The Ultimate Chicago Helicopter Tour Guide: What to Expect & How to Prepare

November 10, 2025

Soaring Above the Windy City: Your Quick Guide to Chicago Helicopter Tours

A Chicago helicopter tour offers unmatched views of the city skyline, iconic landmarks, and Lake Michigan’s shimmering shoreline—all from 1,000 feet above. Whether you're a tourist, local adventurer, or planning a memorable gift, this guide covers everything you need to know before liftoff. From what to wear, to what you'll see, and how to prepare for an unforgettable flight experience, we’ve got you covered.

What Is a Chicago Helicopter Tour Like?

Imagine flying above Navy Pier, seeing the Willis Tower at eye level, and snapping aerial photos of Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean"). A helicopter tour of Chicago typically lasts 30–35 minutes and covers about 50 miles of the city's top highlights.

With SummerSkyz Helicopter Tours, flights depart just outside the city in Lansing, IL, making it easy to access the sky without downtown traffic. Each tour is flown by an experienced, FAA-certified pilot who provides real-time narration and insider knowledge of the city’s sights.

Views You Can Expect:

  • Chicago Skyline (day or night)

  • Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and Soldier Field

  • Lake Michigan waterfront and Navy Pier

  • Millennium Park, Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain

Historic neighborhoods like Hyde Park and the Gold Coast

Who Should Book a Helicopter Tour?

Helicopter rides are a hit with a wide range of audiences:

  • Couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or proposals

  • Families looking for a unique weekend adventure

  • Photographers and social media creators

  • Visitors seeing Chicago for the first time

Locals looking to rediscover their city from a new angle

How to Prepare for Your Flight

Booking a helicopter tour is easy, but preparing properly ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

1. What to Wear

  • Dress comfortably for the season. It may be cooler at altitude.

  • Avoid loose accessories or hats (can be blown away during boarding).

  • Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety.

2. When to Fly

  • Evening flights offer stunning sunset views over the skyline.

  • Clear days give the best visibility for photos.

  • Book in advance for weekends and holidays, which fill quickly.

3. What to Bring

  • Valid ID for check-in

  • Phone or camera (no flash photography during flight)

  • Minimal personal belongings (storage is limited)

4. Arrival Tips

  • Arrive 20–30 minutes early for check-in and safety briefing

Free parking is available at the Lansing heliport location

Helicopter Tour Safety & Comfort

At SummerSkyz, your safety is our priority. All helicopters undergo routine maintenance and inspections. Pilots are licensed professionals with years of flight experience.

Safety Features Include:

  • Two-way communication headsets

  • FAA-approved aircraft

  • Pre-flight safety briefings

Comfortable, climate-controlled cabins

How Much Does a Chicago Helicopter Tour Cost?

SummerSkyz offers one of the most affordable helicopter tours in the region with a flat rate for 35-minute flights

over Chicago:

Current Rate (as of Oct 2025): $230 per passenger
Group discounts and private bookings are also available.

Special Add-On Options

Want to make your tour extra memorable? Consider:

  • Sunset or night flights for dramatic city lights

  • Gender reveal flights with colored smoke drops

  • Private couple’s tour with champagne toast (add-on)

  • Aerial photography packages

Q: Are helicopter tours safe?

Yes. Our helicopters are FAA-inspected, and pilots are certified professionals with extensive training.

Q: Can I fly at night?

Absolutely! Night flights are available and offer breathtaking skyline views.

Q: How many people can fly at once?

Most tours seat 2–3 passengers per flight. Private tours are available for couples or groups.

Q: Can I reschedule due to bad weather?

Yes. If weather conditions are unsafe, we will work with you to rebook at no extra charge.

Q: Where do flights take off?

All tours depart from our private heliport at 3259 Glenwood Lansing Road, Lynwood, IL.

Book Your Chicago Helicopter Tour Today

Ready to take flight? Whether you’re booking a romantic date, birthday surprise, or unforgettable family outing, SummerSkyz delivers a one-of-a-kind experience high above the Windy City.

Book Your Helicopter Tour Now – https://www.summerskyz.com/tours
Serving Chicago, Lansing, and Northwest Indiana
Call (708) 793-2894 or email info.summerskyz@gmail.com to reserve

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