Best Skydiving Destinations in the USA

If you’re looking for the best skydiving destinations to take your adventure to new heights, you’re in the right place! The US is home to some of the world’s most elite skydiving centers (called dropzones), each offering a unique blend of excitement, scenic beauty, and accessibility.

Everyone’s definition of “best” is different! We’re basing our take on a few criteria:

• Are they a USPA Group Member Dropzone?
• Do they offer solo skydiving training?
• How long are they open for – seasonally or year-round?
• What’s their location like?

Of course, we know each dropzone is uniquely awesome, so we’ve taken those special attributes into account as well. It was tricky to narrow down the best skydiving destinations in the USA – because we think anywhere skydiving happens is the best! Let’s dive in.

The United States Parachute Association (USPA) is the primary governing body for us skydivers. Being a Group Member signifies that the dropzone adheres to the rigorous safety and training regulations set forth by the USPA. Membership enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of the dropzone, which eases the minds of those who skydive there – it’s a win-win. All of the dropzones below are USPA Group Members.

Skydive Perris. Skydive Perris is your answer if you’re looking for a dropzone that truly has it all (and then some). Located in Southern California, this dropzone features an onsite wind tunnel, making it an excellent spot for quick progression as a solo student skydiver. With many Hollywood credits, an incredible aircraft fleet (including a DC9!!), and a well-established reputation, Skydive Perris attracts first-time and veteran jumpers from all over the world.

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Yes!

Skydive Snohomish. SkySno is the premier dropzone of the PNW. With a rich history and picturesque setting just outside Seattle, Skydive Snohomish combines stunning views of the Cascade Mountains with a warm and welcoming vibe.

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Almost – closed November and December.

Wisconsin Skydiving Center. Renowned for its outstanding customer service, Wisconsin Skydiving Center provides a personalized and exciting experience for every level jumper. While many dropzones treat those who step through their doors like long-lost family, Wisconsin Skydiving Center takes it a step above the rest.

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Nope – closed for winter – it’s Wisconsin!

Chicagoland Skydiving Center. A special attribute of Chicagoland is their unwavering support for the Oscar Mike Foundation – a non-profit organization helping injured veterans stay active through adaptive sports. Wait … skydiving is all-inclusive? Due to keeping safety at the forefront of everything we do, there are some restrictions to the sport, but yes, it’s a lot more accessible than you might think!

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Nope – closed for winter.

Skydive Chicago. Known for hosting top-notch events for experienced jumpers, Skydive Chicago is a hub of constant activity and excitement. Located in Ottawa, Illinois, the dropzone is less than two hours from downtown Chicago. Skydive Chicago is known for its vibrant community and exceptional facilities and is a stand-out dropzone for skydiving enthusiasts across the globe.

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Nope – closed for winter.

Start Skydiving. Located in Middletown, Ohio, Start Skydiving boasts a welcoming atmosphere, making it an awesome choice for experienced and new skydivers. Start Skydiving offers the option to host corporate team-building events – on top of leaping from an airplane with your colleagues, you can bond over their indoor high-ropes course. Start has it all!

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Yes – some months are only for licensed jumpers.

Skydive New England. Many people think of Maine as all lobsters, homemade ice cream, small-town charm, and stunning fall foliage. But imagine seeing the trees ablaze against the bright, blue sky from the bird’s eye view of a skydive – that’s where Skydive New England comes in! Veteran- and woman-owned, this dropzone has a strong commitment to the community, making it ideal for brand-new and experienced skydivers.

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Nope – closed for winter.

Oklahoma Skydiving Center. For those seeking one of the largest landing areas in the region, Oklahoma Skydiving Center is the place to be. A short drive from both OKC and Tulsa, this dropzone is in an ideal location for skydivers and observers – they even have a dedicated observation area adjacent to the landing area!

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Yes!

Skydive Arizona. Situated conveniently between Phoenix and Tucson, Skydive Arizona is in a top-notch location. Known for their impressive fleet of aircraft – allowing them to handle a high volume of jumpers – this DZ offers an unparalleled access to the skies. Skydive Arizona hosts an annual well-known Sisters In Skydiving (SIS) Boogie, calling jumpers from all over to the desert skies.

• Solo training? Yes!
• Year-round jumping? Yes!

Skydive Key West. If your dream is to skydive above white sands and turquoise waters, Skydive Key West is one of the best options in the world. With a relaxed island vibe and stunning scenery, it’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable tandem jump.

• Solo training? Nope – they make up for it with wicked views.
• Year-round jumping? Yes!

Skydive Carolina. Of course, we saved the best for last! With a rich history that spans three decades, Skydive Carolina has built a reputation of excellence. The community at Skydive Carolina is welcoming, inclusive, and dedicated to safety – making it a favorite among newcomers and seasoned pros.

• Solo training? Of course!
• Year-round jumping? You know it! \

Finding a dropzone with a blend of world-class facilities, a dedicated staff, and vibrant community are must-haves when searching for the perfect dropzone, and we have all three right here at Skydive Carolina! Book today – we can’t wait to soar the skies with you!

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