St. Petersburg: Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens

Exploring St. Petersburg on an Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens

If you’re considering a way to see some of the best sights in St. Petersburg without the hassle of walking miles or renting bikes, this Eco Segway Tour might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the tour outline, it seems like a fantastic option for anyone wanting a mix of nature, wildlife, and a touch of local history—all while riding a Segway.

What really stands out are the opportunities to glide through lush botanical gardens and spot manatees and dolphins in their natural habitat. Plus, the visit to the Sunken Gardens, with its vibrant tropical plants and colorful flamingos, promises a delightful visual experience. On the downside, keep in mind that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 11, so if you’re traveling with younger kids, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour suits those who enjoy a relaxed pace, appreciate nature and wildlife, and like learning from knowledgeable guides. If you’re after something more active or a deep dive into history, this might not be the best fit. But for a fun, scenic, and educational ride through St. Petersburg, it’s definitely worth considering.

• Comfortable and eco-friendly transportation via Segway with expert guidance
• Unique stops including the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, Sunken Gardens, and scenic seawall views of marine life
• Educational commentary about local flora, fauna, and neighborhoods
• Limited group size (max six people) for a more personalized experience
• Includes admission to the Sunken Gardens, providing additional value
• Duration of 2.5 hours fits well into most sightseeing schedules

The adventure kicks off with a brief 20-minute training session. Even if you’ve never been on a Segway before, this part is designed to make sure everyone feels comfortable. After that, you’re ready to set off on a 12-mile journey along waterfronts and parks—a relaxed pace that’s perfect for taking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum

One of the highlights is gliding through the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, home to around 500 different types of palms from around the world. This is a visual feast and a real treat for plant lovers or anyone intrigued by varied landscapes. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, sharing interesting tidbits about the palms, their origins, and how they thrive in Florida’s climate.

Why this stop works:

It’s a peaceful way to start the tour, and seeing such a collection of palms in one place makes for a memorable photo op. We loved the way guides explained the different species; it added depth to the scenery.

Seawall Viewing: Manatees and Dolphins

Next, you’ll pull up at a seawall where, if you’re lucky, you’ll see manatees and dolphins in the wild. The chance to observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment is a major plus. The tour notes that guides will point out and help you spot them, making it more interactive.

Authentic wildlife experience:

A reviewer, Jenny-Lee from Canada, specifically mentioned that her guide made sure they saw dolphins. This kind of personal touch elevates the experience from just a scenic ride to something genuinely engaging.

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Exploring Sunken Gardens

After the waterfront, the tour includes a walk through the Sunken Gardens, a 4-acre botanical paradise filled with over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. The gardens feature streams, pools, exotic birds like flamingos, macaws, and parrots, as well as koi fish and turtles. The guide’s explanations about the flora and fauna deepen your appreciation for the lush surroundings.

Why you’ll love it:

It’s a vibrant, colorful environment that offers plenty of opportunities for photos. It’s also a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Passing Through Old Northeast Neighborhood

On the way back, you’ll pass through the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood, with its charming 1920s bungalow-style homes with Spanish influences. This part of the tour adds a cultural touch, giving a glimpse into the area’s architectural heritage.

The Experience and Group Size

The tour is limited to six participants, creating a more intimate setting. The live guide, speaking in English, provides commentary throughout, and everyone gets a personal headset for clear listening. This small group setup means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.

The total duration is 2.5 hours, which fits well into most day plans. The price point of $85 per person includes the Segway, guide, headset, and entry to the gardens, making it a convenient package—though food and drinks aren’t included.

Pros:
– The guides seem to be knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour engaging.
– The scenic stops offer a diverse experience — lush gardens, wildlife sightings, and historic neighborhoods.
– The small group size makes it more personal and flexible.
– The combination of outdoor riding and walking keeps the experience dynamic and not monotonous.
– The admission to the Sunken Gardens is included, adding value.

Cons:
– The tour isn’t suitable for children under 11, which might be a drawback for family travelers.
– If you’re not comfortable on a Segway or have mobility issues, this could be challenging.
– The price, while reasonable considering the attractions and guide service, might seem steep for some, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy being outdoors and are comfortable on a Segway. Nature lovers will particularly appreciate the gardens and wildlife stops, while history buffs might enjoy passing through the Old Northeast neighborhood. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet active way to see various facets of St. Petersburg.

If you love receiving insightful commentary from guides who know their stuff, and you’re interested in a personalized, small-group tour, this is a good pick. Families with kids over 11 who want a fun outing could also enjoy it, provided they’re comfortable on the Segway.

All in all, this Eco Segway Tour offers a well-rounded way to explore St. Petersburg’s natural beauty, wildlife, and neighborhoods in a manageable time frame. The combination of scenic rides, lush gardens, and wildlife viewing makes it a memorable experience, especially if you’re into active, outdoor sightseeing. The inclusion of Sunken Gardens and the guide’s lively commentary are big pluses.

While it’s not perfect for those with very young children or mobility issues, for most travelers looking for a fun, scenic, and educational adventure, it seems like a solid choice. The small group size and knowledgeable guides also add a layer of comfort and personalized attention you’re unlikely to find on larger tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for kids under 11, as the tour requires riding a Segway, which needs a certain level of balance and coordination.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the Segway, guide, personal headset, and admission to Sunken Gardens. Food and drinks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2.5 hours, including a short training session before starting.

Do I need prior experience with Segways?
No, the 20-minute training session is designed to make sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.

What are the main attractions I’ll see?
You’ll glide through the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, spot wildlife at the seawall, walk through the Sunken Gardens, and pass through a historic neighborhood.

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

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and interactive way to discover some of St. Petersburg’s best sights, this tour could be just the thing. It combines the fun of riding a Segway with the beauty of gardens, wildlife, and local architecture—all in a manageable, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: