7 Best New York City Helicopter Tours (2025 Reviews)

New York City helicopter tours offer an unparalleled perspective of the iconic city skyline. Sometimes it’s hard to take in the massive size of a city like New York, one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas, but a helicopter tour sure changes that.

Whether you’re soaring over Central Park or catching a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, these helicopter rides guarantee a thrilling, bird’s-eye view.

It’s a striking contrast to ground-level explorations, such as rolling through the city’s bright avenues on one of our favorite NYC Night Bus Tours, or stepping into the shadows on one of the NYC Underground Tours that reveal the secrets beneath the surface.

With a helicopter tour, you soar over the city, expecting to see unforgettable sights, experience heart-racing moments, and gain a new appreciation for the Big Apple. Below, you’ll find our top 3 picks and reviews for the best New York helicopter tours.

Continue reading for firsthand details about each tour, including duration, highlights, and everything in between.

New York Helicopter Tour: Top 3

Compare Top Tours: 1. New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour, 2. The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York, and 3. New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour

1. New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour	2. The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York	3. New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour
Duration: 20 minutes	Duration: 15 minutes	Duration: 30 minutes
Pickup: Hotel pickup available	Pickup: Hotel pickup available	Pickup: Hotel pickup available
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours	Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours	Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours
Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot	Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot	Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot
Statue of Liberty, Central Park	Empire State Building, Central Park	Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building
👉 Reserve Your Spot!	👉 Reserve Your Spot!	👉 Reserve Your Spot!

Tour Lineup: NYC Helicopter

1. New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour
2. The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York
3. New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour
4. The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City
5. New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island
6. New York City Skyline Helicopter Tour from New Jersey
7. From New Jersey: NYC Skyline Helicopter Tour

New York Helicopter Tours (2025 Reviews)

Tour 1: New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour

• ✅ Meeting Point: 99 John St, New York, NY
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 20 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Aerial views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park

This New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour offers a thrilling way to see the best of New York. From the moment you lift off, you’ll be captivated by spectacular views of Manhattan, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Be part of this breathtaking experience, it’s the perfect option for anyone who wants to see NYC from a completely new perspective.

You’ll glide over the Empire State Building and take in panoramic views of this iconic cityscape. The 20-minute flight is perfectly timed to showcase all the major landmarks, with a pilot offering insightful commentary about what you’re seeing.

Except during takeoff and landing, when you can listen to their interactions with the flight control tower, the pilot is also your guide and knows the city block by block.

For an even more immersive experience, many tours offer hotel pickup, making it easy to jump straight into the action.

This is not just a helicopter ride, it’s an experience that connects you to the city’s soul. And whether it’s your first time visiting New York or you’re a frequent traveler, it’ll make you feel like you’re seeing the city with fresh, wide-open eyes. If you’re after something unforgettable, thrilling, and full of real excitement, this tour checks all the boxes.

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

This New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour primarily covers the heart of New York City. While the tour passes close to Manhattan, the main focus is showcasing the breathtaking sights of the city, including the famous Statue of Liberty, the sprawling Central Park, and the impressive skyline dominated by landmarks like the Empire State Building.

From the air, you’ll get a unique perspective of the city’s architectural wonders and green spaces, with the tour offering spectacular aerial views of the vibrant urban landscape. While some of Manhattan is part of the experience, this helicopter tour truly highlights and is focused on the dynamic beauty of New York City as a whole.

More New York City Tours

Tour 2: The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York

• ✅ Meeting Point: 6 East River Piers, New York, NY
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 15 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park

The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York offers an amazing way to take in the most iconic sights of New York City. From the moment you feel the inertia of the lift off, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of New York City, including famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

The 15-minute flight is perfectly timed to provide a quick yet thrilling overview of New York’s vibrant cityscape. In the air, it feels so much longer as you pass over key New York City sites and hundreds of city blocks and neighborhoods.

As the helicopter glides over the city, the expert pilot offers live commentary, providing fascinating insights into the city’s history and architecture. With non-stop photo opportunities, this tour is ideal for those seeking a fast yet equally stunning helicopter experience.

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York primarily covers the New York City area. While the tour offers stunning views of Manhattan, it primarily spans the entire city, showcasing its iconic landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

If you’re looking to experience New York from a helicopter, this is the perfect tour for a comprehensive view of the Big Apple.

Tour 3: New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour

• ✅ Meeting Point: 6 East River Piers, New York, NY
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 30 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, New York City skyline

The New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour takes you on a thrilling 30-minute flight over New York City, offering panoramic views of the city’s famous skyline. It is really one of those life experiences that I will never forget.

The tour covers a wide swath of the city, including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and the New York City skyline. The helicopter flies at a higher altitude, giving you the chance to take in more of the city in one swoop.

This tour is perfect for those who want to see the lights of New York City, especially if you opt for an optional evening flight, as the city sparkles beneath you. Evening or night New York Helicopter Tours are not covered in this article, but you can find out all about them in Best Night Helicopter Rides in NYC.

The live commentary from the expert pilot adds depth to the experience, providing insight into each landmark you’re flying over. It’s a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of NYC, and the generous 30-minute duration allows for a more in-depth look at the city’s highlights.

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

The New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour covers a wide area of New York City, from the heart of Manhattan to the iconic Statue of Liberty. Its main focus is on the New York City area.

This tour offers stunning views of the New York City skyline, featuring landmarks such as the Empire State Building and Central Park. It’s the ideal choice for those looking for an expansive aerial view of the entire city.

Tour 4: The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

• ✅ Meeting Point: 6 East River Piers, New York, NY
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 15 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, New York City skyline

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City offers an intense and thrilling introduction to New York’s iconic landmarks. In just 15 minutes, you’ll soar over New York City and Manhattan, taking in unforgettable views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

This short but sightseeing-packed flight offers a perfect way to see the city’s highlights without committing to a longer ride.

