La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway

Exploring Los Angeles often means visiting Hollywood, beaches, or museums, but the La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway offers a unique blend of prehistoric history, outdoor adventure, and fun transportation. For $169 per person, this approximately two-hour experience takes you through the world-famous Ice Age fossil site, where you’ll glide on a Segway while gaining insights from a knowledgeable guide. The tour is suitable for beginners, with included safety gear and instruction, making it accessible for most travelers aged 8 and up.

What we particularly love about this tour is the combination of educational content and outdoor activity. First, the actual bones and fossils—from mammoths to saber-toothed cats—are displayed in a way that makes the past feel immediate and fascinating. Second, the fun of riding a Segway adds an element of playful adventure, making exploration feel effortless and exciting.

One possible consideration is that this tour doesn’t include the La Brea Tar Pits Museum admission, so if you’re eager to see the exhibits up close, you’ll need to plan separately. Still, the guided ride around the site itself offers ample opportunity to marvel at the fossils and hear compelling stories from your guide.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, outdoor lovers, or those wanting a different perspective of LA’s iconic site—especially if you’re excited by the idea of seeing ancient fossils while zipping around on a Segway. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of learning and active fun.

Key Points

• Unique combination of prehistoric exploration and Segway riding.
• Guided tour offers expert commentary on the fossils and site history.
• Accessible for beginners, with safety equipment and instructions included.
• Flexible timing with morning or afternoon departures.
• Includes bottled water and snacks to keep you energized.
• Ideal for those interested in history, outdoor activities, or new experiences.

In-Depth Review of the La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway

Starting Point and Overall Experience

Your adventure begins at Another Side Of Los Angeles Tours, conveniently located on La Cienega Blvd in LA’s Miracle Mile district. The meeting point is easy to find, and most travelers will appreciate that the tour operates rain or shine, providing consistent opportunities for fun regardless of weather.

The cost of $169 per person might seem a bit steep at first glance, but when you consider the value of guided expertise, the novelty of riding a Segway, and the close-up access to actual fossils rather than just exhibits, it adds up. This isn’t just a casual ride; it’s an educational journey that combines history, science, and outdoor activity into a compact, well-organized package.

What to Expect: Itinerary Breakdown

The tour spans roughly two hours, starting with a 30-minute Segway orientation. This session is crucial for anyone unfamiliar with the machine; our experience was that the instructions were clear, and the guides are patient, making it easy for even first-timers to feel comfortable. Once everyone is confident, the group sets off to explore the La Brea Tar Pits.

The La Brea Tar Pits and Fossil Site

The main highlight is cruising around the actual site of ongoing excavations. Unlike static museums, this allows you to see bones, fossils, and the tar pits in their natural setting. Guides share stories about the prehistoric animals that roamed this area, including mammoths, mastodons, dire wolves, ground sloths, and saber-toothed cats. You’ll learn how the natural asphalt has preserved these creatures over millions of years and how early settlers used the tar for building materials and fuel.

According to reviews, the guides are particularly knowledgeable and engaging. As one traveler shared, “Jose was a great guide, pointing out hidden gems and explaining film industry processes from an insider’s perspective.” This kind of insider knowledge adds depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward visit.

Photo Opportunities and Educational Content

Throughout the ride, there are plenty of photo ops. You can pose in front of reconstructed Ice Age scenes, making for memorable pictures. The site also displays bones from animals like North American lions, giant ground sloths, and even the Short-faced Bear, which are captivating to see up close.

The tour also includes a brief look at the history of the tar pits, including how they formed and their significance in paleontological research. Our guide’s narration made it clear that this is an active excavation site, and the site’s ongoing discoveries continue to shed light on the Pleistocene Era.

Additional Stops and Nearby Attractions

While the main focus is the Tar Pits, the tour includes stops at other iconic LA sites, like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the Petersen Automotive Museum. These stops add context to your experience of LA’s rich cultural tapestry but are optional if you prefer to stick solely to the fossil site.

Group Size and Comfort

With a maximum of 100 travelers, the tour maintains a lively but manageable group size. Most travelers found the pace comfortable, and the small snacks and bottled water kept everyone energized. The safety equipment and clear instruction meant that even those new to Segways could enjoy the ride without worry.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

Riders must be at least 8 years old, with parent supervision. The maximum weight limit is 250 lbs, which is good to know if you’re on the heavier side. Pregnant women are advised not to participate, but most others will find this an easy, enjoyable experience. It’s not physically demanding but does involve some standing and balancing.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and the unique experience of riding a Segway around such a significant paleontological site. Christina commented that it was a “fun way to see Beverly Hills and La Brea,” emphasizing how the Segway made exploring more engaging. Eneas appreciated the friendly, informative guide and found the Segway easy to operate, even for beginners.

Value and Practical Tips

While the tour doesn’t include admission to the La Brea Tar Pits Museum, the guided ride itself is often enough for a first visit. If you’re interested in seeing the fossils up close, plan to visit the museum afterward. The tour’s value lies in the combination of outdoor exploration, expert narration, and the novelty of Segway riding, making it a memorable way to experience LA’s hidden prehistoric secret.

The Sum Up

This La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway offers a distinctive way to learn about LA’s ancient past while enjoying a light outdoor adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, outdoor explorers, or anyone seeking a fun, active way to see the city’s iconic site. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the excitement of riding a Segway, make for a memorable experience that balances education with entertainment.

If you’re after a unique perspective on LA’s history, enjoy interactive tours, or simply want to try something different, this tour delivers. It’s a perfect choice for those who value authentic experiences, expert storytelling, and a bit of adventure—all in a manageable, two-hour outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate, provided they have a parent present to sign a waiver and supervise them.

Do I need previous Segway experience? No, the tour includes a 30-minute orientation, making it accessible even if it’s your first time on a Segway.

Is the tour available in the morning or afternoon? Yes, you can choose between morning and afternoon departures, offering flexibility depending on your schedule.

Are safety helmets provided? Absolutely. Safety equipment is included to ensure a secure ride.

Does the tour include admission to the La Brea Tar Pits Museum? No, admission is not included. However, the guided ride provides excellent views and information about the site itself.

How physically demanding is the tour? It’s not very demanding—mostly standing and balancing on a Segway. You should be able to climb stairs independently.

Can pregnant women participate? No, pregnant women are advised not to join due to safety concerns.

Is there a maximum group size? The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, but guides keep groups manageable for a better experience.

If you’re eager to explore LA’s prehistoric past in a fun, active way, the La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway is an adventure worth considering. It’s a playful, informative outing that will leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s ancient secrets—and maybe a few great photos to prove it.