If you’re thinking about adding a helicopter ride to your Los Angeles trip, the 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour by Worldwide Tourism Inc offers a pretty eye-catching way to see LA’s famous sights. While I haven’t personally flown this route, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what to expect and whether it might be worth your time.
What really draws our attention here are the stunning aerial views of Hollywood and Beverly Hills, and the chance to peek over fences of celebrity homes — that’s pretty unique. On the downside, 20 minutes isn’t long, so you’ll want to make sure this fits into your sightseeing plans. This tour is especially suitable for those who want a quick, glamorous taste of LA from the sky without spending a fortune or dedicating an entire day.
If you’re after a short, memorable escape with excellent photo ops and some celebrity lore thrown in, this could be a great pick. But if you’re looking for a more comprehensive helicopter experience or want to explore beyond Hollywood, you might want to consider longer or more in-depth tours.
Key Points
- Short and sweet: This is a 20-minute helicopter ride, making it a quick but impactful experience.
- Focus on Hollywood: The tour emphasizes the city’s most iconic sights — perfect for fans or first-timers.
- Celebrity homes included: You’ll get a glimpse over fences in Hollywood Hills, Beverly Hills, and Bel Air.
- Stunning views: Expect to see downtown LA, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, and the Sunset Strip from above.
- Flexible booking: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and booking is flexible with pay later options.
- Price point: At $499 per person, it’s a premium experience, but many find it justifies the cost for the views and experience.
What Does the Tour Entail?
This helicopter ride by Worldwide Tourism Inc lasts about 20 minutes, but the total activity time is around 40 minutes — enough time to get checked in, hear some interesting Hollywood stories, and enjoy the flight. The actual flight takes you over some of the most talked-about LA sights, giving you a bird’s eye view of Hollywood’s landmarks.
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The itinerary
- Start from Burbank or nearby heliport: The tour begins with a brief safety briefing and introduction from your English-speaking pilot.
- Over Hollywood and Hollywood Hills: You’ll soar over the Hollywood Walk of Fame, getting a great perspective of the stars embedded in the sidewalk and the historic Hollywood Sign in the distance.
- Universal Studios and Hollywood Bowl: Expect to pass above these famous entertainment landmarks, which are fun to recognize from the sky.
- Griffith Observatory & Sunset Strip: These iconic spots are also included, offering amazing vistas and photo opportunities.
- Celebrity homes: The highlight for many is peeking over fences into Hollywood Hills, Beverly Hills, and Bel Air, where some of the world’s wealthiest and most famous reside.
The experience
Travelers have noted that the views are truly impressive — “We loved the way the city looked from above,” one reviewer shared. The flight feels exclusive, and many enjoyed the feeling of flying high above LA’s bustling streets and palm trees. The pilot’s narration adds a layer of entertainment, providing interesting tidbits about the sights and celebrities, which makes the experience more engaging.
The Practicalities
The tour costs $499 per person, which for a 20-minute helicopter flight in LA is fairly standard, especially considering the prime views. It’s not a cheap escapade, but many travelers say it offers good value for the memorable photos and unique perspective on the city.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking and Flexibility
- Reserve now, pay later: This option is available, giving you the flexibility to secure your spot without immediate payment.
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance: If your plans change, you can get a full refund, which is a nice touch for flexible travel plans.
What’s Included
- The helicopter ride itself, with live narration
- Bottled water to stay refreshed before or after the flight
What’s Not Included
- Tips are optional, but not included in the price.
Timing options
The tours are generally available in the morning and afternoon, giving you some flexibility in fitting it into your schedule.
The Experience from the Passenger’s View
Many reviews highlight the spectacular views as the main selling point. One traveler said, “It’s a short flight, but the scenery is breathtaking — you get a different perspective on the city’s landmarks.” Others appreciated the chance to see Hollywood in a way that’s hard to replicate on the ground.
However, a few reviewers pointed out that the short duration means you’ll want to savor every moment and take plenty of photos quickly. Some noted that the pilot’s narration adds to the appeal, offering fascinating insights about the city and its celebrities.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This helicopter ride suits travelers who prefer a quick, high-impact experience. It’s perfect for those with limited time but still want to see Hollywood from an entirely new angle. It also appeals to fans of celebrity culture or those excited about snapping photos from above.
If you’re traveling with kids, be aware that the activity is generally suitable for older children and adults who are comfortable with heights and flying. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but if your kids are okay with small aircraft and are interested in Hollywood sights, they’ll likely enjoy it.
The Downsides
While the views are top-notch, some might find 20 minutes too short for the price. If you’re hoping for a more extensive aerial tour, there are options with longer durations, but they’ll come at a higher cost. Also, the tour is weather-dependent; poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
A few reviews mention that the experience is quite “touristy,” which might not appeal if you’re seeking something more exclusive or private. Finally, some might consider the price a bit steep for just 20 minutes in the air, but most agree that the fun and views make it worthwhile.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re after a glamorous snapshot of LA’s most iconic sights, combined with the thrill of flying, this tour hits the mark. It’s a relatively quick jaunt, but with enough spectacle and celebrity spotting to make it memorable. The views are truly impressive, and the narration adds a layer of context that enhances the experience.
This helicopter ride is best suited for first-time visitors, Hollywood enthusiasts, or anyone craving a unique perspective of LA. Keep in mind that it’s a premium experience, so if you’re on a tight budget, there are other ways to explore the city. But if you’re looking for a highlight reel from the sky, this tour will deliver.
Los Angeles: 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour
FAQ
How long is the helicopter ride?
The ride itself lasts about 20 minutes, but the total experience, including check-in and prep, takes around 40 minutes.
What sights will I see?
You’ll soar over Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, and more.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children comfortable with heights and flying might enjoy it. Check with the provider if you have specific age questions.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the 20-minute helicopter ride and bottled water.
Are there any optional gratuities?
Gratuity is not included and is generally optional.
When can I take the tour?
Tours are mostly available in the morning and afternoon, giving some flexibility.
How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online, with options to pay later and cancel if needed.
Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so it’s worth checking the forecast.
All in all, the Los Angeles: 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour offers a taste of Hollywood from a perspective few get to enjoy. Great for quick thrill-seekers or those wanting a memorable highlight, it’s a ride that many find worth the splurge for the views and fun stories.
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