city segway tours san francisco

City Segway Tours San Francisco

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City Segway Tours San Francisco - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

City Segway Tours San Francisco

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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

City Segway Tours San Francisco - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Address: 3243 Balboa Street San Francisco, CA 94121

Call today: 415-716-9910.

Segway Tours San Francisco

We are your number one source for affordable Segway Touring around San Francisco. Check out our rates.

Set your own time , Ride with your own group. Canvass all of Golden Gate Park easily in 2.5hrs. and have time for a coffee or lunch.

Other companies will only show you half the park and 45 min. of lesson time will pass before you even get going. Here the Lesson is free.

With them the 2.5hr $75 tour is really only 1hr.45min.

Request A Rental – Segway Tours San Francisco

By requesting a rental time, you are subject to availability and not guaranteed a Segway until we send a confirmation to you.

Reservation Date

Preferred Time

Segways Needed?

Why Rent A Segway in San Francisco?

SEE IT ALL on a SEGWAY     Guaranteed Lowest Rates in San Francisco CA     LOCKS are provided , so you can easily stop and go inside Points of Interest

Guided Segway Tours in Golden Gate Park and San Francisco are for people who don’t know how to use their Smart Phones. Ride wherever bicycles can ride.

Set your own time , Ride with your own family and friends around the San Francisco CA area! Our knowledgeable staff will train you on everything you need to know to ensure your safety and optimal enjoyment. Check out our competitive hourly, daily, and weekly rates and rent a Segway PT today! Ride 3 times as far as any guided tours in San Francisco for less the price $. Guaranteed lowest segway rates in SF CA.

Requirements to rent a Segway:

• Valid Driver’s License/Passport/ID (one per group ok)
• Credit Card
• Signed Rental Agreement/Waiver

What others say about our Segway Tours San Francisco

“I asked myself before writing this review:  does this place need another five-star review?  The answer is DUH!

The staff is friendly and helpful, if you’ve never done it they have a short instructional period where they help you get the feel for being on one of these crazy fun things, they aren’t pushy at all–it was just an overall good experience dealing with these guys, and so much better than trying a tour.  Not that I wouldn’t want a tour at some point for the fun of learning more about the city or the park, but this was just so much fun (and for the same price), I’m not sure I’ll get around to that.”

Kudos to you, Segway SF Bay!

“We had a company outing and rented 15 segways.  We had some basic training inside and then outside.  Having someone to teach us definitely helped everyone feel safe.  They had gloves, ponchos and helmets.

We spent 2 1/2 hours riding around.  I will definitely come back.”

“If you are looking for a great and fun way to tour the city of San Francisco than look no further than Segway SF Bay.  Charlie and his team are so welcoming and will make sure you have a fantastic experience.  You shouldn’t worry if this is your first time on a Segway.  They will make sure you learn all you need to know to have an amazing day!  I took my family visiting from Colorado and was able to give them a great tour of Land’s End, GG Park and all parts in between.  Thanks again Charlie!”

“This was the absolute most fun thing to do while in San Francisco. We took these things down to China town..it was rather far but it got us there and back. So easy to ride once you get the hang of it. No tour guides. Just get on and go. Loved this.”

“Charlie and his staff are TOPS.  The most patient folks I have ever had the pleasure of working with.  Our gang ranged from a 12 year old to a “senior” who speaks English as a second language.  They got us all up and running on seqways and made our trip to San Francisco simply the best part of our vacation!  Highly recommended!”

San Franciso Segway Experience Tour

Approximately 2.5 hours

From  €74

Get the Segway Experience and See the the San Francisco Highlights!

Only have time for a quick spin around town?  We’ve got you covered with our San Francisco Segway Experience Tour!  This tour combines the best highlights of the city into a one and a half hour tour, ensuring that you see the best and brightest sites of the city.  It’s a great way to experience the fun of riding a Segway while checking off your bucket list in San Francisco.

Before the  tour, we will conduct a brief training session near our office, conveniently located in Fisherman’s Wharf, to ensure that everyone feels comfortable on a Segway.  Then, we will start our journey throughout the downtown area, stopping to see and talk about sites such as the Hyde Street Cable Car, North Beach and Little Italy, and Ghirardelli Square among others. We will cruise through Fisherman’s Wharf, stopping to see the WWII Liberty Ship and the Submarine Pampanito.  Any trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a photo of its greatest treasure; the Golden Gate Bridge. We will take you to an amazing vantage point to see the bridge and Alcatraz Island, and our guides will be more than happy to snap your picture!

We hope that you will join us for our Segway Experience Tour of San Francisco.  Our expert tour guides will bring the history of this eclectic city to life and point out hidden gems along the way.   For those visiting San Francisco for the first time and veterans alike, we’re certain you’ll learn something new about our beloved city on this tour!

Upgrade Option

• Make it a private tour  – enjoy a private tour with just your group and the guide. Private tours are perfect for anyone, especially families and groups.  You can reserve a private tour for a small group right here, or use the link provided to reach out to us regarding larger groups.
• When making a reservation for a private tour, select your group size (2-3 guests, 4-5 guests, etc.) and make sure any ‘Adult’ passengers are deselected.  The prices listed are per person, so you can select the exact number of people in your group next to the corresponding group rate.

