Lakefront Segway Tour in Chicago

Exploring Chicago on a Lakefront Segway Tour: An Honest Review

Imagine gliding along Chicago’s shimmering lakefront, snapping photos of the skyline, and soaking in the breeze—all without breaking a sweat from walking. That’s exactly what this Lakefront Segway Tour promises, and based on dozens of reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s a pretty appealing way to experience the city’s highlights. While we haven’t done the tour ourselves, the feedback from travelers paints a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the personal touch of small groups—with a maximum of 8 people, you get more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. Second, the stunning views at every stop, especially Buckingham Fountain and the Chicago skyline, make this tour picture-perfect. Third, the knowledgeable guides, like Marty and Ivy, aren’t just instructing you—they add stories and local insights that bring each site to life.

That said, a potential snag is that the tour is weather-dependent. If it’s too windy or rainy, the experience might be canceled, so it’s worth planning with some flexibility. Also, while the price is quite reasonable at $75, keep in mind that it covers only the tour itself—food, drinks, and transportation to the meeting point are on you.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who like a bit of fun, don’t mind balancing on a Segway, and want a memorable way to see Chicago’s iconic lakeside sights without wasting hours on foot or in traffic.

Key Points

• Small groups ensure personal guidance and a relaxed pace
• Iconic landmarks like Buckingham Fountain and Navy Pier are part of the route
• Knowledgeable guides provide entertaining stories and local insights
• Flexible schedule with multiple tour times throughout the day
• Weather can impact the tour, so flexibility is useful
• Good value for money for a 1.5-hour guided sightseeing experience

Why You’ll Love a Chicago Lakefront Segway Tour

This tour offers a fresh way to see Chicago, especially for those who find traditional sightseeing a bit too tiring or time-consuming. With a mix of history, architecture, and waterfront scenery, it covers many of the city’s most popular spots without the need for walking or public transit. Plus, the Segway itself adds an element of fun and novelty—something that makes even seasoned travelers smile.

The guides seem to be a highlight, with reviews praising their patience, local knowledge, and ability to make the tour memorable. One traveler shared that “Marty was very helpful in giving instructions and training” and “made this tour memorable.” Others appreciated how their guides added stories and personality, making the sightseeing less dry and more engaging.

The views along the lakefront are truly a standout. You’ll get to see the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field, and the Adler Planetarium, all framed against the impressive Chicago skyline. The iconic Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world, is a perfect spot for photos and relaxing breaks. Many reviews mention how the fountains and parks make for excellent backdrops, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere.

For those who love museums and cultural sites, the tour provides an excellent overview of Chicago’s Museum Campus, including the Field Museum—home to Sue the T-Rex—and the Adler Planetarium. Travelers often comment on how they enjoyed “meeting Máximo the Titanosaur” and exploring ancient Egyptian tombs, even briefly, which speaks to the diverse sights included in the tour.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 34 S Michigan Ave, a central location near many of Chicago’s attractions. The initial segment often includes a quick orientation and safety briefing, where guides like Ivy or Marty help newcomers master the Segway. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden one before; most reviews mention how instructions are clear and guidance patient.

Once underway, you’ll glide past some of Chicago’s most recognizable structures. The Field Museum is an early stop—an unmissable highlight with its impressive dinosaur exhibits, including SUE the T-Rex and the Titanosaur Máximo. Reviewers have shared how they loved “meeting the largest dinosaur ever discovered,” and appreciated the chance to explore over 10,000 years of history in one of Chicago’s most famous museums.

Next, you’ll cruise along the lakefront, passing Navy Pier, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium. While these aren’t stops on the tour, the views from the Segway are spectacular—”You can see the city’s skyline from a different perspective,” as one reviewer pointed out. The Chicago Lakefront Trail provides a scenic backdrop, perfect for photos and soaking in the fresh air.

The tour also includes a stop at Soldier Field, where you can admire the stadium’s historic architecture and see where the Bears and Chicago Fire play. Then, it’s on to Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain, arguably the tour’s highlight. The fountain, dedicated in 1927, is one of the largest in the world and a favorite spot for photos, especially with the skyline in the background.

As the tour winds down, you’ll return to the starting point, often passing by Millennium Park and other nearby attractions. Reviewers mention how their guides shared stories about Millennium Park’s design, including Cloud Gate (The Bean) and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, adding context to the sightseeing.

What Makes the Experience Stand Out

Personalized attention and the small group size (max 8 travelers) stand out, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, flexible tour. Many reviews mention how guides like Marty and Ivy are attentive, knowledgeable, and fun—adding humor and local lore to the sightseeing.

The mix of scenery and landmarks offers a rundown without feeling rushed. You get to see both iconic structures and breathe in the lakeside atmosphere, making it a well-rounded way to understand Chicago’s identity as a city of lakes and skyscrapers.

The use of a Segway is a major draw. It’s surprisingly easy to learn, even for beginners, and adds an element of adventure. Several travelers remarked that “the Segways were fun and easy to operate,” and that it was a great way to cover lots of ground in a short time.

The value proposition is solid. At $75 for 1 hour 30 minutes, you get a guided experience that combines sightseeing, local insights, and a dash of adrenaline—all in an accessible, family-friendly way. It’s a good deal for those looking for something different from typical city tours.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is generally praised, some important points to keep in mind are: weather can affect availability, so check the forecast and be flexible. The tour requires participants to be at least 12 years old and within 100-260 lbs—so it’s suitable for most teenagers and adults. Pregnant women are not allowed, and flat, closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.

Booking well in advance is advised, as the tour is popular, usually booked around 11 days ahead. The meeting spot is centrally located, making it easy to access from most downtown hotels. Keep in mind that food and drinks and transportation to the start point are not included, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: Is the Lakefront Segway Tour in Chicago Worth It?

This tour offers a unique blend of fun, scenery, and local insights that’s hard to beat for a short city experience. The guided aspect, combined with the relaxed pace and small-group setting, makes it approachable and engaging. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see the main sights or a local looking for a new perspective on familiar landmarks, this tour has plenty to offer.

The stunning lakefront views and famous landmarks make it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge are often highlighted as a key part of the experience, turning a simple ride into a memorable adventure.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable on a Segway, and want a practical way to cover a lot of ground with minimal effort, this tour is worth considering. Its reasonable price, combined with the quality of sights and storytelling, makes it a smart pick for a fun, scenic afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age to participate? Yes, participants must be at least 12 years old.

What is the maximum weight for riders? The tour is suitable for those weighing between 100 and 260 pounds.

Are guides available in multiple time slots? Yes, the tour is offered at several times throughout the day, providing flexibility.

What should I wear? Dress in weather-appropriate clothes and wear flat, closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort.

Is it suitable for pregnant women? No, pregnant women are not allowed to ride.

What happens if the weather is bad? Tours may be canceled if weather conditions make riding dangerous. You will be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up? No, guests meet at the designated starting point, 34 S Michigan Ave.

Are helmets provided? Yes, the use of helmets is included in the tour.

How long is the tour? Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including training and sightseeing.

In all, the Lakefront Segway Tour in Chicago offers a fun, scenic, and informative way to explore the city’s highlights with ease and style. It’s especially suited for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and great photo opportunities—all within a manageable time frame and budget.