How to Reach Big Apple Helicopter Tour NYC – Directions & Transport Guide (2025)
The easiest ways to reach your Big Apple Helicopter Tour in New York City: typical departure points, subway & rail routes, airport links, rideshare tips, and quick check-in advice—so you arrive calm and on time.
See Tickets & TimesQuick Overview
Departure Points (vary by tour): Many NYC helicopter products depart from
the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (DMH), or from New Jersey (e.g., Kearny/Linden) and
Westchester County (HPN). Always follow the exact meeting point shown on your ticket.
Typical Check-in: Arrive 30–45 minutes before flight for safety briefing & ID check.
Documents: Government ID required for adult passengers. Seating assigned for aircraft balance.
Best First-Timer Route
If your tour departs from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (often used for “Big Apple” routes), use subway to South Ferry/Whitehall St/Bowling Green/Wall St and walk 5–10 minutes.
Not Sure Which Heliport?
Click “Meeting point” on your GetYourGuide ticket page or email confirmation. It includes the precise address, check-in window, and local contact for your operator.
Option 1 — Downtown Manhattan Heliport (DMH)
Often used for classic “Big Apple” and Manhattan skyline routes. Check your ticket to confirm.
- Subway (fast): Use any of the following near Battery/Financial District: 1 to South Ferry, R/W to Whitehall St, 4/5 to Bowling Green, J/Z to Broad St, 2/3 to Wall St. Walk 5–10 minutes to the heliport.
- On Foot: From Battery Park, follow the East River waterfront south toward the heliport at Pier 6.
- Rideshare/Taxi: Ask for drop-off near “Downtown Manhattan Heliport” (Pier 6, East River). Build in extra time for traffic/security.
Fees & ID
Expect heliport/security fees or a fuel surcharge at checkout. Carry a government-issued ID. Follow crew instructions during seating and boarding.
Option 2 — New Jersey Departures (Kearny / Linden)
Frequently used for night-time and skyline flights. Your voucher shows the exact NJ heliport.
By Transit + Rideshare
PATH to Journal Square or Newark Penn, then a short rideshare to the heliport. Plan 30–45 minutes buffer for transfers.
Driving
Easiest option. Allow time for highway traffic and check gate/parking instructions in your ticket. Bring your ID for security.
Tip
NJ departures can offer night slots with dramatic city lights and lit bridges—arrive early to enjoy the skyline from ground level before your flight.
Option 3 — Westchester County (HPN)
Used for private charters, couples’ flights, and some shared tours.
By Rail + Taxi
Metro-North (Harlem Line) to White Plains or North White Plains, then a taxi/rideshare to the heliport. Check your product page for the exact hangar/terminal.
Driving
Easiest from northern NYC/suburbs. Verify parking and meeting point on the voucher and arrive 30–45 minutes early.
Private & Proposal Flights
Westchester often hosts private or proposal packages. Pricing is usually per flight (not per seat).
From NYC Airports
JFK → Downtown Heliport
AirTrain JFK → Jamaica. Then either LIRR to Grand Central Madison (fast) + subway/walk, or E subway → transfer for R/W / 4/5 downtown, then walk 5–10 minutes.
LGA → Downtown Heliport
Q70 SBS to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Av, then R/W or E → 4/5 to the Financial District. Finish with a short walk to the heliport.
EWR → Downtown Heliport
AirTrain Newark → NJ Transit to Penn Station. Take 1 to South Ferry or R/W to Whitehall St / 4/5 to Bowling Green, then walk 5–10 minutes.
Time Buffers
Build generous buffers for airport → city transfers. If delayed, contact the operator using the number on your ticket.
Practical Tips
Arrive Early
Be at check-in 30–45 minutes before your flight. Night/sunset slots are popular—book ahead.
What to Bring
Government ID, phones/small cameras (no large bags). Wear darker tops to reduce window glare in photos.
Weather & Policies
If conditions aren’t safe to fly, operators reschedule. Many listings offer free cancellation up to the cutoff. Final price may include heliport/security fees and a fuel surcharge.
Getting There Cheatsheet
Common NYC Subway
DMH area: 1 (South Ferry) • R/W (Whitehall St) • 4/5 (Bowling Green) • 2/3 (Wall St) • J/Z (Broad St)
Walk Times (approx.)
South Ferry → DMH: 6–10 min • Bowling Green → DMH: 8–12 min • Wall St → DMH: 10–12 min
Check-in & Seating
30–45 min early; seating assigned for balance; weight limits typically ~125–136 kg (275–300 lb).
Photography
Hold phone near window; disable flash; wear dark clothing to reduce reflections.
Accessibility
Many operators can assist boarding with advance notice. Confirm needs via your ticket page.
Fees
Watch for heliport/security fee & possible fuel surcharge at checkout; ID required.
Ready to Fly?
Pick your departure, plan the fastest route, and arrive early for a smooth check-in. Take off for the best views of New York City—by helicopter.
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