Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Segway?
- Is it safe?
- Is a Segway easy to ride?
- Can children ride?
- Are there any weight restrictions?
- Are there any height requirements?
- Are there any other Requirements?
- Are there people who should NOT participate?
- How do I make a reservation?
- Should I tip my tour guide?
- Where do we meet for the tour?
- Where should I park?
- When should I reserve?
- When do I need to arrive?
- What should I bring?
- What should I wear?
- Can I bring a purse?
- Can I use my cell phone during the tour?
- What about my camera?
- Are you authorized by Segway?
- Can I rent a Segway on my own?
- What happens in case of rain?
- Cancellation/Rain check policy
- How did you come up with name Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours?
What is a Segway?
A Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing, battery-operated human transportation vehicle. It is operated in a standing position. It should not be confused with a scooter, or cegway. It is a non-motorized, eco-friendly machine that uses renewable credit energy during its operation. The Segway leaves no carbon footprint on the environment. Go Green, Go Segway, Go Absolutely!
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Is it safe?
Absolutely! The marvelous thing about a Segway is that it contains a gyroscope – allowing the machine to self-balance in response to the rider's movements. After just a few minutes of our safety and operational training, you'll see how easy and effortless riding a Segway can be!
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Is a Segway easy to ride?
A Segway is not only easy to ride, but it's also a lot of fun! Imagine covering a lot of territory – without expending a lot of energy. That's the beauty of riding a Segway. They're clean, quiet, and you stand above the crowds. That makes for great views, even if you're short! Couple that with our tour guide's narration, and you've got a fun and effortless way to take in the sights!
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Can children ride?
Riding a Segway is safe, even for children. However, we do require that all riders be at least 14 years of age. All riders under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
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Are there any weight restrictions?
In order to assure our riders' safety, there is a minimum weight requirement of 100 pounds. The maximum recommended weight limit as specified by the manufacturer, Segway, LLC, is 260 pounds. In order to ride, your weight should fall somewhere within this range.
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Are there any height requirements?
Our Segways have adjustable handlebars to make the ride safe and fun, regardless of height.
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Are there any other Requirements?
All participants are required to wear protective helmets at all times and sign waiver and release forms prior to departure.
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Are there people who should NOT participate?
It is not recommended that pregnant women and any person with health restrictions, seizure disorders, intolerance or sensitivity to extreme heat and sun, or persons who have had recent prosthetic surgery participate in this activity. Riders must be capable of standing for extended periods of time. Anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited from riding.
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How do I make a reservation?
Just give us a call at 312-552-5100. All reservations require a credit card deposit.
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Are group rates available?
Yes. Please contact our events planner for further information. So consider us for that birthday party or special event!
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Should I tip my tour guide?
Gratuity will be added for groups of 6 or more. Otherwise, gratuity for your tour guide is not included in your reservation fee. As in any service business, although not required, a tip is extremely appreciated!
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Where do we meet for the tour?
For Tours Originating at Millennium Park:
Our main Location at Millennium Park is 238 E Monroe Street. Use the Exelon Pavilion SE Entrance and take the elevator to level 2. We are located 1 block east of Michigan Avenue, 50 feet west of Columbus, on the north side of the street. Follow the orange signs. Note: Google Maps and Mapquest do not represent our location accurately!
For Tours Originating from our Navy Pier Kiosk in Gateway Park:
We are located between Grand and Illinois on Streeter at Gateway Park at Navy Pier. We are west of the main gate of Navy Pier. Look for the kiosk with the orange signs in the park across from the main entrance and gates to Navy Pier.
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Where should I park?
For Tours Originating at Millennium Park:
The entrance to our section of Millennium Garage is found only from Columbus Drive. Please do not enter on Michigan Avenue as that is a different garage and the vouchers which we offer are not valid. Once in the garage proceed west to the Millennium Park side of the garage. Then once past the entrance gates turn left, heading south to Monroe Street. Park on level 2. Please follow the orange Absolutely Chicago Segway Tour signs. We are located in the lobby of level 2 of the garage.
Call us with any questions at 312-552-5100. Discounted parking vouchers are available to our customers. Do not park in any other garage than the Millennium Park Garage as the vouchers are not valid in the Grant Park Garages or the East Monroe Garage.
For Tours Originating from our Navy Pier Kiosk in Gateway Park:
Public parking is available at Navy Pier. Parking vouchers are not valid for this location.
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When should I reserve?
Our tours fill up fast, especially in the summer months. We recommend booking as soon as possible.
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When do I need to arrive?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour start time. Once everyone is checked in, you will be given training on the safe operation of your Segway from our professional, certified trainers. When everyone is comfortable with his or her Segway, we're on the trail!
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What should I bring?
During the summer you'll want to bring your sunglasses and sunscreen. And bring your camera for great photos!
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What should I wear?
It can be cooler near the lakefront, so you may want to bring a light jacket, gloves and a hat in the cooler months. In the event of rain, we will provide a poncho. Remember to wear comfortable shoes. High-heels are not recommended.
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Can I bring a purse?
There is a small hardshell backpack on your Segway in which you may store your personal items, including a purse. However, a large purse could be a challenge. So, we recommend keeping your purse small or using a fanny pack.
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Can I use my cell phone during the tour?
The use of cell phones, pagers, PDAs, iPhones, text messaging devices, and other mobile communication devices are prohibited while operating the Segway.
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What about my camera?
Of course, we want you to have plenty of great photos of Chicago. We'll stop at our favorite photo spots for you to capture the moment!
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Are you authorized by Segway?
Segway's authorization designation is awarded only to dealers that sell the machines. We concentrate our efforts on tours and services. However, all of our guides are Segway certified. That means that they are approved by Segway to train riders in the safe use of their equipment.
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Can I rent a Segway on my own?
Even if you've been on a Segway before, we do not rent Segways without our guide. We do this for your safety.
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What happens in case of rain?
We operate rain or shine. No worries. We have lightweight ponchos available for you should it start to rain. We do not operate in heavy rain. Refer to our cancellation/rain check policy below.
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Cancellation/Rain check policy
We offer a refund if you cancel 48 hours (or more) in advance of your scheduled departure with an 8% cancellation fee. All tours canceled within 24 hours of scheduled departure are non-refundable. We do offer rescheduling options. If you fail to notify us of a cancellation, there is a 100% charge, with no rescheduling option.
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How did you come up with name Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours?
That's easy. Our attention to top-notch service is at the heart of our business. It's second nature to us. We noticed that whenever we were asked if we could do something, our immediate response was always "Absolutely!" Do we know you'll have a fantastic experience? ABSOLUTELY!
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