The weather’s improving, the flowers are blossoming, and people are wearing more smiles — just the perfect time to hop on your bicycle and absorb all those sunny spring vibes. For all you cyclists out there who plan on visiting a major city this summer, we’ve compiled a list of awesome destinations that are totally geared for two-wheel adventures. More pedal power to you!

New York City

If you’re a cyclist and not a native of New York, the mention of NYC probably gives you visions of being run over by one of its scurrying yellow taxis or being berated by a slew of ill-tempered drivers. But fear not: the Big Apple has hundreds of miles of bike routes winding through the metropolis that are safe and scenic. If you don’t own a bike you can always rent one to pedal through the Hudson River Greenway, which runs along the West Side, from Dyckman Street in the north to Battery Park in the south. You can also cycle across the iconic Brooklyn bridge — a very popular route as well.

Chicago

The Windy City has more than 100 miles of protected bikeways that wind through the city. Chicago is also home to the nation’s second-largest bike share system, Divvy, and it underlined its bike-friendly stature by introducing a program called Divvy For Everyone, which subsidizes bike shares for low-income riders. Make sure to ride on through Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park without ever having to stop for traffic.

Washington D.C.

The nation’s capital would best be known for its monuments and history rather than catering to 2-wheel travelers, but Washington D.C. has a great network of bike routes that fits the needs of any level of cyclist. Our personal favorite is the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O for short) Towpath, which follows the Potomac River for about 184 miles. Thanks to all the trees along the path, you can expect a very shady, cool ride during the sticky summer months.

Portland

Blessed with great natural beauty, Oregan can boast of a lot to do over summer for outdoor junkies. The city of Portland offers cyclists the perfect opportunity to taste the outdoors in the middle of a great city through an extensive network of bikeways. It’s bike share program BIKETOWN, is also very well rated. Forest Park has some great trails leading through pristine forest landscapes in Northwest Portland. A popular route through the park is Leif Erikson Drive, which offers fantastic views of the Columbia River and Mount St. Helens. If you prefer an ascending ride, then Mt. Tabor Park will give you a panoramic view of the city skyline.

San Diego

With a moderate climate throughout the year, any time’s a good time to do some biking in San Diego. The green hub of the city, Balboa Park, is home to a lot of great sites, including the San Diego Zoo, museums, and theaters. You can soak up some sun biking through the park or feel the salty air hit your face on a beach-side route. The city’s bike share program has been hit with criticism of not being available at crucial locations, but there are plenty of places you can rent one for the day.

Austin

The art and music heart of Texas also plays home to this rather unconventional bike park, which is so enamored with pedal power that it has its own bike zoo (yes – we’re talking about an 80-foot-long rattlesnake bicycle, in addition to an assortment of other creatures driven by pedal power!). Austin is also home to the Lance Armstrong Bikeway, which runs through the heart of town. If you venture just outside of town, you can ride through the picturesque Texas Hill Country, another popular route favored by cyclists.

Minneapolis

Even in the worst weather, you’ll be sure to find cyclists using their fat bikes to pedal their way across this bike-friendly town. The city has invested heavily in turning its abandoned industrial spaces into intricate bike paths that convene at the city center. Ride the Cedar Lake Commuter Trail, which takes you past the beautiful Spring Lake, or try the Dakota Rail Trail, which whizzes you past ponds and wetlands.

Boston

Boston is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, offering an exceptional blend of urban and natural beauty that caters to riders of all levels. With a vast network of bike lanes, dedicated paths, and bike-friendly policies, it’s a city designed for two-wheel exploration. Visitors can pedal along the iconic Charles River Esplanade, where picturesque views of the skyline and serene waters accompany the journey. For a historical touch, follow the Freedom Trail by bike to immerse yourself in the city’s rich past.

Boston’s compact layout allows for easy exploration, and nearby destinations like Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard offer stunning coastal rides. The city’s vibrant culture, coupled with its cycling infrastructure, makes Boston an ideal destination for bike-loving tourists.

Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a burgeoning haven for cycling enthusiasts and visitors alike, offering a bike-friendly atmosphere that embraces outdoor adventure. The city boasts an extensive network of bike lanes and dedicated paths, ensuring safe and convenient access to its scenic landscapes. The Cherry Creek Bike Path and South Platte River Trail are iconic routes that wind through picturesque surroundings.

For visitors, Denver’s B-Cycle bike-sharing program provides easy access to two-wheel exploration. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in initiatives like Denver’s Vision Zero plan, aimed at enhancing cyclist safety. With bike-friendly transit options and bike-centric events, Denver invites visitors to pedal their way through its vibrant urban and natural environments.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin, is a charming and bike-friendly city, perfect for visitors seeking a unique blend of culture and outdoor exploration. With a robust network of bike lanes, scenic trails, and bike-friendly policies, Madison is a haven for cyclists. The city’s iconic Capital City State Trail and Lakeshore Path offer breathtaking rides along lakeshores and through lush green spaces.

Visitors can easily rent bikes through the Madison B-Cycle program, providing convenient access to two-wheel adventures. Madison’s commitment to sustainability and active transportation is evident in its recognition as a Platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Community. For tourists, this means a welcoming environment for exploring the city’s vibrant culture and natural beauty on two wheels.

Seattle

Seattle, Washington, is a bike-friendly paradise for visitors eager to explore the Pacific Northwest’s stunning landscapes and vibrant urban culture. With a growing network of bike lanes, bike-friendly infrastructure, and a strong cycling community, Seattle beckons riders of all levels. Iconic routes like the Burke-Gilman Trail and Alki Beach provide scenic experiences along the water’s edge.

Bike-sharing programs like Lime and JUMP make it convenient for visitors to explore the city’s neighborhoods and parks. Seattle’s commitment to cycling is demonstrated through initiatives like its Bicycle Master Plan, fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for two-wheel travelers. Whether for sightseeing or commuting, Seattle offers a pedal-powered adventure for all.

You Might Also Enjoy: Urban Oases — 7 of The Best City Parks to Visit This Summer

San Francisco

San Francisco, California, welcomes visitors with a vibrant and bike-friendly atmosphere that encourages exploration of its iconic hills, stunning waterfront, and cultural attractions on two wheels. The city has made substantial investments in cycling infrastructure, with a growing network of bike lanes and dedicated paths. Popular cycling routes include the Golden Gate Bridge, Embarcadero, and the scenic ride along Ocean Beach.

Rent bikes are available to visitors through bike-sharing programs like Ford GoBike, making it easy to navigate the city’s diverse neighborhoods. San Francisco’s commitment to sustainability and active transportation is evident in its vision for a more bike-friendly future, ensuring an enjoyable and eco-friendly experience for all cyclists.

FAQs:

Q: Are these cities suitable for all levels of cyclists? 

A: Yes, these cities offer a variety of cycling routes and infrastructure suitable for cyclists of all levels, from beginners to advanced riders.

Q: Are bike rentals available for tourists and visitors? 

A: Most of these cities have bike rental programs or bike-sharing services that cater to tourists and visitors, making it easy to explore on two wheels.

Q: Are there any safety concerns for cyclists in these cities? 

A: While these cities are known for their bike-friendly atmosphere, it’s essential to follow safety rules, wear helmets, and be aware of traffic. Always check local cycling guidelines.

Q: Can I bring my own bike to these cities? 

A: Absolutely! You can bring your bike or rent one locally. Many cities have bike-friendly accommodations with secure storage.

Q: Are there any guided cycling tours available in these cities? 

A: Yes, several cities offer guided cycling tours that provide valuable insights into the local culture, history, and landmarks while enjoying a scenic ride.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit these cities for cycling? 

A: It varies by city, but generally, spring and fall are ideal seasons for comfortable cycling weather. However, each city has its unique charm year-round.

Q: Are there any cycling events or races in these cities? 

A: Many of these cities host cycling events, races, and charity rides throughout the year, providing opportunities for both competitive and recreational cyclists to participate.

Know of any other great bike-friendly cities? Let us know in the comments