Saint Petersburg: Eco Segway Tour & Sunken Gardens Entry

Summary

Segway by Tampa Bay, spot wildlife & wander Sunken Gardens

You’ll glide along Tampa Bay’s seawall on a Segway, catch glimpses of dolphins or manatees if luck’s on your side, then explore four lush acres inside Sunken Gardens with flamingos and koi ponds all around. Your local guide keeps things relaxed and shares stories as you go. It’s an easygoing way to feel close to Saint Petersburg’s nature without breaking a sweat.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that happened was I almost toppled off my Segway before we even left North Straub Park — not the most graceful start. Our guide, Marcus, just grinned and told me everyone wobbles at least once. The palms overhead made these soft shadows on the path, and you could hear kids laughing somewhere behind us. Once we got moving, it felt kind of surreal gliding past the water with that salty air and pelicans flying low. I kept waiting to see a dolphin or something — Marcus said they show up when you least expect it.

We rolled through the Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum next (I had no idea there were so many types of palms), and Marcus kept tossing out facts in my headset about which ones came from Madagascar or Cuba. The Segways hummed quietly — honestly, I thought they’d be louder — and every so often we’d pass someone walking their dog who’d wave or just look amused at our little convoy. There was this moment where the breeze shifted and suddenly everything smelled like cut grass mixed with sea air. I didn’t expect that part to stick with me.

Sunken Gardens was a whole other vibe — stepping off the Segway felt weird after cruising for so long. It’s four acres but feels bigger somehow, all tangled paths and flashes of color from flowers I couldn’t name. We watched flamingos picking their way around a pond while some macaws squawked overhead (one tried to say hello; it sounded more like “hrrrllo”). Marcus pointed out koi darting under lily pads and let us wander at our own pace for a bit. There’s something about being surrounded by that much green in Florida heat — it slows you down, makes you want to just sit for a minute.

I still think about how quiet it got in one corner of the gardens, just water trickling somewhere nearby and the faint sound of traffic way off. If you’re into nature but don’t want to hike for hours, this eco Segway tour in Saint Petersburg is honestly pretty perfect. Plus, they give you water (needed it) and make sure you don’t crash into anything important.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Eco Segway tour and garden visit

• Receive 20-minute Segway training
• Segway through palm tree garden
• Segway through North Straub Park
• Enjoy 2.5 hour Eco Segway tour
• Walk through 4 acres of Sunken Gardens

Top questions

How long is the Saint Petersburg eco Segway tour?

The guided eco Segway tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Is admission to Sunken Gardens included?

Yes, your tour includes entry to Sunken Gardens (a $12 value).

Do I need prior Segway experience?

No experience needed; there’s a 20-minute hands-on training session before starting.

What wildlife might I see during the tour?

You may spot manatees, dolphins, flamingos, macaws, parrots, and koi fish.

Are helmets provided on this eco Segway tour?

Yes, helmets are provided for all participants as part of your inclusions.

Is there an age or weight limit for riders?

Riders must be at least 11 years old and between 100–300 lbs (45–136 kg).

Does the tour include a local guide?

Yes, your small group will be led by an experienced local guide throughout.

What should I wear for the Segway tour?

Comfortable shoes without heels and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Segway i2 with helmet and audio headset receiver for clear commentary from your guide as you ride through Saint Petersburg’s parks and along Tampa Bay. You’ll also get bottled water (trust me, you’ll want it), full admission to Sunken Gardens for a private walk-through with your group, plus 20 minutes of hands-on training before setting out together.