The 3 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Chicago
Chicago’s skyline might be famous for its towering architecture and scenic lakefront, but experiencing it from above offers a whole new perspective. A helicopter flight over Chicago lets you see iconic landmarks like Willis Tower and Navy Pier from a vantage point few get to enjoy. These tours are perfect for snapping photos, satisfying your thrill-seeking side, or simply gaining a new appreciation for this dynamic city. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a more expansive view, Chicago’s helicopter tours deliver memorable moments and stunning photo ops.
The city’s unique mix of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers makes it a prime location for aerial sightseeing. Unlike ground-level sightseeing, these helicopter rides provide an unobstructed view of Chicago’s celebrated architecture and bustling streets. Plus, with options ranging from short 10-minute spins to 25-mile adventures, there’s a tour for every kind of explorer—whether you’re tight on time or eager to see as much as possible.
Quick Overview of Chicago Helicopter Tours
This list highlights three top helicopter experiences in Chicago: a brief but breathtaking 10-minute tour, a 15-minute 25-mile journey, and a flexible 10-15 minute daytime flight. Each offers a different way to see the city’s skyline, with prices from around $188 per person to $650 for a small group. For more details on each, check out the Chicago: Helicopter Tour of Chicago Skyline, the Chicago Helicopter 25-Mile Tour for up to Three Passengers, and the Chicago Helicopter 10-Minute Tour for up to Three Passengers. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. Chicago: Helicopter Tour of Chicago Skyline
Starting with this 10-15 minute daytime helicopter tour, it’s a fantastic way to get a quick but comprehensive view of Chicago’s famous skyline. Priced at $188 per person, it offers options for both 10 and 20-minute flights, so you can choose how much time you want to spend soaring above the city. The tour takes off in Illinois and is perfect for those with limited time but a big appetite for spectacular sights.
During the flight, you’ll see highlights such as the Willis Tower, Wrigley Field, and Navy Pier. The pilot provides engaging commentary about the sights, enriching your experience with interesting facts and insights. The breathtaking views from the sky are ideal for photography, especially on clear days. Reviewers love this tour, with one describing it as “Phenomenal experience all around,” giving it a perfect 5/5 rating.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility and the chance to see the skyline at a relaxed pace. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a quick yet memorable aerial overview or those trying helicopter flying for the first time. Keep in mind, the flights are relatively short, so if you want a broader view, the other options might be better.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for a short, high-impact experience with excellent reviews and a chance to capture stunning cityscape photos.
2. Chicago Helicopter 25-Mile Tour for up to Three Passengers
For about $650, this 15-minute group tour takes up to three passengers on a 25-mile aerial journey through downtown Chicago. It’s ideal if you want to cover more ground and see a broader swath of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The route includes views of Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and Wrigley Field—the perfect lineup for sports fans and architecture lovers alike.
This tour is distinguished by its panoramic scope. Flying over the city allows you to see the dense cluster of skyscrapers and key attractions from a perspective that ground tours can’t match. The group size keeps things intimate without sacrificing the thrill of flying in a helicopter. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the pilot and the spectacular views, with one reviewer noting, “The views were spectacular” and calling the experience “easy to book” and “great for first-timers.”
Because of its longer duration and scenic route, this tour offers excellent value for travelers who want a rundown of Chicago from above without the expense or time commitment of full-day tours. It’s suited for visitors with some helicopter experience or those eager to see the city’s major sights from above in a short time.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, panoramic tour perfect for travelers who want more than just a quick glimpse but don’t want to spend all day flying around.
3. Chicago Helicopter 10-Minute Tour for up to Three Passengers
This 10-minute helicopter ride is tailored for those who want a swift yet impressive aerial view of Chicago. Priced at $375 for up to three passengers, it’s a compact experience covering key sights like downtown, the Chicago River, and Museum Campus. The tour includes three stops: flying over The Loop, then over Soldier Field and the Shedd Aquarium, and finally Navy Pier.
What sets this tour apart is its detailed route, allowing you to see different parts of the city in a short window. Guests consistently praise the spectacular views and the professionalism of the pilot, especially noting the experience of Fabio. Review snippets include “The views were spectacular!” and “The ride was fantastic with wonderful views of downtown and the river,” emphasizing the quality of the experience.
While shorter than the other tours, this option is perfect if you’re seeking a focused, high-impact aerial tour and have limited time. It’s a great way to combine a sightseeing flight with a bit of city exploration in a quick, memorable adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a swift, scenic overview of Chicago’s most iconic sights without committing to a longer tour.
How to Choose
Picking the right helicopter tour depends on your schedule, budget, and what you want to see. If you’re after a quick overview and new to helicopter flying, the Chicago Skyline Tour offers a perfect introduction. For those wanting to see more sights in one go, the 25-Mile Tour gives a more expansive view at a reasonable group price. If your time is tight but you still want a dynamic aerial experience, the 10-minute tour hits the spot.
Consider booking early, especially during peak travel seasons, and check the availability for your preferred time of day. Clear weather greatly enhances the experience, so aim for mornings or early afternoons when skies tend to be clearer.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s helicopter tours offer a variety of ways to enjoy the city from a new angle. For quick thrills, the 10-minute tour is hard to beat. If you want a broader view with some extra time, the 25-Mile Tour provides excellent value. And for those who want a short, immersive experience, the Skyline Tour is a reliable choice.
No matter which one you pick, booking early can help secure the best times and ensure your spot in the sky. Prepare for an unforgettable perspective on Chicago’s architecture, lakefront, and lively streets—an experience that elevates your trip in more ways than one.