If you’re dreaming of seeing Los Angeles from a perspective most don’t get to experience, a downtown landing helicopter tour might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally taken this exact ride, I’ve read enough reviews to paint a clear picture of what it’s like—and who it’s best for.
What really draws us in about this tour is the chance to soar over iconic spots like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the coast, then land on a building overlooking the LA skyline for a relaxed, exclusive moment. Plus, the inclusion of a complimentary sparkling wine toast and private time on a rooftop makes it feel special without breaking the bank. On the flip side, it’s priced at $649, which is a chunk of change, so it’s important to weigh the value—especially if you’re not keen on heights or flying.
This experience feels perfect for those wanting a luxury, once-in-a-lifetime view of LA with a touch of glamour. If you’re celebrating something special or just want to see LA from a fresh angle, this could be a memorable splurge. But if you’re on a tight budget or aren’t comfortable with helicopters, you might want to consider other options.
Key Points:
- Stunning Views: Offers aerial views of LA’s coastline, celebrity homes, and landmarks.
- Unique Landing: Land atop a building for an exclusive skyline experience.
- Includes Champagne: Complimentary sparkling wine to toast your occasion.
- Time Commitment: About 1.5 hours total—45-minute flight plus 30-minute rooftop stay.
- Private Group: Small, private groups with a friendly guide.
- Weather Dependent: Canceled if conditions aren’t suitable, so flexibility is key.
An Overview of the Experience
This tour is designed as a luxurious yet accessible way to see Los Angeles from the sky. Starting at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, you’ll meet at the Orbic Air office in Atlantic Aviation, a well-organized spot that quickly sets the tone for a seamless adventure. The tour itself involves a 45-minute helicopter flight over some of LA’s most photogenic and recognizable areas—think the coast from Pacific Palisades down through Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Marina Del Rey.
What sets this experience apart is the landing on a city building, offering a close-up view of the LA skyline—something you can’t get from most vantage points. After landing, you’ll enjoy about 30 minutes of private rooftop time with a glass of sparkling wine, giving you a chance to soak in the cityscape and snap some photos in a truly unique setting.
The Flight: Coastal and City Highlights
The helicopter ride begins with views of the breathtaking LA coastline, where you can expect to see Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and Marina Del Rey. From there, the flight moves inland over the famous celebrity neighborhoods of Bel Air, Beverly Hills, and the Hollywood Hills, showcasing sprawling mansions and the iconic Hollywood Sign. The pilot serves as an enthusiastic guide, pointing out landmarks like Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dodgers Stadium, and Griffith Observatory.
A big plus, according to reviews, is the smoothness of the flight—with one reviewer noting that the take-off and landing couldn’t have been easier, even smoother than parking a car. The pilot’s knowledge and friendly demeanor really enhance the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing flight.
The Rooftop Landing and Toast
Landing on a high-rise building overlooking downtown LA is the real kicker. It’s a rare opportunity to stand above the city’s rooftops, getting a panoramic view of the skyline, including landmarks like LA Live and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The included sparkling wine toast adds a celebratory feel, whether you’re marking an anniversary, birthday, or just treating yourself.
Photographers will love the chance to capture LA from this vantage point—both from the helicopter and the rooftop. The 30-minute private window allows for photographs and reflection without the rush. Several reviews praise this part of the experience, describing it as “fantastic” and “a unique way to see the city.”
What to Expect from the Itinerary
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, with actual flying taking around 45 minutes. Here’s a breakdown:
- Check-in & briefing at the Orbic Air office (Burbank).
- Pre-flight safety instructions and boarding.
- 45-minute helicopter tour over LA’s coastline, neighborhoods, and landmarks.
- Landing atop the building with an unobstructed view of the downtown skyline.
- 30-minute rooftop private time with complimentary sparkling wine, photos, and a chance to take in the city from above.
The tour is generally available in morning, afternoon, or evening, offering flexibility if you want to catch LA in different lights or avoid midday crowds. Keep in mind, the operation is weather dependent—poor weather can mean cancellations, but if that happens, you’ll get a full refund or an alternative date.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practical Side: Prices, Group Size, and Booking
At $649 per person, this isn’t exactly cheap—but the value depends on what you’re after. The experience is quite exclusive, with a small group size (up to 3 passengers plus pilot), which keeps it intimate and personalized. Reviews highlight the friendly staff, with one mentioning that Trevor greeted them with champagne and a smile, adding to the warm vibe.
Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if you’re trying to plan around other activities. Cancellation is free if you do so up to 24 hours in advance.
What’s Included & What’s Not
Included:
– The 45-minute helicopter ride.
– A 30-minute rooftop experience with complimentary sparkling wine.
– Private group experience with a friendly guide.
Not included:
– Transportation to and from Bob Hope Airport, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or parking.
Remember, all passengers need to weigh less than 300 lbs (136 kg) for safety reasons, and you’ll need to bring a passport or ID.
What Reviewers Say
The reviews tell a lot about what you can expect. One traveler from Sweden called it a “super satisfied” experience, praising the good guide, good bubbly, good dessert, and a nice rose. Another remarked it was “worth every penny”, citing the professional pilot and friendly staff. A third reviewer, celebrating their anniversary, praised the smooth flight, enthusiastic guide, and the top-notch views, adding that the cheesecake was a nice touch.
From these, it’s clear that this tour is well-executed, with a focus on making the experience memorable and luxurious. The knowledge of the pilot and the quality of the amenities seem to be major highlights.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers looking for something special—whether celebrating a milestone, wanting a memorable gift, or simply eager for a bird’s-eye view of LA’s most famous sights. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with heights and flying, and if you’re seeking a luxury, private feeling that combines sightseeing with a celebratory touch.
If your main goal is a budget-friendly sightseeing tour or you’re traveling with young children, this might not be the best fit. Similarly, if weather delays or cancellations could throw off your plans, remember that flexibility is key.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves helicopter flying and a rooftop experience, it’s generally geared towards adults or older teens comfortable with heights and flying. The information provided doesn’t specify restrictions for children, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if traveling with young kids.
How long does the entire experience last?
Expect around 1.5 hours total, with 45 minutes of flight time and about 30 minutes of rooftop private time.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the helicopter tour, the rooftop landing, and a complimentary sparkling wine toast. Transportation to the airport isn’t included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience.
What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID card for check-in. Remember, strict weight limits apply (under 300 lbs), and no professional cameras or food/drinks are allowed in the helicopter or on the rooftop.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent, and cancellations happen if conditions aren’t safe. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Los Angeles: Downtown Landing Helicopter Tour
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a luxurious, memorable way to see Los Angeles, this downtown landing helicopter tour truly offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The combination of aerial views, a rooftop landing, and a celebratory toast sets it apart from typical sightseeing tours. It’s especially suited for those wanting to mark a special occasion or indulge in a high-end adventure.
While the price point is on the higher end, many reviews suggest that the experience feels worth it—the professionalism of the crew, the stunning views, and the exclusive landing make it a worthwhile splurge. Just keep in mind the weather dependence and the weight restrictions.
All in all, this tour offers an impressive blend of thrill, comfort, and scenescape—ideal for capturing unforgettable memories of LA from above.
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