St. Petersburg: Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens

Imagine gliding effortlessly along the waterfront, your guide sharing stories about local wildlife and history, all while you soak up the Florida sunshine. That’s exactly what you get with the St. Petersburg Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens—a 2.5-hour adventure that combines the thrill of a Segway ride with visits to some of Florida’s most beautiful and unique spots. For $85 per person, you’ll explore Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees, and walk through the lush Sunken Gardens, home to thousands of tropical plants and vibrant flamingos.

What we love most about this tour are its combination of scenic nature and engaging ride—it’s a relaxed way to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of walking or driving. The tour’s small-group size makes for a friendly, informative experience, especially with a guide like Louisa, who was praised for her knowledge and enthusiasm. Another top feature is the Sunken Gardens, a sprawling 4-acre botanical paradise that’s both colorful and peaceful, perfect for plant lovers or those looking for a tranquil escape.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is not suitable for children under 11, and you’ll need to be comfortable on a Segway. The 20-minute training session is gentle and designed to ensure everyone feels confident before heading out. If you’re after a fun, educational way to see St. Petersburg’s natural beauty—especially if you enjoy wildlife, lush gardens, and a bit of light adventure—this tour is a smart choice.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, small-group guided tours, and discovering local flora and fauna. It’s ideal for those who want a balance of exciting transportation and relaxed sightseeing, especially if they appreciate detailed explanations and authentic natural scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique combination: Glide through gardens and waterfront while learning about local wildlife and history.
• Small group size: Limited to six people, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Wildlife viewing: Stop at the seawall to see dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat.
• Beautiful gardens: Walk through the Sunken Gardens, home to over 50,000 tropical plants and colorful flamingos.
• Expert guides: Guides like Louisa are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve now and pay later.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Beginning the Adventure: Meet Your Guide and Learn the Basics

The tour kicks off with a 20-minute training session designed to get everyone comfortable on the Segway. Even if you’re new to riding one, this short introduction ensures you’ll feel confident and safe as you set out. Once ready, your guide—like Louisa, who received glowing reviews—will lead you through the initial instructions, sharing a bit about what’s ahead.

Gliding Through Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum

Your first stop is the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, a paradise for plant lovers. With 500 varieties of palm trees, this is a lush, scenic area that showcases palms from all over the world. We loved the way the guide pointed out specific species and shared interesting tidbits about their origins. The sensation of gliding smoothly past towering palms and listening to expert commentary makes this part both relaxing and educational.

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Wildlife Watching from the Seawall

Next, you’ll stop at a seawall vantage point—a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Here, you might see dolphins playing in the water or manatees lazily surfacing for air. This stop is especially appreciated for its authenticity; you’re not just observing from a zoo but witnessing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. The chance to catch glimpses of dolphins and manatees adds a memorable wildlife element that sets this tour apart.

Walking Through the Sunken Gardens

After riding through parks and neighborhoods, you’ll disembark to explore the Sunken Gardens, a true gem in St. Petersburg. Spanning four acres, this botanical garden is bursting with over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, streams, and pools. The vibrant Chilean flamingos, kayaked among the lush foliage, and colorful parrots add a tropical flair that delights every visitor.

The guide takes time to explain various plants and flowers, turning a simple walk into a mini botanical lesson. We found the flamingos especially charming—they posed gracefully, adding a splash of color and life to the gardens. This part of the tour feels like a peaceful escape, and it’s a great chance to take photos and soak in the scenery.

Passing Through Historic Old Northeast

On your way back, the tour passes through the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood—a lovely area known for its 1920s bungalow-style homes with Spanish influences. The architecture is eye-catching, and this brief drive-by offers a glimpse into the city’s historic charm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of nature, wildlife, and cultural scenery makes this tour especially appealing. It’s not just about riding a Segway; it’s about experiencing the natural beauty and authentic neighborhoods of St. Petersburg. The personalized attention from guides like Louisa ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and the small group size keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

The tour’s value lies in its versatility—seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, walking through a lush tropical garden, and exploring neighborhoods all in one go. The admission fee to Sunken Gardens is included, adding extra value, since admission alone can be expensive in other settings.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that not everyone is comfortable on a Segway, especially those with balance or mobility issues. The 20-minute training session is helpful, but if you’re wary of riding, this might not be the perfect fit. Plus, children under 11 are not permitted, so families with younger kids will need to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour

This Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens is particularly well-suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and want a personalized experience. It’s perfect if you’re curious about local flora and fauna, love a bit of light adventure, and appreciate guided insights. It’s also a good option for those who want to see both natural and historic sights in a short amount of time without the fatigue of walking long distances.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a plant lover, this tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and educational commentary. And because it’s a small-group experience, you’ll have the chance to ask questions and get personalized recommendations from guides like Louisa, who makes the experience memorable.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $85 per person, which includes the Segway ride, guide, headset receiver, and admission to Sunken Gardens.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2.5 hours, including riding, walking in the gardens, and wildlife viewing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 11 years old are not allowed on the tour, mainly because of the Segway riding requirement.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and closed-toe shoes are recommended. You might also want to bring sunglasses and sunscreen.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking can be made with the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour available in the morning and afternoon?
Yes, the tour is usually available in both morning and afternoon slots, giving flexibility to fit into your schedule.

What if I’m nervous about riding a Segway?
The 20-minute training session is designed to help you get comfortable. Guides are friendly and patient, making it a good choice even for first-timers.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Will I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, stop at the seawall to view dolphins and manatees in their natural environment—an authentic wildlife experience.

Is the Sunken Gardens included?
Yes, the admission fee to Sunken Gardens is included in the tour price.

In all, this St. Petersburg Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens offers a lively, authentic way to explore the city’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historic neighborhoods—all in a relaxed, small-group setting. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun outdoor activity, it’s a memorable way to spend a few hours in Florida’s charming Gulf Coast city.

You can check availability for your dates here: