BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN NEW YORK CITY

Iconic NYC rides you can’t miss

Riding through NYC means experiencing one of the world’s most vibrant cities from a fresh, two-wheeled perspective. These iconic bike routes let you cruise past landmarks, soak up skyline views, and feel the pulse of the city like a local.

Hudson River Greenway

The crown jewel of NYC bike routes, this 13-mile path runs from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan all the way up to the George Washington Bridge. You'll ride alongside the Hudson River with uninterrupted views and zero car traffic.

• Surface: Smooth, paved path

• Highlights: Freedom Tower, Chelsea Piers, Riverside Park

• Best for: Relaxed rides, photography, sunsets

Central Park Loop

For a ride that feels both serene and iconic, hit the 6.1-mile loop inside Central Park. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with lanes for cyclists, runners, and skaters. Early morning rides are especially magical here.

Watch out for some hills and fast-moving local riders—just stay to the right and enjoy the ride through NYC’s backyard.

Brooklyn Bridge to Prospect Park

Start with a sunrise ride across the Brooklyn Bridge and then cruise through Dumbo, past Grand Army Plaza, and into Prospect Park. It’s a beautiful blend of architecture, urban energy, and green escape—all within 7 miles.

• Don’t miss: Jane’s Carousel and the waterfront views at Brooklyn Bridge Park

• Surface: Mixed urban streets and protected bike lanes

• Vibe: Classic NYC with local flavor

Longer touring routes and greenways

If you're looking to cover some serious ground while still enjoying NYC’s sights, these longer-distance routes and greenways are ideal. They're perfect for day-long explorations or even multi-day rides if you venture into surrounding boroughs.

Bronx River Greenway

This up-and-coming trail stretches over 25 miles through the Bronx and Westchester County. Ride along the river past gardens, parks, and historical landmarks. It’s less crowded than Manhattan routes and feels like a true escape.

• Trailheads: Concrete Plant Park, Bronx Zoo, Kensico Dam

• Best for: Nature lovers, quiet rides, weekend tours

• Surface: Mix of paved path and dedicated bike lanes

Ocean Parkway Greenway to Coney Island

Want beach vibes? Take this 5.5-mile straight shot from Prospect Park all the way to Coney Island on a protected greenway. It’s flat, wide, and perfect for cruising. End your ride with a boardwalk stroll and a Nathan’s hot dog.

Pair this with a loop around Prospect Park for a solid half-day ride full of iconic Brooklyn scenes and chill waterfront energy.

Randall’s Island and the East River Greenway

This route gives you Manhattan from a new angle. Ride along the East River Greenway up to Randall’s Island, where you can explore car-free paths and riverside sports fields. From there, connect back down through Harlem or over to Queens.

• Distance: 10–15 miles depending on your route

• Terrain: Mostly flat with some bridge ramps

• Best for: Explorers who like urban-meets-nature

Tips for cycling in NYC like a local

Riding in NYC is a blast—but it’s also a bit of an art form. Between bike lanes, taxis, and pedestrians with AirPods, you’ll want to know a few pro tips before diving in. Here’s how to cycle the city like a seasoned New Yorker.

Stick to bike lanes and greenways

NYC has added hundreds of miles of protected bike lanes, especially in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Use them! They’re safer, faster, and less stressful than mixing with traffic. Download the NYC Bike Map or use apps like Komoot and CityMapper to plan low-stress routes.

Best times to ride

Weekday mornings (before 9am) and weekends before noon are prime. Avoid rush hour if possible—traffic gets gnarly and bike lanes can get crowded. Spring and fall offer the best weather, with crisp air and colorful parks. Summer is fine, just hydrate often.

• Spring: Blooming trees in parks, perfect temps

• Fall: Golden leaves in Central and Prospect Park

• Winter: Rideable with layers, avoid icy days

What to bring and know

Lock your bike securely—NYC is safer than it used to be, but theft still happens. Always bring lights for tunnels and early rides, and a bell for alerting pedestrians. Wear bright clothing, bring water, and carry a patch kit just in case.

Need a rental? Citi Bike is NYC’s public bike share system and works well for short hops, but for longer rides, head to shops like Unlimited Biking or Blazing Saddles for better touring bikes.