When asking yourself about something to do near me in BOWLING GREEN with a group of friends or family, consider
HeliNY
Why HeliNY is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
HeliNY offers one of the most thrilling and unique ways to explore New York City, making it an outstanding destination to meet friends and make unforgettable memories together. As one of the longest operating helicopter tour companies in NYC since 1994, HeliNY boasts a large fleet of modern Bell 407 helicopters equipped with floor-to-ceiling bubbled windows, providing panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Manhattan skyline. The spacious cabins allow friends to comfortably share these breathtaking sights in style and luxury. Operating from both Downtown Manhattan Heliport and Linden Municipal Airport in New Jersey, HeliNY delivers flexibility and convenience for planning group outings. With a range of expertly guided tours — including popular options like The New Yorker Tour, The Ultimate Tour, and thematic experiences such as the Fall Foliage Experience — you and your friends can tailor your flight to your interests and budget. The company prioritizes safety and comfort, using the latest technology in noise reduction and navigation to ensure a smooth and exciting journey. Whether you want a scenic sightseeing flight or a private charter, HeliNY provides a high-end, memorable way to bond with friends over the spectacular beauty of New York from above.
Here's what people think of HeliNY
As of recent, HeliNY holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1357 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly praise HeliNY for its exceptional flying experience, professional and friendly staff, and the stunning aerial views of New York City. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable pilots who add engaging commentary that enhances the tour, as well as the comfort and spaciousness of the Bell 407 helicopters. Positive feedback frequently mentions the company’s punctuality, safety emphasis, and well-maintained fleet equipped with advanced technology for smooth flights. The expansive bubbled windows and the ability to see landmarks from unique angles contribute significantly to guest satisfaction. On the other hand, some negative reviews touch on the high cost of the tours, occasional weather-related cancellations, and limited flight time which some guests felt was too short for the price. A few reviews also note that booking during peak times can be challenging due to high demand. Despite these concerns, the general consensus remains strongly favorable, with most customers recommending HeliNY for its professionalism, safety, and unforgettable views. Overall, the reviews depict HeliNY as a trustworthy and premium helicopter tour provider that delivers exceptional experiences for visitors looking to explore New York City from a remarkable perspective.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Varun Venugopalan
Had an absolutely great time flying with HeliNY. The photos are worth it, so don't mind spending those extra 40 bucks. The staff is careful and attentive, the pilot was friendly and you always had the feeling that you are on safe hands. I went with my family of 5 which included a 14 month old. 20 mins is a perfect time and this was one of the highlights of our New York visit. Highly recommend this, the views are simply breathtaking.
Danyal Reza
What a thrill! If you don’t have time to see all of NYC (which, let’s be honest, most of us don’t) taking a helicopter tour is an amazing way to see more! And seeing NYC from a helicopter tour really gives you some amazing photo opportunities! Our pilot, Matt, was both a fantastic pilot and an amazing tour guide! The ground staff was amazing as well, especially Jason was really kind and friendly. They also take plenty of pictures of you which you can buy after if you want. 10/10 would recommend this to everyone! It costs a pretty penny, but for me it was definitely worth it!
BABE BY BEKI
My partner and I had such an amazing experience! Our pilot Olivia safely showed us Jersey, Staten Island and Manhattan. Not only did she tell us fun facts about the city, she was engaging into personal conversation. Best date night ever!
David Hoffhines
This is the ULTIMATE NYC tour! You will NOT regret this unforgettable experience!! My family of 5 took this tour and it was the highlight of our week! The entire staff is fantastic. They make you laugh and give you all the info. It’s a quick 10min before we were up in the air!! The Helicopters are very nice and smooth! There were no scary parts or rollercoaster feelings. It was so smooth and my kids loved it. The headphones are great to talk with the family. Everything was perfect! I would absolutely recommend this tour!!
Simon Vernon
My original booking was cancelled due to bad weather, however the team managed to move it to the following morning. So happy they had a slot available. This was the highlight of my NYC trip. Staff were friendly and efficient with relevant safety information provided. Pilot was excellent and explained viewpoints along the flight. Felt very safe. Highly recommended.
How to reach HeliNY
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Why HeliNY may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at HeliNY with your friends? Gathering your friends or family at HeliNY offers an exceptional adventure that combines breathtaking aerial views, memorable shared experiences, and a unique way to connect over one of the world’s most iconic skylines. Unlike typical meetups at restaurants or parks, HeliNY provides a thrilling escape from the ordinary by offering helicopter tours that showcase New York City’s grand landmarks—Manhattan’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and more— from a stunning bird’s eye perspective. This shared journey becomes a conversation starter, a group memory etched in time, unlike any ground-level sightseeing. The luxurious and well-maintained facilities add comfort and safety, ensuring everyone feels relaxed before takeoff. Furthermore, its convenient location in downtown Manhattan makes it easy and accessible even for those new to the city. Whether celebrating a special occasion, such as a birthday or reunion, or simply looking to bond over a unique activity, HeliNY provides the perfect setting to elevate your gathering, literally and figuratively. The excitement of flying together, guided by professional pilots who share captivating stories, ensures a complete experience that strengthens friendships while exploring a shared wonder in New York’s sky.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at HeliNY? The primary and most thrilling activity at HeliNY is their helicopter sightseeing tours that offer multiple route options tailored to different interests and budgets. You and your group can choose from the popular Ultimate Tour, which provides a comprehensive flight over Manhattan’s famous landmarks and is perfect for first-timers eager to get the full aerial experience. For those wanting something shorter and slightly more affordable, the New Yorker Tour offers a condensed but equally impressive view of the city’s heart. More adventurous groups might opt for the Deluxe Tour, which covers an even wider area including the George Washington Bridge in the north and the Verrazzano Bridge in the south, giving you a panoramic view beyond Manhattan. Custom sightseeing flights allow your group to personalize your adventure, whether chasing the city’s fall foliage or selecting a preferred route tailored to group interests. These tours also come in day and night versions, so you can experience the glittering cityscape illuminated under the stars, a spectacular scene that creates a romantic and exhilarating atmosphere for your meetup. Every flight is led by experienced pilots who narrate your journey, pointing out landmarks and sharing interesting facts to engage your group throughout the ride.
