There's no feeling like riding your bike somewhere where you don't need to worry about fast-moving cars and can instead focus on the wind in your face and the shining sun! Spend a leisurely day outside in New York City in these bike-friendly destinations that are easy to get to. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day!
5 Easy, Bike Friendly Places In New York City
1. West Side Highway
For a streamlined tour of Manhattan with exclusive lanes for biking, head along the city's West Side Highway. Begin on the Upper West Side at the historic Riverside Park for beautiful tree-lined Hudson River views. Then, bike down through Midtown (to check out the skyscrapers) before end downtown along the High Line, where you can immerse yourself in art galleries, museums, cafes and restaurants.
Address: West 72nd St along the Hudson River to the southern tip of Manhattan, New York, NY
2. Governors Island
Sprawling for more than 170 acres in the heart of New York Harbor, Governors Island is a perfect spot for families and novice bike riders because no cars or motorized vehicles are permitted. A wide path runs the circumference of the island, allowing for spectacular harbor and city views. Ideal for a single day trip, Governors Island offers visitors a taste of history while exploring the many green spaces and food vendors. Bike rentals are available or you can bring your own on the ferry.
Address: Upper New York Bay, 800 yards from Manhattan island
3. Central Park
If you do one bike ride in New York City, make sure it’s through the 843-acre Central Park. Touring this popular, 843-acre area by bike is ideal because you can cover a lot of ground in a short period of time. Stop along the way to explore such attractions as Belvedere Castle, the Conservatory Gardens and the three dozen bridges and arches that dot the landscape.
Address: 110th St to 59th St + 5th Ave to Central Park West, New York, NY
4. Ocean Parkway to Coney Island
Stretching five miles from Prospect Park to Coney Island, Brooklyn’s Ocean Parkway is the country’s first-ever bike path. It’s mostly flat and is separated from cars by a tree-lined median. It also intersects with cross streets at every block, so be mindful of pedestrians as you ride.
Address: West side of Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn, NY
5. Hudson River Park
Hudson River Park, part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, is a waterside park of the North River. More than 17 million visits are made to this longest waterfront park in the U.S. In addition to being “the busiest bikeway in America,” take time to enjoy everything from movies, concerts and dances which take place throughout the summer.
Address: 353 West St, New York, NY