Greenville, South Carolina, isn’t just about charming Main Street and good food — it’s also a place where aerial views add a whole new dimension to your visit. Whether you want to see the city from above or get a taste of the scenic mountains that surround it, helicopter tours here offer a thrilling way to experience the area. We’re particularly fond of the Downtown Helicopter Tour for its quick, city-focused perspective, and the Scenic Helicopter Tour Over Swamp Rabbit Trail for a broader landscape look. These flights give you a new appreciation for Greenville’s lush parks, historic sites, and natural beauty.
If you’re looking to combine a city tour with mountain vistas, the Helicopter Tour of Lake Robinson and Mountains stands out for its panoramic views of Furman University, Paris Mountain, and the majestic peaks beyond. It’s a step up in both length and scope, offering a more comprehensive look at South Carolina’s varied scenery. No matter which you choose, each tour provides a different way to see Greenville and its surroundings through a bird’s-eye lens.
Quick Overview of Greenville Helicopter Tours
Below you’ll find a selection of the best helicopter flights in Greenville, each offering a distinct experience:
- Downtown Helicopter Tour: A 9-minute flight over Greenville’s iconic buildings and Reedy River. []
- Helicopter Tour of Lake Robinson and Mountains: A 20-minute journey over the city, Lake Robinson, and scenic mountains. []
- Scenic Helicopter Tour Over Swamp Rabbit Trail: A 14-minute flight over Paris Mountain, Reedy Falls Park, and Traveler’s Rest. []
Each tour offers a different slice of Greenville’s landscape, from urban highlights to mountain panoramas and lush parks. Now, let’s look at what makes each one special.
1. Greenville: Downtown Helicopter Tour
At just 9 minutes, the Greenville: Downtown Helicopter Tour packs a punch for those short on time but eager to see the city’s core from above. For $110 per person, this tour offers a quick but memorable flight over Greenville’s most recognizable landmarks. You’ll fly over North Main Street, Liberty Bridge, and Falls Park on the Reedy, getting a fresh view of the iconic Liberty Bridge’s arch and the lush greenery of the park.
This tour is perfect if you want a taste of Greenville’s urban landscape, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. The flight is smooth and comfortable, with noise-canceling headsets to keep the city sounds out and the views in. The pilot’s commentary provides helpful insights into the city’s history and architecture, making it more than just a joyride.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the city’s skyline and downtown highlights, giving you a quick but striking perspective. It’s ideal for first-timers or anyone who wants a memorable experience without a big time commitment.
Bottom Line: A compact, city-centered flight that offers incredible views of Greenville’s most famous spots. Great for a quick sightseeing fix.
$110 per person
2. Greenville: Helicopter Tour of Lake Robinson and Mountains
For those wanting a deeper look at Greenville’s natural surroundings, the Helicopter Tour of Lake Robinson and Mountains delivers. At 20 minutes and costing $275 per person, it’s more than double the duration of the downtown flight, and it’s worth every extra minute. This tour includes sweeping views of Lake Robinson, Furman University, Paris Mountain, and the majestic mountains of Upstate South Carolina.
The experience is enhanced by leather seats and expansive windows, ensuring every passenger has a clear view. The pilot points out landmarks and shares interesting tidbits, such as the history of Furman University and the significance of the surrounding mountains. The elevated vantage point provides a stunning perspective on how Greenville is framed by rolling hills and lush forests.
This tour is ideal if you love scenic vistas and want to combine city sights with mountain panoramas. It appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in South Carolina’s varied geography. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort, as the aircraft is equipped with noise-canceling headsets and plush seating.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a more comprehensive aerial tour, blending Greenville’s urban charm with its mountain backdrop.
$275 per person
3. Greenville: Scenic Helicopter Tour Over Swamp Rabbit Trail
If you’re after a scenic flight that includes Greenville’s parks and trails, the Scenic Helicopter Tour Over Swamp Rabbit Trail offers a 14-minute escape for $165 per person. It’s a great middle-ground option, combining urban views with natural landscapes. You’ll fly over Paris Mountain, Reedy Falls Park, and Traveler’s Rest, offering a diverse view of the area’s parks, waterfalls, and quaint towns.
This tour emphasizes Greenville’s outdoor appeal, with expansive windows and a safety briefing to prepare you for a smooth ride. The pilot guides you past Reedy Falls Park, where you can visualize the waterfall and the lush surroundings, and over Traveler’s Rest, a charming small town with a rich history. Flying over Paris Mountain provides a sense of Greenville’s proximity to nature and outdoor pursuits.
This option is perfect if you want to see several highlights of Greenville’s outdoor spaces and get a good sense of the city’s connection to nature. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic landscapes without the longer commitments or mountain panoramas.
Bottom Line: A scenic, outdoor-focused tour offering great views of parks, waterfalls, and small-town charm — a balanced choice for nature lovers.
$165 per person
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in Greenville
When selecting a helicopter flight, consider your time availability, budget, and interests. If you’re pressed for time, the Downtown Helicopter Tour offers a quick city overview. For a more extensive experience combining city and mountain scenery, the Lake Robinson and Mountains tour is ideal. If outdoor scenery is your priority, the Swamp Rabbit Trail flight provides a broad look at Greenville’s parks and small towns.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons like spring and fall when the weather is most stable. Also, think about if you prefer a shorter, city-focused flight or a longer, nature-filled adventure. Each tour provides a different perspective, so choose based on what excites you most.
Final Thoughts
Greenville’s helicopter tours offer a unique way to experience the city and its surroundings. From quick spins over downtown to scenic mountain vistas and lush parks, there’s an option to suit nearly every traveler. The Downtown Helicopter Tour is perfect for a quick city fix, while the Lake Robinson and Mountains tour suits those seeking a more comprehensive view. For a scenic blend of parks and small-town charm, the Swamp Rabbit Trail flight hits the mark.
No matter which you pick, booking early and planning around the weather will ensure a smooth, memorable flight. So, whether you’re visiting Greenville for the first time or are a local looking for a new perspective, these aerial adventures are well worth the climb.