iFLY Chicago Lincoln Park: First Time Flyer Experience

Thinking about trying indoor skydiving? This iFLY Chicago Lincoln Park experience offers a safe, fun way to get a taste of the thrill without jumping out of a plane. Whether you’re a family looking for a memorable activity or an adrenaline junkie curious about skydiving, this indoor flight delivers excitement and a sense of accomplishment—without the long plane ride or skydiving nerves.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the personalized instruction from friendly, professional guides who make sure everyone feels confident and safe. Second, the longer freefall time—at 2 minutes—is a real bonus, giving you plenty of adrenaline-packed moments. The only caveat? It’s about 1.5 hours total, so be prepared for a somewhat quick visit compared to other adventure activities. Still, it’s an ideal choice for those curious about flying or looking for a unique activity in Chicago that the whole family can enjoy.

This activity is best suited for those aged 3 and up (with some restrictions), adventure seekers, and anyone interested in trying skydiving in a controlled environment. If you’re looking for a thrilling yet safe experience that hits all the right notes of fun and safety, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Pro instructors provide one-on-one guidance to help you control your flight.
• The 2-minute indoor skydiving session offers plenty of freefall time for a true adrenaline rush.
• State-of-the-art wind tunnel can blow winds up to 185 mph, creating a realistic skydiving sensation.
• All necessary gear (flight suit, goggles, helmets, etc.) is included, making it easy to just show up and fly.
• Suitable for families, teens, and adults, but not recommended for pregnant women, children under 3, or those with certain health issues.
• The experience costs $102 per person, offering good value considering the professional level of instruction and the length of the flight.

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A Closer Look at the Experience

At iFLY Chicago Lincoln Park, you’re not just watching a skydiving video—you’re actually flying, under the watchful eye of experienced instructors. The venue is conveniently located at 800 W Scott St in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, making it easy for visitors to combine with a day exploring the city’s neighborhoods or parks.

From the moment you arrive, the check-in process is straightforward. Arrive about 10-15 minutes early to get fitted with your flying gear—which includes a jumpsuit, goggles, earplugs, shoes, and a helmet. The professional staff will give you a training session that covers body positions and safety procedures. This instruction is crucial because indoor skydiving might feel strange at first, but the guides do a good job of making everything clear and reassuring.

Once ready, you’ll step into the pressurized staging area, which seats up to 12 flyers at a time. The actual flight lasts about 2 minutes, during which you’ll be floating, tumbling, and soaring as the powerful fans blow winds of up to 185 mph. It’s surprisingly smooth and controlled—think of it as a very intense, controlled hover rather than a chaotic free fall.

Many reviewers highlight how knowledgeable instructors make all the difference—offering tips and encouragement, ensuring safety, and making the flight accessible for all skill levels. One quote from a recent visitor sums it up: “You rock guys!”—a testament to the friendly, professional atmosphere.

The gear rental and instruction are included in the price, but if you’re interested, there are options to purchase extra photos or videos to capture your flight. Keep in mind, the activity is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

What Makes This Experience Special?

The thrill of defying gravity in a wind tunnel can be surprisingly addictive. Many first-timers find themselves smiling for days afterward, partly because it’s a safe and controlled environment—no jumping out of a plane, just pure adrenaline. And the longer freefall time means more flying and less waiting, giving you a true taste of what skydiving is all about.

The safety measures are robust: the wind tunnel has multiple large fans, and the pressurized environment is designed to be safe for most ages and health conditions. The activity is not suitable for certain groups, including pregnant women, children under 3, or those with specific medical conditions, but for most healthy adults and older children, it’s an exciting challenge.

Reviews consistently praise the value for money. Compared to actual skydiving, which can be much pricier and less predictable, indoor skydiving gives you substantial flight time at a reasonable cost.

Practical Details for Your Visit

The location at Lincoln Park is accessible, and arriving 10-15 minutes early ensures a smooth check-in process. The session lasts about 1.5 hours total—so factor in some extra time for gear up, briefing, and changing.

The pricing is $102 per person, which includes everything you need for your flight. If you want to keep the memories, you might find options to buy photos or videos, but these are not included.

Participants should bring a passport for identification. Remember, if you weigh between 260 and 300 lbs, you’ll need to be evaluated at check-in, and certain conditions (like hard casts or prosthetics) might prevent flying.

Who Will Love This?

This indoor skydiving adventure is perfect for families with older children, thrill-seekers, and adventure lovers who want a taste of the skydiving experience without the risks or costs of an actual jump. It’s also excellent for groups or parties looking for a shared, memorable activity.

However, it’s not suitable if you’re pregnant, have back or heart issues, or certain physical restrictions. Everyone should come prepared to listen carefully during the briefing and to follow instructor guidance closely.

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The Sum Up

The iFLY Chicago Lincoln Park First Time Flyer Experience offers an exciting, safe way to experience the sensation of freefall. With professional guidance, longer flight times, and all necessary gear included, it’s a great value for anyone curious about skydiving or looking for a unique adventure in Chicago.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a controlled, high-adrenaline activity that’s accessible to most people—especially families, teens, and first-time thrill-seekers. The friendly, knowledgeable staff help make it approachable, even for nervous flyers. While it’s a relatively quick activity, many leave with big smiles and a newfound respect for what it feels like to fly.

If you’re after something memorable, fun, and a little bit daring—without the skydiving nerves—you’ll find this indoor flight hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 and older can participate, provided they meet health and size restrictions. Always check with the staff if unsure.

How long does the entire activity take?
The total experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including check-in, gear fitting, briefing, and the 2-minute flight.

What is included in the price?
Your fee of $102 covers training, flight gear (suit, goggles, helmet), locker rental, and the actual 2-minute flight.

Can I buy photos or videos of my flight?
Yes, but these are not included in the price. You can choose to purchase printed photos or a USB with photos and videos separately.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid passport for identification. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for gear fitting.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, people with back problems, heart issues, or prior shoulder dislocations should consult with staff before flying. Participants weighing between 260-300 lbs will be evaluated at check-in, and those over 300 lbs are not permitted to fly.

For anyone with a sense of adventure and a desire to feel like they’re soaring, iFLY Chicago Lincoln Park offers a memorable, safe, and exhilarating introduction to the flight experience. It’s a fantastic way to tick skydiving off your bucket list—without actually jumping out of an airplane.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby