Exploring Manitowoc on a Shore Segway Tour: A Practical Guide for Curious Travelers
If you’re thinking about adding a unique twist to your trip to Wisconsin, a Segway tour of Manitowoc might just be the thing. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve seen enough feedback and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It promises a fun, scenic way to learn about this charming coastal town, all in just a couple of hours.
What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines learning and sightseeing in a relaxed, interactive way. You’ll get up close to some pretty interesting local sights like the WWII submarine and the S.S. Badger Dock, while gliding along the shoreline—sounds pretty appealing, right? However, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for children under 9 or anyone with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.
This tour suits travelers looking for a low-key adventure that mixes light exercise, history, and scenery. It’s also a good pick for those who want to do something out of the ordinary without committing hours on a bus or boat. If you’re into small groups, personal attention from guides, and enjoying scenic shoreline views, this might be just your speed.
Key Points
- Scenic coastline and historic district exploration in one fun outing
- Knowledgeable guides who share local stories and insights
- Up-close views of the WWII submarine and S.S. Badger Dock
- Two-hour flexible experience suitable for morning, afternoon, or evening
- Small group setting (max 9 participants) for a personalized experience
- Ideal for ages 9 and up and those comfortable on a Segway
Start with a Clear Overview of the Experience
The Manitowoc Shore Segway Tour offers a breezy way to see this coastal town. For just $101 per person, you get up to two hours of guided fun exploring the historic district and shoreline. The tour is operated by Glide N.E.W. LLC, a company that seems focused on delivering engaging and relaxed experiences.
The meeting point is conveniently located in the Maritime Parking Lot, nestled between the Baymont Inn & Suites and the Maritime Museum. It’s easy to find, and the tour usually starts at either 10 a.m. or 2 p.m., but there’s flexibility if you contact the operator directly.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
One of the biggest draws is the combination of scenic shoreline views and historic sites. As you glide along, you’ll see the impressive S.S. Badger Dock—a familiar sight for anyone who’s crossed Lake Michigan—and get up close to a WWII submarine, which is quite a rare experience on a city tour.
Guided by a knowledgeable person, like Al, you’ll learn about Manitowoc’s history, maritime importance, and local culture. From reviews, we gather that the guides are well-liked, with visitors describing the experience as both fun and informative. “Highly recommend Al as a guide,” one reviewer mentions, which hints at the value of a personable guide who can make history come alive.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour generally starts with a brief training session, ensuring everyone is comfortable on their Segway. Once on the move, you’ll cover the charming historic district—think classic architecture, waterfront parks, and spots that tell stories of Manitowoc’s maritime past.
Next, the trail follows along the lakeshore—expect scenic views of the water and distant shoreline. It’s a relaxing ride, not overly challenging, making it accessible for most people in decent health. The route is designed to be scenic but also educational, with stops or observations where guides share stories about the town’s history.
The highlight for many seems to be the close-up look at the WWII submarine—an unusual sight that adds a layer of depth to the experience. Plus, seeing the S.S. Badger Dock during your glide adds a maritime touch that makes the tour special.
What to Expect During the Tour
You’ll start with a training session—this is important to get comfortable on a Segway and understand basic controls. The small group size (maximum of 9) ensures more personalized attention, which most reviewers seem to appreciate.
Once underway, the guide will share stories about the area’s history, the significance of the submarine, and details about Manitowoc’s maritime role. Expect a leisurely pace that allows for plenty of photo stops and time to take in the views.
The scenic trail follows the lakeshore, giving you a peaceful backdrop of water, boats, and distant shoreline. If weather permits, you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine, so bringing sunscreen and water is advised. Because the tour is limited to those aged 9 and above and those without mobility impairments, it’s tailored for a broad range of participants, though it does require some balance and comfort on the Segway.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value of the Price
Costing $101 per person, this tour offers a decent value for what it delivers. Two hours of guided touring, educational commentary, and scenic views make it a relaxed way to explore without the chaos of larger groups or noisy vehicles.
Compared to other sightseeing options, this is a more active experience. If you love the idea of gliding along a shoreline, learning new stories, and seeing Manitowoc from a different perspective, the price feels reasonable.
How the Experience Feels in Practice
Based on reviews and descriptions, guests seem to find this tour quite enjoyable. As one person put it, “It was the highlight of the vacation for our 12-year-olds!” The mix of fun, scenery, and learning appears to hit the right note for families, couples, or small groups of friends wanting a memorable outing.
The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine through, making the tour feel personal rather than just a scripted event. That personal touch is what can make this experience stand apart from more generic sightseeing.
Downsides and Considerations
While many love the tour, it’s worth mentioning some limitations. The cost might seem high for some, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Also, since the tour is not suitable for children under 9 or those with mobility issues, it’s not a universal activity.
Weather can be a factor—riding along the shoreline in heavy rain or wind might not be ideal. It’s also a physical activity, albeit gentle, so if you’re not comfortable on a Segway or have balance concerns, it might not be the best fit.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventurous explorers who want a relaxed, scenic way to learn about Manitowoc’s maritime history. It’s great if you enjoy outdoor activities but prefer something less physically demanding than biking or walking long distances.
It’s also an excellent choice for small groups who value personalized guides and a more intimate sightseeing experience. Since children under 9 aren’t allowed, families with younger kids might want to look elsewhere, but for older kids and adults, this is a fun, educational outing.
Final Thoughts
The Manitowoc Shore Segway Tour offers a relaxed, engaging way to see a beautiful lakeside town while learning about its history. It combines scenic views, interesting stories, and a bit of fun on a Segway—an unconventional but memorable way to explore.
If you’re someone who enjoys guided experiences, small groups, and scenic shoreline rides, this tour is likely to leave you with good memories. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to see a WWII submarine up close add a special touch that’s hard to beat.
While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or young children—the overall experience appears to be enjoyable and well-organized. It’s certainly worth considering if you want a laid-back, visually appealing activity during your Manitowoc visit.
Manitowoc: Shore Segway Tour
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 9 and up. It’s designed for those who are comfortable on a Segway and have some balance.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours, including a training session at the start.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are recommended for a pleasant experience.
Does the tour operate at specific times?
Tour start times are usually at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., but the operator is flexible—just give them a call if you need a different schedule.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where do I meet the guide?
In the Maritime Parking Lot, located between the Baymont Inn & Suites and the Maritime Museum.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues.
What’s the price?
It costs $101 per person, which includes the Segway, a live guide, and training.
Is this a good value?
Considering the scenic shoreline, personalized guide, and unique experience, many find it worth the cost for a memorable two hours.
If you’re seeking a gentle but engaging way to explore Manitowoc’s waterfront and history, this Segway tour hits the mark. It’s a relaxed, fun adventure that combines sightseeing with a little bit of active exploration—definitely one to consider for your Wisconsin trip.
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