Short Helicopter Tour over downtown Nashville TN

Thinking about seeing Nashville in a way most visitors never do? This 20-minute helicopter tour offers a bird’s-eye view of Music City from the skies, with an itinerary packed with iconic sights and unique perspectives. We’ve gathered reviews, details, and practical insights to help you decide if this aerial adventure is worth your time.

What we like most about this tour is its convenience and intimacy—a private ride that’s easy to schedule and packed with personalized touches. Plus, the views of Nashville’s landmarks are genuinely impressive. We do note that some travelers find the ride a tad short for the price, but if you’re after a quick, memorable glimpse of Nashville’s skyline, this may be just right.

This experience suits travelers looking for a special, once-in-a-lifetime view of the city, those celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who’s curious about Nashville from a fresh angle. It’s also perfect for first-time helicopter riders thanks to its smooth landing and friendly guides.

Key Points

• Private helicopter experience offering a personalized feel
• Fast-paced tour covering many landmarks in roughly 20 minutes
• Outstanding city views you can’t easily access from the ground
• Easy to schedule with multiple daily departures
• Some travelers feel it’s short for the price, so manage expectations
• Suitable for most travelers, service animals allowed

An Overview of the Nashville Aerial Experience

This helicopter tour is designed to give you a quick but memorable snapshot of Nashville from above. For just $90 per person, you’ll enjoy about 20 minutes of flight time over some of the city’s most iconic sites. The experience is offered by Helistar Aviation, a well-rated company with a 4.7-star rating from 35 reviews, and it tends to be booked approximately 15 days in advance — a sign of its popularity.

The tour is private, meaning only your group will take to the skies together. This adds a layer of exclusivity and comfort that larger group tours often lack, making it perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a personal touch.

What’s Included in the Itinerary?

The tour covers a well-curated list of landmarks and sights, giving you a narrative of Nashville’s highlights from a vantage point that makes them feel even more special:

• Full-scale replica of Athens’ Parthenon: Flying over this impressive structure offers a surreal moment, especially for those familiar with classical architecture or Athens itself. It’s a vivid reminder of Nashville’s eclectic character.

• Grand Ole Opry recording location: Seeing this legendary spot from above underscores Nashville’s musical roots — a must-see for country fans and music lovers.

• Nashville Predators hockey team: Fans or sports enthusiasts will enjoy flying over the ice rink and stadium — a different perspective you can’t get from the ground.

• Broadway’s rooftops, bars, and honky-tonks: The lively heart of Nashville’s nightlife is vibrant from above, especially at sunset or night when the city lights twinkle.

• Vanderbilt University campus: Known for its architectural beauty, seeing Vanderbilt’s campus from the sky provides a stunning overview, especially in the fall when the trees turn.

• State Capitol building: An impressive symbol of governance and history, the Capitol’s dome is prominent and majestic from above.

• German Town: Home to the Sounds baseball team, historical sites, and a lively bar scene; a neighborhood worth exploring on the ground but also striking from the air.

• Nashville’s nightlife and sports venues: The tour showcases the city’s energetic side, making the skyline come alive.

The Departure and Logistics

The tour begins at 110 Tune Airport Drive in Nashville, a location that’s accessible by public transportation and close to hotels. Since multiple departure times are available daily, scheduling is flexible, making it easier for you to fit this into your Nashville itinerary.

The flight is approximately 20 minutes, a duration that most reviews agree is just enough to soak in the views without feeling rushed. However, some travelers mention the ride feels a bit shorter than the advertised 20 minutes, with one review indicating it may have been closer to 15 minutes.

The helicopter is designed to accommodate a total weight of 300 lbs per passenger, ensuring safety and stability. Service animals are allowed, which might be helpful if you’re traveling with a guide dog.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Many describe the experience as “fun,” “spectacular,” and “a must-do” for visitors. One reviewer called it “the smoothest landing I’ve ever experienced,” highlighting the professionalism of the pilot and crew.

A common theme among the glowing reviews is the stunning view and the friendly, knowledgeable guides, who share interesting facts about the city. One person mentioned, “Andrew was our pilot. He knew everything about Nashville and showed us a lot,” emphasizing the value of a guide who can enrich your experience.

However, there are some honest critiques. A few felt the ride was “very very short,” with experiences lasting only around 15 minutes rather than the full 20. Some wondered whether the cost was justified given the brevity, but many still found the overall experience “worth every penny” due to the outstanding views and personal attention.

The Experience: What Exactly Will You See?

When you take off from Tune Airport, you’re likely to be greeted by a friendly pilot who will set the tone for your flight. As you lift into the air, your perspective shifts dramatically — buildings seem smaller, and streets stretch out like a miniature model.

Flying over the Parthenon replica is especially striking — its resemblance to the real thing is uncanny from this angle. The Opry’s location reveals Nashville’s deep musical roots, while glimpses of the stadium and neighborhoods like Germantown offer a sense of the city’s diverse character.

Depending on the weather and time of day, you might see Nashville’s lights flickering as dusk falls, creating a truly magical scene. Many reviewers recommend flying at sunset or at night for the most romantic or visually stunning experience.

While the brief duration might leave some wanting more, the quality of the views provides ample opportunity for photos and memorable moments. Some guests enjoyed seeing their favorite spots, like Nissan Stadium, from above, which added a personal touch to the flight.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $90 per person, this helicopter tour is a significant expense, but many feel it’s justified by the unique vantage point it offers. The private nature means your group has the pilot’s full attention, and the personalized commentary enhances the experience.

Some travelers comment that the ride is “short but sweet,” making it ideal for those with limited time or budget constraints. Others suggest combining it with other Nashville experiences if you want a more comprehensive exploration.

Given the positive reviews and the outstanding views, it’s clear that most find the experience good value for the money, especially considering the exclusivity and the chance to see Nashville from above.

Practical Tips for Future Flyers

• Book in advance to secure your preferred time, especially during peak seasons.
• Fly at sunset or at night for the most dramatic lighting and cityscape visuals.
• Be aware of the weight limit (300 lbs per passenger); if in doubt, check with the operator beforehand.
• Arrive early for check-in and safety instructions.
• Bring your own camera or smartphone — the views are photo-worthy.
• Consider combining the helicopter ride with other Nashville activities for a full day of exploration.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter tour offers an accessible, high-value way to see Nashville’s most famous landmarks from above. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a quick, memorable overview of the city’s skyline, neighborhoods, and historical sites. Families, couples, and small groups will appreciate the personalized experience and stunning vistas.

While some feel the ride is a bit brief for the price, the overall quality, friendly guides, and unforgettable perspective make it a worthwhile splurge for many travelers. It’s especially suitable if you’re celebrating a special occasion, want an Instagram-worthy moment, or simply enjoy the thrill of flying.

If you’re seeking an authentic, scenic, and exciting way to see Nashville that’s both efficient and personal, this helicopter tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, although some reviews suggest it might be slightly shorter, around 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from 110 Tune Airport Drive in Nashville, Tennessee.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Are there departure times throughout the day?
Yes, multiple departure times are offered daily, making it flexible to fit into your Nashville schedule.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $90.00 per person, which includes the private helicopter ride and the views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

This helicopter tour over Nashville combines spectacular views, knowledgeable guides, and a memorable experience that will appeal to those looking to add a special touch to their visit. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or just want a thrill, it’s an adventure worth considering.