Segway tours offer a fun and unique way to explore Los Angeles’s most iconic destinations. For a list of the best Segway tours in the city today, see our Segway Tour Los Angeles overview.
To learn about Segway tours in Los Angeles, keep reading. We cover key details to keep you informed.
What is a Segway?
A Segway is a two-wheeled, electric-powered device designed for personal transport. Originally launched in 2001 with the purpose of improving short-distance travel, Segway has since found a home in the Los Angeles tour industry. Today, Segway is a sought-after choice when exploring Los Angeles.
Modern Segways have some impressive capabilities, with current models able to zip along at speeds up to 12.5 mph and cover substantial mileage before needing a recharge. This makes them a great choice for sightseeing adventures in LA’s pedestrian-heavy areas.
How does a Segway work?
A Segway operates through a system of gyroscopes, tilt sensors, and electric motors that work together to control the device. The sensors, specifically, monitor the rider’s position and balance and send these signals to the Segway’s computer so that it can make necessary adjustments.
The beauty of a Segway lies in its intuitive control system. To move forward, riders lean forward. To slow down or stop, riders lean slightly backward. The Segway responds to the degree you lean, e.g., the more you lean forward, the faster you’ll go, up to the maximum speed of 12.5 mph.
Meanwhile, the handlebar serves as the “steering wheel,” which requires the rider to lean gently to either side in the direction they want to go.
Is riding a Segway safe?
When proper safety guidelines are followed, and basic caution is exercised, Segways are generally safe. However, riding a Segway is considered a high-adventure activity, meaning that accidents and injuries are possible.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
1. You must be able to perform physical activities
To ride a Segway, you must be able to perform significant physical activities and have enough strength to remain standing for the duration of the ride.
If you have physical limitations, you’ll want to carefully consider whether a Segway tour is right for you. Another Side Tours offers various other tour options that are a lot of fun, from E-Bike Tours to VIP Limo Tours.
2. Speed should be moderated
Segways have a top speed of 12.5 mph, which might not sound fast, but once you’re on the Segway, especially if you are not used to it, it feels much faster than you might expect.
For this reason, taking things slow, especially for newcomers, and then maintaining a comfortable, controlled speed is crucial.
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 or moderate, and ask for assistance if needed.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Dress appropriately; i.e., avoid disruptive clothing and unsafe footwear.
- Lean into turns gently and adjust speed gradually.
- Maintain a safe distance from other riders, and don’t tailgate.
- Watch out for obstacles.
- Be cautious 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?
Most people find it fairly easy to ride a Segway, with most first-time riders mastering the basic skills within minutes. The Segway responds to natural movements and features simple controls, which is why most people learn quickly.
However, if you’re unsure about riding a Segway around Los Angeles, we offer several fantastic alternatives. You might prefer our popular E-Bike Tours or Private Tours!
Can older people ride a Segway?
Yes! Elderly people can certainly ride Segways, but they must have good physical balance and the ability to stand for the entire ride. Many seniors, including those in their 60s and 70s, ride Segways successfully.
For our mature riders, we recommend starting at a relaxed pace to build confidence. However, if you have any concerns about your balance or physical limitations, a different type of tour may be a better choice.
What do you wear when riding a Segway?
We recommend dressing in comfortable clothing that won’t overly restrict your movements. Your choice of outfit can have a substantial impact on your experience. We’d also like to point out that the weather in Los Angeles plays a key role in what to wear.
During sunny days, opt for light, breathable fabrics. On cooler mornings or evenings, especially near the coast, layers work best. Avoid any type of long, flowing clothing that could interfere with the Segway’s wheels. Skirts aren’t recommended for this type of activity.
As for footwear, stick to closed-toe shoes, with athletic sneakers being the ideal choice. Don’t wear high heels because they make riding a Segway more difficult.
Lastly, always wear a helmet for protection, and don’t forget sunglasses to shield your eyes from LA’s abundant sunshine.
What to expect while Touring Los Angeles on a Segway
You can expect a fun and interesting experience! Your tour will start with a brief training session to ensure you’re comfortable on the Segway. From there, you’ll glide with your group through Los Angeles’s most interesting and famous areas, which, depending on the tour, may include Beverly Hills, La Brea Tar Pits, and Santa Monica. We currently offer 12 different Segway Tours.
The cool thing about Segways is that you can cover a lot of ground quickly, which allows for more exploration than if you were walking.
Our Segway tours typically run between 1.5 to 2.5 hours and, again, always begin with a Segway training session in a relaxed, friendly group setting. Once everyone’s comfortable with their Segway, that’s when the adventure starts. Along the way, your guide will share insights into LA’s history, landmarks, and more. You can also expect plenty of amazing photo opportunities.
Let’s take a look at some specific tours in Los Angeles.
Best Segway tours Los Angeles
The Beverly Hills Segway Tour
The Beverly Hills Segway Tour is an exciting glide through one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, the famed 90210.
The Dream Homes Segway Tour
The Dream Homes Segway Tour offers another candid look at Beverly Hills and the neighborhood’s iconic mansions.
The Santa Monica & Venice Beach Segway Tour
The Santa Monica & Venice Beach Segway Tour offers a thrilling cruise along the scenic California coastline. Glide effortlessly from the iconic Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach and back again.
The Early Bird LA Segway Tour
The Early Bird LA Segway Tour offers a morning adventure through the historic Miracle Mile.
The Miracle Segway Tour
The Miracle Segway Tour also takes you on a thrilling ride through LA’s historic Miracle Mile. Glide past cultural landmarks like the La Brea Tar Pits, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Craft and Folk Art Museum.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour & The Beverly Hills Segway Tour Combo
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour & Beverly Hills Segway Tour Combo offers the ultimate Los Angeles experience. Explore iconic sets at Warner Bros. in specialized carts, then glide through Beverly Hills on a Segway.
The Wilshire Boulevard Segway Tour
The Wilshire Boulevard Segway Tour takes you through the heart of LA; you’ll glide past the shops of Rodeo Drive and beneath the boulevard’s great hotels and famous buildings.
The La Brea Tar Pits Segway Tour
The La Brea Tar Pits Segway Tour visits the famous Ice Age–fossil excavation site and more.
Downtown Los Angeles Segway Tour
The Downtown Los Angeles Segway Tour takes you on an intriguing ride past many of the city’s iconic landmarks.
The Pacific Segway Tour
The Pacific Segway Tour explores Santa Monica, starting at the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and heading north along the coast from there. You’ll pass through the Ocean Front Walk in Venice.
Book Segway tours Los Angeles with Another Side Tours
Ready for an unforgettable tour in Los Angeles? 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 experiences of America’s Finest City.
Booking couldn’t be easier. Contact us for assistance, or simply book a Segway tour directly on our Los Angeles Segway Tours page.
