If you’re looking for a unique way to see Charlotte, North Carolina, a guided Segway tour offered by Wild Things Rydables might just be your perfect fit. This 1.5-hour adventure takes you through some of the city’s most iconic sights, blending history, culture, and a good dose of fun. We haven’t personally taken the tour, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this experience hits the sweet spot for families, history buffs, and anyone wanting a different perspective on Charlotte.
What we love about the tour is its accessibility—the Rydables are designed for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity that doesn’t sacrifice entertainment. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to elevate the experience with their local insights and friendly approach. The only potential drawback? If you’re particularly tight on time, the 1.5-hour duration might feel a bit quick, especially if you’re keen on soaking in every detail. Still, for a quick overview of the city’s highlights, this tour delivers great value.
This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of education and adventure, families with kids over 11 (or younger with a parent), or anyone who wants to explore Charlotte without the usual walking or bus crowds. Just remember, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour so appealing—and why it might be a great addition to your visit.
Key Points
- Accessible and family-friendly with Rydables suitable for kids 11 and up, and supervised by adults for younger children.
- Learn about Charlotte’s history, from Queen Charlotte to the discovery of gold and the city’s modern banking prominence.
- See top attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Romare Bearden Park, The Green, and Spectrum Arena.
- Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the tour engaging and informative.
- Cost-effective at $89 per person, offering a quick yet comprehensive city overview.
- Enjoy a relaxed pace with a friendly small group limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
Exploring Charlotte on a Rydables Segway Tour
Charlotte, often called the Queen City, is full of contrasts—historic neighborhoods sitting shoulder to shoulder with towering financial buildings. This tour offers the chance to see it all in a relaxed, fun way. The meeting point is conveniently located inside the Market at 7th Street, inside the food court, which makes it easy to find and park nearby. Starting with a training session, you’ll get comfortable riding the Rydables before hitting the streets.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Charlotte.
What the Tour Covers
The route is designed to combine history, culture, and local flavor. You’ll explore the four wards of Charlotte, each with its own story, from the early days of gold discovery to the city’s rise as a banking hub. Highlights include Romare Bearden Park, a lively green space named after the famous African American artist, and The Green, a central park area that’s perfect for photos.
You’ll also pass iconic landmarks like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a must-see for motorsports fans, and Spectrum Arena, home of Charlotte’s NBA team, the Hornets. Other sights include the Mecklenburg Investment Center, a symbol of Charlotte’s financial growth, and the bustling Market at 7th Street where your adventure begins.
The Experience of Riding Rydables
One of the main attractions is the Rydable itself—a fun, easy-to-learn mobility device that offers a smooth ride. Reviewers mention how comfortable and motivating these Rydables are, even convincing a 10-year-old to join in. The training session ensures everyone is ready, making the tour accessible—even for first-timers.
Guide and Group Dynamics
Several travelers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. “Our guide Lauren was excellent,” one reviewer said, emphasizing her ability to share Charlotte’s history while also taking photos. With a small group capped at 8, you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of opportunity to ask questions. The guides’ local insights create a more meaningful connection than just staring at landmarks.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Considerations
The tour costs $89 per person, which we consider reasonable given the quality and personalized nature of the experience. It’s suitable for travelers who want an active yet relaxed way to explore, especially those who prefer a guided experience over self-guided wandering. The tour does not include food, drinks, or transportation afterward, so plan your day accordingly.
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What to Bring and Wear
Comfortable shoes are a must, given the need to stand or walk between stops. A hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended, especially during warmer months. Cameras are encouraged to capture the vibrant cityscapes and candid moments. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back issues, or wheelchair users, so consider these factors if you have mobility concerns.
Why This Tour Offers Good Value
At $89, the tour provides a fun, educational, and active way to see Charlotte’s highlights without the hassle of public transportation or walking long distances. The small group size and engaging guides mean you’ll get a personalized experience—something increasingly rare in busy city tours. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the guides’ ability to share local stories in an engaging manner, adding depth to what might otherwise be just a sightseeing jaunt.
Authenticity and Fun
Many reviewers mention how the guides’ stories and patience enhance the experience. “We made great memories,” one family shared, noting how the tour was perfect for bonding and learning together. The Rydables themselves are a hit, making what could be a typical city tour into a playful adventure.
Accessibility of Key Sights
The route covers well-known neighborhoods and landmarks, giving you a taste of Charlotte’s past and present. It’s especially appealing for those who want a dynamic overview without spending hours on foot. With the tour covering Charlotte’s history from the Revolutionary War to the modern banking city, you get a quick but impactful sense of how the city evolved.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for families with kids over 11, especially those who want a fun activity that gets them moving and learning. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Charlotte’s most interesting sights. If you enjoy guided experiences, storytelling, and a bit of adventure, this tour checks all those boxes.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back issues, or wheelchair users. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, seated tour or want to visit specific museums or landmarks in depth, you might prefer other options. Still, for those seeking a lively, interactive way to see the city’s highlights, this Rydables tour stands out.
The Sum Up
The Wild Things Rydables Tour of Charlotte offers a lively, engaging way to explore the city’s top sights and historical landmarks. With knowledgeable guides, a small group setting, and the novelty of riding a Rydable, it combines education with fun perfectly. It’s especially well-suited for families, curious travelers, or those who want a break from traditional walking tours.
The value is clear—at $89, you get an active, informative experience that covers a lot of ground in a short time. The reviews highlight how guides like Lauren and Carol make the tour memorable, adding stories and local insights that bring Charlotte’s history to life. The activity is accessible, safe, and designed to be enjoyable for a wide range of ages, making it a standout option for a quick, entertaining city overview.
For travelers seeking a playful and insightful introduction to Charlotte’s neighborhoods and history, this tour delivers in both fun and substance. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see the city’s highlights without spending all day on traditional sightseeing methods.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, kids 11 and older can participate, but children under 11 must ride with a parent. The activity is designed to be fun and engaging for families.
Where does the tour start? The tour begins inside the Market at 7th Street, just inside the food court, not at the office on Tryon Street. You’ll meet near Walgreens Pharmacy, upstairs.
What should I wear? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended. It’s best to dress for the weather since the tour is outdoors.
How long does the tour last? It runs for approximately 1.5 hours, including the training session. It’s usually available in the morning and afternoon.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your booking flexible.
Is this activity wheelchair accessible? No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems, due to the nature of riding the Rydables.
This Rydables tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and fun, making it a memorable way to experience Charlotte. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a family looking for an active outing, you’re likely to walk away with new insights—and plenty of stories to tell.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Charlotte
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