Searching for a “skydive near me” and want more than just a quick thrill? Whether you’re ready for your first tandem jump or looking to earn your solo skydiving license, Skydive Chicago offers a purpose-built experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.
Located just 90 miles southwest of Chicago, our private skydiving resort is one of the most respected skydiving centers in the world—home to first-time jumpers, world champions, and everyone in between.
🌟 Tandem Skydiving: Your First Step Into the Sky
If you’re new to the sport, you’ll start with a tandem skydive—the most accessible way to experience skydiving. You’ll be harnessed to a USPA-certified instructor, freefall from 13,000 feet, and land on our spacious grassy landing area—no upcharges, no altitude guessing games.
Every tandem at Skydive Chicago includes:
- Jump from a turbine aircraft seating 12–22 people
- Altitude of 13,000 feet included (no surprise fees)
- Logbook entry and instructor debrief
- Access to world-class facilities and spectator areas
You’re not just a number here—you’re part of a moment that matters.
🎓 Want to Learn to Skydive Solo?
Many who search for “skydive near me” are also curious about learning to solo skydive to jump on their own. Rather than following the traditional AFF model, we offer our Advanced Freefall Program—designed to provide more structure, clarity, and progression.
Our Advanced Freefall Program (AFP) is a comprehensive, structured training program designed to eliminate the guessing games common in other dropzones. You’ll receive personalized coaching, step-by-step instruction, and real progress tracking—because learning to skydive should be empowering, not overwhelming.
We go above and beyond industry standards, and it shows: many students that have graduated AFP are world record holder, national and world champions, on teams, or even instructors themselves!
- Online ground school to take at your own pace
- Personalized coaching from experienced, certified instructors
- Progressive skill development in freefall, canopy control and equipment preparations
- Complete training path to earn your first skydiving license
![An Advanced Freefall Program [AFP] solo skydiving student exits the plane at Skydive Chicago](https://skydivechicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/home-afp1-1024x768.jpg)
✈️ A Facility Built by Skydivers—For Skydivers
When you visit Skydive Chicago, you’ll immediately feel the difference. We’re not based at a busy public airport—we’re on a private skydiving campus, designed for skydiving from the ground up.
What you’ll find here:
- Private airport with on-site hangars and operations
- Multiple turbine aircraft for faster, smoother climbs
- Large landing areas for safety and comfort
- A vibrant, welcoming community with on-site campground, disc golf, hiking trails, and a café
- Spectator areas, lakeside beach, and more
“Skydive Chicago’s team is dedicated to excellence in customer service, facilities, and safety. Setting the standard through an evolving culture where goals become achievements, moments become memories, and friendships last forever.”
🏞️ Things to Do Nearby
Make your skydive part of a full weekend getaway! The surrounding area is full of nature, history, and fun:
- Starved Rock State Park (hiking, canyons, waterfalls)
- E-bike tours along the Illinois River
- Grand Bear Lodge (indoor water park + Starved Rock access)
- Lincoln-Douglas Debate Site in downtown Ottawa
- Reddick Mansion (historic tours, local charm)
- Heritage Harbor – riverside lodging, beach bar, and restaurants
🗺️ How Far is Skydive Chicago?
No matter where you’re coming from in the Midwest, we’re closer than you think:
- 🛣️ 43 miles from DeKalb, IL
- 🛣️ 58 miles from Naperville, IL
- 🛣️ 63 miles from Kankakee, IL
- 🛣️ 80 miles from Rockford, IL
- 🛣️ 80 miles from Peoria, IL
- 🛣️ 90 miles from Chicago, IL
- 🛣️ 100 miles from Valparaiso, IN
🪂 Your “Skydive Near Me” Destination Awaits
From your first tandem to earning your skydiving license, Skydive Chicago is where passion, professionalism, and world-class facilities come together. When you’re ready to jump, choose a dropzone that offers more than just altitude—choose one that sets the standard.
