New Orleans is a city that begs to be seen from above. Its mix of historic French Quarter charm, vibrant nightlife, and the sprawling Mississippi River makes it an ideal place for helicopter flights & tours. What sets these aerial experiences apart is their ability to give you a fresh perspective—whether you’re soaring over Bourbon Street during daylight or marveling at the city lights after dark. We especially love tours that combine comfort with storytelling, like the New Orleans Helicopter City Tour, which offers a bird’s-eye overview with a personal touch. If you’re after a romantic evening or just want to see the city sparkle, the City Lights Night Tour is a top pick.
Whether you’re looking for a quick glance or a more immersive experience, New Orleans’ helicopter tours cater to a range of interests and schedules. From intimate small-group flights to private charters with panoramic views, you’re sure to find an option that fits your adventure style. Read on for an in-depth look at each of our top five picks.
1. New Orleans Helicopter City Tour
This tour is perfect if you want a quick, stunning overview of New Orleans. Lasting about 7 to 9 minutes, it’s designed to give first-time visitors a visual map of the city’s most iconic sights. You and just two other passengers will fly over Jackson Square, the French Quarter, the Mississippi River, and City Park—all while listening to guided commentary through your headset. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and there’s an option to upgrade to a private flight over the French Quarter for a more exclusive perspective.
The beauty of this tour is its balance of convenience and quality. It’s an affordable way to get a quick but memorable glimpse of the city’s highlights. Reviewers consistently praise the breathtaking views and friendly staff, with comments like, “This was our first time visiting NOLA. This was an added bonus! Amazing service and very kind staff!” For travelers short on time but eager for a visual feast, this tour hits the sweet spot.
Bottom Line: A brief but impressive introduction to New Orleans, ideal for first-timers or those with limited time. It offers excellent value and a highly personal experience.
2. New Orleans City Lights Night Helicopter Tour
For around $152, the City Lights Night Tour offers an unforgettable way to see the city after dark. Lasting between 10 and 20 minutes, this tour avoids the chaos of the daytime crowds and lets you enjoy the glow of the city’s illuminated landmarks. Flying over Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, you’ll witness these iconic sites aglow against the night sky.
What makes this tour stand out is its spectacular night scenery and the convenience of included onsite parking, which is rare for helicopter tours. The panoramic windows and noise-canceling headphones ensure that every seat is a front-row view. Reviewers describe it as “the best excursion I ever booked,” emphasizing the “amazing, insightful pilot” and the chance to see the city’s lights reflecting off the Mississippi River.
This tour is perfect for couples, night owls, or anyone looking to escape daytime crowds and experience New Orleans under a starry sky. It’s an elegant way to combine sightseeing with a romantic or awe-inspiring experience.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended evening flight for those wanting a magical view of New Orleans’s illuminated skyline, with added convenience of parking.
3. New Orleans: Daytime City Helicopter Tour
At about $131, the Daytime City Helicopter Tour offers a broader window (8 to 20 minutes) to explore the city from above. During this tour, you’ll fly over the French Quarter, the Mississippi River, Jackson Square, and the Caesars Superdome. What makes this experience special is the ability to listen to your pilot share interesting facts about the city’s landmarks, enriching your visual experience with storytelling.
This tour is notable for its spectacular aerial views where every seat is a window seat. It’s suitable for those who want a comfortable, informative flight without the long duration. The emphasis on pilot commentary makes it a favorite for history and architecture enthusiasts. The balance of price and experience makes it a reliable choice for a first-time aerial adventure or a quick sightseeing fix.
Bottom Line: An engaging, informative flight ideal for visitors who want a detailed overview of New Orleans’s major attractions during daylight.
4. New Orleans City and Swamp Helicopter Tour
If you’re seeking a truly unique perspective, consider the City and Swamp Tour. For about $233, this 18-22 minute private helicopter experience combines city sights with a dive into Louisiana’s wild side. You’ll soar over Bourbon Street, the Superdome, and Jackson Square, then fly over the Bayou St. John and swampy regions, giving you a fascinating contrast between urban and natural landscapes.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized nature—a private flight that offers the chance to customize the route and enjoy a more relaxed pace. The narration from experienced pilots provides insights into the city’s architecture and the surrounding wetlands. Reviewers have highlighted how professional and friendly the pilots are, with one noting, “Cameron was very professional,” adding to the overall confidence in the safety and quality.
This is an excellent pick for nature lovers or those celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary. The combo views of city architecture and Louisiana’s lush wetlands create a memorable contrast.
Bottom Line: A premium experience that blends city sights with swamp landscapes, perfect for travelers wanting a personal, comprehensive aerial tour.
5. New Orleans: City Lights Helicopter Night Tour
This private night tour, costing around $165, offers a scenic 10 to 20-minute flight over New Orleans at night. As you fly above the French Quarter, the Jackson Square, and other landmarks, you’ll see the city’s iconic buildings illuminated, creating an unforgettable experience. Every seat is a window seat, ensuring you get the best possible view of the sparkling cityscape.
What makes this tour appealing is its personalized private flight, with the added benefit of a knowledgeable pilot sharing interesting facts about the city as you fly. The reviews underscore the magical atmosphere created by the city lights, making it a favorite for romantic evenings or special occasions.
Ideal for travelers who want an intimate, scenic overview of New Orleans after dark, this tour provides a peaceful yet exhilarating experience. Its shorter duration makes it suitable for those with limited time but who still want a memorable night flight.
Bottom Line: An intimate and romantic way to see New Orleans’s night sparkle, especially suited for couples or those celebrating a special night.
How to Choose the Best Helicopter Tour in New Orleans
When selecting your ideal helicopter experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a quick overview and affordability, the New Orleans Helicopter City Tour is perfect. If you want to see the city lit up at night, the City Lights Night Tour offers a romantic and visually stunning option. For those seeking more in-depth storytelling, the daytime City Helicopter Tour balances information with scenic beauty.
Travelers interested in a combination of city and nature should consider the City and Swamp Tour, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to explore Louisiana’s wetlands. Finally, if you prefer a quiet, private night flight, the City Lights Night Tour provides a peaceful, personalized experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Consider weather conditions, as rain can cancel flights, but most operators are flexible about rescheduling.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans offers a range of helicopter tours ranging from quick city glimpses to extended private flights over wetlands and night-lit landmarks. For travelers wanting a short and sweet overview, the New Orleans Helicopter City Tour delivers a memorable taste of the city. If a romantic night flight sounds appealing, the City Lights Night Tour is hard to beat. For those who want a more comprehensive experience with extra natural scenery, the City and Swamp Tour provides a true Louisiana adventure.
No matter your choice, these tours offer a chance to see New Orleans from a perspective few get to experience. Book early, pick the experience that best fits your interests, and enjoy soaring above one of America’s most fascinating cities.