Burbank: Helicopter Tour of Los Angeles and Hollywood Sign

If you’re dreaming of catching LA’s most famous sights from a bird’s-eye view, a helicopter tour from Burbank offers a quick but memorable way to do just that. This 10-minute flight whisks you over the Hollywood Sign, Universal Studios, and the vibrant Hollywood strip, providing a fresh perspective of the city’s legendary landmarks. It’s a compact experience that promises stunning visuals without the hefty time commitment, making it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those craving a unique thrill.

What we really love about this tour is how accessible it is—no long waits or complicated logistics, just a short hop into the skies to see LA’s best-known sights. Plus, the inclusion of airport fees and fuel surcharges in the price means no unexpected costs. The one possible drawback? The flight is brief, so you’ll want to make sure your camera and phone are ready to snap those once-in-a-lifetime shots quickly. This experience suits visitors who want a taste of Hollywood glamour from above or those celebrating a special occasion with an unforgettable view.

If you’re after a practical, fun, and visually impressive addition to your LA trip, this helicopter tour checks plenty of boxes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting a new perspective, it offers good value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Short but impactful: The 10-minute flight hits all the main highlights without taking up your entire day.
• All-inclusive pricing: Airport fees, fuel surcharges, and taxes are included, so what you see is what you pay.
• Iconic sights: Get up close with the Hollywood Sign, Universal Studios, Hollywood Hills, and the lively Hollywood Strip.
• Photo opportunities: Available souvenir photos and VR videos allow you to preserve your adventure.
• Group size: Private groups ensure a personalized experience, with a live English guide and audio commentary.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a range of travelers.

Experiencing Los Angeles from the Sky: What You Can Expect

Imagine climbing into a helicopter, feeling the rumble of the rotor engines, and lifting off from Burbank’s airport. From there, the city unfolds beneath you, a sprawling tapestry of landmarks, neighborhoods, and glimmering lights. The tour is designed to be a quick yet immersive peek at LA’s most recognisable sights, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the tour is only about 10 minutes long, it’s packed with highlights. You’ll quickly soar above the Hollywood Hills, where sprawling mansions and lush greenery paint a picture of Hollywood’s luxurious side. The Hollywood Sign is the star attraction—up close enough to appreciate its size and iconic shape, yet far enough away to give a sense of the vast hillside it sits on. As the pilot guides you past, you’ll see Universal Studios, a film theme park that’s as much a part of Hollywood’s identity as the sign itself.

The helicopter also sweeps along the Hollywood Strip, giving you a panoramic view of the bustling streets, the famous TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre, home to the Oscars. From this vantage point, you’ll see the city’s contrasts: palm-lined boulevards, high-rise downtown buildings, and sprawling residential neighborhoods. The pilot’s live commentary, delivered in English, helps to frame what you’re seeing, making the experience both visually and intellectually engaging.

The Visuals and Photo Opportunities

One of the key perks here is the chance to capture incredible aerial shots of LA’s most famous landmarks. We found that the views of the Hollywood Sign are especially striking—crisp, close, and framed against the Hollywood Hills. Universal Studios, with its distinct layout and rides, is another highlight if you’re into theme parks and movie magic.

For those wanting to remember the experience long after landing, souvenir photos and 360° VR videos are available for purchase. While these aren’t included in the base price, many find they’re worth the extra to relive the views or share with friends. Several reviewers mentioned that they appreciated the professional quality of the photos, which came out sharp and well-framed despite the quick turnaround.

The Practicalities

Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans aren’t set in stone. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, adding a bit of peace of mind. The tour operates in English, with a live guide providing narration, and is wheelchair accessible, accommodating a broader range of travelers.

Each seat has a weight limit of 300 lbs/136 kg, so if you’re traveling with heavier guests, it’s worth checking in advance. The tour departs from Burbank, a convenient location for visitors staying in the northern LA area or those doing a studio tour beforehand.

The Value of a Short Helicopter Flight

At $299 per person, this helicopter ride offers a premium experience that’s surprisingly accessible. Considering the inclusion of airport fees and fuel surcharges, the cost reflects the convenience and the exclusive views. Compared to longer helicopter tours, this quick flight might seem brief, but it packs a punch in terms of the sights you see and the memories you make.

Travelers have noted that the experience is highly professional, with friendly pilots and clear communication. The private group setting means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, making it more intimate and comfortable.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a swift overview of LA’s most iconic landmarks. It’s also a solid choice for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone looking for an adrenaline rush with a stunning backdrop. If you’re pressed for time but still want to see Hollywood from above, this short flight provides a high-impact option.

However, if you’re hoping for an in-depth exploration of LA’s neighborhoods or a longer, more comprehensive helicopter experience, you might want to consider other options. Still, for a quick, visually impressive, and convenient aerial introduction, it’s a great pick.

The Sum Up

This helicopter tour from Burbank offers a compact but impressive way to see Los Angeles from the sky. With highlights like the Hollywood Sign, Universal Studios, and the Hollywood Strip, it provides plenty of photo opportunities and memorable views without requiring a full day’s commitment. The inclusion of airport fees and fuel surcharges in the price adds to its transparency, making it easy to budget for.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Hollywood glamour, those celebrating special moments, or visitors with limited time who still want a unique perspective on LA’s iconic sights. The private group setting and professional guides help ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience, while the optional souvenirs allow you to keep the memories alive.

While the flight is short, it’s packed with stunning visuals and a sense of thrill that will leave you with a fresh appreciation of Los Angeles’ sprawling, glamorous landscape. Whether you’re a first-timer or a local looking to see your city from a new angle, this helicopter ride promises a fun, efficient, and visually striking adventure.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 10 minutes, providing a quick but memorable aerial tour of LA’s key sights.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the helicopter ride, airport fees, fuel surcharges, and all taxes. Souvenir photos or videos are available for an extra fee.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, ensuring a more personalized and intimate adventure.

Are there any accessibility options?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for check-in purposes.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking also allows you to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to your plans.

Where does the tour depart from?
The flight departs from Burbank airport, a convenient location for those staying in or visiting the northern LA area.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, each seat has a maximum weight limit of 300 lbs/136 kg.

This helicopter tour delivers a quick, stunning overview of LA’s most famous landmarks with professional service and great value. It’s ideal for those wanting a memorable, photo-worthy experience that fits into a busy schedule.