Chicago: Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour

Exploring Chicago’s renowned lakefront and Museum Campus on a Segway might sound unconventional, but it’s one of the most enjoyable ways to take in the city’s highlights. This 2-hour guided tour combines fun, sightseeing, and a bit of adventure — all on your own set of wheels. With an emphasis on safety, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vistas, it’s an experience that appeals to many travelers seeking a relaxed yet active way to see Chicago.

What we love most about this tour is how accessible it is — Segways are surprisingly easy to learn, making the experience suitable even for first-timers. The tour’s route along the scenic lakefront allows for plenty of photo opportunities and a genuine sense of freedom.

A potential consideration is the weather, as the tour is outdoors and dependent on good conditions. Some reviewers mention feeling cold or losing feeling in their fingers, so dressing warmly is advisable, especially during cooler months.

This adventure is perfect for those who enjoy sightseeing with a twist of fun, and it suits travelers looking for a low-impact activity that offers big views and engaging commentary. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a great way to see Chicago’s highlights without the hassle of walking or traffic.

Key Points

• Highly rated experience: With a 4.9/5 from 135 reviews, it’s clearly a crowd favorite.
• Skill level: Designed for beginners with thorough training, so no prior experience required.
• Comprehensive route: Covers major sights like Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and Chicago’s skyline.
• Small groups: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Price and value: At $76 per person, it offers a memorable, activity-rich way to explore the city.
• Weather considerations: Dress warmly, especially if visiting in colder months or windier days.

An In-Depth Look at the Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the NE corner of Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, just a short walk from downtown Chicago. Marked by bright orange flags reading “Segway Tours,” the meeting spot is easy for visitors to find, and the office is located one level below street level. The friendly staff and clear signage make check-in hassle-free, even if you’re arriving amidst Chicago’s busy streets.

Participants are greeted with a brief safety briefing, a helmet, and a small bag to keep personal items handy. This orientation lasts about 15-20 minutes and covers everything you need to know to ride confidently. The guides are often praised for their professionalism and patience, making first-time riders feel comfortable from the start.

The Riding Experience: Fun, Safe, and Easy to Learn

One of the standout features of this tour is how accessible Segways are. Reviewers repeatedly mention how quick it is to pick up riding skills — often within a few minutes. Jeremy and Mike, the guides frequently praised for their engaging style and safety focus, ensure everyone is comfortable before heading out.

Many reviewers, including Gavin, remark on how smooth the Segways perform and how quickly they become second nature. Jeremy, in particular, is singled out as a professional who makes the experience memorable and informative — adding humor and local insights that enrich the ride.

Route and Highlights

The tour covers 5-7 miles along Chicago’s breathtaking lakefront, showcasing the city’s iconic sights and natural beauty. Here’s what you can expect at each stop:

• Buckingham Fountain: This famous centerpiece is a highlight, especially when its water show is active. The guide often shares fun facts about the fountain’s history and design, adding context to this photogenic spot.
• Grant Park and the BP Bridge: Gliding through lush green spaces and modern architecture, this area offers a relaxing vibe with plenty of photo opportunities.
• The Bean (Cloud Gate): Although not explicitly listed, many tours include a quick stop or photo at the city’s beloved sculpture — a must-see for visitors.
• Museum Campus: The Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Soldier Field are all within easy reach. While the tour doesn’t stop inside, you’ll get fantastic views and interesting facts about these cultural landmarks.
• Chicago Skyline: From the lakefront, you’ll gaze out at the majestic cityscape, with a clear view of some of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the U.S.

The Scenic Lakefront Path

Gliding along the lakefront path on Lake Michigan’s scenic shores is undoubtedly a highlight. Reviewers frequently mention how the smooth, wide trail allows for relaxed riding and superb vistas. The route offers a combination of urban scenery, park landscapes, and natural beauty, making it ideal for photography.

Guides and Atmosphere

The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and sense of humor. Tammy, Hannah, and Jeremy are often mentioned by reviewers as engaging and informative. Their focus on safety and fun helps even nervous riders feel secure and confident on their Segways.

Value for Money

At $76 per person, this tour delivers a lot of value. It includes a comprehensive safety briefing, expert guiding, and access to Chicago’s top sights without the fatigue of walking or the stress of navigating traffic. Many reviewers, including Lisa and Michelle, highlight how this was their favorite activity in Chicago, citing the mix of adventure and sightseeing as unbeatable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly, especially if visiting in cooler months. Some reviewers felt the chill and wished they had warmer clothing.
• Wear comfortable, close-toed athletic shoes for ease of riding.
• Arrive a few minutes early to check in and receive your briefing.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility or health restrictions.
• The tour ends back at the start point, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who want to see Chicago in a relaxed, engaging way. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable with new tech, and appreciate scenic city views. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, the limited group size ensures personalized attention and a more comfortable experience.

The tour also appeals to first-time visitors eager to get an overview of the city’s top sights without the exhaustion of long walks. It’s a fantastic option for younger travelers (over 14) who want an active, memorable way to explore.

Not for everyone:

The activity isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. The weather can also influence how enjoyable the experience is — a sunny, mild day guarantees the best ride.

The Bottom Line

This Segway tour offers a unique blend of adventure, sightseeing, and fun that’s hard to beat. The route along Chicago’s lakefront is stunning and provides a fantastic perspective of the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks. The guides are praised for their professionalism, humor, and safety focus, making even hesitant riders feel confident.

For a reasonable price, you get to experience the city in a way that’s both active and relaxed, perfect for those who want an authentic, memorable visit. It’s especially ideal if you’re short on time or looking for a hands-on way to learn about Chicago’s architecture and history.

In summary, if you’re after a lively, engaging, and safe way to see Chicago’s best sights, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s an activity that couples, families, or solo travelers won’t forget — and one that offers plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way.

FAQ

Is prior experience necessary to ride the Segway?
No, the tour includes a thorough orientation and training session, making it easy for first-timers to get comfortable quickly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and close-toed athletic shoes are recommended. Dress warmly if visiting in cooler months, as it’s an outdoor activity.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering 5-7 miles along Chicago’s lakefront and parks.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour is limited to 8 participants, allowing for more personalized guidance.

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

Are children under 14 allowed?
No, participants must be over 14 years old and under 260 lbs (118 kg). Those under 18 need adult supervision.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, the skyline, the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Soldier Field, and scenic lakefront views.

Is this activity suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or mobility restrictions.

What if it rains?
Weather conditions can affect the tour, so it’s best to check the forecast and dress accordingly. Tours can be canceled or rescheduled if necessary.

How accessible is the starting point?
The meeting point is easy to find with clear signage at Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, and staff are available to assist if needed.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Chicago local, this Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour is a lively and scenic way to see the Windy City. It combines the joy of riding with the thrill of discovering new sights — all wrapped in a safe, guided experience that’s as informative as it is fun.