There are very few feelings better than that initial take-off in a helicopter. The turbine engines scream, and the propeller pushes the air around you as you start to lift off the ground. Helicopters offer a trip like no other, allowing you to marvel at the unique views around you as you fly through the sky. Here are the four best places you can visit in the USA via helicopter.
Photo by Austin Neill on Unsplash
New York
Suppose you’re looking for something alternative to flying via private jet charter to the big apple. In that case, helicopter tours will show you the city you have never experienced before. The endless gridlike streets make it hard to understand the sheer immense size of these artificial, concrete jungles. The city is jam-packed with iconic landmarks, attractions, and scenery, hard to visit all by foot. Yes, many rooftop bars around Manhattan give you a high-up view, but they don’t come anywhere near the views a helicopter tour can offer.
Aerial view of lower Manhattan New York City
Photo by depositphotos.com
A single glimpse of the towering skyscrapers and iconic skyline will put things in perspective as to how difficult it would have been to complete the triumph that is the 102-story Empire State Building, previously known as the tallest building in the world. You can marvel at the famous Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, all from the solace of your helicopter. Experience New York like never before from the unique perspective of a helicopter tour.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
A bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon is one of the most unique ways to understand its sheer size, regardless of whether you have visited it. As this natural wonder has a vast scope, it’s no wonder that even top thrill-seekers can only explore a small percentage of it on foot or by water.
Helicopter cockpit scenic flight over Horseshoe Bend of Colorado River in Arizona, United States. Downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell.
Photo by depositphotos.com
There is no better way to experience the majestic Grand Canyon than flying over it. You’ll be able to appreciate the wonder of this ancient landscape better when sheer cliffs, bold colours, and the churning Colorado River surround you.
Juneau, Alaska
Most people who take a trip to Alaska dedicate some of their journeys to exploring the perfect forests and natural beauty and visiting the many glaciers. Like many places we have mentioned on this list, cramming everything into a single trip can be difficult unless you’re willing to embark on an epic hike and extensive car journey to find the region’s most wondrous attractions.
Tourist helicopter landing on the Mendenhall Glacier in the Juneau Icefields in Alaska
Photo by depositphotos.com
Enter the helicopter tour; visitors of Juneau are always close to the stunning 13.6-mile Mendenhall Glacier that stretches across the magnificent surrounding icefield. Just 30 minutes away from the city’s downtown area, lush forests and dramatic mountain peaks can be found at every turn. While travelling via helicopter, you should look out for whales depending on the time of year. The beauty of Alaska is always amplified by the appreciation you’re given through travelling in the skies.
The Florida Keys
Are you looking for a beach destination? The Florida Keys is one of the most beautiful locations to see by helicopter. The advantage of having a bird’s eye view is that it allows you to expand your horizons and reshape your view of this stunning natural wonder.
Florida Keys Aerial View from airplane
Photo by depositphotos.com
Heli tours in the area give you the perfect view of the rich waters that range from sandy turquoise to deep blues, paired with the scattered nature-carved islands. Even better, tours like this offer a view like nowhere else of the aquatic residents, such as the sea turtles, sharks, manatees, and stingrays on the shores below.
Kauai, Hawai’i
Although Kauai is one of Hawaii’s most breathtakingly beautiful islands, it remains one of the least accessible. The stunning cliffs and deep blue waters of this region can only be admired by a few lucky visitors.
breathtaking aerial view from helicopter at kauai island, hawaii
Photo by depositphotos.com
From the rugged Waimea Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, to the lush interiors of Waialeale Crater, air tours of the island are a great way to explore everything Kauai has to offer. Manawaiopuna Falls was featured in Jurassic Park, which film enthusiasts will want to take advantage of! It is also possible to enjoy whale watching during your trip, depending on the time of year: humpback whales migrate here during the winter, which adds to the beauty of this place.
The Black Hills, South Dakota
Home to the famous Mount Rushmore, South Dakota offers the Black Hills, which boast wandering hills that climb towards lush forests, jagged spires, and stunning lakes. A major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts comes as no surprise, but if you love green spaces but don’t quite fancy the hike through the woods, the best way to see what this region offers is via a helicopter tour. A helicopter tour gives the perfect opportunity to see an aerial view of the area, from the cascading waterfalls to the granite spires. The great thing about a helicopter tour is that you can take a glimpse at the wildlife n the area without the chance of falling into an unsafe predicament.
North America has lots to offer for visitors, no matter the destination. Travelling via helicopter allows you to take in more sights than on foot. See wildlife at a safe distance and get the perspective that only comes with flying through the skies.