St. Petersburg: Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens

Imagine cruising effortlessly along scenic waterfronts, gliding past lush palm groves, and stopping to watch dolphins play in their natural habitat—all on a sleek Segway. That’s exactly what this St. Petersburg Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens offers. It’s a laid-back way to see some of the area’s best outdoor sights, perfect for travelers eager to combine eco-friendly fun with authentic Florida charm.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the expert guidance that makes navigating the city’s natural and historic spots both enjoyable and educational. Second, the stunning sunken gardens, a lush oasis bursting with tropical plants and vibrant flamingos.

A possible drawback? The tour length is just 2.5 hours, which might leave some wanting more time to explore. Also, because it’s a small-group experience limited to six, it’s best to book early.

This tour is well-suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, nature lovers eager to see local wildlife, and anyone interested in a relaxed, guided exploration of St. Petersburg’s scenic spots.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly fun: Glide on a Segway, an environmentally conscious way to explore.
• Scenic stops: View a palm arboretum, dolphins, and manatees in their natural habitat.
• Beautiful gardens: Walk through the lush, exotic Sunken Gardens.
• Educational insights: Guides share knowledge about local flora, fauna, and history.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible scheduling: Usually available in the morning and afternoon, with easy cancellation policies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This 2.5-hour guided tour provides a leisurely way to cover around 12 miles of St. Petersburg’s most captivating sights. The journey begins with a brief 20-minute training session—perfect if you’re new to Segways but confident enough to ride. Once comfortable, you’ll set off with a knowledgeable guide who uses personal headsets to share commentary, ensuring you don’t miss any details.

The route meanders along the waterfront, giving you sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, and passes through endless parks and historic neighborhoods. The tour’s pace is relaxed enough for sightseeing, photography, and taking in the fresh Florida air.

The Palm Tree Arboretum

Your first big highlight is a glide through the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, where you’ll see more than 500 varieties of palms from around the world. We loved the way this stop combines botanical beauty with a sense of tranquility. The guide explains different types of palms, adding an educational element to the visual feast. It’s a quiet, lush space that feels like stepping into a tropical paradise, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Watching Dolphins and Manatees

Next, you’ll pause along the seawall to observe manatees and dolphins in their natural habitat. This is a true highlight for many visitors, especially since the guide takes care to point out these gentle creatures when they surface. One reviewer, Jenny-Lee from Canada, mentioned, “We saw dolphins and even managed to get some pictures thanks to Louisa’s tips.” It’s a chance to see wildlife in a setting that feels authentic, not staged or overly commercial.

Exploring Sunken Gardens

After the waterfront ride, you’ll walk through the Sunken Gardens, a four-acre enclave bursting with tropical plants, streams, and pools. Here, you’ll see over 50,000 plants and flowers, making it a true horticultural showcase. The garden is home to colorful Chilean flamingos, macaws, parrots, koi fish, and turtles, creating a lively, immersive experience.

Guides typically share insights about the plants and the garden’s history, making this stop as educational as it is beautiful. Jenny-Lee was especially impressed: “Louisa took the time to explain lots about the plants and flowers. It made the experience so much richer.” The garden’s vibrant colors and tranquil pools provide ample photo opportunities and moments of peaceful reflection.

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Passing Through Historic Old Northeast

On the way back, the tour takes you through the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood, renowned for its 1920s bungalow-style homes with Spanish influences. It’s a charming contrast to the lush gardens and waterfront views, giving a glimpse into the area’s architectural past.

Though the primary focus is on nature and scenery, this neighborhood adds a layer of local charm, making the overall experience well-rounded.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes the Segway, your guide, a headset receiver for clear commentary, and admission to Sunken Gardens. It’s a good value considering the sights covered and the personalized attention from a small group.

However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if you need them. The tour is also not suitable for children under 11, which is typical for Segway experiences due to safety considerations.

The Value of This Tour

At $85 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of outdoor activity, wildlife observation, and cultural sights. Compared to more traditional sightseeing options, it’s a dynamic way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized interaction from your guide.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see dolphins and manatees, which adds a special touch that big bus tours often lack. The Sunken Gardens, with its lush tropical setting and vibrant animals, justify the admission fee and make this tour more than just a ride—it’s a mini adventure in nature and local history.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Allow about 2.5 hours for the entire experience, including brief training.
• Be comfortable on a Segway; a 20-minute training session ensures everyone is ready.
• Book early, especially if you prefer a specific time slot—small groups fill up fast.
• Dress for warm weather, and consider sunglasses and sunscreen.
• The tour is available most mornings and afternoons, providing flexibility.
• Since food and drinks aren’t included, bring water or a snack if needed.
• Children under 11 are not permitted, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Insights

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour strikes a nice balance between fun, education, and scenic beauty. Guests appreciate guides like Louisa, who combine friendly attitude with deep knowledge—the kind of person who takes the time to snap photos and share tips for the rest of your stay.

Seeing dolphins and manatees in the wild is often a highlight, with many guests noting the guides’ efforts to maximize wildlife sightings. The Sunken Gardens also receive high praise for their lush, tropical ambiance and the opportunity to learn about local plants from passionate guides.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a light, active way to explore St. Petersburg without heavy walking or bus rides. It suits nature lovers, families with older children, and anyone curious about local flora and fauna. Those looking for a unique photo opportunity or interested in local history will also find plenty to enjoy.

Keep in mind, the tour’s focus on outdoor scenery and wildlife makes it less ideal if you’re seeking indoor museums or expansive city views. However, for an authentic, relaxed introduction to the area’s natural beauty, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The St. Petersburg Eco Segway Tour with Sunken Gardens offers a distinctive way to experience the city’s natural and historic highlights. It combines eco-friendly transportation, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery into a memorable outing. While it’s a relatively short adventure, it feels complete—covering wildlife sightings, botanical wonders, and charming neighborhoods—all in one smooth glide.

This tour is best suited for those who want an active, engaging, and educational experience in a small-group setting. It provides genuine value, especially when considering the access to wildlife and lush gardens that might be otherwise hard to see in such a relaxed manner.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and informative outing that captures the essence of St. Petersburg’s natural beauty, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is there any training involved before the tour?
Yes, there is a 20-minute training session to ensure everyone feels comfortable riding the Segway.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 6 participants, providing a more personalized experience.

What sights will I see during the tour?
You’ll glide through the Gizella Palm Tree Arboretum, spot manatees and dolphins, visit the Sunken Gardens, and pass through Historic Old Northeast.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 11 years old.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the Segway, guide, headset, and admission to Sunken Gardens.

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

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for warm weather; sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended.

When is the tour available?
It’s usually available in the morning and afternoon, offering flexibility for scheduling.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until the day of the tour, keeping your plans flexible.

This tour is a charming way to see some of St. Petersburg’s best outdoor spots, combining eco-friendly fun with authentic local sights. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a botanical lover, or just looking for a different way to explore, it offers a memorable, fun-filled experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: