Nashville: Downtown Helicopter Tour takes you high above the city streets for a 15 to 30-minute flight, depending on availability. This tour offers a more flexible duration, allowing you to choose a longer ride if your schedule permits.
What sets this experience apart is the quality of the onboard experience — with climate-controlled cabins and leather seats, you travel in comfort while listening to your pilot’s expert narration. The views encompass Nashville’s skyline, the rolling hills of Tennessee, and downtown landmarks, with the option to upgrade to VIP champagne for a special touch.
Reviewers emphasize the smooth takeoff and landing, along with the informative guides who help turn nervous first-timers into excited flyers. One even mentioned that the night ride was “AMAZING,” highlighting how different lighting conditions can enhance the experience.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a more extended sightseeing window and a luxurious atmosphere. It’s perfect for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or simply indulging in a unique view of the city.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a more customizable helicopter experience with added comfort and narration, this tour hits the mark.
3. Nashville: Downtown Helicopter Experience
This premium tour offers a 30-minute flight over Nashville, focusing on key downtown sites like Vanderbilt University, Fort Negley, and Nissan Stadium. Starting at Nashville’s Tennessee scenic spots, the Downtown Helicopter Experience emphasizes learning and viewing.
Pass over Vanderbilt University and the historic Fort Negley, gaining a bird’s-eye view of Nashville’s rich history and vibrant modernity. The Nissan Stadium gets an up-close look, perfect for sports fans. The pilot provides ongoing narration, making this tour both educational and visually stunning.
Guests praise the well-informed pilot, who introduces sites with enthusiasm and tailors the experience to weather conditions, waiting patiently during delays. With a 5/5 rating, visitors describe it as “amazing,” “very accommodating,” and “a must-do for first-time visitors.”
Ideal for travelers who want more in-depth sightseeing and the chance to learn about Nashville from the air, this tour balances storytelling and stunning visuals.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a more comprehensive and educational helicopter tour of Nashville’s top districts.
4. Nashville “Homes of the Stars” Helicopter Tour
For those curious about Nashville’s celebrity scene, this 30-minute tour is both fun and exclusive. You’ll fly over Nashville’s famous homes of stars like Taylor Swift, Kid Rock, Garth Brooks, and others, as well as the historic Tennessee State Prison, which was featured in movies like The Green Mile.
This tour offers a unique blend of celebrity homes and natural scenery, making it a popular choice. The flight departs from 220 Tune Airport Dr, and reviewers often comment on how easy the booking process is and how the pilot’s knowledge enhances the experience. Many mention the value — seeing several homes and the prison from the air provides a memorable and photo-worthy adventure.
Given the premium price of $199 per person, it’s best suited for fans of celebrity culture or anyone wanting a luxury, behind-the-scenes perspective of Nashville’s upscale neighborhoods. The reviews consistently praise the pilot and the up-close views of private homes.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in celebrity homes and scenic aerial views, this helicopter tour offers a luxurious, behind-the-scenes look at Nashville’s elite.
5. Scenic River & Nature Helicopter Tour from Nashville
This 30-minute scenic flight takes you over the Cumberland River, offering a different kind of view — the natural landscape of Middle Tennessee. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, you’ll watch the river wind through hills and valleys, with chances of spotting a bald eagle or two.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on scenic landscapes rather than landmarks. Passengers often comment on the great takeoff and landing, with the pilot providing a calm, friendly presence. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient option for those who want a relaxed but stunning aerial perspective.
Priced at $199, it provides excellent value for those seeking natural beauty over city sights. The reviews highlight how this flight suits first-time flyers and those looking for a peaceful escape into the Tennessee wilderness.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, scenic flight that showcases Middle Tennessee’s landscape, this helicopter tour is ideal.
How to Choose
Picking between these Nashville helicopter tours depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re short on time but want a luxurious overview, the Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville is a great pick. For those wanting more detailed narration and comfort, the Nashville: Downtown Helicopter Tour offers an excellent balance of length and quality.
History or culture buffs should consider the Downtown Experience, which combines sightseeing with storytelling. Fans of celebrity culture will love the Homes of the Stars, especially if they want a luxury, personalized experience. Nature lovers might prefer the Scenic River & Nature Tour, which offers a more relaxed, landscape-focused perspective.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons, checking availability for longer or sunset flights, and considering your budget versus the experience you desire. Some tours, like the celebrity homes or scenic rivers, come at a premium but deliver a more exclusive experience.
Final Thoughts
Nashville’s helicopter tours offer a fantastic way to see the city from an entirely new angle. If you’re after a short, high-end tour, the Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville will give you a quick but memorable overview. For a more immersive experience, the Downtown Helicopter Experience is ideal.
Those interested in celebrity homes or natural scenery will find the respective tours highly rewarding. No matter which tour you choose, booking early and confirming availability during peak visiting months will ensure a smooth, unforgettable experience. So, pick your adventure, and get ready to see Nashville like never before.