This tour offers a great blend of high-energy excitement and stunning photo ops, with the helicopter flying close to many of New York’s most famous landmarks.

As you fly, the pilot provides fascinating commentary about the city and its history, ensuring that you get more than just a pretty view. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, this quick helicopter tour will give you a new perspective on the Big Apple, especially the New York City area..

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City mainly covers New York City, with a secondary focus on Manhattan.

This brief but exciting tour takes you past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park. It’s the perfect way to see the city from the sky, offering a sweeping overview of the Big Apple in just 15 minutes.

Tour 5: New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island

• ✅ Meeting Point: 6 East River Piers, New York, NY
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 25 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Aerial views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Statue of Liberty

The New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island offers a comprehensive 25-minute aerial tour of New York. As far as helicopter tours go, I found this the perfect amount of time to experience the views and feel the excitement of soaring in a helicopter.

Unlike many other helicopter tours that heavily feature Manhattan, this one focuses on incredible views of Brooklyn and Staten Island, providing a broader perspective of New York City’s vibrant neighborhoods.

You’ll get to experience some of the city’s most famous landmarks from the air, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, as well as the sprawling views of Brooklyn and Staten Island.

This helicopter tour is ideal for those seeking to experience New York City and its diverse boroughs from a unique vantage point.

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

The New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island provides a sweeping aerial view of not just New York City and Manhattan, but also Brooklyn and Staten Island.

You’ll see iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park, as well as the bustling neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Staten Island. It’s a fantastic way to get a more complete and fascinating view of New York City from above.

Tour 6: New York City Skyline Helicopter Tour from New Jersey

• ✅ Meeting Point: 399 Montgomery St, Jersey City, NJ
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 20 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and New York City skyline

The New York City Skyline Helicopter Tour from New Jersey offers a unique perspective of New York City from across the river. Starting in Jersey City, this 20-minute helicopter tour provides stunning views of the New York City skyline from a different vantage point.

From New Jersey, you’ll fly over the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park, while getting a beautiful view of Manhattan and Brooklyn across the water. The pilot’s live commentary offers valuable insights into each landmark, and the photo opportunities are unparalleled.

This tour is perfect for those looking for a less crowded starting point while still taking in the iconic sights of New York City and its surroundings.

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

The New York City Skyline Helicopter Tour from New Jersey mainly covers New York City, with a secondary focus on Manhattan. You’ll also get stunning views of Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey from across the river.

The tour highlights the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park, offering a comprehensive and entertaining overview of New York’s iconic landmarks from a truly unique perspective.

Tour 7: From New Jersey: NYC Skyline Helicopter Tour

• ✅ Meeting Point: 399 Montgomery St, Jersey City, NJ
• ✅ Departure Time: Multiple times throughout the day
• ✅ Duration: 20 minutes
• ✅ Guide: Live commentary in English
• ✅ Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
• ✅ Includes: Scenic helicopter flight, Expert pilot, Views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and New York City skyline

The From New Jersey: NYC Skyline Helicopter Tour departs from New Jersey and offers incredible aerial views of the New York City skyline. This was a tour my friends and I will never forget.

This 20-minute helicopter ride allows you to experience the city from a unique angle, flying over Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island while offering spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building.

The expert pilot’s live commentary ensures you learn about each landmark as you soar high above the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this helicopter tour provides a breathtaking and entertaining way to see New York’s iconic landmarks and skyline.

Keep your phone or camera handy as every second is an incredible photographic opportunity.

Helicopter Tour Area Covered

The From New Jersey: NYC Skyline Helicopter Tour mainly covers New York City, offering sweeping views of Manhattan and the iconic New York City skyline.

While the tour departs from New Jersey, it also flies over Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Statue of Liberty, providing a comprehensive overview of the city’s key landmarks and waterfronts from the sky.

FAQs (7 Best NYC Helicopter Rides [2025] Reviews)

1. What landmarks will I see on a New York City helicopter tour?
   On a New York City helicopter tour, you’ll get aerial views of iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge, depending on the tour route. Some tours may also include views of Staten Island and Manhattan.
2. How long is the helicopter tour?
   Most helicopter tours of New York City range from 15 to 30 minutes. The duration of your flight will depend on the specific tour you choose. For example, some tours cover only Manhattan, while others give a broader view of New Jersey and surrounding areas.
3. Do I need to book my helicopter tour in advance?
   It is highly recommended to book your helicopter tour in advance, especially if you are visiting during peak tourist seasons. Popular tours like those over Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty can fill up quickly, so securing your spot ahead of time will ensure you don’t miss out.
4. Can I bring a camera on the helicopter?
   Yes, you are welcome to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views during your flight. Some tours even offer photo opportunities while flying, giving you unique shots of New York City‘s skyline and landmarks.
5. Are helicopter tours safe?
   Yes, helicopter tours are safe. Helicopter operators must comply with strict safety regulations. The helicopters used for sightseeing are well-maintained and flown by experienced pilots. Make sure to listen to the safety briefing before departure.
6. Is there a weight limit for helicopter tours?
   Helicopter tours typically have weight limits for passengers due to safety regulations. These limits can vary, but most operators allow passengers up to 250 lbs (113 kg). It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their specific weight restrictions.
7. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
   Helicopter tours are weather-dependent, and flights may be canceled or rescheduled in case of bad weather, such as heavy rain, strong winds, or fog. If your tour is canceled, most operators offer free cancellations or the option to reschedule for a later time.

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501Places Shania Marks Ranking: New York City Helicopter Tour

501Places Reviewer’s Top Choice: New York City Helicopter Tour: Manhattan is the #1 Ranked Tour in 7 Best NYC Helicopter Rides 2025