Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Experience Downtown LA From Above: The Ultimate 36-Minute Aerial Tour

Experience Downtown LA From Above: The Ultimate 36-Minute Aerial Tour

Discover Los Angeles from a thrilling new angle with the Downtown Lights Tour, a 36-minute aerial flight that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant skyline from above. Learn why flying over LA is a must-do adventure when visiting Southern California.

Long Beach, California
36 minutes
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Confirm passenger weights carefully

Accurate weight data is required for all passengers to meet FAA safety limits—be precise when booking to avoid cancellation.

Check Dodger home game schedule

Flights can’t operate during Dodgers home games due to flight restrictions—plan your tour accordingly.

Arrive early for weight verification

Arrive ahead of your flight time to complete mandatory weight checks and boarding procedures smoothly.

Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens

Wide angles help capture expansive cityscapes and landmarks from your window seat during flight.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Overlook the lesser-known historic Los Feliz neighborhood en route
  • View the art installations and waterfront near Long Beach from above

Wildlife

  • Occasional sightings of urban birds like red-tailed hawks soaring near downtown
  • Pelicans and sea lions visible near the Long Beach coastline

Conservation Note

Strict weight restrictions ensure safe and fuel-efficient flights, minimizing environmental impact while showcasing LA responsibly.

The LA Memorial Coliseum, featured on this tour, hosted the Summer Olympics in 1932 and 1984, making it a historic landmark in the city’s sporting culture.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour, Late afternoon, Clear midday skies
Key viewpoints:
  • Directly over Crypto Arena
  • Above LA Memorial Coliseum
  • Approach and departure views over Long Beach coastline
Subjects to capture:City skyline and skyscrapers, Sports stadiums and arenas, Residential neighborhoods and freeway networks

What to Bring

Camera or smartphoneEssential

Capture stunning aerial shots of LA’s landmarks and cityscape.

SunglassesEssential

Reduces glare from the sun when flying on bright days.

Light jacket

Helpful for cooler temperatures in the air or early morning flights.

Binoculars

Enhances distant views of landmarks and neighborhoods.

Common Questions

Can children join the flight?

Yes, the Downtown Lights Tour welcomes all ages, provided they meet safety requirements and passenger weight guidelines.

Are there weight restrictions for passengers?

Yes, individual passengers over 300 lbs or groups exceeding a combined weight of 580 lbs will not be permitted due to safety limits.

Is the flight affected by sports events?

Yes, flights are not allowed on days with Los Angeles Dodgers home games to comply with Temporary Flight Restrictions.

Where does the flight depart from and return to?

Flights take off from and land back at Long Beach Airport for convenience and accessibility.

Can I bring my own camera on the flight?

Absolutely; guests are encouraged to bring cameras or smartphones to capture the spectacular views.

How does weather affect the tour?

Flights are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled in poor conditions for safety reasons.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

36 minutes

Location

Long Beach, California

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for all ages in good health

Free cancellation available

Topics

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