Viator Rating : 5 (636 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.9/10 (Solid Experience)
New York City
NYC Helicopter Tour: See the City Skyline!
Overview
New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour takes passengers on an unforgettable flight. Lasting 25–30 minutes, the tour shows amazing views of New York City from above. The flight leaves from Linden Airport, New Jersey, which is a short ride from Linden Station NJ. It is the only sightseeing flight on Sundays from there.
Passengers can pick a daytime, sunset, or nighttime tour. They will see the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. The helicopter flies over the George Washington Bridge and along the Hudson River. Other sights include the Chrysler Building, the Vessel, Little Island, and Summit One Vanderbilt. At night, the city lights up, with Times Square glowing brightly.
Expect to see key spots like TriBeCa, Soho, and the West Village. Fly over Columbus Circle and see Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the National 9/11 Memorial. Other landmarks include One World Trade Center, Chelsea Piers, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and Yankee Stadium. This tour gives everyone, both visitors and locals, a new way to see New York City. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Highlights
See NYC's famous landmarks.: Fly over the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
Choose your flight time.: Pick a daytime, sunset, or nighttime tour for different views.
Enjoy live commentary.: Learn about the city's sights during your flight.
Free shuttle service.: Get a free ride from Linden, NJ Train Station if you ask.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the amazing views of New York City.
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They mentioned the staff was friendly and professional.
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The pilots were informative, pointing out landmarks.
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The free shuttle from the train station was a plus.
Some felt the seating was cramped.
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A few found the location hard to get to.
The Journey
TriBeCa
Glide above TriBeCa, a neighborhood renowned for its cobblestone streets, cast-iron architecture, and trendy lofts. Once a bustling industrial district, TriBeCa has transformed into a haven for artists, celebrities, and upscale boutiques. Experience its blend of historic charm and modern sophistication from an unparalleled perspective.
Soho
Soar over Soho, the artistic heart of downtown Manhattan. Famous for its cast-iron buildings and vibrant art scene, Soho offers a captivating mix of high-end shopping, chic galleries, and trendy restaurants. From above, appreciate the intricate details of its architectural heritage and the energy of its bustling streets.
West Village
Drift above the West Village, a neighborhood celebrated for its bohemian spirit, historic brownstones, and picturesque streets. Home to legendary artists, writers, and musicians, the West Village exudes a unique charm and creative energy. Witness its intimate scale and tree-lined avenues from a breathtaking aerial view.
Columbus Circle
Circle above Columbus Circle, a vibrant hub at the southwest corner of Central Park. Admire the iconic statue of Christopher Columbus and the bustling energy of this major transportation intersection. Surrounded by cultural landmarks and luxury hotels, Columbus Circle serves as a gateway to the Upper West Side's rich offerings.
Central Park
Ascend above Central Park, a sprawling oasis of green in the heart of Manhattan. Experience the tranquility of its verdant landscapes, winding paths, and serene lakes. Marvel at the park's iconic landmarks, including Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge, as you appreciate the park's invaluable role as a retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
Statue of Liberty
Encounter the majestic Statue of Liberty, an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy. Observe Lady Liberty standing tall in New York Harbor, welcoming visitors to the land of opportunity. Marvel at the iconic statue's intricate details and its historical significance as a beacon of hope for generations of immigrants.
National 9/11 Memorial
Reflect above the National 9/11 Memorial, a poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11th attacks. Witness the powerful symbolism of the twin reflecting pools and the engraved names of those who perished. Feel the somber beauty of this sacred space and its dedication to remembrance and resilience.
One World Trade Center
Ascend above One World Trade Center, a soaring symbol of New York City's resilience and rebirth. Admire the sleek, modern design of this iconic skyscraper, which stands as a testament to the city's unwavering spirit. Experience the breathtaking panoramic views from its summit, offering a unique perspective on the city's landscape.
Chelsea Piers
Glide past Chelsea Piers, a vibrant waterfront sports and entertainment complex on the Hudson River. Witness the bustling activity of its diverse facilities, including ice rinks, golf clubs, and television studios. Experience the energy of this dynamic destination, offering a wide range of recreational activities and stunning waterfront views.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Fly past the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, an awe-inspiring collection of historic vessels and aircraft. Observe the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid, the Space Shuttle Enterprise, and a Concorde supersonic jet. Immerse yourself in the wonders of maritime history, aviation, and space exploration from a unique vantage point.
Times Square
Encounter the dazzling spectacle of Times Square, the vibrant heart of New York City. Experience the overwhelming energy of its flashing billboards, bustling crowds, and iconic New Year's Eve ball drop. Witness the electrifying atmosphere of this world-famous entertainment district from an exhilarating aerial perspective.
Central Park
Revisit Central Park, experiencing the beauty and grandeur of its 843 acres from above. Observe its carefully designed landscapes, including the Great Lawn, the Conservatory Garden, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Appreciate the park's diverse ecosystems and its vital role as a sanctuary for wildlife and visitors alike.
Columbia University
Pass by Columbia University, one of the world's leading academic institutions. Observe the architectural grandeur of its historic campus, located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan. Appreciate the rich intellectual history and vibrant academic community of this renowned Ivy League university.
Yankee Stadium
Glimpse Yankee Stadium from about the Hudson River, the home of the legendary New York Yankees. Experience the excitement of this iconic ballpark, where countless historic moments have unfolded. Appreciate the passion and tradition of America's favorite pastime from a unique vantage point.
George Washington Bridge
Fly over the majestic George Washington Bridge, connecting New York City and New Jersey. Observe the impressive scale and architectural beauty of this iconic suspension bridge. Experience the breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscapes as you soar above this engineering marvel.
Know Before You Go
This helicopter tour includes heliport landing fees, fuel surcharge, and live commentary. The helicopter has floor-to-ceiling windows and climate control. A free shuttle from Linden, NJ Train Station is available upon request. Food and drinks are not included. The experience is a shared flight with other travelers. Pick-up, drop-off, and meet-up is available at Linden Airport in New Jersey.
Hot Tip
Many people suggest doing the tour at night to see the city lights. Remember that the heliport is in New Jersey, not New York City, so plan your travel time accordingly. Also, ask for the free shuttle from Linden train station to make your trip easier.
Review Summary
People usually say this helicopter tour delivers spectacular aerial views of NYC's iconic landmarks and skyline that can't be experienced from ground level, with particular praise for evening and nighttime flights when the city is beautifully illuminated. Travelers frequently highlight the professional pilots, comfortable cabin experience, and smooth booking process through Viator. Common concerns include the weight restrictions and the additional heliport fees ($40 per person in some tour variants), though most visitors feel the unique perspective justifies the cost. Some mention that the 25–30 minute flight duration feels shorter than expected, though the experience itself is considered memorable and worthwhile for first-time visitors and locals seeking a fresh angle on Manhattan.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
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The city never sleeps. So explore it! From NYC Statue of Liberty and big bus tours to top entertainment like comedy, magician and burlesque shows, there’s something waiting just for you. Let your guide introduce you to the best bites while you indulge on food tours. Head to a concert tonight, explore Chinatown, and meet new people. That’s just the beginning. Whether you’re sightseeing, partying, or craving adventure, make every trip unforgettable with Dyvarcity.
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