Tour Details

What’s included.

• Segway Training Session

Good to Know

• Each of our tours begins with a 30-minute orientation session. We will practice on the Segways so that everyone feels comfortable and ready to go out and conquer San Francisco.
• All participants must be at least 12 years old – no exceptions.
• Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult on tour.
• All participants must weigh at least 100 pounds and not in excess of 260 pounds.
• Due to the risk to both child and mother, pregnant women are not permitted to participate on our Segway tours.
• Fat Tire Tours has a strict policy against alcohol consumption and Segway operation. Alcohol is forbidden on all Segway tours and any client suspected of drinking before or during a Segway tour will immediately forfeit their tour and no refund will be given.

• 1 Fisherman's Wharf
• 2 Hyde Street Cable Car and Turnaround
• 3 North Beach and Little Italy
• 4 Views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge
• 5 Dungeness Crab Stands in Historic Fisherman's Wharf
• 6 WWII Liberty Ship and Submarine Pampanito
• 7 Ghirardelli Square
• 8 Municipal Pier in Aquatic Park
• 9 Pier 39 and the famous Sea Lions

Meeting Point

This Segway tour begins at  757 Beach Street at Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA 94109 . We are located in the rear parking lot behind the art gallery.  The Hyde Street Cable Car turn around is across the street, and the Wells Fargo Bank ATM is at the entrance to our driveway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Segway specific questions, is there an age or weight limit.

For your riding safety, guests must be at least 12 years of age and weigh at least 100 pounds and not in excess of 250 pounds. Here in San Francisco we have to stick very strictly to our minimum weight of 100 pounds, as anyone under that weight runs the risk of having the Segway respond improperly on the (small) hills encountered on tour.

What's the difference between the San Francisco Segway Tour and the Segway Experience Tour?

Our classic San Francisco Segway Tour highlights the most well-known sites of San Francisco over 2.5 hours.  Our Segway Experience Tour is simply a condensed version of the standard tour; we’ve packed the best sites into a 1.5 hour tour.  Both are a great way to discover San Francisco!

Does tour ride the Segways down Lombard Street?

While all tours will see the famous Lombard Street, not every tour group will ride their Segways down it due to its steep incline and tight switchbacks.

It is solely up to the discretion of the tour guide and if they determine the skill level of each rider is able to navigate down Lombard Street comfortably. Therefore, while some guests may experience the thrill, it is  not  guaranteed on any given tour. Thank you for understanding!

If I am pregnant can I join the tour?

Unfortunately, due to the risk to both child and mother, pregnant women are not allowed to participate on our Segway tours.

If this is my first time to ride a Segway, will I be able to pick it up quickly?

Your safety is always our highest priority. Therefore, we begin each tour with a very thorough orientation of the Segway and its use before going out to enjoy the city

We’ve found that our guests pick up on how to ride a Segway within the first 10 minutes, but we like to take 20-30 minutes to explain the machines, demonstrate the best riding techniques, and then allow time to practice before heading out to see the sites. We like to ensure that every guest feels 100% confident before beginning the tour.

While riding a Segway is fairly leisurely, you will be on your feet for the duration of the tour.

Are the Segways safe for people with disabilities?

We have had several people with disabilities join our tours. The necessary range of motion required to operate a Segway is similar to that of being able to transfer weight from one foot to another while walking. Also, riding a Segway does require the need to be able to stand for long periods of time. Each of our tours begins with a short safety video followed by time to practice in our training area across the street and instruction from your tour guide. We will practice on the Segways until everyone feels comfortable.

Can I rent a Segway without a guide?

Unfortunately, we cannot rent our Segways out to individuals without a guide. Since our tours are virtually always full, we need all machines for our tour customers.

General Tour Questions

Where is the meeting point.

This tour begins at 757 Beach Street at Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA 94109 . We are located in the rear parking lot behind the art gallery.  The Hyde Street Cable Car turn around is across the street, and the Wells Fargo Bank ATM is at the entrance to our driveway.

Are reservations required?

Yes, reservations are required for all tours.

What is your cancellation policy?

We’re happy to offer free changes and 100% refund up to 24 hours before tour* Failure to cancel a reservation  at least 24 hours prior to scheduled departure  may result in forfeited travel funds. Fare difference may apply.

*See restrictions here

Can minors come on tour alone?

For safety reasons, minors (anyone under the age of 18) must be accompanied by an adult on the tour.

How big will my group be?

Our tours operate in groups of 8 guests or less.  If your party is larger than 8, the group will be split up for safety reasons, each with a guide.  For larger parties, please inquire about a private tour at [email protected].

My group size is larger than the dropdown menu allows, how can I book?

We would love to accommodate your group! Please contact our Groups team  to see what options we have.

How long before my tour should I arrive?

The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure.

Will I need to put down a deposit?

We do not take a deposit, though we do ask one member of your party to provide us with a credit card to save on file while you are on tour. Your card will not be charged unless there is damage caused to the Segway and card information will be deleted immediately upon completion of a damage-free tour.

