Birds, bees, plants and goats.

A fun, slightly quirky way to see Austin’s downtown—our review of the Birds, bees, plants, and goats tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Austin beyond just walking or driving, this Segway tour promises a different perspective. It’s designed to be a lively, easy-paced way to cover a good chunk of the city’s most notable sights, combined with some interesting nature tidbits. We’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear sense of what to expect, including what’s great about it—and what might not be quite as appealing.

What really caught our eye are the small-group vibe, which means more personalized attention from your guide, and the chance to see some of Austin’s architectural gems like the historic Driskill hotel and the Texas State Capitol. On the flip side, the tour’s price is quite reasonable, but some reviews mention logistical hiccups, so it’s worth weighing those factors. If you enjoy a relaxed, slightly adventurous way to explore city highlights while learning about local flora and fauna, this could be a good fit.

Who this tour suits best? It’s ideal if you’re after a casual, engaging way to get to know downtown Austin with a bit of greenery and wildlife thrown in—and if you’re comfortable on a Segway. Not as suitable if you’re looking for a highly structured or in-depth cultural tour, but perfect for those who want a fun, interactive city experience.

Key Points:

• Accessible and fun: Segway makes it easy to cover more ground than on foot without tiring out.
• Small group: Ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Highlights: Focuses on iconic architecture and trending hotspots, offering good photo opportunities.
• Nature learning: Includes a unique stop about local birds, bees, plants, and goats—adding an educational twist.
• Price point: At $39, it’s a budget-friendly way to see downtown, though some may find the value depends on weather and logistical reliability.
• Booking and cancellations: You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility.

The Overview: What you’re signing up for

This 1.5-hour Segway tour is a lively, engaging way to explore downtown Austin comfortably. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity mixed with sightseeing. You’ll be riding a self-balancing two-wheeled Segway—a device that’s easier to master than you might think, but worth trying if you’re comfortable with light tech.

The tour’s main draw is its balance of hot spots and architectural sights. Expect to see the historic Driskill Hotel, renowned for its classic charm, and the Texas State Capitol, a must-visit for Austin newbies. Along the way, your guide will share tidbits about the city’s history and architecture, making the experience both fun and informative.

There’s also a unique stop focused on birds, bees, plants, and goats—a bit of a surprise in the middle of a city tour, but one that adds a touch of nature and local flavor. It’s a casual, free stop where you can learn about Austin’s green spaces and maybe even spot some wildlife or farm animals.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 15009 Fagerquist Rd, Del Valle, TX, a little outside the main downtown area. This might seem unusual, as most city tours start downtown, but it’s part of the charm—less congestion and a bit more space to get comfortable on your Segway. The tour ends back at the same point, so plan your transportation accordingly.

The Hot Spots and Architectural Gems

Your guide will lead you through Austin’s lively core, stopping at key landmarks. The highlight is the Texas State Capitol, where you’ll get a quick history lesson on Texas’ government and architecture. The tour also visits the Driskill Hotel, a symbol of Austin’s historic elegance. Both spots are great for photos and provide instant conversation starters about Austin’s past and present.

The Nature, Birds, Bees, Plants, and Goats Stop

One of the more distinctive features of this tour is the nature-focused stop. Here, the guide will share stories and facts about local flora and fauna, emphasizing Austin’s green spaces and biodiversity. The mention of goats suggests some farmyard charm, possibly a small petting area or a farm-like setting. If you’re into wildlife or simply curious about the local environment, this stop offers a refreshing change from urban sightseeing.

The Group Size and Tour Dynamics

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group size on paper sounds large, but most reviews suggest it’s more intimate. The small-group dynamic means your guide can give more personal attention, answer questions, and make the experience enjoyable without feeling rushed. It’s also a fun way to meet fellow travelers if you’re feeling social.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Pace

The 1 hour 30 minutes tour is just the right length for a relaxed overview. You’ll spend most of the time riding, with brief stops for sightseeing and explanation. The pace is gentle, making it accessible for most people, even those who are new to Segways.

Price and Value

At $39 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering it includes both transportation and sightseeing. It’s a good deal if you want a quick, active way to see a lot of Austin in a short time. Keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent—poor weather could mean cancellations or rescheduling, so check the forecast beforehand.

Booking and Cancellation

You can book most trips well in advance—about 11 days on average—and cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled time. That offers some peace of mind if your plans are flexible.

Potential Drawbacks

One notable downside from reviews is a no-show incident where William G waited for the tour to arrive and the operator didn’t show up. While this doesn’t seem to be a common experience, it’s a reminder to confirm your reservation and perhaps have a backup plan. Also, since the tour starts outside the main downtown area, transportation might be needed to get to the start point.

What the Reviews Say

Out of five reviews, the overall rating is 3.4/5, which indicates mixed feelings. Most reviews are positive about seeing Austin on a Segway and the relaxed vibe. However, one reviewer had a frustrating experience with a tour operator not showing up, which highlights the importance of confirming your booking and perhaps reading recent reviews.

Interestingly, some reviews, though limited, don’t mention the more exciting or detailed aspects of the tour. The focus on the nature stop and local animals like goats is a unique feature, but the overall experience may depend heavily on weather and the guide’s delivery.

Final Thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

For the price, this Segway tour offers a fun way to get a broad overview of Austin’s downtown, blending architecture, city hotspots, and a touch of nature. It’s especially ideal if you’re not a huge fan of walking long distances or if you want a slightly adventurous activity that’s easy to pick up.

You’ll love the personalized attention from your guide and the chance to see some iconic landmarks from a fresh angle. The inclusion of a nature-focused stop makes it stand out from standard city tours—and it’s a great way to learn something new about Austin’s environment.

That said, the experience’s success hinges on good weather and reliable booking, so double-check your reservation and be prepared for possible weather-related changes. It’s not a deep cultural dive, but it’s a relaxed, engaging way to spend a couple of hours.

If you’re traveling with someone who enjoys light tech and outdoor activity, or if you simply want a different perspective on Austin’s downtown, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Do I need any experience to ride a Segway?
Most travelers can participate, and the guide will give instructions. If you’re comfortable on a bike or scooter, you’ll likely be fine.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is a manageable length for most. There are stopping points along the way for sightseeing and explanations.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 15009 Fagerquist Rd, Del Valle, TX. It’s outside the main downtown area, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility for your schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the Segway rental, guide, and the sightseeing route. No extra fees for the stops, but food or drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While most travelers can participate, the tour is more suited for adults or older teens comfortable on a Segway. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the $39 fee is all-inclusive for the tour. Just be aware of potential transportation costs to the meeting point.

In the end, this tour offers a relaxed, affordable way to see some of Austin’s highlights and learn about local nature. It’s best if you’re seeking a fun, laid-back activity that mixes sightseeing with a bit of adventure. Just remember to check your reservation and weather forecast, and you’ll be set for a memorable Austin experience.