St. Petersburg: Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic way to explore St. Petersburg, this Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens offers a spirited mix of nature, history, and wildlife. With just over two hours of relatively relaxed riding, you get the chance to glide past palm-lined parks, spot dolphins in the bay, and wander through one of Florida’s most beautiful botanical gardens.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to cover a good 12 miles comfortably on a Segway—a great way to see a lot without tiring out. Second, the guide’s local expertise really shines, making the experience both informative and personable. The main drawback? Because of the focus on small-group touring and nature stops, it might feel rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore in depth.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife, and culture. If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights and a bit of ecological charm, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just keep in mind children under 11 aren’t suited for the Segway, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Efficient exploration: Cover 12 miles along waterfront parks, neighborhoods, and gardens in just 2.5 hours
• Wildlife viewing: Spot dolphins and manatees from the seawall, with guided commentary to enhance the experience
• Beautiful gardens: Walk through the Sunken Gardens, home to over 50,000 tropical plants, flamingos, and koi fish
• Small group intimacy: Limited to just 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
• Educational insights: Learn about local flora and fauna, as well as historic neighborhoods from your guide
• Value for price: For $85, you get a comprehensive tour that combines transport, wildlife, and botanical beauty

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring St. Petersburg on a Segway: A Practical and Engaging Approach

Imagine cruising along the waterfront on a Segway, feeling the breeze and seeing the city from a different perspective. This tour starts with a brief 20-minute training session, perfect even for newcomers, which ensures everyone feels confident before hitting the route. Once underway, your guide’s commentary comes through a personal headset, leaving your hands free to steer and enjoy.

The route takes you through some of St. Petersburg’s most scenic areas. The first major highlight is the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, where you can marvel at 500 varieties of palm trees from around the world. We loved the way the guide explained how these palms adapt to different climates, turning a simple ride into a mini botanical lesson. It’s a lush, tropical setting that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported to an exotic island.

Next, you’ll stop along the seawall to observe dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat. This is a real treat, especially as the guide makes sure you have plenty of time for photos and spotting. One reviewer mentioned, “We saw dolphins during the tour, and the guide took the time to make sure we saw them clearly,” highlighting the focus on wildlife.

Afterward, you’ll park the Segway and walk into the Sunken Gardens, a 4-acre paradise filled with over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. The garden’s streams, pools, and colorful flamingos create a calming, vibrant environment. Your guide explains the various plant species, adding depth to the visit. The combination of botanical beauty and the chance to see koi, parrots, and turtles makes this a memorable stop.

The tour concludes with a pass through the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood, known for its charming bungalow-style homes with Spanish influences. It offers a peek into the city’s architectural past, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of local character.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Itinerary and Stops
The tour covers approximately 12 miles, mainly along the waterfront and through scenic parks, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The route is carefully chosen to maximize visual interest and wildlife viewing. The first part, riding through the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, immerses you in a tropical landscape. Expect the guide to share stories about the various palms, adding educational value.

Wildlife Viewing
The seawall stop offers a unique chance to see manatees and dolphins in their natural surroundings. The guide’s commentary enhances this experience, helping you identify different species and understand their behaviors. This stop is often praised for delivering authentic wildlife encounters that feel spontaneous rather than scripted.

Sunken Gardens
Walking into the Sunken Gardens gives you a chance to stretch your legs and appreciate meticulously curated tropical scenery. The garden features streams, pools, and a variety of exotic plants, making it a visual feast. Visitors often comment on how peaceful and lush the gardens are, with some noting the flamingos and parrots as highlights.

Neighborhood Drive-Through
Passing through Old Northeast offers a glimpse of historic Florida architecture, with Spanish-influenced homes dating back to the 1920s. It’s a pleasant, low-key way to finish the tour with a sense of local charm.

Guide and Group Size
The small group setup (limited to six) ensures plenty of personal interaction. Reviewers like Jenny-Lee from Canada praised their guide Louisa, calling her “fun, friendly, and so knowledgeable,” who also took the time to take photos and make recommendations. This personalized touch seems to elevate the experience from a simple tour to a memorable outing.

Price and Inclusion
At $85 per person, the tour offers good value considering the comprehensive nature—guided riding, wildlife viewing, garden admission, and small-group intimacy. Not included are food and drinks, so plan to bring water or snacks if needed.

Practical Considerations for Travelers

Who will enjoy this?
Active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor fun, wildlife, and botanical beauty will find this tour appealing. It’s especially suited for those comfortable on a Segway and eager to learn about local flora and fauna. Since children under 11 aren’t permitted, families with younger kids might need alternative plans.

Timing and Booking
Tours are generally available in the morning and afternoon, giving you flexibility. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and the option to reserve now and pay later adds convenience. The tour’s cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance—provides peace of mind.

What to wear and bring
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. Since there’s a short training session, comfortable shoes are advisable. The guide provides headsets, so no need to worry about audio.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For those who appreciate a combination of nature, wildlife, and easy-paced urban exploration, this tour hits many marks. It’s a great way to get an overview of St. Petersburg’s waterfront and gardens without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. The knowledgeable guides and personalized experience make it stand out, especially if you enjoy learning as you go.

If you want to see dolphins, stroll through lush gardens, and learn about local plants in a friendly group, this tour delivers genuine value. It’s perfect for active, curious travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and want to make the most of their limited time in Florida’s Gulf Coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, a 20-minute training session prepares you to ride the Segway confidently, making it accessible even for first-timers.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including riding, walking, and sightseeing stops.

Can children participate?
No, children under 11 are not suitable for this tour, primarily due to safety and skill requirements.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the Segway tour, guide, headset receiver, and admission to Sunken Gardens.

Are there any dietary restrictions or food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if desired.

Is transportation provided?
The tour itself involves moving through different outdoor locations on the Segway, but no transportation to or from the meeting point is included.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. All necessary safety equipment is provided.

What makes this tour a good value?
For $85, you get a guided outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, a visit to a beautiful botanical garden, and a small-group experience—all in one package.

In essence, this Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens blends active sightseeing with nature and local charm, making it a memorable addition to your St. Petersburg itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby