Segway tours offer a fun, adventurous way to experience San Diego’s best sights and locations. For a list of the best Segway tours, see our overview of Segway tours San Diego.
Keep reading to learn more about the Segway, safety considerations, and what to expect while touring San Diego. We explore key details that will help you make the most of your experience.
What is a Segway?
A Segway is a two-wheeled, electric-powered device designed for personal transportation. Since their introduction in 2001, Segways have become quite popular, especially in urban areas. Today, San Diego tourists use Segways to explore the city.
Over the years, Segways have improved thanks to various new models and updates. Today, most models can travel up to 12.5 miles per hour and cover distances of around 24 miles on a single charge of batteries.
Whether used for city tours or personal transportation, Segways have proven to be a convenient and enjoyable way to get around.
How does a Segway work?
A Segway works through a combination of gyroscopes, sensors, and electric motors that keep the Segway stable and mobile. The sensors detect the rider’s position, along with shifts in orientation, and send this feedback to the Segway’s onboard computer, which adjusts the motors to ensure balance.
Riders control the Segway by shifting their body weight; leaning forward moves it forward while leaning back slows or reverses it. Steering is done via the handlebars.
Speed is determined by how much the rider leans forward, with a top speed of about 12.5 mph. The rider must lean back to slow down or stop. Many riders find this to be an intuitive experience that allows for a smooth and effortless ride.
Is riding a Segway safe?
Riding a Segway is generally safe if you follow basic guidelines and use common sense. For instance, it’s important not to get too comfortable when navigating turns or uneven surfaces. Segways are intuitive, but this can lead to overconfidence, resulting in slips or falls.
The ability to perform physical activities is essential:
To ride a Segway, you must be able to perform physical activities. For seniors or others with significant physical limitations, it’s important to take extra precautions or choose an alternative form of transportation.
Riding a Segway is a high-adventure activity, meaning falls and injuries are possible. While many older riders enjoy Segways without issue, if you are unable to perform significant physical activities, you should proceed cautiously, or you can choose an alternative tour. We offer several kinds of tours in San Diego!
Speed must be managed:
Segways travel up to 12.5 miles per hour, which is fast, especially for beginners. This may not sound fast, but when you are standing on a Segway, it is. Segway tours are a lot of fun, but if you go too fast, this can increase the risk of an accident or injury.
Safety Tips: What to do and not to do on a Segway
- Learn how to operate the Segway properly before your tour.
- Keep your speed slow and ask for assistance if needed.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Dress appropriately; i.e., avoid disruptive clothing and unsafe footwear.
- Lean into turns slowly and adjust speed gradually.
- Keep both hands on the handlebars at all times.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Maintain a safe distance from other riders, and don’t tailgate others.
- Watch for obstacles, and do not ride on slippery or uneven surfaces.
- Avoid sudden turns, stops, and starts.
- Avoid riding backward unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not carry passengers.
How easy is a Segway to ride?
Riding a Segway is fairly easy for most people. In fact, most beginners can learn the basics in just a few minutes. The Segway responds to simple body movements, and there are no complex controls, making it very natural to operate.
However, if you feel like a Segway tour may be too difficult, Another Side Tours offers alternatives, including E-Bike Tours and Private Tours!
Can older people ride a Segway?
Yes, older people can ride a Segway, but it’s necessary to have good balance and the physical ability to stand for the entire ride. Many seniors, including those in their 60s and 70s, ride Segways successfully.
For older riders, it’s recommended to take things slow. If balance or a physical condition is a concern, walking tours might be a better option.
What do you wear when riding a Segway?
When riding a Segway, choose comfortable, casual clothing that allows for easy movement. Prioritizing ease of movement will ensure a better experience.
Also, be sure to dress according to the weather. In colder months, layering is key—consider adding gloves and a cap. During warmer weather, stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics. Loose clothing should be avoided, as it can get caught in the Segway’s tires. Skirts are also not recommended for this activity.
Closed-toe shoes are a must, with sneakers or comfortable walking shoes working best. Flip-flops, sandals, and high heels should be avoided when riding a Segway.
Lastly, always wear a helmet for protection, and don’t forget sunglasses on sunny days to shield your eyes from the glare.
What to expect while Touring San Diego on a Segway
What you experience depends on the tour company and itinerary. While we can’t speak for other companies, when you do a Segway tour with Another Sides Tours, you will explore the best San Diego has to offer, including iconic areas like Balboa Park, Downtown, and La Jolla.
Tours typically last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. We offer a friendly group atmosphere, with a quick lesson on how to ride a Segway before departure. Expect plenty of photo opportunities once the tour begins.
Let’s take a look at some specific tours in San Diego.
Best Segway tours San Diego
The Gaslamp Segway Tour
Our Gaslamp Segway Tour is a fantastic way to explore San Diego and take great photos. The tour takes you through iconic locations like the Embarcadero, USS Midway, and the Historic Gaslamp Quarter. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to experience the local vibe.
The Early Bird Segway Tour
The Early Bird Segway Tour is a great way to start your day in San Diego. This morning tour takes you through iconic spots like the Fish Market Restaurant, Seaport Village, and the USS San Diego Memorial.
The tour is 1.5 hours long and covers as much of the Gaslamp Quarter and Bayfront as possible, offering a fun and educational experience.
The San Diego Segway Tour
The San Diego Segway Tour is a fun way to explore the city’s incredible downtown area.
This 1.5-hour tour includes famous landmarks such as the Historic Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero Promenade, and The Headquarters at Seaport District.
The Downtown Segway Tour
The Downtown San Diego Segway Tour is perfect for those who want to experience the city’s urban core. As you glide through downtown, you’ll pass iconic landmarks. Along the way, you’ll soak in the city’s rich architecture, hear fascinating stories from your guide, and enjoy unbeatable views of San Diego’s most famous spots.
This two-hour tour also includes tips on the best local dining and entertainment. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to explore San Diego like never before!
The Embarcadero Segway Tour
The Embarcadero Segway Tour takes you along San Diego’s stunning waterfront, which includes a picturesque boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and the historic Star of India. The area has been beautifully redeveloped, making it a perfect spot for a fun and scenic Segway adventure.
This two-hour tour allows you to soak in the sights, learn about San Diego’s rich history, and capture amazing photos. This is a can’t-miss experience for anyone wanting to see the heart of San Diego from a fresh perspective.
The San Diego City & Bay Segway Tour
The San Diego City & Bay Segway Tour offers the perfect way to explore San Diego’s scenic downtown and bayfront.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this two-hour tour provides a fun and engaging way to explore the city’s must-see destinations.
The Balboa Park Segway Tour
Discover the hidden gem of San Diego with The Balboa Park Segway Tour. As the largest urban cultural park in the country, Balboa Park offers everything from stunning gardens to world-class museums.
This two-hour tour lets you glide through the park’s beautiful landscapes while learning about its fascinating history and Spanish-Colonial architecture.
The Sunset Segway Tour
Experience the magic of San Diego at sunset with the Sunset Segway Tour, which is perfect for those seeking a scenic ride through the city as the day turns to dusk.
This 1.5-hour evening tour takes you through Downtown San Diego’s neighborhoods and along the waterfront while you enjoy the city’s stunning sunset backdrop.
The Coronado Segway Tour
The Coronado Segway Tour is a charming beach-vibe tour with a laid-back atmosphere. Coronado, which is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay, is the perfect spot for outdoor activities like swimming, sailing, surfing, biking, and, of course, Segway tours.
This 3-hour tour offers breathtaking views of the Downtown skyline. Once on Coronado, you’ll glide past iconic landmarks like the world-renowned Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado Beach, and the historic homes lining Orange Avenue.
The La Jolla Segway Tour
The La Jolla Segway Tour offers stunning coastline views thanks to La Jolla’s beautiful ocean bluffs and beaches.
On this exciting two-hour tour, you’ll glide through the heart of La Jolla, experiencing its scenic landscapes, iconic beaches, and lively atmosphere. You’ll visit La Jolla Village, Windansea Beach, La Jolla Cove, and more.
The Little Italy & Bay Segway Tour
The Little Italy & Bay Segway Tour explores one of the trendiest areas in Downtown San Diego. If you’ve never been, we’ve got to say Little Italy is a must-see destination! It offers a unique blend of Italian eateries, hip cafes, boutique shopping, and more.
This engaging tour is designed to cover as much of Little Italy and the bayfront as possible, giving you a fun and scenic experience.
Book Segway tours San Diego with Another Side Tours
Ready for an unforgettable tour in San Diego? Contact Another Side Tours, the original pioneers of Segway tours in the city. We offer more than just tours; these are one-of-a-kind journeys through the streets of America’s Finest City.
Whether you’re rolling through the historic Gaslamp Quarter or taking in breathtaking views along the bay, our Segway tours are fun and informative. Booking couldn’t be easier. Contact us for assistance or simply book a Segway tour directly on our San Diego Segway Tours page.