St. Louis, Missouri, offers a wide range of thrilling recreational flying activities in St. Louis for aviation enthusiasts and those looking to experience the skies. From scenic helicopter tours to hot air balloon rides, the city provides exciting opportunities to take to the skies and enjoy unique views of the Gateway to the West.
Recreational Flying Activities in St. Louis
Here are the top ten recreational flying activities in and around St. Louis.
1. Helicopter Tours of St. Louis
Experience breathtaking aerial views of St. Louis with a helicopter tour that soars over iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and Forest Park. Helicopter tours provide a bird’s-eye view of the city’s skyline and natural surroundings, offering a thrilling way to explore the area. With various tour packages available, you can choose routes highlighting the city’s most famous sights. Visit Gateway Helicopter Tours
2. Hot Air Balloon Rides
Take the beauty of St. Louis and its surrounding countryside from a hot air balloon. Companies like Renegade Balloons and Velocity Ballooning offer peaceful and picturesque rides that allow you to explore the city and enjoy panoramic views. Balloon rides are typically offered at sunrise or sunset, providing an unforgettable experience perfect for special occasions or bucket-list adventures. Visit Velocity Ballooning
3. Glider Rides at St. Louis Soaring Association
For a serene and exhilarating experience, try glider flying with the St. Louis Soaring Association. Located in Highland, Illinois, just a short drive from St. Louis, glider rides offer the thrill of silent flight as you soar effortlessly through the sky without engine noise. Experienced pilots will guide you through the basics of glider flying, making this a peaceful yet adventurous flying activity. Visit St. Louis Soaring Association
4. Skydiving in St. Louis
For adrenaline junkies, skydiving over the St. Louis area is a must-try experience. Skydive St. Louis offers tandem skydiving for beginners, allowing you to jump from an airplane and experience freefall with the safety of an experienced instructor. With views of the Missouri countryside and the St. Louis skyline in the distance, skydiving offers a thrilling way to take to the skies. Visit Skydive St. Louis
5. Flight Lessons
If you’ve ever dreamed of piloting your plane, flight lessons in St. Louis offer the perfect learning opportunity. Spirit of St. Louis Airport and St. Charles Flying Service offers private pilot training and discovery flights that allow you to take control of an aircraft under the guidance of a certified flight instructor. Whether you’re pursuing a pilot’s license or want to experience flying firsthand, this is a thrilling way to get started in aviation. Visit St. Charles Flying Service
6. Ultralight Flying
Ultralight aircraft flights are an excellent option for a more personal and exhilarating flying experience. Gateway Area Ultralight Association offers lessons and rides in small, lightweight aircraft, allowing you to feel the freedom of flying in the open air. These low-altitude flights provide stunning landscape views and an unforgettable flying experience. Visit Gateway Area Ultralight Association
7. Paragliding Unlimited
Paramotoring is a unique and thrilling way to experience flight, where pilots use a motorized parachute to soar through the sky. Paragliding Unlimited offers tandem flights and paramotor training for those interested in learning this exciting sport. With a paramotor, you can enjoy the freedom of flying at low altitudes while taking in the scenic countryside and city views. Visit Paragliding Unlimited
8. Aerial Photography Flights
For photographers looking to capture the beauty of St. Louis from the air, aerial photography flights provide the perfect opportunity. Local flight services offer customized flights for aerial photographers, allowing you to capture stunning images of the city’s skyline, landmarks, and natural surroundings. These flights are ideal for amateur and professional photographers who want unique, high-altitude shots. Learn More About Aerial Photography Flights
9. Indoor Skydiving at iFLY St. Louis
For those who want the thrill of skydiving without jumping out of a plane, iFLY St. Louis offers an indoor skydiving experience using a vertical wind tunnel. This family-friendly activity simulates the sensation of freefall, allowing you to float and fly in a controlled environment. With trained instructors guiding you through the experience, indoor skydiving is a fun and safe way to feel the excitement of flight. Visit iFLY St. Louis
10. Drone Flying
With the rise of recreational drones, many parks and open areas around St. Louis allow drone flying for enthusiasts. Some local groups host drone racing events or meetups where hobbyists can test their flying skills and record stunning aerial footage. Many public parks in St. Louis are the best places to fly drones for beginners, including Forest Park, Tower Grove Park, Carondelet Park, Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, and Buder North Park.
Note: there are some drone flight restrictions. Drones are not allowed to fly within 25 feet of a person without permission or near large public events and public buildings, except drones used by media or emergency personnel are exempt from some restrictions.
St. Louis Recreational Flying Activities
St. Louis offers a variety of recreational flying activities that cater to adventure seekers and those looking for peaceful aerial experiences. From the quiet glide of a hot air balloon to the rush of skydiving, the city provides numerous opportunities to explore the skies. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just looking for a unique way to see St. Louis from above, these top ten recreational flying activities will leave you with unforgettable memories and a new appreciation for the beauty of the Gateway City.