Is this tour offered in any other languages, or only English?

All scheduled tours are in English, but  private tours  can sometimes be scheduled in other languages, given we have a tour guide who speaks the language of your choice.

Will we enter the museums and monuments that we see?

Unfortunately, we won’t have enough time during this tour to allow everyone to enter the various museums. We will, however, provide you with the best information to go back and see the places that interest you most following the tour.  This tour is designed to experience the city from a broad perspective.

What is your weather policy?

All of our tours operate rain or shine, and we have rain ponchos available in our office for purchase.

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6 Best San Francisco Segway Tours

LOOKING FOR SEGWAY TOURS IN SAN FRANCISCO? 

You’re in the right place because the 6 best San Francisco Segway tours are all featured here. How do I know they’re the best? I lived in San Francisco for a long time before moving to Los Angeles, so I know what I am talking about. 

I’ve vetted all the tours in this article to make sure they’re highly rated with high-quality San Francisco Segway rental companies — so all you have to do is book, and enjoy!

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best Segway Tour in San Francisco is the Private Group Segway Tour – Wharf & Hills of San Francisco with a perfect 5 Star Rating! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Segway tours are not only an eco-friendly way to get around hilly San Francisco, but they are a ton of fun!

All of the tours on this list have only five-star ratings , which is kind of unusual.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best Segway tours of San Francisco.

Our Top 3 Picks: Best San Francisco Segway Tours

6 Best Segway Tours in San Francisco, CA

If you’re looking for a thrilling way to get around stunning San Francisco, a Segway is the way to go.

You control the speed, so it’s up to you if you want to go slow.

Keep in mind that some tours on this list suit beginners, while others are better for advanced riders.

 1. Private Group Segway Tour – Wharf & Hills of San Francisco

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length: 3 hours |  🧾 Check Rates and Availability

Get ready to see some of the best views of San Francisco on this Private Segway Tour of San Francisco which includes the wharf area and the many hills of San Francisco .

The Private Group Segway Tour – Wharf & Hills of San Francisco wins the Badge of Excellence for best tours. 🏆

We picked this one for the top of our list for a few reasons, the first being that it’s private, so it’s just for you and your group, and it’s a little longer than the other tours, so there’s time to hit some of the best landmarks in San Francisco.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating : 5/5 for 84+ reviews

With a tour guide all to yourself, you get a more personalized and custom experience on this tour.

This tour is one of the two private tours on this list.

My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed our private Segway tour. Melanie was fantastic as our guide around town and also supplied lots of local tips and advice especially where to eat. We even managed Lombard St! — chris (read more reviews )

This tour also fits into the   San Francisco Segway night tour category, as you can choose from several time slots to start your tour, even in the evening hours.

This tour gives you a lot of leeway for the type of Segway itinerary you want to have.

Want to stop in Chinatown? No problem. Fisherman’s Wharf for a sourdough clam chowder bowl? No problem? Lombard Street? Your guide will lead the way. 

2. Advanced Lombard Street and Hills of SF Segway Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length: 2.5 hour | 🧾 Check Rates and Availability

If you’re ready for breathtaking vistas and an adrenaline-packed rush over famous San Francisco hills , like Russian Hill and Lombard Street, then the  Advanced Lombard Street and Hills of SF Segway Tour  is the best Segway tour San Francisco offers.

The Advanced Lombard Street and Hills of SF Segway Tour wins the Badge of Excellence for best tours. 🏆

This tour goes on some challenging hills, so previous Segway experience is a must – the title does have the description “advanced” in it.

‼️ Please Note: For the Advanced Lombard Street and Hills of SF Segway Tour riders must have previous Segway riding experience‼️

This adventurous Segway San Francisco excursion will take you to heights with beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the famous prison, Alcatraz.

There are no San Francisco Segway tours to Alcatraz because Segways can’t float, so this is as close to the island as you get unless you take an Alcatraz Tour , which I highly recommend.

This was our 3rd time riding Segways (1st time in SF Golden Gate Park, 2nd time in Boston). This tour was the best by far! Yes, it required previous riding experience, but our tour guide Melanie gave us a refresher on the finer points (like stopping and going up/down hills 🙂 It was so fun going down Lombard street, and we had experienced some beautiful city views at some of the stops. — jill (read more reviews )

Here, you’ll hop on a model i2 Segway, then with a maximum of eight people, be guided with an experience local to landmarks around the city like North Beach, Coit Tower , and Pier 39 .

This tour is available for even the most foggy of San Francisco days.

Be sure to arrive early and be ready for some adrenaline-packed fun up the hills of San Francisco on this advanced Segway tour.

3. Golden Gate Park Segway Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length: 2.5 hours | 🧾 Check Rates and Availability

With a whooping 400+ five-star reviews, this Golden Gate Park Segway Tour is the one you want to start with if you’ve never been on a Segway.

First of all, Golden Gate Park is one of the few places in San Francisco not perched on a huge hill. It’s pretty flat.

The Golden Gate Park Segway Tour wins the Badge of Excellence for best tours. 🏆

Golden Gate Park Segway Tour is great for those without previous Segway experience.

So it’s the perfect place to get your feet wet on a Segway, so to speak.

If you’ve had no previous experience Segway-ing, and you want to try it out, choose the Golden Gate Segway Tour.

Golden Gate Park has a lot of space and wide paved paths, and depending on what time of day you go, it’s not very crowded (except on the weekends).

Great time! Safety was a priority. Had never ridden a Segway before and Sam was a great instructor, full of humor and great history telling. Would definitely do it again! — alina (read more reviews )

You and a small group will have access to helmets and safety vests (jackets and gloves are also available for foggy days).

Pass by some of the most beautiful attractions near the park, like the Japanese Tea Gardens , the de Young Museum , and the California Academy of Sciences .

4. Private Segway Tour Through Golden Gate Park

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length: 3 hours | 🧾 Check Rates and Availability

As you embark on your two-wheeled journey through San Francisco, a knowledgeable local guide will accompany you, offering engaging and enlightening commentary as you glide on a Segway from one beautiful spot to the next.

The Private Segway Tour Through Golden Gate Park wins the Badge of Excellence for best tours. 🏆

This is the second of the two private tours on the list.

This tour is similar to number one on the list but takes place in Golden Gate Park instead of downtown.

The tour begins with a 20 to 30—minute training session, so this tour is perfect for beginners.

You and a friend can choose your route or let the tour guide lead. Golden Gate Park is the largest park in the city at 1,017 acres; there’s a lot to see and many paths for a smooth ride.

We took the tour with Kelly. So well educated! He kowns a lot, really! And the pace he set was perfect. Thank you!! — andreas (read more reviews )

See the city’s beautiful attractions, like the Japanese Tea Garden, the de Young Museum, the Golden Gate Carousel , and the California Academy of Sciences.

If you aren’t thrilled about attempting San Francisco’s many hills near the downtown area and want to be on flat surfaces with a knowledgeable guide who will teach you about the city, this tour is for you.

5. San Francisco Wharf and Waterfront Segway Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length: 2.5 Hours | 🧾 Check Rates and Availability

The  San Francisco Wharf and Waterfront Segway Tour  has received over 500+ five-star reviews from previous guests.

It’s a small group tour that hits all the sweet spots for the right price. 

This tour is a great choice for those who have yet to experience the joy of riding on a Segway because it begins with a 20 to 25—minute training session. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating : The  San Francisco Wharf and Waterfront Segway Tour 5/5 for 515+ reviews ❣

Once you know how to handle your Segway, follow your experienced tour guide and a small group as he regals with tales of the city.

Excellent trip. Really easy to ride & very enjoyable. Alex was a great tour guide. Highly recommended. — graham (read more reviews )

You’ll see some of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square , the Embarcadero, and other waterfront highlights (it’s a very vibrant area, great for people-watching) as well as views of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz.

This group is limited to ten people to keep the ride personalized and safe.

6. Santas on Segways

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Tour Length: 2.5 Hours | 🧑🏻‍🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Looking for something special to do in December? How about putting on a Santa suit with some of your best buds and jumping on a San Francisco Holiday Segway?

If you love attention and think some wackiness adds to the longevity of life, you’ll love this Santas on Segways Holiday Tour .

What could be more fun than this? Look at the picture above. How fun⁈ And you will definitely win best Christmas card for the year with a pic from going on this Santa Segway tour.

Had a great time. Segway was easy to learn and fun to ride through the city. Guide was very engaging and informative. I recommend it. — chad (read more reviews )

Not only that, but your group will be treated to hot chocolate on this tour and holiday Christmas music as your glide on a Segway to San Francisco’s most festive holiday sites.

Amuse bystanders (and perhaps confuse a few kids!) while you and your fellow Santas venture through the Waterfront and Fisherman’s Wharf, where illuminated boats add to the festive atmosphere.

Don’t forget to take in the grandeur of the 60-foot white fir Christmas tree at PIER 39.

Best San Francisco Segway Tours: What You Need to Know

Now that you know all about the best San Francisco Segway tours, you should also be aware of a couple of things: safety concerns and terminology.

Are San Francisco Segway tours safe?

One of the most important questions on your mind might be:  Are San Francisco Segway tours safe?  In general, and for the majority of travelers — they are.

The Segway tours in San Francisco featured here include essential safety gear like helmets and safety jackets. You’ll also be going with a guide and receive an orientation on how to drive Segways safely.

According to San Francisco Segway Tour reviews, if this is your first time on a Segway, avoid the hills of San Francisco and book the  Golden Gate Park Segway Tour , which is great for beginners.

You won’t be able to take the  Advanced Lombard Street & Hills of SF Segway Tour  anyway, as previous Segway experience is required to book the tour.

Are Segways safe?

Segways can be a safe mode of transportation when used responsibly and with proper training.

They are designed with safety features, and staying within recommended speed limits, wearing protective gear, and following local regulations are essential for safe operation.

However, like any mode of transportation, there is still a risk of accidents or injuries, especially if users do not adhere to safety guidelines or ride recklessly.

Ultimately, safety largely depends on the rider’s responsibility and adherence to safety precautions, and when used correctly, Segways can provide a relatively safe means of personal transportation.

How to stay safe on a Segway

Staying safe while riding a Segway is essential, and it involves following specific guidelines and taking precautions.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe while on a Segway:

• Training : Always undergo proper training before operating a Segway. Many Segway tour operators provide training sessions to ensure you understand how to control the device safely. Pay close attention and ask questions if needed. All, except for the Advance Tour on this list, start with a Segway training session. 
• Wear Protective Gear : Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, to protect your head in the event of a fall or collision. Additional protective gear like knee and elbow pads can also be beneficial.
• Know Your Limits : Be aware of your own physical abilities and limits. Ensure you meet any weight requirements specified for the Segway model you’re using.
• Familiarize Yourself with the Segway : Spend some time getting used to the Segway’s controls in a controlled, safe environment before venturing into public spaces. Understanding how to start, stop, and steer is crucial.
• Maintain a Balanced Posture : Maintain a balanced and upright posture while riding. Keep your weight centered on the platform to ensure stability.
• Be Mindful of Terrain : Segways are designed for use on smooth, flat surfaces. Avoid uneven terrain, steep inclines, or slippery surfaces whenever possible. Be cautious when transitioning between different types of terrain.
• Observe Speed Limits : Segway models often come with a maximum speed setting. Avoid speeding, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas. Slow down and be cautious when navigating tight spaces or crowded sidewalks.
• Follow Traffic Rules : If you’re riding your Segway on the road or in areas with motorized vehicles, follow the same traffic rules that apply to cyclists. Use designated bike lanes when available.
• Yield to Pedestrians : Always yield the right of way to pedestrians, and be considerate of their presence on sidewalks and crosswalks.
• Maintain Awareness : Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Look out for other pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. Don’t use headphones or mobile devices that might distract you while riding.
• Check Weather Conditions : Be cautious when riding in adverse weather conditions, such as rain or snow. These conditions can make the Segway less stable. Consider postponing your ride if weather conditions are unfavorable.

By following these safety guidelines and using common sense, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience while riding a Segway.

Always prioritize safety and be considerate of others on the road or sidewalk.

Segway Tours San Francisco : FAQs

What do Segway Tours in San Francisco cost?

The cheapest tour on this list is $89 USD for two adults. The most expensive tour on this list is $238 USD for a private small group tour.

Is a Segway tour worth it?

Yes! Getting around on Segways is a lot of fun. It is a low-key way to tour a city you’re unfamiliar with. You follow a local guide who knows their way around the city and takes safety precautions.

Moreover, the tour experience is enhanced as it’s different from just another walking tour, and you cover much more ground gliding on a Segway.

How much do you tip a Segway tour guide?

As a general rule, it’s appropriate to tip your guide approximately 10 to 20 percent of the total tour cost.

Do you tip for Segway Tours?

Yes, you should tip your tour guide if they provided good service, typically 10 to 20 percent of the total cost of the tour.

Is there a weight limit on Segway Tours?

Yes, there are weight requirements to ride a Segway. All guests must weigh between 100-275 pounds (45-124 kilos).

Final Thoughts: Best Segway Tours in San Francisco

Experiencing a Segway tour in San Francisco offers a dynamic and immersive way to explore this iconic city.

As you glide along the city’s streets and waterfront or in Golden Gate Park, depending on which tour you choose, you’ll witness its picturesque beauty and vibrant culture and the unique opportunity to access hidden gems and local insights that a traditional tour might miss.

With a knowledgeable guide at your side, you’ll delve into the rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and captivating stories that make San Francisco so compelling to visit. Happy Segway-ing around San Francisco!! Have fun and be safe.

More San Francisco

• Best San Francisco Ghost Tours [Local’s Pick]
• Driving in San Francisco: Everything You Need to Know From a Local
• San Francisco Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Stay & Play
• The Most Famous Hill in San Francisco – And Other Steep Hills in SF
• Is California Safe for Travel Now (A Local Weighs In)

California Travel Planning Guide

🚑 should i buy travel insurance for california.

100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)

💦 Can you drink the water in California?

Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.

🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in Californi a?

Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. ( read more )

🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?

For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.

🧳 What do I pack for California?

Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.

🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?

For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner .

Jessica Iler is the founder of CA Girl Travels. She is a writer and entrepreneur working in the creator economy since 2016, building websites, writing for Medium.com, and helping others become writers. She is on a mission to help entrepreneurs make money online and travel the world while doing it.

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City Segway Tours San Francisco

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CITY SEGWAY TOURS SAN FRANCISCO - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Segway Tour in San Francisco: Our First Segway Tour Experience

Last updated: June 18, 2020 - Written by Jessica Norah 32 Comments

Ethan and I took advantage of the recent holiday and spent the day off work doing a Segway tour in San Francisco. Segways are those 2-wheeled battery-powered contraptions where riders stand up and navigate through body positioning and a handlebar and you’ve likely seen them being used by mall cops, police officers, park officials, theme park visitors, or other people who need to cover long distances.

This was our first time taking a Segway tour and we thought that Golden Gate Park might be the perfect place given its vast size. Golden Gate Park is actually 20% larger than New York City’s Central Park, consisting of over 1,017 acres of land. We had recently walked across the park in search of the American bison on the west end and it was a long trek from the east to west side on foot, so we figured we could cover a lot more ground on a Segway.