Why is HeliNY ideal for a group meetup? First and foremost, the helicopter cabins accommodate up to six passengers plus the pilot, meaning your friends or family can all be in the same flight, sharing the excitement together rather than being split up. The seating arrangement is designed to provide excellent visibility from every seat, so no one misses out on the stunning sights regardless of where they sit. Furthermore, HeliNY’s reputation for safety, cleanliness, and professionalism reassures groups that they can focus entirely on enjoying the experience without worries. Their location in downtown Manhattan allows easy access via public transportation and shuttle services, which is a relief for group logistics and minimizes travel stress. Their staff also provides thorough directions and assistance with transportation options, making it convenient for everyone to arrive on time and start the experience smoothly. HeliNY’s competitive pricing combined with its highly rated service (4.6 stars from over 1,300 reviews) means your group gets excellent value for a unique and luxurious adventure. This combination of comfort, accessibility, and group-friendly service creates the perfect environment for bonding, celebration, and creating lasting memories.
How does HeliNY ensure a safe and professional experience? Safety is a top priority at HeliNY, reflecting their commitment to delivering premium experiences that are also secure for all passengers. The company follows stringent OSHA safety protocols in its modern, well-maintained helicopter fleet and facilities. Before each flight, guests receive comprehensive safety briefings, often including video guides, to ensure everyone understands boarding procedures and emergency measures. The pilots are highly trained and experienced, providing professional and attentive service throughout the flight. Additionally, HeliNY was noted for taking cleanliness seriously, especially during times when health concerns like the COVID-19 pandemic were prevalent, enhancing passengers’ confidence in the company’s hygiene standards. This attention to detail extends to their sleek, up-to-date heliport facilities in Manhattan, which offer guests a comfortable waiting area and customer care. All these factors together create a worry-free environment where groups can enjoy the thrill of flying over NYC with peace of mind.
What makes the views and tours at HeliNY standout? The views from a HeliNY helicopter tour are unrivaled and offer a unique perspective that ground tours simply cannot match. Floating above New York City, you get to see the iconic architecture and sprawling urban landscape with landmarks like the Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park all laid out beneath you in vivid detail. The flight path often travels along the Hudson River, providing sweeping panoramas both north to the Upper West Side and Bronx areas, and south to the Verrazzano Bridge and Brooklyn, giving a comprehensive picture of the city’s diversity and scale. Whether flying day or night, the contrast is spectacular; sunlit skyscrapers sparkle with natural light, while night flights illuminate the city’s glittering streets and bridges, revealing the vibrant heartbeat of New York in a breathtaking way. Each tour is designed to showcase these views in luxury and comfort, with pilots providing engaging commentary, elevating the experience from mere sightseeing to an informative and thrilling aerial journey.
How can HeliNY fit various budgets and special occasions? HeliNY offers a range of pricing options to accommodate different budgets and preferences, making it accessible for casual tourists, families, or groups celebrating special milestones. The New Yorker Tour is a solid choice for those looking for a shorter and more affordable experience at around $259 per seat, providing essential city highlights in about 15 minutes. The Ultimate Tour, which is the most popular, costs about $289 per seat and delivers a more extended flight with an expansive view of Manhattan and beyond. For those wanting the most comprehensive and luxurious experience, the Deluxe Tour is available at roughly $389 per seat and covers the widest range of landmarks. Beyond fixed packages, there are also customizable flights for groups willing to invest in an exclusive, tailor-made sightseeing adventure, priced around $2,200 per flight, perfect for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events. Extras such as photo packages are available, though some guests find these less competitively priced. Regardless of the option chosen, all provide an unforgettable shared experience that easily justifies the cost for a high-impact group event.
What additional amenities and conveniences does HeliNY provide for guests? Besides offering top-tier helicopter tours, HeliNY’s facilities are thoughtfully designed to enhance the overall guest experience. The heliport features modern architecture and is maintained to the highest standards, creating a welcoming environment where guests can relax before their flight. Staff members are known for their professionalism and helpfulness, assisting with everything from check-in to special requests for group seating arrangements. The company often provides detailed instructions and support for transportation, including shuttle services from nearby train stations, making arrival and departure smooth and hassle-free for groups unfamiliar with the area. For special celebrations, such as birthdays or family reunions, HeliNY can accommodate requests like assigning co-pilot seats to individuals, which adds excitement and a personalized touch. All these extras combine to make joining a HeliNY flight feel more like an event where the group’s convenience, comfort, and enjoyment are carefully curated aspects of the experience.
How do customers rate their experience with HeliNY? HeliNY enjoys a strong overall rating of approximately 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 1,300 reviews, reflecting widespread satisfaction particularly with the quality of the helicopter tours and customer service. Many reviewers highlight the thrill and uniqueness of the experience as a major selling point, describing it as a "must-do" activity in New York City. Groups often note the smooth booking process, professional and friendly staff, and the expert narration provided by pilots that adds educational value to the adventure. Some reviewers appreciate that the experience feels safe and comfortable from start to finish, even for first-time flyers or families with children. Although some mention that the price per seat and additional photo packages can be expensive, most agree the once-in-a-lifetime views and memorable atmosphere provide solid value. This positive reception underscores why HeliNY is an excellent choice for anyone looking to host a distinctive and exciting meetup in New York City.