Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN NEW ORLEANS
Planning a bike-friendly vacation to New Orleans? You’re in for a laid-back adventure with a jazzy twist. New Orleans might be known for its music, food, and culture, but it's also a surprisingly awesome city for cyclists. With flat terrain, picturesque routes, and bike-friendly neighborhoods, the Big Easy is easy to explore on two wheels. This guide lays out the top bike touring routes that mix local charm, waterfront views, and hidden gems—all perfect for tourists ready to roll.
Historic routes through charming neighborhoods
French Quarter to Garden District: Classic NOLA ride
Start your ride in the French Quarter, weaving through narrow streets full of live jazz, historic homes, and the smell of beignets in the air. Head west along Magazine Street toward the Garden District—an iconic New Orleans ride. You’ll pass quirky shops, creole cottages, and massive oak trees. The ride is flat and relaxed, making it perfect for sightseeing at your own pace.
Stop at Café du Monde for coffee and beignets.
Magazine Street has bike lanes in most parts—ride cautiously.
Great mix of food, art, and architecture all in one ride.
End at Audubon Park for a relaxing loop under the trees.
Bywater and Marigny Loop: Artsy and vibrant
This ride takes you through two of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods. Bywater and Marigny are packed with murals, cafés, and some of the city’s best live music spots. The streets are low-traffic and full of local flavor, perfect for casual riders who want a cultural deep dive on two wheels.
Don’t miss Crescent Park for river views and photo ops.
Plenty of bike-friendly coffee shops and bakeries.
Easy to loop back downtown via Chartres Street.
Levee trails and waterfront escapes
Mississippi River Levee Trail: Big Easy’s best long ride
This paved trail runs alongside the Mississippi River and stretches for over 20 miles. Starting near Audubon Park, the trail rolls west past riverboats, industry zones, and peaceful suburban parks. It’s ideal for touring cyclists looking to log serious miles without hills or heavy traffic. You’ll also get a real feel for the working river life that defines this region.
Wide, well-maintained path with few interruptions.
Great for sunrise or sunset rides along the river.
Access from Audubon Park via the Fly area.
Limited shade—wear sunscreen and bring water.
Lakefront Trail: Breezy coastal energy
Head north to the shores of Lake Pontchartrain for a fresh-air ride along the water. The Lakefront Trail stretches for several miles and offers a relaxing change of pace from the busy downtown areas. You’ll ride past marinas, seafood joints, and open green spaces—all with a salty breeze and great views. Ideal for anyone wanting a chill coastal loop close to the city.
Start at Lakefront Park or UNO campus.
Picnic areas and restrooms available at various stops.
Flat route perfect for cruisers, e-bikes, or tandems.
Parks, loops, and local gems
City Park Trails: Nature without leaving town
City Park is massive—one of the largest urban parks in the country—and it's loaded with smooth trails, bridges, and bike paths that wind through moss-draped oaks and sculpture gardens. You can easily spend hours riding here without hitting the same route twice. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a favorite among locals for a reason.
Start near Big Lake or the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Don’t miss the Couturie Forest Trail for a woodsy detour.
Well-shaded and great even in summer heat.
Bayou St. John and Lafitte Greenway: Local favorites
Bayou St. John offers one of the most relaxing urban rides in the city. Ride along the bayou from City Park toward Mid-City, then connect to the Lafitte Greenway—a 2.6-mile bike and pedestrian trail that links Mid-City with the French Quarter. It’s flat, breezy, and full of murals, native plants, and city energy. Definitely one of the best ways to feel like a local cyclist.
Bike rentals available near City Park or along the Greenway.
Great food and coffee options at Greenway stops.
Perfect loop for early mornings or golden hour rides.
Fuel up like a local
New Orleans isn’t short on post-ride rewards. After your ride, hit up Parkway Bakery for a po’boy, sip cold brew from French Truck Coffee, or toast your ride with a local brew at NOLA Brewing. Many of these spots have outdoor seating, bike racks, and that laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding. Just remember: calories don’t count on vacation.
Most neighborhood joints are bike-friendly—lock up and enjoy.
Live music often happens spontaneously—stick around if you hear it.
Bring cash for small vendors and corner stores.
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