Chicago Landmarks & Museum Campus Small Group Segway Tour

Explore Chicago’s Landmarks on a Guided Segway Tour

For just $70 per person, the Chicago Landmarks & Museum Campus Small Group Segway Tour offers an engaging way to see Chicago’s top sights in approximately 2 hours. Departing from 300 E Monroe St, this tour takes you on a 7/8-mile route around the city’s lively lakefront, Grant Park, and iconic Museum Campus. Guided by professional guides, you’ll glide effortlessly along floral paths, city streets, and lakeside walkways, all while soaking in stunning skyline views.

This tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with training, helmets, and small group size capped at 8 ensuring a personalized experience. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, who add fun facts and stories at every stop, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a scenic, quick overview of Chicago.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $70 for a 2-hour adventure
• Small group size capped at 8 travelers for a personalized experience
• Includes professional guide, helmet, and Segway training
• Stops at major landmarks like Buckingham Fountain, Soldier Field, and the Museum Campus
• Perfect for beginners, with easy-to-ride Segways and helpful instruction
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Downtown Chicago

The tour begins at 300 E Monroe St, within easy reach of Chicago’s bustling downtown area. The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, including training, sightseeing stops, and gliding along Lake Michigan. The timing makes it a convenient option for visitors with limited time or those seeking a quick yet rundown of the city’s highlights.

Guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, where they will fill out waivers and get fitted with helmets. The tour concludes back at the starting point, so no transportation is needed once it ends.

Simplified Segway Training and Beginner-Friendly Experience

One of the most praised aspects is how smoothly the training session is handled. Guides like Marshall, Colton, and others are noted for their patience and clear instructions, helping even nervous first-timers quickly get comfortable on the Segway. The easy learning curve means anyone who can stand can ride, making it accessible for ages 12 and up.

The training and practice ensure all participants feel confident before heading out to see the sights. The small group size allows guides to give personal attention, answer questions, and keep everyone safe and entertained throughout the ride.

Visit Chicago’s Most Famous Landmarks and Iconic Spots

The itinerary includes several notable stops. The tour kicks off at the Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours base before heading to the Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park, renowned as one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks. This fifth-largest fountain in the world features dancing water displays and provides great photo opportunities.

Next, the group visits Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears, giving a chance to appreciate the historic stadium’s architecture. The Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium are also visible from the route, highlighting Chicago’s world-class cultural institutions.

The 30-minute glide along the lakefront is a major highlight, offering stunning views of the skyline and the expansive Lake Michigan. The guide shares insights and fun facts, making the ride as informative as it is scenic. Plenty of opportunities for photos with the skyline as a backdrop make this part of the tour especially memorable.

Highlights of the Museum Campus and Lakefront Views

The Museum Campus features the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium—all iconic stops visible from the Tour, even if not directly visited. The lakefront segment allows you to experience Chicago’s natural beauty, with the Chicago skyline in full view.

The 30-minute segment along Lake Michigan is praised for its breathtaking views and the informative commentary from the guide. This part of the tour offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the city’s lakeside charm.

The Role of Guides: Knowledge, Patience, and Fun

Reviewers consistently mention guides like Clark, Kevin, Marshall, and Jeremy for their friendly, knowledgeable, and patient manner. They go beyond simple directions, sharing interesting facts about the landmarks, history, and architecture. Guides are also noted for their helpfulness—especially when first-time Segway riders feel nervous.

Several reviews mention guides going above and beyond by taking photos, spending extra time, or answering questions about Chicago’s history. Their enthusiasm and personal touch make the experience more engaging and fun.

Group Size and Personal Attention

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour maintains a personalized feel. The small group size ensures guides can give individual instructions and cater to different riding paces. Many reviewers appreciate this, describing the tour as intimate and non-rushed.

The small group setting also enhances the safety and comfort of beginners, as guides can monitor each rider closely and offer tailored tips as needed.

Logistics: Meeting, Equipment, and Weather Considerations

The meeting point at 300 E Monroe Street is easy to find, and guests should arrive 15 minutes early. The tour provides all necessary equipment—including Segways and helmets—and professional training to ensure confidence on the ride.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, with ponchos provided in case of rain. It’s advisable to dress appropriately, wearing close-toed shoes and layered clothing depending on the season. Participants should be able to stand unassisted and have a minimum weight of 100 lbs for safety.

Physical Requirements and Age Limits

This experience is suitable for people aged 12 and above who meet physical requirements. Participants need to stand unassisted for the duration and be capable of ascending stairs if needed. The minimum weight is 100 pounds, and the maximum is 260 pounds.

The moderate physical fitness level required makes this tour accessible for most individuals in good health. Those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort with standing and balancing on the Segway.

Customer Satisfaction and High Ratings

With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 221 reviews, this tour is highly praised for its fun, informative, and scenic nature. Many reviews mention guide excellence, ease of riding, and beautiful sites.

Guests appreciate the efficient route that covers major landmarks quickly, as well as the personalized attention from guides who make everyone feel comfortable. The value for money and the quality of instruction contribute to the consistently high ratings.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Tips

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility allows for peace of mind when planning a trip. Tours often get booked 13 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Visitors should consider weather conditions on the day of the tour, as it runs rain or shine, and dress appropriately. Given the small group size, booking ahead helps secure a spot for this popular experience.

Final Thoughts: Is the Chicago Landmarks & Museum Campus Segway Tour for You?

This small-group Segway tour delivers a fun, efficient, and scenic way to explore Chicago’s most famous landmarks. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those looking for a compact overview of the city’s highlights. The professional guides, easy-to-ride Segways, and stunning lakefront views make it a memorable experience.

While it’s ideal for beginners and families, travelers should be comfortable standing and balancing for about two hours. The small group format ensures a personalized experience, with ample opportunity for questions, photos, and interaction.

In sum, this tour offers great value for $70, combining scenic views, landmark stops, and friendly guides to make the most of a short visit to Chicago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 12 and above who meet the weight requirements can participate. The tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with training provided.

Do I need prior Segway experience?
No previous experience is necessary. The tour includes a training session to ensure everyone feels confident before heading out.

What should I wear?
Dress for outdoor activity, with close-toed shoes and layers depending on the weather. Ponchos are provided if it rains.

How early should I arrive?
Guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, helmet fitting, and waiver signing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a personalized experience with plenty of guide attention.