Savannah Helicopter Tours: The 5 Best Sightseeing Experiences

Looking to switch up your sightseeing routine in Savannah? Perhaps seeing this old Southern charmer from above might be just the ticket! So, while a walking tour through the historic squares is truly captivating, or even kicking back on a riverboat cruise is seriously enjoyable, imagine seeing the very same spots – the moss-draped oaks of Forsyth Park, the grand homes of Jones Street – but from a totally new perspective, way up high!

Why Pick a Helicopter Ride in Savannah?

Why should you consider soaring over Savannah, you ask? Well, let me tell you, it’s quite a transformative way to soak in the feel of this historical location. As a matter of fact, pictures from ground level can only get you so far; flying gets you so, so much more. Just imagine gliding over places like Bonaventure Cemetery, a place that’s completely bursting with Southern gothic feel, or even getting an eagle-eye’s glimpse of River Street, which really hops with activity. That way, it’s very unforgettable!

As I was saying, these tours aren’t just sightseeing trips; that is to say, they give you this one-of-a-kind appreciation for the area’s layout and even history, too, it’s almost like getting the CliffsNotes to Savannah’s story from the friendliest possible storyteller. Honestly, I had the chance to go up a couple of years ago, and you know, watching the sun go down over the Savannah River, that painted the whole city in shades of gold? Definitely worth it! Ready to find the best aerial adventure for yourself? Great, because, basically, I have gone ahead and pulled together five outstanding helicopter tours in Savannah, with options from different tour operators offering some really memorable experiences.

Top 5 Savannah Helicopter Tour Experiences

1. Savannah River and Historic District Tour

So, picture this: you take off, very gently of course, and head toward the water, and next, you are following the very same curves of the Savannah River. Well, what’s cool is you’re not only tracking the water but you’re actually paralleling all the history which grew right up along its banks. In fact, from overhead, River Street seems completely different, just not at all the busy, tourist-filled place it is down on the ground; it looks like this charming little string of buildings, and you sort of pick up the connection between the river and how Savannah grew. Pretty cool, right?

Next, get ready to look down on some landmarks! Arguably, you might get peeks at the Talmadge Bridge looking almost toy-like below, or even at Old Fort Jackson, which is still proudly standing guard, almost like it has for ages. By the way, for photographers? Just saying, sunset is golden hour on turbo! Most helicopter tours of this variety are of a standard duration between 15 and 20 minutes, but, honestly, the awesome snapshots and sights? Basically priceless.

2. Coastal Views and Tybee Island Expedition

If you love that coastal scenery, I have just got to recommend checking out the tours that swing by Tybee Island. In some respects, flying toward the coast from Savannah gives you this wonderful peek at how the land meets the sea. Just watch how the marshlands begin to sprawl out, and then that bright coastline starts to take shape, and that’s all before even landing on Tybee, if you are. Speaking of which, seeing the Tybee Island Light Station from up above is something else! Usually, it’s this grand tower that guides ships home, very similar to you heading to the airport.

Anyway, a fun fact is that barrier islands along the Atlantic coastline, which you spot from up here, function as important habitats for so much local wildlife! Anyway, if you’re really wanting the full shebang, some tours go as far as following the coastline north, towards Hilton Head, South Carolina, where they spot a number of other scenic views, as well. The usual tour timeframe might be about 30 minutes. Still, in that amount of time, as I was saying, that’s lots of beautiful coastline and some interesting environmental facts too, it’s almost two for one.

3. Historical Landmarks and Bonaventure Cemetery Tour

Alright, for those fascinated by all things historical, there are some helicopter tours that just stick closely to the heart of old Savannah. As a matter of fact, I suggest one that floats you over the super historical Bonaventure Cemetery. By the way, there’s so much interesting historical depth in there! Seriously, wandering between the tombstones, like your typical tourist, you get stories aplenty, yet, taking it all in from above, gives you a clearer appreciation for the whole setup.

For example, I found that seeing Forsyth Park’s fancy fountain really provides that amazing “postcard” view that anyone traveling wants to take back. Tours often circle places such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist or even Factor’s Walk, with knowledgeable pilots adding the historical tidbits along the way. If you select these historical tours, that is to say, it often means your trip covers lots of highlights in one go, lasting around 20-25 minutes usually.

4. Extended Coastal and Plantation Tour

So, really feeling up for going big? Some services provide lengthened tours that allow peeks not only at the coast but also, just a little, out into some of those old plantation sites dotting the Savannah area. In fact, that way you may experience just a touch more about the region beyond its urban hub. Just imagine the pilot circling over Wormsloe Historic Site. That, incidentally, would bring its gorgeous oak avenue completely to view in all its stunning length, like looking through a time portal.

Additionally, depending on flight paths and wind conditions, these extensive rides are liable to drift as far north as the beautiful shores of South Carolina or perhaps even swing by Daufuskie Island. The full package deal tour gives travelers this broadened view which adds just a lot more local flavor – both of its old heritage and natural charm as well. I believe these journeys span about 40-45 minutes of pure delight. Definitely, keep in mind you might pay more, but hey, is that bigger canvas showing a big chunk of the Lowcountry completely worthwhile? Seems to be.

5. Sunset and Evening City Lights Tour

Now, hear me out, seeing Savannah lit up when the sun dips down could well be, well, simply the top experience on the listing. You should picture going skyward as dusk wraps Savannah! Pretty good, yeah? The vibe totally shifts and you’ve acquired a totally changed city below you! It looks magical! River Street gets awash with twinkling illumination which throws light everywhere and turns the water to gold underneath all of those illuminated boats. That just is worth all of the cost!

At night I would strongly suggest peering down over the historic sector – it’s almost stunning! A great idea is for you to search around for routes that actually fly once it starts becoming darker given that many services pause flights when it begins becoming tough to see – security does matter. Anyway, nighttime trips are typically of about the same span – approximately twenty mins – and it doesn’t always matter who you tour with: experiencing exactly the same landscape during various occasions actually doubles your enjoyment!