When planning a trip to New York City, there are so many things to do and see that it can be overwhelming. From world-class museums and iconic landmarks to delicious food and vibrant nightlife, the city has something for everyone. But a helicopter tour is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an experience that will genuinely take your trip to the next level.
We decided to take a helicopter tour during our trip to NYC and were not disappointed. While we had heard about the incredible views and unique perspectives a helicopter tour offers, we were still a bit nervous as we boarded the aircraft. Would we get our money’s worth? Would it be worth the cost? These were some of the questions that crossed our minds. But as soon as we took off, all of our doubts disappeared. The views of Manhattan from the air were breathtaking, and we could see all of the city’s iconic landmarks in a completely new way.
In this post, we’ll share our personal experience with a helicopter tour in NYC and why we think it’s the best thing to do in the city. We’ll describe what you can expect to see and do during the tour and share our thoughts on whether it’s worth it. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a solo traveler, a helicopter tour is a great way to see the city from a new perspective and make the most of your trip.
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What you can expect during the NYC Helicopter Tour
As I boarded the helicopter, I couldn’t wait to see Manhattan from a new perspective. As an expert pilot flew me over the city on a 15-minute tour, I was in awe of all the iconic landmarks that came into view. From the Statue of Liberty and Central Park to the Brooklyn Bridge and Madison Square Garden, there was much to see and take in.
After taking off from the Downtown Heliport, we swung down over lower Manhattan to get a closer look at the skyline and streets below. We then swooped over Battery Park and caught a glimpse of Wall Street and its maze of streets. Next, we flew over Governor’s Island, which was once reserved only for the city’s dignitaries but now hosts summer concerts and public art. From there, we soared over Ellis Island and saw Lady Liberty shining bright in the distance. We even flew right up to her eye for a unique perspective of the Statue of Liberty.
As we continued our journey up the Hudson, I was mesmerized by Chelsea’s piers and the Broadway lights. On our way back to the dock, we circled the Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge and flew over Ground Zero, where I could see the impressive work being done at the site. Before returning to Central Park, we also passed Madison Square Garden and the Intrepid Air and Space Museum. As we turned around to return to the heliport, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for such an incredible and unforgettable experience.
We highly recommend buying your helicopter tour in advance.
We highly recommend buying your tickets in advance if you’re planning to take a helicopter tour in New York City. There are several good reasons for this:
First, purchasing your tickets in advance allows you to secure your preferred tour date and time. This is especially important if you’re visiting NYC during peak season or have a specific day or time in mind for your tour. By purchasing your tickets ahead of time, you can avoid missing out on your desired tour time due to availability issues.
Second, buying your tickets in advance can also help you save money. Many tour operators offer discounted rates for advanced bookings, so you may get a better deal by booking ahead of time.
Finally, purchasing your tickets in advance can also help you save time and hassle. Instead of standing in line to buy tickets on the day of your tour, you can show up at the designated meeting point and enjoy your time without additional waiting.
Overall, buying helicopter tour tickets in advance is a brilliant and convenient way to make the most of your trip to New York City.
Why it’s a good idea to buy a helicopter tour in New York City in advance:
- Secure your preferred tour date and time
- Take advantage of discounted rates for advanced bookings
- Save time and hassle by avoiding the need to stand in line to buy tickets on the day of the tour
- Enjoy a stress-free and seamless experience by having everything arranged ahead of time
By purchasing your helicopter tour tickets in advance, you can ensure you get the tour experience you want and save money and time. This can help you make the most of your trip to New York City and create lasting memories.
Helicopter Tours cannot fly over Central Park, but you still get a magnificent view!
Best time of the year to do a NYC helicopter tour
| Month | Crowd Level | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| January | Low | Cold |
| February | Low | Cold |
| March | Low | Cool |
| April | Low | Cool |
| May | Moderate | Mild |
| June | Moderate | Mild |
| July | High | Warm |
| August | High | Warm |
| September | Moderate | Mild |
| October | Moderate | Mild |
| November | Low | Cool |
| December | Low | Cold |
As you can see, the crowd levels in New York City tend to be lower in the colder months, with more tourists visiting in the warmer months. The weather in New York City can vary widely depending on the month, with temperatures ranging from cold in the winter to warm in the summer. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy comfortable weather, visiting in the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October may be your best bet. However, a summertime visit can also be a great option if you’re willing to brave the crowds and the heat. Ultimately, the best time to take a helicopter tour in New York City will depend on your personal preferences and travel plans.
