NY Helicopter Tour: Manhattan & Brooklyn

Why we recommend this tour

We recommend this tour for anyone seeking a truly grand overview of New York City's scale and iconic landmarks. It's an efficient way to see virtually all major sights from a breathtaking perspective.

About this tour

This 25-30 minute helicopter tour provides a comprehensive aerial perspective of New York City, showcasing Manhattan's iconic skyline, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn, and Staten Island's key landmarks. You'll fly over architectural marvels such as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the Chrysler Building, then continue south past the World Financial Center, historic Ellis Island, and the beloved Brooklyn Bridge. The journey extends up the Hudson River for northern Manhattan views, then south to encompass Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the impressive Verrazano Bridge, offering a unique vantage point of the city's vast urban landscape.

Highlights

• Fly over the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center
• View the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from above
• Circle the historic Brooklyn Bridge
• Spot the Chrysler Building and World Financial Center
• See the full length of Manhattan up the Hudson River
• Gaze upon Brooklyn and Staten Island's coastlines
• Witness the engineering marvel of the Verrazano Bridge

Who is this tour for?

• First-time visitors wanting a comprehensive overview of NYC
• Couples looking for a memorable experience
• Photography enthusiasts seeking unique cityscapes
• Travelers with limited time who want to see major landmarks
• Anyone celebrating a special occasion
• Families with older children (check age restrictions)

Insider tips

• Book your flight for late afternoon for softer light and potential sunset views, enhancing photo opportunities.
• Wear dark clothing to minimize reflections in the helicopter windows for clearer photos and views.
• Arrive at the heliport at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in and safety briefing.
• Confirm baggage restrictions with HeliNY; usually only small personal items are allowed in the cabin.
• Consider booking on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds at the heliport.
• Bring a fully charged phone or camera with ample storage—you'll want to capture every angle.

What's included

• Heliport Landing & Facility Fees (No unexpected fees upon arrival for a smooth & pleasant check-in!)
• Shared Helicopter Flight (shared experience with other travelers)
• Fuel surcharge
• Live commentary on board, Floor to ceiling windows, Climate controlled cabin

What's not included

• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Fly past HeliNY!

2. 2

   Stop 2

   As you take off, you will see the famous Brooklyn Bridge!

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Fly by Brooklyn, NY!

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Fly past the historic Governors Island with downtown Manhattan as your backdrop!

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Fly above New York Harbor.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Glide past the famous Statue of Liberty and get ready for the perfect photo op!

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Experience a breathtaking view of New York City’s iconic skyline without the crowds!

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Experience incredible views of the One World Trade Center, the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere!

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Fly past the National 9/11 memorial.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    Experience unforgettable aerial views of the Empire State Building.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    Fly past the Chrysler building.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    Fly by Little Island.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    Enjoy aerial views of the Intrepid Museum.

14. 14

    Stop 14

    Fly by Chelsea Piers.

15. 15

    Stop 15

    Fly past Rockefeller Center.

16. 16

    Stop 16

    Enjoy stunning views of Hudson Yards.

17. 17

    Stop 17

    Fly by the Vessel.

18. 18

    Stop 18

    Experience aerial views of the world's most famous arena, Madison Square Garden.

19. 19

    Stop 19

    Fly past One Vanderbilt.

20. 20

    Stop 20

    Fly by Times Square, the most famous intersection in the world.

21. 21

    Stop 21

    Fly by Central Park Tower, the world's tallest residential building.

22. 22

    Stop 22

    Fly by Central Park and experience a stunning birds-eye view of the most filmed location in the world.

23. 23

    Stop 23

    Fly past Columbia University!

24. 24

    Stop 24

    Fly above the George Washington Bridge!

25. 25

    Stop 25

    Fly past the famous Yankee Stadium!

26. 26

    Stop 26

    Fly by the Palisade cliffs of New Jersey.

27. 27

    Stop 27

    Fly above the Verrazzano Bridge, connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn!

28. 28

    Stop 28

    Fly past Coney Island!

29. 29

    Stop 29

    Fly past Staten Island, one of the five boroughs of New York City!

Frequently asked questions