The Central Park Helicopter Tour in New York, NY, offers a unique aerial perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. Soaring over Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge, this 15-minute flight provides travelers with a breathtaking experience. With a starting price of $274 per person, the tour accommodates up to six passengers for a personal and intimate journey. While the tour itself is highly rated by travelers, there’s more to discover about this unforgettable adventure. From meeting the requirements to the flight route and duration, the details can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Key Points
- The Central Park Helicopter Tour offers breathtaking aerial views of iconic New York City landmarks, including Central Park and the Statue of Liberty, in a flight duration of less than one hour.
- The tour is recommended by 92% of travelers and has a rating of 4.7 from 38 reviews, providing a unique and intimate experience for up to six passengers.
- Pricing starts at $274 per person, with additional fees for late arrivals, children under 2, and exceeding the 250 lbs weight limit per passenger.
- The tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with stroller allowance and service animal accommodation, and passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior with identification.
- Safety regulations are strictly enforced, including passenger weight limits and shared or private tour options, to ensure the aircraft operates within capacity.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Central Park Helicopter Tour offers a quick and exhilarating sightseeing experience over New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Boasting a 4.7 rating from 38 reviews, this tour is recommended by 92% of travelers.
During the less-than-an-hour flight, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The tour accommodates a maximum of six passengers, ensuring a personal and intimate experience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a unique perspective, the Central Park Helicopter Tour provides an unforgettable aerial adventure over the vibrant city skyline.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in New York City
Pricing and Fees
For the Central Park Helicopter Tour, pricing begins at $274 per person. Plus, there’s a $50 heliport/fuel fee per passenger, payable on-site.
Travelers who arrive 45 minutes late will incur a $50 late fee, while those arriving 30 minutes or less prior to the tour will be charged $100.
Children under 2 are also subject to the $50 heliport/fuel fee.
It’s important to note that the total weight limit per passenger is 250 lbs, and those exceeding this limit must either purchase an additional seat or forfeit their flight.
Shared tours are available, unless all seats are purchased for a private tour.
Meeting and Accessibility
The Central Park Helicopter Tour’s meeting point is located at 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004.
The tour is designed to be accessible to all, with the following features:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Allows service animals
- Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior with identification
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Ensuring a smooth and inclusive experience, the tour caters to the needs of all travelers.
Passengers should plan to arrive well in advance, as this will allow ample time to complete the necessary check-in procedures before embarking on the unforgettable aerial journey over New York City’s iconic landmarks.
Safety and Weight Regulations
Safety and weight regulations are crucial considerations for the Central Park Helicopter Tour. Passengers are weighed upon arrival, with a total weight limit of 250 lbs per person. Those exceeding the limit must purchase an additional seat or forfeit their flight.
The helicopter accommodates six passengers and one pilot, with shared tours unless all seats are purchased for a private experience. This ensures the aircraft operates safely and within its capacity.
It’s important for guests to understand these policies prior to booking to avoid any unexpected fees or issues on the day of the tour.
Customer Feedback
Travelers have largely praised the Central Park Helicopter Tour, with many highlighting the amazing views, friendly staff, and informative pilots.
However, some negative experiences have been noted, emphasizing the importance of understanding policies before booking.
The consensus indicates the tour is a must-do, providing unforgettable sights and memorable experiences.
Key customer feedback includes:
- Breathtaking bird’s-eye views of iconic NYC landmarks
- Knowledgeable and personable tour guides
- Smooth and comfortable helicopter rides
- Dissatisfaction with late fees and staff interactions
- Appreciation for the personal and intimate tour experience
- 9/11 Memorial, Ground Zero Tour With Optional 9/11 Museum Ticket
- 9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket
- All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory
- New York Catacombs by Candlelight
- New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
- Official NYC Horse Carriage Rides in Central Park Since 1979 ™
Booking and Reservations
To book the Central Park Helicopter Tour, visitors can directly contact the tour operator through their website or by phone.
Reservations are required, and travelers are encouraged to book well in advance as tour slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Upon booking, passengers will be provided with detailed instructions on where to meet and what to bring.
Payment is due in full at the time of booking, and additional fees may apply for factors like late arrivals or weight restrictions.
Customers should carefully review the tour’s policies and requirements prior to finalizing their reservation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Flight Route and Duration
During the approximately 15-minute flight, the helicopter takes passengers on a breathtaking tour of New York City’s skyline.
The tour showcases some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including:
- Central Park, the lush, verdant oasis in the heart of Manhattan
- The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy
- Ellis Island, the historic gateway for millions of immigrants
- The financial district, home to Wall Street and the towering skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan
- The Brooklyn Bridge, a marvel of 19th-century engineering
The helicopter’s unique vantage point allows guests to appreciate the scale and grandeur of these landmarks, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
Preparing for Your Tour
Preparing for your tour begins with arriving at the designated meeting point, located at 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004. Ensuring you arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure is crucial, as late arrivals incur additional fees. The tour is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and accommodations for service animals.
Arrival Time | Late Fee |
---|---|
45 minutes late | $50 |
30 minutes or less | $100 |
Passengers are weighed at the facility, with a 250 lbs weight limit per person. Those exceeding the limit must purchase an additional seat or forfeit their flight. Familiarizing yourself with the safety guidelines and regulations will help you have a smooth and enjoyable Central Park helicopter tour experience.
Recap
The Central Park Helicopter Tour offers an unforgettable aerial adventure, providing breathtaking views of New York City’s iconic landmarks. With a 15-minute flight and a starting price of $274 per person, this intimate tour accommodates up to six passengers. Travelers rate it 4.7 out of 5, making it a must-experience activity for those seeking a unique perspective of the Big Apple.
More Helicopter Tours in New York City
- New York City Night Lights Helicopter Tour From New Jersey
- NYC Helicopter Proposal Tour Review
- New York to Montauk Full-Day Fishing Adventure With Private Helicopter
- The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City
- Scenic Lakeside Proposal With Luxury Helicopter From NYC
- Private Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Helicopter Charter From Manhattan
More Tours in New York City
- Superheroes in New York City Private Walking Tour
- NYC’s Greenwich Village Private Walking Tour
- Jewish History of NYC Private Tour With Transfers
- Statue of Liberty & Empire State Building 5-hour Tour by Car
- Brooklyn Bridge Running Tour
- Choose Your Access Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small-Group Tour
More Tour Reviews in New York City
Not for you? Here's more things to do in New York City we have recnetly reviewed
- 3 Best Craft Beer Tours And Tastings In New York City
- 16 Best 2 Day Tours In New York City
- 15 Best 3 Day Tours In New York City
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In New York City
- 20 Best Christmas Experiences In New York City
- 25 Best Dining Experiences In New York City
- 15 Best Full-Day Tours In New York City
- 25 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In New York City
- 2 Best Jet-Ski Experiences In New York City
- 4 Best 4 Day Tours In New York City
- 3 Best Coffee Tours And Tastings In New York City
- 20 Best Photography Experiences In New York City