Thanksgiving in New York: Helicopter Tours for Holiday Magic

Celebrate the Season with a Helicopter Adventure

There’s no place quite like New York City during the holidays. From the twinkling lights to the festive window displays, the Big Apple pulls out all the stops — and it all kicks off with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you’re planning a visit this November and looking for something truly unforgettable, why not take your NYC holiday adventure to new heights?

This year, ditch the crowded sidewalks and packed viewing pens and get a bird’s-eye view of the city’s most magical season with a Thanksgiving New York helicopter experience. With HeliNY, you can scan Manhattan’s most famous sights and even glimpse the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from above.

Let’s explore what makes this experience so memorable and explore other things to do in NYC during the holidays that will sparkle your Thanksgiving getaway.

Catch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade From the Sky

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the stuff of childhood dreams — a beloved tradition of marching bands, celebrity performances, and those larger-than-life balloons drifting down Sixth Avenue. But it can be hard to secure a great view unless you’re camping out curbside before dawn.

Enter: the helicopter.

While FAA regulations keep aircraft a safe distance from the parade route, HeliNY’s scenic tours offer an exhilarating aerial perspective of Midtown Manhattan, where the festivities unfold. Imagine soaring along the Hudson River or East River, Central Park glows in fall colors, and the skyline sparkles in late autumn sunlight. It’s a memory-maker — whether you’re visiting with your partner, family, or even on a solo holiday adventure.

This isn’t just about catching a glimpse of the parade — it’s about soaking in the full grandeur of the city from above. With panoramic views stretching from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, a helicopter ride with HeliNY puts you in the middle of NYC’s holiday magic, minus the crowds and chaos.

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour During Thanksgiving?

While Thanksgiving is traditionally about turkey and family gatherings, it’s also the start of the city’s most dazzling season. And when considering things to do in NYC during the holidays, there’s nothing more unique than taking a flight around Manhattan and seeing the city’s five boroughs.

Here’s why a helicopter experience should be on your NYC holiday bucket list:

• Avoid the crowds: While streets below are bustling with shoppers and parade-goers, you’ll be gliding above it all in serene comfort.
• Breathtaking views: Fall foliage in Central Park, the glint of the Hudson River, and the sparkle of early holiday lights are even more beautiful from the sky.
• Photo-worthy moments: Whether you’re an Instagram pro or just capturing memories, the photo ops from a helicopter are unbeatable.
• Luxury experience: HeliNY offers a smooth, VIP-level experience when you check in at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport.

What to Expect on a HeliNY Holiday Tour

HeliNY offers various tour options catering to different budgets and timeframes. Their most popular sightseeing experiences range from 15 to 30 minutes, flying over iconic landmarks like:

• Statue of Liberty
• Ellis Island
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Governor’s Island
• One World Trade Center
• Billionaires Row
• Madison Square Garden
• Chrysler Building
• Empire State Building
• Little Island
• Chelsea Piers
• The High Line
• The Vessel
• Hudson Yards
• Times Square
• The Intrepid
• Central Park

During Thanksgiving week, these tours feel even more special. As the city transforms for the holidays, you’ll witness early signs of the season — from ice rinks in Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center to festive rooftop bars already decked out with twinkle lights.

HeliNY’s state-of-the-art fleet includes noise-canceling headsets and friendly, knowledgeable pilots who narrate as you fly. It’s a seamless, stress-free way to elevate your NYC trip — and possibly the best view you’ll get all weekend.

Other Things to Do in NYC During the Holidays

Once your helicopter adventure has landed, there’s no shortage of things to do in NYC during the holidays that continue the festive feeling. Here are some favorites:

See the Balloons Come to Life

On Thanksgiving Eve, go to the Upper West Side to witness the iconic parade balloons being inflated near the Museum of Natural History. This free, family-friendly event is a beloved local tradition — and often offers a more relaxed, up-close experience than the parade itself.

Ice Skate in Central Park or Rockefeller Center

Few things feel more “New York” than skating under the skyline. Wollman Rink in Central Park offers a romantic setting. At the same time, Rockefeller Center boasts that iconic holiday backdrop (and, soon after Thanksgiving, its famous tree).

Explore Bryant Park Winter Village

Opening October 24, Bryant Park Winter Village is the perfect spot to browse local artisan goods, grab hot chocolate, and enjoy seasonal cheer at their free 17,000-square-foot ice skating rink. 

Visit the Holiday Windows

Fifth Avenue’s legendary department stores—like Macy’s Herald Square, Saks, and Bergdorf Goodman—reveal enchanting holiday window displays that transform the city into a glowing, walkable gallery. The perfect time to see them? Right after your helicopter tour, while you’re still riding the post-flight excitement.

Dine at a Cozy Holiday Restaurant

From traditional Thanksgiving dinners to globally inspired tasting menus, NYC’s restaurant scene doesn’t take a holiday. Try a holiday feast at Bubby’s in Tribeca or sip mulled wine at Rolf’s, a Christmas-themed German eatery that goes all-in on decorations.

Planning Tips for Your Helicopter Tour

When booking your Thanksgiving NYC helicopter tour, here are a few smart tips to help you get the most out of the experience:

• Reserve in advance: Holiday flights fill up fast. Book early with HeliNY to secure your ideal time slot.
• Dress for the season: Layering up will keep you comfortable before and after your flight.
• Give yourself extra time: The Downtown Manhattan Heliport is conveniently located. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in stress-free.
• Take lots of photos: This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment! HeliNY’s helicopters are designed to give every passenger a clear view, so don’t forget to snap some skyline shots.

Make Thanksgiving in NYC Soar

If you’re coming to New York for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or just soaking up the early holiday spirit, don’t limit yourself to ground-level experiences. A helicopter tour with HeliNY is one of the most exhilarating and luxurious ways to see the city — and it’s a memory that lasts far longer than leftovers.

Whether planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or just looking for things to do in NYC during the holidays that stand out from the usual list, this high-flying escape will give you a whole new perspective on the season. So go ahead and elevate your Thanksgiving this year. Because in New York City, the sky is never the limit.

Booking a holiday helicopter ride is easy. Click here to explore our tour options, pricing, and availability.

FAQs

When should I book a helicopter tour during Thanksgiving week?

• Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest times in New York City. To secure your preferred time and date, it is best to book your HeliNY tour weeks in advance.

Where does the helicopter tour take off from? 

• HeliNY flights depart from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport at Pier 6 near the Battery. It’s easily accessible by subway, taxi, or rideshare.

Is the helicopter tour suitable for families or first-time flyers?

• Absolutely. HeliNY’s tours are family-friendly and perfect for first-timers. The pilots are experienced, the ride is smooth, and every seat is designed for great views.

What is the seating layout in the helicopter?

• HeliNY’s Bell 407 helicopters can accommodate up to 5 passengers and 1 pilot. One seat beside the pilot is up front, while the main cabin features two rear-facing seats and two forward-facing seats. To ensure a safe and balanced flight, seating assignments are based on passenger weight and cannot be reserved in advance. Thanks to the helicopter’s floor-to-ceiling glass windows, every seat offers stunning visibility.