Things to Do in Chicago: Helicopter Tours

Even the most seasoned Chicagoans will be impressed by this week’s featured activity in the city- Chicago Helicopter Experience. In my years as a Residential Consultant, I have spent an immense amount of time getting to know Chicago and seeing it from many angles. From Lower Lower Wacker to Six Corners, I’ve driven clients through countless streets and admired every stunning city view including River North penthouses, rooftop decks in The Loop, and balconies over Lake Michigan in Streeterville apartments.

But when our helicopter lifted up last week, I was speechless. Chicago Helicopters Experience (CHE) tours take off from 2420 S. Halsted, between Bridgeport and China Town. They ask you to arrive early before your flight to check in, which provides plenty of time to explore their 6,000 square foot Customer Experience Center. We learned some fun facts about the city, previewed the sites we would fly over, and played a game of Jenga before strapping in to watch the required safety video.

The helicopters seat up to six people and it sounds like most flights are full, like ours was. We did have the good fortune to be seated up front with the pilot; when he pulled up off the ground and started cruising out to the lakefront, it was so smooth that it almost didn’t feel real. We flew east over Soldier Field and out over the water, north up to Wrigley Field, then back through downtown. Seeing the traffic on Lakeshore Drive convinced me that travel by helicopter must always be the best way to go. Here’s a short video of the views approaching John Hancock Center.

I would definitely recommend the experience and team at CHE. In addition to the daytime tour, they also offer twilight and nighttime trips over the city. Pricing starts at $148/person, but tours can often be found for discounted prices on Groupon. Parking is free on-site, but CHE is also within easy walking distance from the Orange Line Halsted stop.

If you’re ready to upgrade your downtown apartment view, Luxury Living Chicago would be glad to help! Follow the link below to get learn more about our team and get your search started.