Homepage » Experiences » Holidays
Looking for unforgettable things to do on Columbus Day in New York City? Before diving into parades, Broadway shows, and fall strolls, let’s talk about one experience that tops them all: seeing the city from the sky.
If you want a bucket-list way to spend the weekend on Columbus Day, booking a flight with HeliNY should be your first stop. This premier helicopter tour operator offers a once-in-a-lifetime way to take in New York’s skyline—without the crowds. Imagine gliding over the Statue of Liberty, circling the Empire State Building, and cruising above Central Park. At the same time, the autumn foliage lights up the city.
HeliNY offers several types of helicopter tours designed for different schedules, budgets, and levels of adventure:
These tours are not just about sightseeing—they’re about creating memories you’ll talk about for years. And with Columbus Day weekend being one of the most beautiful times of year in New York, there’s no better moment to take flight.
HeliNY offers private charter flights beyond the city if you want to extend your adventure. Imagine starting your Columbus Day morning in Manhattan, then flying directly to the Hamptons, Atlantic City, or the vineyards of upstate New York—all in under an hour. It’s a luxury way to turn your long weekend into a full escape.
Once you’ve crossed your helicopter ride off the list, catching the annual parade along Fifth Avenue is one of the most iconic things to do on Columbus Day. This vibrant celebration of Italian-American heritage features floats, marching bands, dancers, and performers. Families, couples, and visitors of all ages line the streets to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Wander Central Park in the Fall
Columbus Day weekend usually falls at the height of autumn in New York, and Central Park is the best place to soak in the season. Spend an afternoon wandering tree-lined paths, boating on the lake, or enjoying the crisp weather. It’s one of the city’s most photogenic spots with the leaves turning shades of orange, gold, and red.
Looking for educational and family-friendly things to do on Columbus Day weekend? Top cultural institutions such as The Met and the American Museum of Natural History often roll out special exhibits and children’s programming during the holiday.
Don’t miss the National Museum of the American Indian, which is always free in Lower Manhattan. It’s a fascinating place to spend part of your holiday exploring cultural history.
Food lovers will find many delicious ways to spend the weekend on Columbus Day. Stop by Little Italy for Italian pastries and pizza, or explore Brooklyn’s Smorgasburg food market, where dozens of vendors serve creative dishes. With seasonal treats like hot cider, roasted corn, and apple pies, the holiday weekend is a foodie’s dream.
New York’s theater district is always buzzing, but Columbus Day weekend is perfect for grabbing tickets. Broadway offers something for everyone, whether you’re into classic musicals, thought-provoking dramas, or family-friendly productions. For last-minute planners, the TKTS booth in Times Square is great for discounted same-day tickets.
For a more modern experience, head to the High Line, an elevated park with great views, see The Vessel, and seasonal art installations. Cap off your stroll at Hudson Yards and enjoy shopping, dining, and sweeping city views from Edge, one of New York’s newest landmarks.
Don’t just stick to the ground when planning your things to do on Columbus Day weekend in NYC. Your itinerary will be full between the parade, Central Park, Broadway, and food festivals. However, adding a helicopter tour with HeliNY makes the weekend extraordinary. From quick tours over Manhattan to private charters that take you out of the city, it’s an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday.
So whether you’re looking for culture, food, or sky-high adventure, New York has everything waiting for you this Columbus Day weekend.
First Name*
Last Name*
Email*
Phone*
Message*
Recognition from the Tour Operators Program of Safety underscores HeliNY's aviation safety and operational excellence leadership 1HeliNY - helicopter sightseeing, charter, and medical transport services NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, November 5, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- HeliNY, New York City's premier provider of helicopter sightseeing, charter, and medical transport services, is proud to announce that it has been awarded certification from the Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS)—the nation's most respected safety accreditation program for helicopter tour operators. This distinction marks a significant milestone in HeliNY's commitment to safety, pilot training, and operational integrity. HeliNY is the sole helicopter operator in the New York metropolitan region holding this elite certification. TOPS is an independent nonprofit organization that sets the gold standard for air tour safety—surpassing even FAA requirements. Earning the designation requires compliance with a comprehensive set of safety benchmarks covering pilot qualifications, maintenance programs, risk management systems, and overall safety culture. Certified operators must also undergo annual third-party audits to ensure full compliance and continuous improvement. “We congratulate HeliNY for passing our stringent air tour certification process and becoming a member operator,” said Christopher Young, Executive Director at the Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS). “All of our member operators voluntarily hold themselves to a much higher safety standard than other industry operators, and we are thrilled to welcome HeliNY into this organization.” "Being recognized by TOPS is a tremendous honor," said Paul Blodgett, CEO of HeliNY. "It reinforces our belief that unforgettable experiences start with uncompromising safety. As the largest sightseeing helicopter operator in the New York metro area, maintaining the highest levels of safety training and oversight is not just our responsibility—it's our identity." Since 1994, HeliNY has served the New York City metro area with a state-of-the-art fleet of Bell helicopters, operating from two key departure points: the Downtown Manhattan Heliport and Linden Municipal Airport in New Jersey. With over 80,000 collective pilot hours and 78,000 passengers flown annually, HeliNY has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted names in urban air tourism. The achievement of TOPS Certification provides an additional layer of confidence for passengers who choose HeliNY for sightseeing tours, private charters, regional getaways, or medical transportation—knowing their experience meets the industry's highest safety and operational standards. Key Standards Required for TOPS Certification - Annual independent safety audits - Implementation of proactive Safety Management Systems (SMS) - Pilot training and maintenance programs that exceed federal regulations - Transparent reporting and continuous safety enhancement To learn more about the Tour Operators Program of Safety, visit topssafety.org. About HeliNY Founded in 1994, HeliNY (Helicopter Flight Services, Inc.) is the largest sightseeing helicopter operator in the New York metropolitan region. The company provides world-class sightseeing tours, private charters, and medical transport services from Manhattan and New Jersey. Known for its modern Bell 407 fleet, experienced pilots, and exceptional service, HeliNY delivers a range of unforgettable flight experiences—from scenic skyline tours to luxurious regional escapes. Learn more at heliny.com. About TOPS The Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS) is the leading independent safety certification for helicopter tour operators across the United States. Through rigorous standards, transparent audits, and a collaborative approach to risk management, TOPS ensures that participating operators maintain the highest levels of safety, maintenance, and operational excellence. Learn more at topssafety.org. Bert Solivan HeliNY (Helicopter Flight Services, Inc.) berts@heliny.com
