Hey urban explorers! If you think you’ve seen all a city has to offer, think again. A helicopter tour of a city’s skyline is like the VIP backstage pass of sightseeing. Soaring above the skyscrapers, parks, and iconic landmarks is a whole new way to fall in love with a city you thought you knew—or to explore a brand new one. Here’s a roundup of the crème de la crème of cityscape helicopter tours.

New York, New York: The Big Apple from Above

• Why It’s Awesome: What can top the iconic skyline of New York City? Nothing, except maybe floating above it. Fly over the skyscraper canyons of Manhattan, say hi to Lady Liberty, and get a bird’s-eye view of Central Park’s verdant expanse.
• When to Go: Spring and fall offer crisp skies and moderate weather, but the city dazzles in its holiday lights if you dare the winter chill.
• Don’t Miss: The Freedom Tower. As you approach Lower Manhattan, the tower stands tall, a testament to the city’s resilience.

Tokyo Twilight Tour: A Neon Symphony

• Why It’s Awesome: The word “mesmerizing” doesn’t even begin to describe Tokyo at twilight. The city transforms into a glittering labyrinth of lights as the sun sets, and you get to see it all from above.
• When to Go: Cherry blossom season in spring for a blend of nature and city, or in December to experience the city’s holiday lights.
• Don’t Miss: Shibuya Crossing from above, where the bustling life of the city comes together in a beautiful, chaotic dance of humanity.

Paris at Dusk: The City of Lights Lights Up

• Why It’s Awesome: Paris is magical anytime, but when the sun sets and the Eiffel Tower starts its nightly sparkle, you’re in for a romantic experience that’s off the charts.
• When to Go: Late spring to early fall for warm weather and the chance to catch a Seine River cruise afterward.
• Don’t Miss: A flyover of the Louvre just as the glass pyramid starts to glow. Seriously, your Instagram will thank you.

Dubai’s Futuristic Skyscrapers: Luxury on High

• Why It’s Awesome: Dubai is where the future meets the present. With some of the world’s tallest and most innovative buildings, this city is a playground for architecture and luxury enthusiasts.
• When to Go: November to March to avoid the extreme summer heat.
• Don’t Miss: The Palm Jumeirah. This man-made archipelago looks unreal from above, like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.

San Francisco Bay Flyover: The Golden Ticket

• Why It’s Awesome: Hills, bridges, islands, and that beautiful bay—San Francisco has a varied landscape that looks even more breathtaking from the sky.
• When to Go: Late summer to early fall for that famous Cali sunshine.
• Don’t Miss: Alcatraz at sunset. The infamous island prison takes on an eerie beauty as the sun dips below the horizon.

Alright, thrill-seekers and city lovers, grab your cameras and your sense of wonder. It’s time to elevate your cityscape experience to new heights—literally.