Only one company, San Francisco Electric Tour Company , currently has permission to run Segway tours in Golden Gate Park so we booked a tour with them. So how did our first Segway tour go? Keep reading to find out and we’ll also give you all the information you need to book your own Segway tour in San Francisco, whether in Golden Gate Park or elsewhere in the city.

Table of Contents:

Booking a Segway Tour in San Francisco

• San Francisco Electric Tour Company Contact Info : You can call 415-409-0672 or call toll-free at 877-734-8687, or visit their company website . They have two meeting locations, so be sure to note which one you need to go to when booking. You can book their Golden Gate Park tour online here .
• Tours Offered by San Francisco Electric Tour Company : The company offers Segway tours of Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf and Waterfront, a nighttime tour which includes Chinatown, Little Italy and the Wharf, and an advanced tour of the hills and crooked streets (including Lombard Street) of San Francisco. They also offer a Alcatraz ferry/Segway tour combination package, private Segway tours, and guided electric bike tours over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito.
• Are there other Segway tour companies in San Francisco? : Yes, we chose San Francisco Electric Tour Company because we wanted to do the Golden Gate Park tour and we liked their reviews. Another company offering Segway tours in San Francisco that you may want to check out is the San Francisco City Segway Tour . You can also rent a Segway to explore on your own in certain areas at SF Bay Segways or book a private guided Segway tours at Private Segway Tours San Francisco .
• Prices : Guided Segway tours in San Francisco range from $60/person to $100/person, with most being around $70/person. You can see a selection of Segway tours and prices here .
• Tour Duration : Guided Segway tours last from 2 hours to 3 hours with most being approximately 2.5 hours in length. Note that the orientation, safety instructions, and practice riding generally takes 30 to 45 minutes.
• Reservations : You should book reservations for tours in advance, but you may be able to get next day or same day reservations during less busy times. You can book online or by phone with any of the Segway tour companies in San Francisco.
• Safety Restrictions for Riders? : Riders must be at least 12 years of age and weigh between 100 lbs and 250 lbs. Tours are also not recommended for pregnant women, those over age 70, and those with any medical conditions or disabilities that affect their mobility or motor skills. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to do the tour.
• Is it Safe? Riding a Segway is similar in risk to riding a bike or scooter, so there are of course risks of falling or getting injured, but these are minimal when you follow the safety instructions given by your guide. All riders are given safety instructions and must practice riding the Segway before each Segway tour, even if you have ridden a Segway in the past. If you are feeling uncomfortable, just ask the guide for a bit of extra practice.
• What do I need to bring? : Read the company’s confirmation information carefully, but typically you’ll just be asked to bring your booking confirmation. You’ll also want to be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes (no heels, open-toed shoes, or flip-flops) and bring some sunscreen, camera, hat, water, and cash to tip your guide.

Our Experience Doing a Segway Tour in San Francisco

We had booked our Segway tour online with the San Francisco Electric Tour Company to do the 2.5 hour guided tour of Golden Gate Park .

We headed into the city using BART and then took the N-Judah MUNI Metro streetcar to the 9th Avenue and Irving Street stop. It was then a 10-minute walk to Golden Gate Park and to the meeting location near the Japanese Tea Garden. It is very close to the de Young Museum and California Academy of Sciences.

There is a kiosk set up behind the Music Concourse and we waited several minutes while they checked in all the guests. We were each asked to read and sign a liability waiver and then given helmets and safety vests.

Then we were divided into two groups of about 10 and introduced to our Segways. Next, guides worked with each of us individually to get on and off of the Segways. Then we each watched a short safety training video as a group. Then we all practiced moving, turning, emergency stops, going faster than allowed, and driving over a bump. The orientation and training took about 40 minutes.

I was very good at getting on and off the Segway but was apparently not good at keeping my feet in the center and later had some difficulty in doing the emergency stop, and was ashamedly pulled aside to practice a bit more on the stops.

Ethan had the opposite issue where he was getting on and off too quick, causing the Segway to jerk. But after several minutes of practice, the process becomes quite natural and we both got better and had no issues during the actual tour.

Finally, once everyone felt comfortable and had received all the training we set off with our guide Joey! You guide leads the group and you’ll listen to your guide speak through earbuds attached to a radio receiver included in the pouch of each Segway. At first you go fairly slowly, and then once the guide felt we were all feeling comfortable, he turned up the gear so we could go faster if we wished. I think we were allowed to reach a top speed of 10 MPH. If you tried to go faster your unit warns you by moving the handle back until you slow down.

We started out the tour by hearing about the history of Golden Gate Park and also some history on the use of Segways. We learned that Segways were introduced in 2001 by American inventor Dean Kamen amidst a ton of hype in the press. Ironically, the man, British billionaire James Heselden, who later purchased Segway Inc. in 2010 would die that same year in an accident involving a Segway.

Some of the first sites we saw in the Park included the Music Concourse, de Young Museum, and California Academy of Sciences.

