Exploring San Diego’s vibrant downtown and iconic Balboa Park has never been easier. With a self-guided scooter tour, visitors can discover the city’s top attractions at their own pace. This 2-hour adventure provides an electric scooter, helmet, and GPS audio guide, allowing travelers to seamlessly navigate the city’s picturesque streets and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this flexible tour offers a unique and convenient way to experience the best of San Diego.
Key Points

- This self-guided scooter tour in San Diego covers Downtown and Balboa areas, lasting 2 hours and priced from $81.56 per person.
- The tour includes electric scooter, helmet, GPS audio guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off, highlighting iconic sights like Maritime Museum and USS Midway.
- Reservations can be made without upfront payment, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Participants can explore at their own pace, discovering Spanish Renaissance architecture and lush gardens in Balboa Park and the vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood.
- The tour is suitable for ages 15 and up, with a weight limit of 100-375 lbs, and has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Tour Overview

The self-guided scooter tour of Downtown and Balboa in San Diego allows visitors to explore the city at their own pace.
This 2-hour activity, priced from $81.56 per person, includes an electric scooter, helmet, GPS audio guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
Highlights include iconic landmarks like the Maritime Museum, USS Midway, Seaport Village, and Balboa Park.
Riders can customize their route, stopping at restaurants, shops, and attractions along the way.
The tour is suitable for ages 15 and up, with a weight limit of 100-375 lbs.
Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
Booking Information

Reservations for the self-guided scooter tour can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking. No prepayment is required, and customers can reserve now and pay later.
Confirmation is received immediately upon booking. No upfront payment needed – reserve now, pay later at your convenience.
This flexible policy allows visitors to plan their San Diego adventure with ease. If plans change, there’s no penalty for canceling, ensuring a stress-free experience.
With these convenient booking options, travelers can focus on exploring the city’s highlights on their own schedule.
Tour Highlights

Visitors can explore Downtown and Balboa Park at their own pace with the self-guided scooter tour, taking in iconic sights along the way.
The tour includes stops at Little Italy, the Maritime Museum, and the USS Midway aircraft carrier. Cruise through the Seaport Village’s shops and restaurants, then visit the historic Gaslamp Quarter and Petco Park, home of the Padres.
Explore the Spanish Renaissance architecture and lush gardens of Balboa Park before heading to the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest.
The tour’s talking GPS provides guidance, allowing travelers to discover San Diego’s highlights at their leisure.
Rental Details
The self-guided scooter tour includes an electric scooter, a ride orientation, a helmet, hotel pickup and drop-off, and gratuities.
Riders must be at least 15 years old, with those under 18 needing adult accompaniment. A major credit card and photo ID are required, and a liability release must be signed.
Weight restrictions range from a minimum of 100 lbs to a maximum of 375 lbs. A security deposit is held on the credit card until the scooter’s return.
Collision Damage Waiver insurance is available for purchase, and riders can extend the rental in 15-minute increments for an additional charge.
Scooters must be returned before dusk.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Pickup for the self-guided scooter tour takes place at 3918 Mason St. in San Diego, CA 92110. Scooters must be returned before dusk. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 15 or unaccompanied minors.
| Criteria | Details |
| — | — |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 15 years old; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult |
| Weight Limit | Minimum 100 lbs (45.5 kg), Maximum 375 lbs (170 kg) |
| Liability | Waiver form must be signed |
Customers must provide a major credit card and photo ID. An optional Collision Damage Waiver is available for purchase. Any rental extensions will be charged per 15-minute increments.
Customer Feedback

According to the reviews, customers have generally had positive experiences with the self-guided scooter tour, rating it an overall 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 8 reviews.
Customers praised the tour for being fun and enjoyable, noting the added value for money. The transportation by electric scooter was well-received, though some suggested wearing sunscreen.
The tour accommodates a variety of traveler types, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.
Exploring Downtown
Where better to begin a self-guided scooter tour of San Diego than in the vibrant heart of Downtown?
Riders can explore this dynamic district, visiting top attractions like:
Explore Downtown’s dynamic district, visiting top attractions like Little Italy, Maritime Museum, USS Midway, and Seaport Village.
-
Little Italy – Enjoy the lively atmosphere, quaint shops, and authentic Italian eateries.
-
Maritime Museum – Marvel at historic ships, including schooners, steam tugs, and paddle wheel boats.
-
USS Midway – Tour the iconic decommissioned aircraft carrier and learn about its naval history.
-
Seaport Village – Stroll through the waterfront promenade, filled with entertainment, dining, and boutique shops.
With a talking GPS guiding the way, riders can discover Downtown’s hidden gems at their own pace.
Discovering Balboa Park
After exploring the vibrant heart of Downtown, riders can continue their scooter journey and discover the beauty and culture of Balboa Park.
This vast urban cultural park features stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture, world-class museums, lush gardens, and performing arts venues.
Riders can visit the iconic Balboa Park Visitor Center, tour the San Diego Museum of Art, or simply stroll through the tranquil pathways admiring the ornamental fountains and native flora.
With so much to see and do, Balboa Park offers a perfect respite from the bustling city streets and a chance to take in San Diego’s rich heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Helmet?
You can bring your own helmet, but it’s not required. The tour provides a helmet for your safety. Using your own helmet is an option if you prefer, but isn’t necessary to participate in the scooter tour.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
No, there is no minimum group size requirement. Individuals can book and enjoy the self-guided scooter tour on their own. The tour allows for flexible scheduling and exploration at one’s own pace.
Are Electric Scooters Allowed on Pedestrian Paths?
Electric scooters are generally allowed on pedestrian paths, but riders should exercise caution and give right-of-way to pedestrians. Check local regulations, as restrictions may vary by location to ensure everyone’s safety.
What Should I Wear for the Tour?
For a self-guided scooter tour, it’s best to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bring sunscreen and a light jacket or layers in case the weather changes. Focus on safety and enjoying the sights at your own pace.
Can I Take the Scooter on the Beach?
No, you can’t take the scooter on the beach. The scooters are designed for use on paved roads and sidewalks, not on sandy beaches. For safety reasons, riders are expected to stay off the beach areas during the tour.
The Sum Up
This self-guided scooter tour of Downtown San Diego and Balboa Park offers an exciting and flexible way to explore the city’s vibrant sights. With an electric scooter, helmet, and GPS audio guide, visitors can discover iconic landmarks like the Maritime Museum and USS Midway at their own pace. Suitable for ages 15 and up, this tour provides an enjoyable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
You can check availability for your dates here: