I’ve seen Chicago from just about every angle, but I’d never seen my hometown quite like this.
As a Chicagoan and flight attendant, I’m no stranger to flying. I’ve traveled extensively, experienced breathtaking views from thousands of feet in the air, and visited some of the world’s most beautiful cities. Yet, somehow, a helicopter ride over Chicago managed to take my breath away.
Flying over the city with Fly Heli made me fall in love with Chicago all over again.
Watching the skyline rise above Lake Michigan, with familiar landmarks stretching out beneath us, filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride. It was more than an exciting sightseeing experience. It was a reminder of why Chicago will always feel like home.
If you’re considering Fly Heli in Chicago, I recently experienced their Skyline Snap Tour with my cousin and a friend. Here’s everything you need to know about the experience, from check-in and safety procedures to the incredible views and practical tips for your first helicopter ride.
Use my code, FLYGINA for a FREE photo package with your experience.
Disclosure: This experience was hosted by Fly Heli in exchange for coverage. All opinions and experiences shared are my own.
What Is the Fly Heli Chicago Skyline Snap Tour?
Fly Heli offers helicopter sightseeing experiences that give visitors and locals an opportunity to see Chicago from an entirely different perspective.
We experienced the Skyline Snap Tour, a short sightseeing flight that provides aerial views of some of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks.
The flight is approximately seven minutes, which is enough time to see several of the city’s iconic attractions and enjoy spectacular views of the skyline.
For anyone who has always wanted to experience a helicopter ride over Chicago but doesn’t necessarily want to commit to a longer flight, the Skyline Snap Tour is an option worth considering.
Our experience included views of Chinatown, Soldier Field, Museum Campus, Lake Michigan, and the Chicago skyline.
And while seven minutes might not sound like a long time, you’d be surprised by how much you can see from above!
My Fly Heli Chicago Experience
Checking in for our helicopter tour
Our experience began with an easy check-in process.
All we needed was our reservation confirmation code. After checking in, we completed the required waiver by scanning a QR code.
The entire process was straightforward, and the staff made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived.
Before heading out to the helicopter, we were escorted into a private room for a safety demonstration.
The room featured seats similar to those inside the helicopter, allowing us to familiarize ourselves with the seating arrangements and safety procedures before boarding.
As a flight attendant, I appreciated this part of the experience. Safety is an essential part of aviation, and it was reassuring to see the staff take the time to prepare passengers for their flight.
Boarding the helicopter
After completing the safety demonstration, the staff escorted us to the helipad.
One important safety rule was to stay away from the back of the helicopter.
The staff guided us throughout the boarding process, ensuring that everyone remained safe around the aircraft.
They were incredibly friendly and welcoming, which made the entire experience feel comfortable and enjoyable.
Once inside, we were strapped into our seats and given headsets before departure.
And then it was time to take off!
Fly Heli Chicago Photos: The Best Seat for Views
If you’re hoping to capture incredible photographs during your Chicago helicopter tour, I have one recommendation:
The front seat beside the pilot is the best seat in the house!
I was fortunate enough to sit up front, and the views were spectacular.
From my seat, I had an incredible perspective of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. It also gave me some of my favorite photographs from the entire experience.
If photography is a priority, ask the staff about seating arrangements when booking or checking in. Front-seat availability and seating assignments may depend on operational and safety requirements.
What Can You See on a Chicago Helicopter Ride? | Fly Heli in Chicago Photos
One of the highlights of our Fly Heli Chicago tour was seeing familiar landmarks from an entirely different perspective.
During our flight, we enjoyed views of several Chicago attractions.
If you’re planning your first visit, I’ve also put together a four-day Chicago itinerary covering my favorite attractions, neighborhoods and things to do.
Chinatown
Seeing Chinatown from above offered a completely different perspective of one of Chicago’s most distinctive neighborhoods.
The surrounding streets and buildings provided a fascinating contrast to the towering skyscrapers of downtown Chicago.
Soldier Field
As we flew along the lakefront, we had an incredible view of Soldier Field.
Home to the Chicago Bears, the stadium is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Seeing its distinctive architecture from above was a memorable part of the flight.
Museum Campus
Museum Campus was another highlight of our helicopter tour.
From the air, we could appreciate the beautiful setting of this lakefront destination, which is home to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium.
The combination of the lakefront, green spaces, and surrounding architecture made this area particularly beautiful from above.
Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline
Of course, the highlight of the entire experience was the Chicago skyline.
There’s something extraordinary about seeing the city’s skyscrapers rising along the shores of Lake Michigan.
From the helicopter, the buildings appeared to stretch endlessly across the horizon, with the blue waters of the lake creating a breathtaking backdrop.
It was the kind of view that photographs can capture, but never quite replicate. If you’re all about taking amazing photos in Chicago, check out my photo guide to Chicago for some of the city’s most Instagrammable spots!
Why Flying Over Chicago Made Me Fall in Love With My Hometown Again
I’ve spent years traveling and living abroad, and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some truly extraordinary places.
But there’s something about Chicago that always brings me back to myself.
As we flew over the city, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride in being a Chicagoan.
The skyline was magnificent. Lake Michigan stretched out beside us, and the familiar landmarks I’d known for years looked entirely different from above.
For a few moments, everything felt peaceful.
There was something incredibly serene about seeing my hometown from that perspective. It reminded me of why Chicago is so often celebrated for its beautiful skyline.
And more importantly, it reminded me of what home feels like.
Even after all the places I’ve traveled, Chicago still has the ability to surprise me.
That was what made this experience so magical.
It wasn’t simply the excitement of flying in a helicopter. It was the feeling of rediscovering a city I already loved.
Does a Chicago Helicopter Ride Cause Motion Sickness?
One thing to consider before booking a helicopter tour is whether you’re sensitive to motion.
As a flight attendant, I’m accustomed to flying and experiencing changes in altitude, so I didn’t experience any discomfort during our flight.
However, my cousin and friend both felt lightheaded when the helicopter made sharper turns and changed altitude.
Their experiences were a reminder that helicopter flights can feel different from traveling on a commercial airplane.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions before your flight.
An over-the-counter motion-sickness medication, such as Dramamine, may be an option for some travelers. However, these medications can cause drowsiness, so check the product instructions and ask a pharmacist whether they’re appropriate for you.
If you begin feeling unwell during the flight, communicate with the pilot or staff.
What to Wear on a Chicago Helicopter Tour
My advice? Dress up for your helicopter tour!
Seriously. You’re going to want photographs from this experience, and the Chicago skyline makes an incredible backdrop.
Whether you’re planning a romantic date, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a fun outing with friends, this is an opportunity to capture some beautiful memories.
That said, there are a few practical considerations.
Chicago weather can be unpredictable, and it can get chilly while you’re waiting on the helipad.
Dress appropriately for the weather, particularly during the cooler months.
I’d also recommend choosing clothing that is comfortable and practical for boarding the helicopter.
You can absolutely look cute while being comfortable!
Things to Know Before Booking Fly Heli in Chicago
Before booking your Chicago helicopter experience, here are a few important things to know.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
You’ll need time to check in, complete your waiver, and watch the safety demonstration.
Tours operate before and after your scheduled departure, so punctuality is important.
Arriving early helps ensure that you’re ready to depart on time without delaying other passengers.
Complete the required waiver
Passengers must complete a waiver before their flight.
During our visit, we were able to complete the waiver conveniently by scanning a QR code.
Passenger requirements
Fly Heli’s stated requirements for our tour included a minimum of two passengers and a maximum individual passenger weight of 295 pounds.
Additional aircraft and combined passenger weight restrictions may apply.
Check the current booking requirements before reserving your flight.
Follow all safety instructions
The staff will guide you through the safety demonstration and boarding process.
Pay close attention to their instructions, particularly when approaching the helicopter.
During our experience, we were instructed to stay away from the back of the aircraft.
The staff escorted us to the helicopter and assisted us with boarding, seat belts, and headsets.
Their professionalism and friendly demeanor helped make the entire experience enjoyable.
How Much Is a Helicopter Ride in Chicago?
The cost of a Chicago helicopter tour depends on the operator, flight duration, and experience you select.
Fly Heli offers different sightseeing experiences, including the shorter Skyline Snap Tour.
Because prices and promotional offers can change, I recommend checking the current rates directly with Fly Heli before booking.
You can find additional information about the Skyline Snap Tour, current pricing, and available departure times on the official Fly Heli website.
Want a free photo package?
Book your Fly Heli Chicago experience with my code FLYGINA to get a free photo package with your flight. That way, you can focus on enjoying the experience and still leave with photos from your helicopter tour.
Is Fly Heli Chicago Worth It?
For me, absolutely.
The Skyline Snap Tour may have lasted only seven minutes, but it was one of those experiences that stays with you long after it’s over.
The views were spectacular, the staff were welcoming, and the entire experience felt well organized.
I particularly appreciated the attention to safety, from the demonstration before departure to the assistance we received while boarding.
And, of course, sitting in the front seat beside the pilot made the experience even more memorable.
But what I loved most was the feeling of seeing Chicago from above.
It reminded me that sometimes you don’t have to travel halfway around the world to experience something extraordinary.
Sometimes, all you need is a different perspective on the place you already call home.
Whether you’re visiting Chicago for the first time or you’ve lived here your entire life, a helicopter tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the city.
And if you’re anything like me, you might just fall in love with Chicago all over again.
Ready to see Chicago from above? Book your helicopter tour directly with Fly Heli and use code FLYGINA to receive a free photo package with your experience.
Planning a trip to the city? Check out my three-day Chicago itinerary for more things to do while you’re here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Fly Heli Chicago Skyline Snap Tour?
The Skyline Snap flight lasts approximately 7 minutes.
How much is a helicopter ride in Chicago?
Prices depend on the tour and can change, so check Fly Heli’s current pricing before booking.
What is the Fly Heli Chicago weight limit?
The individual passenger limit stated for our tour was 295 pounds. Additional combined passenger-weight restrictions may apply.
Can you get motion sickness on a Chicago helicopter tour?
Yes, particularly during turns and altitude changes. My cousin and friend became lightheaded, although I personally didn’t experience motion sickness.
How early should I arrive for Fly Heli Chicago?
I recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled flight so you have time for check-in, the waiver and safety demonstration.
What should I wear on a Chicago helicopter tour?
Dress for the weather and remember that the helipad can feel chilly. I also recommend dressing up, since you’ll have fantastic photo opportunities.
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