Neenah: Paper & Water Trail Segway Tour

Neenah: Paper & Water Trail Segway Tour — A Practical Guide for Curious Travelers

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic way to learn about a small Wisconsin town’s history, the Neenah Paper & Water Trail Segway Tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the details paint a picture of a lively, engaging experience that combines history, architecture, and a bit of outdoor adventure—all on a Segway.

Two things really stand out: first, how it takes you through the neighborhoods of millionaire mansions and historic sites, giving a tangible sense of the town’s past wealth and influence. Second, the inclusion of the Kimberly Point Lighthouse and Doty Island offers a charming mix of maritime history and natural beauty.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts only two hours, so it’s not a deep dive into every aspect of Neenah’s past. It’s more of a lively overview that’s perfect if you enjoy a quick, active exploration. This experience would suit travelers who want a leisurely yet engaging way to see a town and learn some quirky stories along the way—whether you’re into history, architecture, or just looking for a unique way to get around.

Key Points

• Unique way to explore Neenah’s neighborhoods and historic sites on a Segway.
• Includes prominent landmarks like Kimberly Point Lighthouse and Doty Island.
• Learn about the paper industry and the wealth of the paper barons who built the town.
• Enjoy scenic views of Lake Winnebago and the surrounding waterways.
• Small group setting ensures a more personalized experience.
• Accessible for most with considerations for weather and comfort, but not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Neenah Paper & Water Trail Segway Tour?

This tour offers a lively, two-hour glide through the historic streets and scenic water edges of Neenah, Wisconsin, led by a live English-speaking guide. It’s a chance to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun on a Segway, giving you a fresh perspective on this small but fascinating town. The tour covers various neighborhoods and waterfronts, providing a taste of local history, architecture, and natural beauty.

What sets this apart from typical sightseeing is its focus on the paper industry that once made Neenah a boomtown. You’ll visit Doty Island, see some grand mansions once owned by paper barons, and explore the area around Lake Winnebago, which offers some impressive views. The tour also features a stop at the Kimberly Point Lighthouse, a piece of maritime history, and a quirky highlight—the only Segway tour in the world with a manhole cover as one of the main attractions.

How Does the Tour Work?

The tour begins at the boat trailer parking lot, which you’ll find on-street parking around the meeting point. After a quick safety briefing and orientation, you’ll hop onto your Segway and start exploring. The small group size—limited to eight participants—means you’ll get more attention from your guide and quieter, more enjoyable scenery.

The pace is relaxed enough for most people to enjoy, yet the ride provides an adrenaline rush that makes it more memorable than just walking around. The guide shares stories about Neenah’s history, the paper barons, and the architecture that still lines the streets. Expect to visit neighborhoods where millionaires once built their mansions, many still standing today as a testament to the town’s prosperous past.

What You’ll See and Experience

Historic Neighborhoods and Mansions

One of the highlights is exploring the neighborhoods along Doty Island, where some of the grandest homes from Neenah’s paper baron era still stand. You’ll glide past water’s edge mansions, taking in their impressive architecture and imagining the lifestyle of the wealthy class that built them.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kimberly Point Lighthouse

A short stop here allows you to enjoy views of Lake Winnebago while learning about the lighthouse’s history. It’s a charming maritime stop that adds a different dimension to your tour.

The Paper Trail and Local History

The tour is themed around Neenah’s paper industry, which played a critical role in shaping the city. The guide explains how the paper barons accumulated wealth and built towns, leaving behind a legacy in architecture and local culture.

Doty Island

This small island within the city holds historical significance and is home to several historic homes. Seeing these on your Segway ride makes for a scenic and educational experience.

Scenic Views and Quirky Highlights

While the views of Lake Winnebago are stunning, the tour also has some fun, unexpected moments—like the mention of a manhole cover being a main attraction—which shows the tour’s playful side.

What Are the Practical Details?

Price and Value

At $101 per person, the tour is a reasonable investment for a two-hour guided experience that combines scenery, history, and a bit of adventure. Considering the inclusion of sights like the lighthouse, historic neighborhoods, and Doty Island, most will find it good value—especially since it’s a private, small-group outing.

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts about two hours, with options available in the morning, afternoon, or evening. This flexibility makes it easy to slot into a busy travel schedule. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the live guide adds a personal touch.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those afraid of heights. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and dress weather-appropriate, as the experience is outdoors and subject to the elements. Parking is straightforward, just on-street, so plan accordingly.

Cancellation and Booking Flexibility

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which makes booking worry-free if your plans change. Plus, the “reserve now, pay later” option adds flexibility for spontaneous travel planning.

What Do Travelers Say?

One reviewer, Brian from Madison, shared, “I wasn’t sure it was worth it, but wow—totally exceeded my expectations!” This suggests that the tour can surprise even seasoned travelers. The combination of scenic views, fun on the Segway, and the historic stops seems to resonate well with participants.

Others mention the good value for money and the unique attraction of a manhole cover, which highlights the playful, offbeat aspects of the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who want an active, engaging way to see a small town. It’s suited for visitors interested in history, architecture, or simply love trying new modes of transportation. The small group setting makes it suitable for travelers who appreciate some personal interaction and a relaxed pace.

While not designed for families with very young children or those with mobility issues, it could be a fun outing for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a quick but memorable glimpse into Neenah’s past.

Final Thoughts

The Neenah Paper & Water Trail Segway Tour offers a lively mix of scenery, history, and fun. It’s perfect if you’re after an active way to explore a town that’s full of stories and stunning water views. The $101 price tag provides a good balance of value, especially considering the personalized experience and the variety of sights covered.

If you like small-group adventures, enjoy history with a bit of a fun twist, or simply want to see Neenah in a different light, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a playful, scenic, and informative way to spend a couple of hours that’ll leave you with a few memorable stories—and maybe a new appreciation for the local paper industry.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not specifically designed for children, especially younger kids, due to the outdoor nature and the use of a Segway.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, giving you a good taste of Neenah’s sights without being too exhausting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be on your feet (or on a Segway), and weather-appropriate clothing will help you stay comfortable.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the outdoor, active nature of the tour.

What sights are included?
You’ll see the Kimberly Point Lighthouse, historic neighborhoods, Doty Island, and scenic views of Lake Winnebago.

Is there an age limit?
The data doesn’t specify age limits, but given the activity, it’s best suited for adults or older teens comfortable on a Segway.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

What is the price?
$101 per person, which includes the guided Segway experience and access to key sights.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a camera, water, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

So, if you’re ready for a fun, scenic, and informative way to enjoy Neenah, this Segway tour might just be your perfect outing. It balances adventure with education, all while exploring a town that’s a little off the usual tourist trail.

You can check availability for your dates here: