Washington DC: Segway City Tour with Monuments & Memorials

Summary

Glide past monuments, pause at memorials, and catch DC’s pulse up close

You’ll glide through Washington DC’s heart on a Segway tour that brings you face-to-face with icons like the White House and Lincoln Memorial. With a local guide leading the way and radio headsets for stories you’d miss otherwise, you’ll cover more ground than any walking tour—without breaking a sweat. Expect laughter, unexpected details, and real moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the soft hum of the Segway under my feet as we coasted up to the White House — not something I ever thought I’d do, honestly. Our guide, Marcus, waved us into a loose circle right across from those famous iron gates. He had this way of mixing facts with stories that made even the Secret Service guys seem a little less intimidating. There was a faint smell of hot pretzels from a cart nearby (I almost caved), and you could hear distant sirens mixed with tourists’ laughter. I’d never realized how green Lafayette Square was until we stopped there — it’s easy to miss when you’re just rushing by in a car.

I’ll admit, I was nervous about riding a Segway at first. The training took maybe 20 minutes — lots of wobbly starts and Marcus joking about “Segway ballet.” But after that? It felt like flying low through DC. We zipped down wide avenues past the Treasury Building and then slowed by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. That part got quiet; even our group seemed to hush up without being told. The names on the wall caught the afternoon light in this way that made them shimmer. I’m not sure what I expected from a day trip in Washington DC but standing there, helmet hair and all, it hit different.

We covered so much ground — Lincoln Memorial (yes, it’s as big as you think), the Tidal Basin where cherry blossoms would’ve been perfect if they were in season, and all these spots you read about but never really see up close unless someone points out the details. Marcus knew every shortcut and weird bit of trivia (ask him about the Old Post Office clocktower). And he handed out these radio headsets so nobody missed anything — even when we spread out along Freedom Plaza or drifted toward the National Gallery of Art.

By the time we looped around to Capitol Hill, my legs were grateful for not having to walk it all. There was this moment outside the National Archives where some kids waved at us like we were astronauts or something — which made me laugh because honestly, riding a Segway through DC does feel slightly futuristic. Looking back now, whenever I see photos of those monuments I remember how different they felt from behind handlebars instead of behind glass bus windows. If you’re thinking about booking this Segway tour in Washington DC… well, just don’t wear flip-flops (trust me).

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Washington DC Segway Sightseeing Tour

• Arrive 30 minutes early for training
• Start tour outside the White House
• Visit Lafayette Square park
• Pass by US Treasury Building
• Pass by White House backyard
• Pass by old canal remnant
• Pass by Declaration of Independence memorial
• Explore Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• See Vietnam Women’s Memorial
• Visit Lincoln Memorial
• Visit Korean War Veterans Memorial
• Pass by Tidal Basin cherry blossoms
• Pass by DC War Memorial
• Photo stop at WWII Memorial
• Photo stop at Washington Monument
• Pass by National Museum of American History
• Pass by US Capitol
• Pass by Smithsonian Institution
• Pass by National Gallery of Art
• Pass by Old Post Office Pavilion
• Pass by National Archives Museum
• Pass by FBI Headquarters
• Pass by Freedom Plaza
• Pass by DC City Hall
• Pass by Blair House

Top questions

How long is the Washington DC Segway tour?

The guided sightseeing Segway tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is training included before riding the Segways?

Yes, there is a 30-minute training session with video and hands-on help from your guide before departure.

What landmarks are included on this Segway city tour?

You’ll see over 25 top attractions including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, US Capitol, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Tidal Basin, Smithsonian Museums, and more.

Are helmets provided during the tour?

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

Is there an age restriction for joining this Segway tour?

The minimum age is 16 years old per Washington DC law.

Are photo stops included during the Segway tour?

Yes, there are multiple opportunities to stop for photos at major sites along the route.

Will I be able to hear my guide clearly during busy parts of DC?

You’ll use radio headsets so you can always hear your guide’s commentary clearly throughout the tour.

Where does the Washington DC Segway tour start?

The tour departs from a location just across from the White House; exact address provided upon booking.

What’s included

Your day includes personal Segway rental with helmet and headset for clear commentary from your professional guide; 30-minute training session before departure; guided route covering more than 25 iconic attractions like the White House and Capitol; plus plenty of chances to stop for photos along Washington DC’s most famous sights before returning to base at journey’s end.