Best Skydiving Locations on the East Coast

Where is the best place to skydive along the Atlantic and what makes this location better? Although “best” is a bit subjective, there are a few considerations we take into account when determining which dropzone to jump at! When determining where is the best place to skydive in the USA Eastern Region, ask yourself:

• Are they a United States Parachute Association (USPA) Group Member?
• Are they centrally located to other amenities?
• When are they open?

The USPA is the national governing body for skydiving. They promote safety-first practices, provide training and certification for instructors, and set general standards for jumpers and dropzones to abide by. Fun fact: dropzones and skydivers outside the US can be USPA Members, too – it is the most recognized type of skydiving accreditation globally!

A centrally-located dropzone provides easy access to other amenities, which can enhance your overall experience. This is especially true if you’re bringing friends or family to watch you skydive! Being near local attractions means that after jumping you can relax (and geek out about your jump) over a meal or stroll around town, or combine your skydiving adventure with more exciting activities.

A dropzone with a long skydiving season allows for more opportunities to experience the thrill or reschedule in the event of yucky weather on your scheduled day. Obviously, the jumpable season is a bit shorter for our Northeast neighbors – winter is coming! But, this doesn’t diminish the quality of these dropzones, because they have awesome summer seasons. All this means is that many NE dropzones make the very most of their jumping days and foster a close-knit atmosphere with the shorter season.

Whether you plan on taking the leap at a year-round facility or a seasonal DZ, the focus from all remains on having an awesomely unforgettable experience!

Each dropzone on our list brings its own flair, thrilling view, and vibrant community. These are all USPA Group Members, located near other attractions, and jump most days of the week, even if it’s not yearlong. This list is in no particular order!

1. Skydive City in Zephyrhills, Florida

Starting off strong with Z-Hills! This dropzone is on the west side of Florida, but technically on the east coast of the US, so we’re including it. They’re open every day, but in the summer close for a couple of days per week.

Skydive City offers a variety of aircraft and jump options – from first-time tandems to advanced skydiving competitions. The sunny Florida skies keep planes turning year-round and winter is their busy time, making it a destination dropzone for many northern skydivers. Plus, they have on-site campers for rent for visitors!

What is the skydiving capital of the United States? Just a couple hours from Z-Hills, DeLand, Florida is considered the hub for skydiving in the lower 48. This little piece of Central Florida is home to Skydive DeLand and many prominent gear manufacturers in the industry – including United Parachute Technologies (UPT).

2. Skydive Paraclete XP in Raeford, North Carolina

Skydive Paraclete XP is a skydiving gem. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities (including an indoor skydiving wind tunnel!), this dropzone caters to both novices and seasoned skydivers. They boast a friendly, experienced staff and an onsite restaurant that is perfect for viewing. Skydive Paraclete XP is open every day of the week, year-round and was also host to the 2024 Canopy Piloting National Championships!

3. Skydive New England in Lebanon, Maine

Let’s jump further north to Skydive New England. This dropzone is a hidden treasure in the countryside of Maine. Offering stunning views of the picturesque New England landscape and a welcoming atmosphere for jumpers of all levels, this dropzone is a must-jump in the summer. They’re open Thursday through Monday, but closed for the winter when it’s a bit too chilly to skydive.

4. Skydive Cross Keys in Williamstown, New Jersey

Skydive Cross Keys is a bit off the beaten path, but is surrounded by local wineries and Wharton State Forest. Plus, it’s only an hour from the Jersey shore and less than 30 minutes from downtown Philadelphia, PA! Cross Keys is home to multiple boogies and camps throughout the year and draws in jumpers at all stages of their progression. Cross Keys is open April through October, seven days a week!

5. Long Island Skydiving Center in Shirley, New York

Long Island Skydiving Center offers unparalleled views – where else can you soak in the iconic Atlantic coastline and snag a view of New York City in the distance? Remember when we mentioned how proximity to other activities is a factor to consider? This dropzone is just a couple of hours from NYC! Can you jump here in the winter? Nope, it’s wickedly cold, but they have a fabulous summer season.

6. Skydive Carolina in Chester, South Carolina

Ahhh, saved the best for last! With stunning views of North and South Carolina (we’re on the border), a fabulously central location with other great opportunities for adventure a stone’s throw away, and super-seasoned instructors, Skydive Carolina is WHERE IT’S AT! We’re open year-round, although we do cut our hours in the winter, and we can’t wait to take the leap with you! If looking for the best skydiving on the East Coast, come jump at Skydive Carolina!

Ready to soar through the sky with the Atlantic Ocean stretching out beneath you, or take in the sweet Carolinas from thousands of feet up? From Florida’s crystal-clear waters to iconic city skylines, our region is packed with some of the coolest places to skydive in the US. Come and jump with us! Blue skies!

Related Article: Best Time of Year and Time of Day to Skydive