Chicago Lincoln Park Indoor Skydiving with Two Flights

Imagine feeling the thrill of free-fall without leaping out of an airplane or even leaving the ground. That’s exactly what Chicago Lincoln Park Indoor Skydiving offers—a chance to soar inside a state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel, right in the heart of Chicago. For $102.46 per person, you get about 1 hour and 15 minutes of full-on fun, including two 60-second flights, expert supervision, and the chance to earn a certificate of achievement. The location is easily accessible at 800 W Scott St, and booking generally opens about three weeks in advance.

What makes this experience truly appealing is the mix of safety, accessibility, and genuine adrenaline. We loved the thorough training session that sets you up for success—no prior experience necessary—and the personalized help from flight instructors that ensures everyone feels confident. The facility itself is praised for its friendly staff and modern amenities, creating a welcoming environment for first-timers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike.

On the downside, guests should be aware of health and weight restrictions—like most indoor skydiving venues, there’s a limit of 260-300 pounds for safety reasons, and pregnant women or those with certain injuries are advised to skip the experience. Plus, punctuality is key, as the experience starts on time, and delays may forfeit your slot. This tour suits adventurous travelers, families with children (as young as 3), and anyone wanting a safe but exhilarating taste of flight in a controlled environment.

Key Points

• Safety First: The experience is designed for all levels, with professional instructors guiding every step.
• No Experience Needed: Beginners are welcomed and thoroughly briefed before flying.
• Fun for All Ages: Suitable for children over 3, with parental waivers for minors.
• Great Value: Two flights, a certificate, and expert attention all for just over $100.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 12 participants, ensuring personalized guidance.
• Accessible for Most: Well-fitting shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended; weight and health restrictions apply.

The Indoor Skydiving Experience: What to Expect

Stepping into the iFLY facility in Lincoln Park, you’ll immediately notice a sleek, modern atmosphere that emphasizes safety and professionalism. The welcome begins with a comprehensive training session—think of it as a mini flying lesson—where your instructor explains the technique, safety rules, and what you’ll experience during your flight. This briefing is crucial, especially for first-timers, as it demystifies the process and builds confidence.

Once suited up in a flight suit, goggles, and ear protection, you’ll move into the vertical wind tunnel. This is where the magic happens: a high-powered fan at the top draws air up and then sends it back down in a wall-to-wall column of air, allowing you to float and maneuver like a bird. The two 60-second flights are spaced out with a short rest and debrief, giving you time to catch your breath and reflect.

The flights themselves are surprisingly stable and smooth, with many reviewers describing the sensation as “like floating on a strong but gentle river of air.” No one feels like they’re falling or jumping—instead, you gently hover and can even do turns or simple tricks with instructor guidance. Many guests comment on how the experience is fun and stress-relieving, with one saying it “can definitely be a stress reliever.”

Your instructor will be there to assist, ensuring proper flying posture and helping you perform basic moves. The certificate of achievement you receive afterward is a nice touch, giving you a tangible reminder of your flight. For those looking for a unique, memorable activity, this indoor skydiving session offers a safe, accessible way to enjoy the sensation of flight.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Arrival and Check-in

Arriving 10-15 minutes early is recommended so you can check in and get suited up. Punctuality helps keep the group on schedule—important because the experience is capped at 12 participants per session. You’ll be greeted by friendly staff, who will help you with the paperwork, including waivers for minors, and ensure you’re comfortable.

Training and Preparation

The training session lasts roughly 10-15 minutes and covers safety procedures, hand signals, and flying techniques. It’s delivered in a straightforward, no-nonsense manner that leaves most first-time flyers feeling more prepared and less anxious. Many reviews mention that their instructor, such as “Vinnie,” was especially helpful and enthusiastic, making the process easier for nervous participants.

The Flights

The main event involves two separate flights, each lasting 60 seconds. While that might seem brief, most agree it’s enough time to experience the thrill of flight and try some basic maneuvers. The flights are typically spaced with a break for rest, debriefing, and adjusting equipment.

Observers and Spectators

If you’re bringing friends or family who are not flying, they’re welcome to watch from the observation area. This is a good way to share the fun and see how the actual flight looks. Several reviews note how excited and proud spectators become during the flights—like watching a live stunt show.

Duration and Overall Value

From check-in to completion, expect around one hour and fifteen minutes. The experience is designed to be intense but manageable, especially given that most participants walk away with a broad smile and a certificate. The price point of just over $100 includes everything—training, equipment, two flights, and a keepsake, making it a solid value for anyone looking for a memorable thrill.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many visitors rave about the professionalism and friendliness of staff. Gustavo_L, for instance, said, “The staff was so friendly and professional, facilities are very nice and the experience was awesome. I will definitely come back soon.” Enthusiasm is common, with one reviewer even calling it a “total blast,” emphasizing how smile-inducing and fun the flights are.

Others appreciated the personalized attention from instructors like Vinny or Hannah, who help you feel at ease and confident. For many, the highlight was the sense of achievement and the fun of floating in a secure environment—something that feels surprisingly natural despite the high-tech nature of the tunnel.

However, a few reviews detail minor frustrations, such as the importance of arriving on time—delays may mean you miss out on your session. Also, some highlight the weight restrictions and health considerations, which are crucial to note if you have physical limitations or health concerns.

What the Experience Means

This activity isn’t just about the adrenaline—many find it a stress reliever or just a novel way to spend an hour in Chicago. It’s perfect for adventurers of all ages, including children over 3, provided they have a guardian sign the waiver. The high safety standards and friendly environment make it accessible and welcoming for families, solo thrill-seekers, or groups looking for something different.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re an adventurous spirit eager to try something outside the usual sightseeing, this indoor skydiving offers a safe and exhilarating taste of flight. It’s especially good for those who want a quick but memorable thrill without the logistical hassle of planning a jump out of a plane. Families with children over 3 will appreciate that it’s suitable for most ages, with proper supervision.

It’s a great choice for first-timers who want to feel the sensation of free-fall but prefer the safety and comfort of a controlled environment. If you’re after stunning views of Chicago, though, you might prefer other activities—this is more about the sensation of flying and less about scenery.

Most importantly, you’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment and a cool certificate—a perfect souvenir from your Chicago trip.

The Sum Up

Indoor skydiving in Chicago’s Lincoln Park is a genuinely fun, safe, and accessible adventure that appeals to a broad range of travelers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a curious family, or someone looking for an unusual experience in the city, this activity provides a unique rush without the need for a plane or jumping out of an aircraft. The professional staff and modern facilities help ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

The two-flight format offers plenty of time in the air, while the friendly guidance helps even nervous flyers feel at ease. For those who want a memorable story to tell, a certificate of achievement seals the deal, reminding you of your flight in the Wind Tunnel. Keep in mind the weight and health restrictions and arrive early to make the most of your session.

If you’re craving a different kind of adventure that combines fun with a touch of achievement, this indoor skydiving experience is well worth considering. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or groups who want to add a dash of adventure to their Chicago visit.

FAQ

How does the Chicago-Lincoln Park Indoor Skydiving Experience work?
It involves standing inside a vertical wind tunnel with powerful fans at the top creating a column of air that allows you to float and maneuver. The air is compressed and sped up in the chamber, simulating the sensation of free-fall.

How safe is this activity?
With wall-to-wall air and certified, trained instructors, the wind tunnel is designed for safety. Your instructor will stay with you throughout the flight, ensuring proper technique and safety protocols.

What is a wind tunnel?
It’s a machine that moves a column of high-speed air vertically, allowing people to float in a controlled environment. Think of it as a suspended, gentle river of air that supports you without falling.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving 10-15 minutes early is advised so you can check in, get suited up, and go through the training before your scheduled flight.

Do I fly alone or with a group?
You’ll be flying one at a time in the chamber, but in a session with up to 12 participants. Spectators are welcome to watch from the observation area.

How long do the flights last?
Each flight is 60 seconds, but the entire experience, including briefing and prep, takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Can kids participate?
Yes, children over 3 years old can fly with a guardian’s waiver. There’s no upper age limit, but safety restrictions like weight limits apply.

Are there weight restrictions?
Participants should weigh less than 300 pounds. Those between 260 and 300 pounds need to inform staff during check-in for potential accommodations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, well-fitting sneakers or running shoes, and long hair tied back are recommended. You’ll wear a flight suit over your clothes.

This indoor skydiving adventure offers a remarkable way to experience flight in a controlled, safe environment. Whether you’re visiting Chicago or a local looking for something different, it’s a bucket-list activity that’s as fun as it is memorable.