Heading off on a vacation? You may want to think twice about your itinerary!
If you’ve never had the opportunity to get a bird’s eye view of your favorite travel destinations, you’re missing out. Instead of scrambling to hit all the usual tourist traps on the ground, an aerial tour allows you to catch spectacular scenic views of the area and come away from your trip with a new perspective.
Of course, it’s worth noting that some helicopter tour destinations have more to offer than others. After all, the top regions boast a wealth of stunning landscapes and unforgettable views. If you want to get a bird’s eye view during your next vacation, here are six gorgeous destinations to consider in the U.S.!
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
It’s hard to comprehend the sheer size of the Grand Canyon, whether you’ve visited it or not, without seeing it from above. Given the immense scope of this natural wonder, it’s no surprise that even dedicated thrill-seekers can only explore a small percentage of the area on foot or by water.
If you want to witness the majesty of the Grand Canyon for yourself, flying over it is the only option. With its sheer cliffs, bold colors, and the churning Colorado River below, you’ll be in a much better position to appreciate the wonder of this ancient landscape.
2. Kauai, Hawai’i
Despite its stunning natural wonders, Kauai remains one of the least accessible islands in Hawai’i. Unfortunately, this means that most visitors never have the opportunity to witness its stunning cliffs and deep blue waters.
Air tours of the area are a great way to see everything Kauai has to offer, from the rugged hills of Waimea Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, to the lush interiors of Waialeale Crater. Film enthusiasts won’t want to miss Manawaiopuna Falls, famous for its appearance in Jurassic Park! Depending on the time of year you visit, you may also be able to do some whale-watching as well: humpback whales migrate here in the winter, which can add a memorable touch to an already stunning visit.
3. The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a popular beach vacation destination, but you might be surprised by the jaw-dropping sight of the area from above. With a bird’s eye view to expand your horizons, you can reshape your perspective of this natural wonder teeming with wildlife.
Heli tours of the area give you a glimpse of the rich spectrum of waters, ranging from sandy turquoise to deep azure, as well as the scattered islands nature carved out long ago. What’s more, tours offer a one-of-a-kind view of the area’s aquatic visitors, allowing you to spot everything from sea turtles and manatees to sharks and stingrays in the water below.
4. New York, New York
Visitors to New York City often find themselves lost within the endless gridwork of streets, making it hard to understand the sheer immensity of this man-made wonder. In addition, the city is packed with amazing attractions, landmarks, and iconic scenery—which makes it hard to see everything you want if you have to do it on foot. Sure, Manhattan has plenty of rooftop bars, but they don’t come close to the bird’s eye view from a flight tour!
Seeing the iconic skyline and glittering skyscrapers for yourself makes it even harder to understand how we accomplished man-made feats like the 102-story Empire State Building, once considered the tallest in the world. From the famous Brooklyn Bridge to the Statue of Liberty, the right helicopter tour can give you a unique view of all the city has to offer.
5. Juneau, Alaska
Most people visiting Alaska dedicate at least part of their time to exploring the state’s pristine forests, rich natural beauty, and even a glacier or two. Like most of the areas on this list, of course, this can be much easier said than done, often requiring a long drive or hike to reach the region’s natural attractions.
That’s where heli tours come in. Juneau visitors are within a short distance of the stunning, 13.6-mile Mendenhall Glacier, which stretches over part of the immense surrounding icefield. Just 30 minutes from the city’s downtown area, this area is home to dramatic mountain peaks and lush forests, as well as the opportunity for whale watching in certain parts of the year. Seeing the scope of this breathtaking landscape from above is the best way to appreciate its untouched beauty and gorgeous icefalls.
6. Black Hills, South Dakota
Famous for being the home of Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills in South Dakota boast rolling hills that climb into jagged spires as well as lush forests and gorgeous lakes. It’s no surprise that the area is a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere—but you don’t have to hike through the woods to see the best of what the region offers.
Helicopter tours offer a great opportunity to see the area’s mesmerizing aerial views for yourself, from its beautiful waterfalls to its bold granite spires. What’s more, these tours may allow you to catch a glimpse of the area’s wildlife from a safe distance!
Start the Adventure With These Helicopter Tour Destinations
There’s no getting around it: the best way to see the stunning landscapes above is from the air. Each of these helicopter tour destinations boasts stunning scenery and landscapes, allowing you to get a unique perspective on these popular tourist sites.
Consider booking your next adventure in one of these locations, and as you plan your next trip, don’t forget to check out our other guides to help you make the most of your travels!