Then we moved on to viewing the Conservatory of Flowers, Shakespeare’s Garden, several other flower gardens, and the Carousel. During the tour, you are not allowed to use your phone, camera, or anything else that requires you to take your hands off the handlebars or feet off the Segway while you are moving.

We did stop several times briefly where you can get off, stretch, and take pictures. Our guide also took several photos of us with both a company camera and our own camera. All pictures taken by the guides using their cameras can be downloaded the following day for free from their Facebook page .

At some point we also went off the paved path and took the Segways off-roading onto dirt paths. The Segways performed fine off the pavement, but you have to be careful about not running over pinecones, tree roots, and other obstacles that could cause the Segway to tip. During one of the brief stops, we were even showed a secret fairy door by a guide.

Next we headed to Stow Lake and Strawberry Hill, stopped for a brief bathroom detour, and then did our last stop at the Japanese Tea Garden before heading back to the San Francisco Electric Tour Company kiosk. We collected our belongings, received our doctorates in “Golden Gate Park Segway Navigation & Rider Proficiency”, and left a tip for our guide before heading off to explore more of the park on foot.

Overall, we enjoyed the 2.5 hours learning how to ride a Segway and exploring the park by Segway. I think we covered about 7 miles on our Segways of the eastern side of Golden Gate Park, something that would have taken us most of the day to do on foot! So one of the great advantages is that you get to see a lot of stuff in a relatively short amount of time compared to going on foot. It was a great way to survey the Eastern part of the park.

We also found our guide and the rest of the staff to be well-organized, friendly, and accommodating and we both felt very safe and comfortable during the trip. The only times that I was a bit nervous was when we were on the roads for a short period of time near traffic, but the guide paid extra attention during these times to ensure our safety.

We also liked that the guide took photos of us so we have a number of photos of us on the Segways on both our own camera and those we downloaded from the company’s Facebook photo album.

Now, what are the disadvantages of doing a Segway tour? This applies to any guided Segway tour not just the one we took. Similar to any guided tour, you can’t venture off on your own or stop when you want. Of course, you can request to stop but given it’s a guided tour there can’t be many unscheduled stops for breaks or pictures so sometimes you’ll pass places that you wish you had more time to see or examine.

You also can’t enter or go inside any of the museums or buildings and there are some paths and areas where Segways are not allowed.

The biggest disadvantage for me was you can’t take pictures while riding the Segway. While this is of course for our own safety, you won’t be able to get photos of some of the sights. We, of course, have been to Golden Gate Park before so had seen many of these places, but some places were new to us and we’d like to have taken more pictures.

After the tour, we actually re-visited a couple of the places we saw on the tour (Carousel and AIDS Memorial Garden) on foot to spend more time and take photos. So I think that the Segway tours are great for those wishing to get a good overview of an area for a first time, especially when the area is large and would take a lot of time to see on foot.

Have you ever done a Segway tour in San Francisco or somewhere else? Would you do one? We’d love to hear from you.

**Disclaimer: As travel writers, we were provided free tickets to review the Segway tour; however, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. We did not receive any financial compensation for the writing of this post, and do not work for San Francisco Electric Tour Company.**

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Ellie Davis Post author

June 25, 2019 at 9:53 am

I loved that you mentioned riding a segway is as safe as riding a bike. We are thinking about what to do on our next visit, and a segway tour looks like a fun activity. I have never done that before; so I will make sure to practice a lot before the tour starts, just to avoid any accident and enjoy the tour as much as I can.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

June 25, 2019 at 11:07 am

Hi Ellie, You will be given safety instructions as well as a short training and practice so there is no need to practice before you take a segway tour in San Francisco. Just book and show up and they will walk you through everything once you are there. Enjoy, Jessica

Dave Anderson Post author

November 9, 2018 at 2:49 pm

That is interesting that riders have to be at least 12 years of age and between 100 lbs and 250 lbs. This might just be a good incentive for me to lose weight so that I can ride a Segway and go on a tour. That is something that I have always wanted to do before.

November 11, 2018 at 10:35 am

Hi Dave, Yes, I think almost all Segway companies have age and weight requirements for licensing and safety reasons. That would be a good incentive to have as a weight loss goal and I hope you get a chance to do a Segway tour in San Francisco! Best, Jessica

yukiko Post author

May 29, 2014 at 11:58 am

Hi, You are right, segways are a blast! But we found a place right next to golden gate park where you can just rent a segway and go riding on your own! We were able to do the entire park east end to west end and also go up to the cliff house and lands end in 2 1/2 hrs. and it was less expensive and less restricted than the guided tours that only show the eastern half of the park in the same amount of time. Had so much fun we rented a second time the next day and rode to GG Bridge and down into the Marina! Definitely a great way to go…

travelcats Post author

May 29, 2014 at 1:42 pm

Sounds great, I think it is great that you rented segways on your own! I think if you rent on your own you just need to be extra careful about traffic and know the laws as Segways are not allowed on certain streets and parks in SF.

June 1, 2014 at 10:12 am

simple law: wherever bikes are allowed… segways are allowed… easy rule to follow.

