If you’re considering a way to see Duluth and Lake Superior from a different perspective, a helicopter ride might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t personally flown with Lake Superior Helicopters, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, this 15-minute aerial tour seems like a fantastic way to get a broad, stunning view of the city and its most iconic landmarks.
What we love about this experience is how it offers unobstructed, panoramic views—especially of Lake Superior—plus the opportunity to hear insightful commentary from your pilot, which can really enrich the experience. Also, the flexibility of multiple departures throughout the day makes it easier to fit into your schedule. A potential consideration is that this adventure is relatively short, clocking in at just 7 to 9 minutes of flight time, so if you’re craving a longer aerial experience, you might want to look into options for extended flights.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, memorable sightseeing experience and aren’t afraid of a little altitude. It’s also popular among families, couples, and anyone interested in photography or simply craving a view you can’t get from the ground.
Key Points
- Unmatched Views: Get sweeping vistas of Duluth, Lake Superior, and key landmarks like the Aerial Lift Bridge.
- Expert Commentary: The pilot provides live insights, enriching your understanding of the area.
- Flexible Scheduling: Multiple departures throughout the day make it easy to plan.
- Short but Sweet: The flight lasts about 7 to 9 minutes, perfect for a quick thrill.
- All-Season Operation: Operates year-round, just dress accordingly.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with children allowed but must be accompanied by an adult.
What to Expect from the Tour Experience
This helicopter tour begins at the Duluth airport, specifically at 4525 Airport Approach Rd. The actual ride lasts around 7 to 9 minutes, but in that brief window, you’ll cover a lot of ground. The helicopter soars over the city and the lake, providing a fantastic bird’s eye view that’s hard to match from the ground.
Once airborne, your pilot will guide you through the sights with live commentary via your headset. We love this feature—it turns a simple flight into an educational experience, helping you identify landmarks and understand their significance. Expect to pass over downtown Duluth, where you can see the buildings from a fresh perspective, and then hover over Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world.
One of the highlights is grabbing a clear view of the Aerial Lift Bridge, a symbol of Duluth. From above, the bridge looks even more impressive as it moves or stands tall on the shoreline. Plus, you’ll get a unique view of Enger Tower, another prominent feature that offers panoramic vistas of the city and lake.
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The Itinerary in Detail
While the tour is fairly straightforward, each element offers something special. First, you’ll depart from the airport and immediately get a quick overview of Duluth from above. Seeing the city from this vantage point makes familiar streets and neighborhoods feel entirely different.
Next, the helicopter passes over downtown Duluth, where you can appreciate the layout of the city—its historic buildings and modern developments. The pilot’s live commentary adds context, highlighting landmarks or sharing interesting tidbits, which many reviews say makes the flight more engaging.
The crown jewel of the experience is the pass over Lake Superior. Hovering over this vast body of water provides incredible photo opportunities, especially if you’re into landscape or drone photography. From this height, the expansive water and shoreline look surreal, and it’s easy to appreciate why Duluth’s scenery is so beloved.
Finally, the tour passes a safe distance from the Aerial Lift Bridge, allowing you to see it in action or stand still as it towers over the water. This view is often mentioned as a favorite among travelers.
The Value of This Tour
At $117.72 per person, this helicopter ride is a bit of an investment, but many reviews suggest it’s worth every penny. The short duration means you’re paying primarily for a quick, immersive experience with spectacular views and expert guidance. For those who enjoy sightseeing or want a special memory from Duluth, this tour offers a compact, high-impact experience.
Keep in mind, this is a shared adventure with a maximum of 3 travelers per booking, which ensures a more intimate experience than a large group. The included airport tax and guide are added benefits, making the booking straightforward.
What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable pilots and stunning scenery. One guest mentioned that the pilot’s commentary made the flight feel more personal and informative, transforming it from a simple ride into an educational highlight. Several reviews highlight how memorable it was to see Lake Superior’s vastness and Duluth’s landmarks from above.
Many also appreciate how friendly the staff and pilot are, creating a relaxed, welcoming environment. Kids seem to enjoy it too, with one review noting how the team made their son’s first helicopter experience both comfortable and fun.
While the flight duration is brief, most travelers say it’s enough to get a sense of the city’s layout and enjoy great photo opportunities. Some expressed interest in booking a longer flight next time, which indicates the experience’s positive impact.
Practical Details and Tips
- Booking in advance is recommended, as this tour tends to fill up about 18 days ahead.
- The meeting point is at the Duluth airport, so plan your transportation accordingly.
- The tour is operational in all seasons, but dress appropriately for the weather—layers, sturdy shoes, and possibly a jacket.
- Each passenger has a weight limit of 295 lbs, and the combined weight of all passengers shouldn’t exceed 575 lbs.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult; the tour is generally suitable for most travelers.
- Since it’s a short flight, be prepared for a quick but memorable taste of Duluth from above.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This helicopter experience is perfect for travelers looking for a quick but impactful sightseeing activity. If you enjoy aerial views, photography, or want to tick off a bucket-list experience, this ride will deliver. It’s also ideal for families or couples wanting a special moment—many reviews highlight how the views make it a memorable occasion.
If you’re someone who prefers long, leisurely tours or has a fear of heights, this might not be the best fit. But for most travelers, particularly those visiting Duluth for the first time, it’s a unique way to get a broad overview of the city and Lake Superior in just a few minutes.
15-Mile Aerial Helicopter Tour over Duluth and Superior
“When the pilot told us the distance we were from the ground. It was scary because it was our very first time.”
FAQs
Is there a minimum age to participate?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but specific age restrictions aren’t explicitly mentioned, so it’s best to check directly with the provider.
How long is the helicopter ride?
The flight lasts approximately 7 to 9 minutes, which provides a quick yet comprehensive aerial view of Duluth and Lake Superior.
Can I book this tour for a specific time of day?
Yes, the tour departs throughout the day, offering flexibility in scheduling.
What is included in the price?
The tour price includes the helicopter ride, live commentary, airport/departure tax, and a professional guide.
Are there any additional costs?
No, the listed price is per person, and no mention of extra fees is made.
What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather. Since it operates year-round, layers are recommended, especially in colder months.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people can be on the helicopter?
Most flights are booked for up to 3 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Is this suitable for people afraid of heights?
While many people find helicopter rides exhilarating, it’s a personal decision. The views are incredible, but if height anxiety is a concern, consider whether this experience is right for you.
In summary, this 15-mile aerial helicopter tour over Duluth and Superior offers a brief but powerful glimpse of the city’s most iconic sights. It’s a fantastic way to add a memorable, scenic highlight to your trip, especially if you’re eager to see Lake Superior from a fresh perspective. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone wanting to check off a special experience, this tour’s combination of stunning views and knowledgeable guides makes it well worth considering.
