Helicopter Tour STL Arch: Soar Above St. Louis in Style

Experience the breathtaking views of St. Louis from above with a helicopter tour of the iconic Gateway Arch. These tours offer a unique perspective of the city’s skyline, the Mississippi River, and the surrounding landmarks. Gateway Helicopter Tours provides various routes, ranging from quick 2-3 minute flights to comprehensive 20-minute experiences, allowing visitors to witness the beauty of St. Louis from a bird’s-eye view. With departures from the riverfront near the Arch, these tours combine convenience with unforgettable aerial sightseeing.

What Are the Different Helicopter Tour Options for the STL Arch?

Gateway Helicopter Tours offers four distinct tour options for those looking to experience St. Louis from the sky:

  1. St. Louis Deluxe Experience (18-20 minutes)
  2. Covers the most extensive area
  3. Includes views of:

    • Anheuser-Busch Brewery
    • Missouri Botanical Gardens
    • Forest Park (St. Louis Zoo and Art Museum)
    • City Museum
    • Chain of Rocks Lock and Dam
  4. Botanical Gardens Experience (10-12 minutes)

  5. Focuses on:

    • Missouri Botanical Gardens
    • Downtown St. Louis
    • Busch Stadium
  6. Anheuser-Busch Experience (5-6 minutes)

  7. Highlights:

    • St. Louis Skyline
    • Downtown area
    • Mississippi River views
  8. Riverfront Experience (2-3 minutes)

  9. Quick tour of:
    • St. Louis Riverfront
    • Gateway Arch area

How Much Does a Helicopter Tour STL Arch Cost?

helicopter tour stl arch

The pricing for helicopter tours in St. Louis varies based on the duration and route:

Tour Name Duration Price per Person
St. Louis Deluxe Experience 18-20 minutes $205
Botanical Gardens Experience 10-12 minutes $140
Anheuser-Busch Experience 5-6 minutes $85
Riverfront Experience 2-3 minutes $50

Note: There is a 2-ticket minimum purchase requirement for all tours.

When Can You Book a Helicopter Tour STL Arch?

Gateway Helicopter Tours operates:
– 7 days a week
– April through November
– Weather permitting
– From 11:00 AM to at least 5:00 PM daily

Operating times may vary depending on weather conditions and the number of rides sold each day.

How Do You Book a Helicopter Tour STL Arch?

Booking a helicopter tour in St. Louis is straightforward:

  1. No reservations required
  2. Walk-in customers are welcome
  3. Purchase tickets on-site
  4. Tours are accommodated as quickly as possible

For those planning ahead, it’s advisable to contact the tour operator directly for any specific scheduling needs or questions about availability.

What Should You Know Before Taking a Helicopter Tour STL Arch?

Before embarking on your aerial adventure, keep these important details in mind:

  1. Weight Limits:
  2. Maximum weight per seat: 300 pounds
  3. Maximum combined passenger weight: 550 pounds
  4. These limits are Federal Regulations and must be strictly adhered to

  5. Aircraft Type:

  6. Tours use Robinson Helicopters
  7. Known for their popularity in tours and personal use worldwide

  8. Location:

  9. Launch site is on the St. Louis Riverfront
  10. Directly in front of the Gateway Arch
  11. Visitors must arrange their own transportation to the site

  12. Weather Considerations:

  13. Tours are subject to weather conditions
  14. Safety is the top priority, so flights may be rescheduled if conditions are unfavorable

What Can You Expect to See on a Helicopter Tour STL Arch?

Depending on the tour you choose, you can expect to see a variety of St. Louis landmarks:

  • Gateway Arch: The centerpiece of every tour, offering unparalleled views of this 630-foot monument
  • Mississippi River: Witness the mighty river that shaped the city’s history
  • Downtown St. Louis: Get a new perspective on the city’s skyline and urban layout
  • Busch Stadium: Home of the St. Louis Cardinals, visible from above
  • Forest Park: One of the largest urban parks in the United States
  • Missouri Botanical Garden: A lush oasis in the heart of the city
  • Anheuser-Busch Brewery: The historic home of Budweiser beer

How Does a Helicopter Tour STL Arch Enhance Your Visit to St. Louis?

A helicopter tour of the STL Arch offers several unique benefits:

  1. Unmatched Views: See St. Louis from a perspective few get to experience
  2. Time-Efficient Sightseeing: Cover more ground in less time compared to traditional tours
  3. Photographic Opportunities: Capture stunning aerial shots of the city and its landmarks
  4. Educational Experience: Learn about the city’s layout and major attractions from a knowledgeable pilot
  5. Memorable Adventure: Create lasting memories with a thrilling and unique experience

What Safety Measures Are in Place for Helicopter Tours STL Arch?

Safety is paramount for helicopter tours in St. Louis:

  • Experienced Pilots: All tours are conducted by licensed and experienced pilots
  • Well-Maintained Aircraft: Robinson Helicopters are known for their reliability and safety record
  • Weather Monitoring: Tours only operate in suitable weather conditions
  • Strict Weight Limits: Adherence to Federal Regulations ensures safe operation
  • Pre-Flight Briefings: Passengers receive safety instructions before each flight

How Can You Make the Most of Your Helicopter Tour STL Arch Experience?

To ensure you have the best possible experience on your helicopter tour:

  1. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in and prepare for your flight
  2. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes
  3. Bring a Camera: Don’t forget to capture the amazing views (ensure it’s securely fastened)
  4. Listen to Instructions: Pay close attention to all safety briefings and pilot instructions
  5. Ask Questions: Your pilot is knowledgeable about the area, so feel free to ask about what you’re seeing
  6. Consider Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon flights often offer the best lighting for photography

A helicopter tour STL Arch provides a thrilling and unique way to experience St. Louis. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, seeing the Gateway Arch and the surrounding cityscape from above offers a fresh perspective on this historic and vibrant city. With options to suit various budgets and time constraints, these tours make for an unforgettable addition to any St. Louis itinerary.

References:
1. https://www.gatewayhelicoptertours.com/tours.html
2. https://aerialtours.com/tours/gateway-helicopter-tours-inc/
3. https://www.gatewayhelicoptertours.com/

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