June 1, 2014 at 11:19 am

That sounds easy enough if that is the Segway law for SF. However, laws actually vary by state and can vary locally within a state. For a guide to legislation people can check out

Erika Post author

March 26, 2014 at 10:08 pm

Wow, what a really cool way to discover Golden Gate Park. I’m from the Bay Area but I never thought to do anything like this! Who knows? Maybe I’ll sign up for one when I visit the area again one of these days! Sounds like it would be interesting and fun based on your review! 🙂

March 27, 2014 at 11:24 am

You know, we only recently really discovered all the great things Golden Gate Park has to offer after 4 years of living in the area. We’d just visited the museums mainly but have been going more frequently now to explore the rest of the park. If you have not done a Segway before, the park is a good place to try it as there is not too much traffic .

Jenna @ A Savory Feast Post author

March 7, 2014 at 6:26 am

This looks like fun! I think San Francisco needs to be on my list of places to go next! It looks so beautiful and fun. Have a Happy SITS Day! I’m so glad I found your blog.

March 9, 2014 at 8:59 pm

Thanks Jenna, SF is a great place to add to your travel list. There is so much to do in SF and within an hour or two drive of the city.

Agness Post author

March 2, 2014 at 11:52 pm

What a great experience. I tried it once here in China and it was not that easy as it looks like. I struggled a lot to keep the balance!!

March 3, 2014 at 9:51 am

Thanks for stopping by Agness, glad you tried it!

Meredith Post author

February 26, 2014 at 1:26 pm

I’ve always wanted to try a Segway tour but have been a bit intimidated. Now that I have a better idea of how it operates, it doesn’t sound so bad 🙂 This looks like an awesome area to “ride” around – it really is great that the guide took photos and for free!

February 26, 2014 at 3:40 pm

Yes, we chose to do our first Segway tour in Golden Gate Park because there isn’t too much car traffic for most of the ride although we did have to navigate on streets and around traffic a few times. It was definitely a nice place for a first time ride!

Meghan Post author

February 24, 2014 at 11:06 am

I’ve never been on a Segway tour — honestly, those devices have always seemed a bit intimidating! But maybe I’ll give one a go now that I’ve read about your experience. I’ve been to SF a few times, but I’ve never been to Golden Gate Park. I never realized it was so big and interesting! I’ll definitely check it out next time I’m in town.

February 26, 2014 at 12:55 am

The Segway was really easy to get the hang of after only about 5 minutes. Yes, Golden Gate Park is huge and has so many things to offer. It is very popular with locals and tourists!

Dannielle Post author

February 24, 2014 at 3:51 am

We’ve tried to go on Segway tours a couple times but it hasn’t happened, my bf is dieing to go on one though!

February 26, 2014 at 12:54 am

Hope you make it to a Segway tour soon. Love to hear what you think.

Erica Post author

February 24, 2014 at 2:31 am

Segway tours look like loads of fun! Thanks for sharing your experience 😀

You’re welcome Erica, and thanks for stopping by:)

Johlet Post author

February 24, 2014 at 12:02 am

This is so cool! haha I have the worst balance. So a bit worried about that!

February 26, 2014 at 12:53 am

Hi Johlet, I think even someone with bad balance could easily master this during the safety training. You basically just have to stand in place on it while moving and the only tricky part might be getting on and off but the guides can help with that.

Adrian Post author

February 23, 2014 at 2:12 pm

Thanks for stopping by my blog to visit my cat-lympics! I’m glad you had a better results with your Segway tour than my friends did. They did one in Las Vegas and the wife fell off and broke her foot – ouch! I remember seeing a Segway tour coming down the street in DC and joking to my friend that they had organized a Segway parade just for us! I love Golden Gate Park, though I haven’t been in decades. My favorite was the aquarium.

February 23, 2014 at 9:32 pm

Oh my goodness, that is terrible! They do pose similar risks to riding a bike and I know one of our guides was telling us about a girl who recently fell (did not get hurt too badly though) as she was taking her hands off the handlebar and reaching for things in her pockets. The California Academy of Sciences is great (it has an aquarium section in addition to several other sections) and we love to stop by to check out the fish, penguins, and white albino alligator, Claude.

Sammy Dorn Post author

February 23, 2014 at 9:40 am

I have never done a Segway tour, but would love to. It looks really fun. I was going to ride a Segway when I was in Canberra once but they were all booked out. Popular!

February 23, 2014 at 9:28 pm

Yes, they have spread worldwide and there are Segway tours being offered all over the place. They are great for larger cities to cover more ground than you would be able to by just walking. Hope you get a chance to try one out soon!

Louisa Post author

February 23, 2014 at 9:07 am

Sounds like fun! The park is beautiful.

February 23, 2014 at 9:26 pm

We had a good time. I am working on a post on top things to do in Golden Gate Park that will be coming soon:)

Seana Turner Post author

February 23, 2014 at 8:45 am

I’ve always wondered about Segways – they look so fun. I appreciate your detailed summary, as I imagine a tour like this would be similar wherever it is offered. I think I’d like to try it — and SF is a very fun spot!

Yes, I think pretty much all Segway companies in the U.S. follow a similar protocol and have similar safety guidelines. I think it is a great thing to try in a large city like SF.

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