As part of their efforts to boost revenues in the park, the Rec & Park Department is considering proposals for a Segway tour company in the park. In 2008, Segway of SF (now Silicon Segway) was given permission to operate a pilot program offering tours of the park that left from behind the bandshell in the music concourse.
According to the Examiner, that pilot program netted $46,000 during the test run. At the time they only allowed people to make reservations online or over the phone.
Now Rec & Park is looking for someone to set up a permanent kiosk near the bandshell to offer tours. They expect the vendor to pay at least $35,000 a year for the privilege. The Examiner reports that Segway of SF / Silicon Segway will be vying for the concession again.
After a quick search, it looks like Segway SF Bay currently offers tours and rentals in Golden Gate Park. So perhaps it will be a bidding battle between Silicon Segway and Segway SF Bay for the business. Tours could begin as early as July.
I took a Segway tour of Golden Gate Park back in 2008 and it was a blast. Even though I’m a San Francisco native, I still learned a few tidbits about the park’s history, and had a great time zipping around to see the sights. And I secretly enjoyed whizzing by walkers on our way to the top of Strawberry Hill.
Segway tours are also offered on Angel Island.
Sarah B.
I have taken the Segway tour in the Park. It was a great introduction to the nifty run-abouts. I have done the Angel Island as well and still have yet to tackle North Beach. I think it will be a good addition to the variety of things to do in the park as well as earn revenue.
Segways are prohibited on sidewalks and should be prohibited in the park. Several were driving through the Arboretum the other week!