St. Petersburg: Scenic Segway Tour

If you’re brainstorming ways to see more of St. Petersburg without exhausting yourself, a scenic Segway tour might just be the perfect pick. While I haven’t personally tried this particular experience, I’ve researched it thoroughly and talked to travelers who have. It’s a relaxed, fun way to cover a decent stretch of the city’s highlights in a short time—perfect if you want a mix of sightseeing and a little adventure.

What really appeals to me about this tour are two things: the chance to see the waterfront, parks, and historic districts all in one go, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife like dolphins and manatees while enjoying the natural beauty. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that it might not be ideal if you’re uncomfortable on a Segway or if you’re traveling with kids under 11, as the tour is only suitable for ages 11 and up.

This experience seems well-suited for those who enjoy light outdoor activities, appreciate scenic views, and want to explore at a relaxed pace without the hassle of walking long distances. It’s also a great pick if you’re curious about the natural surroundings and historic charm of St. Petersburg but prefer not to be on your feet all day.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Guided: Includes a 20-minute training session to ensure you’re comfortable on the Segway.
• Scenic and Diverse: Features views of waterfront, parks, museums, and historic districts.
• Wildlife Looks: Offers chances to see dolphins, manatees, and other local wildlife.
• Visit a Unique Garden: Stops at Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum, home to over 500 palm species.
• Small Groups: Limited to 6 participants, providing a more personalized experience.
• Flexible and Transparent: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure kicks off with a 20-minute training session. This part is crucial because it’s designed to get you comfortable on the Segway, whether you’re a first-timer or have some experience. The guides are generally friendly and knowledgeable, making the training smooth and even a little fun. After mastering the basics, you’ll set out on a roughly 5-mile route through some of St. Petersburg’s most picturesque spots.

As you glide along the waterfront, you’ll take in views of the city’s yacht basins, museums, and bustling restaurants. The waterfront scenes are especially eye-catching, with boats, shimmering water, and cityscapes that look even better from the vantage point of a Segway. Passing through parks means you’ll be immersed in greenery, with plenty of opportunities to pause and soak in the natural beauty.

A key highlight is the visit to the Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum, a two-acre oasis filled with more than 500 palm species. Here, the ride becomes a botanical adventure, offering a different kind of scenic beauty compared to the urban landscapes. It’s an excellent spot for taking photos and enjoying the greenery up close without the effort of walking.

One of the most exciting aspects of this tour is the wildlife spotting. Travelers have reported seeing dolphins and manatees, which adds a touch of magic to the experience. Your guides often keep an eye out and share interesting facts about the local flora and fauna, making the tour educational as well as visually delightful.

The Value of the Experience

For $60, this 2-hour guided tour packs a lot of value. It’s not just about the ride but about combining adventure, sightseeing, and nature within a manageable timeframe. The price seems fair considering the small group size—limited to six—so you’re likely to get personalized attention, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the ride.

You’re also getting a lot of variety: scenic waterfronts, historic districts, parks, and unique gardens. Plus, the wildlife spotting adds a rare element that many travelers miss out on when sticking to just museums and city streets. The included training ensures that even beginners can enjoy the ride, eliminating some of the common worries about feeling unsteady on a Segway.

It’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, which makes sense given the focus on sightseeing, but it’s good to plan for a snack or beverage if you get hungry or thirsty during your adventure.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour’s route is designed thoughtfully. After initial training, you’ll head toward the waterfront, where the views of yachts and the waterway are calming and beautiful. Glide past museums and restaurants, offering a glimpse of the city’s cultural and culinary scene without stopping. This makes it ideal for those who want to see the highlights but prefer a relatively quick overview.

Next, you’ll visit the Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum. Here, the focus shifts to nature—walking or riding through the lush two-acre park and marveling at the diverse palm species. Many reviews mention how peaceful and inviting this spot is, especially for those who enjoy botanical settings.

The wildlife spotting is often noted as a highlight. Guides share stories about the local dolphins and manatees, which are quite common in the waters around St. Petersburg. Travelers have said seeing these animals “made the experience extra special,” adding a memorable element to the scenic ride.

The ride’s overall pace is leisurely, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the total duration of 2 hours keeps it manageable even if you’re short on time.

What Travelers Are Saying

People who’ve taken this tour often mention the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer stated, “The guide was very friendly and informative, making the whole experience enjoyable.” Another highlighted the stunning views, saying, “Gliding along the waterfront with the city skyline in the background was breathtaking.”

Some reviewers appreciated the wildlife sightings, noting they saw dolphins swimming nearby, which made the trip unforgettable. Others mentioned that the training session was straightforward, even for newcomers, and that the ride felt smooth and accessible.

Of course, not everyone is a fan of Segways. A few comments pointed out that if you’re uncomfortable on a two-wheeled vehicle or have mobility issues, this might not be the best choice. Also, since children under 11 aren’t permitted, families with younger kids would need to look for other options.

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Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits anyone looking to combine light outdoor activity with sightseeing. It’s particularly good if you want to get a broad overview of St. Petersburg’s waterfront, parks, and historic districts without walking miles. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see dolphins and manatees in their natural surroundings.

If you’re traveling solo, in a small group, or with a partner, the limited group size is a bonus, allowing for more personalized attention from guides. It’s also a good choice for those who want a fun, low-stress way to explore that doesn’t require previous Segway experience.

However, it’s not ideal if you’re seeking an in-depth cultural or historical tour, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those who can’t comfortably ride a Segway. Also, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is there a training session?
Yes, every participant receives a 20-minute training session to get comfortable on the Segway before starting the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts for about 2 hours, including the training and riding time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Only participants aged 11 and over can join, making it suitable for teenagers and adults but not for younger children.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the 1-hour Segway tour, 20-minute training session, and visits to the Palm Arboretum and scenic views. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

How many people are in each group?
Tours are limited to small groups of 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is it easy to ride the Segway if I’ve never used one before?
Most reviews say yes—thanks to the thorough training, even beginners find it easy to get the hang of it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to explore some of St. Petersburg’s most scenic spots, a scenic Segway tour is a solid choice. It combines the fun of riding with the beauty of waterfront views, lush parks, and the chance to spot local wildlife—all in just a couple of hours. The guides seem knowledgeable, and the small group size means you won’t be just another face in the crowd.

While it’s not geared toward deep historical dives or family-friendly activities for younger kids, it’s perfect for adventure-seekers, outdoor lovers, and those who want a relaxed yet engaging overview of the city. Just remember to wear comfortable clothes and be prepared for an easy but fun ride.

Whether you’re visiting solo, with a partner, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a relaxed, scenic snapshot of St. Petersburg that’s hard to beat for the price.

Ready to glide through St. Petersburg’s scenic spots and spot some playful dolphins? This could be your next memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: