Today we’d like to introduce you to Rob Paul.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Fifteen years ago, my journey in the restaurant industry began. I bought my first restaurant in Connecticut, and though it wasn’t my last, it sparked my passion for hospitality. Over time, I developed a love for mixology and landed a role as head bartender at a fine dining establishment. It was there that I met my future business partner, a regular patron of my restaurant.
One day, he asked me, “Can you keep a secret?” Intrigued, I listened as he shared his ambitious plan to bring a party bike to New Haven, CT. His idea stuck with me, and within days, I knew I had to be part of it. During our discussions, I mentioned to him that my wife, Dawn, and I were ready to leave the cold behind and move to Florida.
A few months later, on a cold, dark Tuesday night at 9:00 PM, I got a life changing call from him. “What do you and Dawn think about Sanford, Florida?” he asked. Truthfully, I had never heard of Sanford. But soon after, we were on a flight to check it out, coinciding with the city’s first Porchfest event. Dawn and I were already familiar with Porchfest from Connecticut, and the weekend was unforgettable. We explored Sanford, met the seller of Limo Cycle, and immediately fell in love with the area.
After some serious discussion, Dawn and I decided this was our chance. If we didn’t take the leap, we might never leave Connecticut. We called my business partner and said, “We’re in!” His response? “Great, you’ve got 18 days to wrap up your affairs and take over operations of Limo Cycle in Sanford.”
And that’s how Dawn and I became the proud owners and operators of Limo Cycle, embracing a new chapter in sunny Florida.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Owning a business is never a smooth ride. The challenges are constant, and COVID-19 was a major blow that tested our resilience. But we stayed determined, leaned into our community, and were grateful to see the city rally around us in return.
One of the biggest ongoing challenges has been maintaining the cycle itself. With groups of 15 lively people enjoying their “Sanfording” adventures, wear and tear is inevitable. Things break, and repairs are a constant necessity. While I’ve always considered myself mechanically inclined, tackling the complexities of this massive cycle was a steep learning curve. Ensuring it’s not only operational but safe for clients, took time and dedication. Every time I work on it, I learn something new, it’s an ongoing education in problem-solving and in my own patients. .
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Limo Cycle Sanford is all about creating unforgettable experiences and showcasing the charm of our city. We specialize in hosting unique, pedal powered tours through downtown Sanford, combining fun, fitness, and community spirit. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a team building event, or just enjoying a night out with friends, we provide a lively, interactive way to explore the heart of Sanford.
What sets us apart is our dedication to personalizing each ride. We’re not just about pedaling around town, we’re about crafting experiences. Our tours are customizable to suit your group’s preferences, with options ranging from scenic historical routes to party packed adventures featuring music, night life, and stops at local hotspots. We’re known for our enthusiastic team, attention to detail, and ability to make everyone onboard feel like a VIP.
One of the things we’re most proud of is how Limo Cycle has become a staple of the “Sanfording” experience. We’ve worked hard to build a brand that reflects the vibrant, welcoming spirit of our city. From supporting local businesses to participating in community events, we’re deeply rooted in Sanford and committed to sharing its best with our guests.
We want readers to know that Limo Cycle is more than just a ride, it’s an adventure. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city (and ours) or a visitor exploring for the first time, we promise a memorable experience filled with laughter, fun, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Come pedal with us and see why Limo Cycle is one of Sanford’s most beloved attractions!
Any big plans?
One of our most ambitious plans was introducing 26-passenger party pedal boats. To make it happen, I became a U.S. Coast Guard Certified Captain, and we proudly received our first vessel. The response was incredible! It was such a hit that we quickly ordered a second vessel.
However, our momentum was disrupted when Hurricanes Ian and Nicole struck, flooding Sanford’s riverfront and grounding our boats for months. As a result, we relocated both vessels to our Connecticut locations, where they’ve been thriving ever since.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the possibility of a brand new waterfront experience right here in Sanford. Big things are on the horizon, so stay tuned for what’s next!
Pricing:
- Seats Starting at $40.00
- Private Tours for Starting at $495.00
Contact Info:
- Website: LimoCycle.com
- Instagram: Limocycle
- Facebook: Limo Cycle
Image Credits
Rob Paul, April Caplin, Jennifer Florida
