Best Cycling Routes In New York City

NYC is a vast metropolis with a countless activities to enjoy, so whether you are a local or a tourist, don’t miss the unique experience of pedalling to major sights and attractions. Cycling allows you to linger at major points of interest, while feeling the exhilaration of being on a bike.  It’s difficult to navigate the complexity of the city without knowing the cycling routes.  These are a few of the major routes that will help you make the most of your New York sightseeing and get the best photo opportunities too.

Here’s a list of the top cycling routes in NYC:


Central Park

Central Park is one of the best places in NYC to enjoy a bike ride.  Its varied terrain is perfect for novice and expert alike. A 6-mile loop on the main road is an excellent way to explore the park in full.  Check for closures to ensure you can take this route.  Take a guided tour and learn interesting tidbits of information about Central Park history and mystery from a knowledgeable ride-along guide.

Prospect Park

Prospect Park in Brooklyn offers cyclists an excellent opportunity to leisurely explore rolling hills, flat roads and climbs on a 3.35-mile cycle tour that begins at the Grand Army Plaza entrance. While biking through the park, riders can enjoy nature and stop at their favorite spots to capture breath-taking views of the city.

Governors Island

NYC has many popular pedestrian-only zones, and Governors Island is a favorite. Cycle through charming tree-lined trails that pass grand mansions and army barracks.  Your bike route lets you savor spectacular views of Lower Manhattan and the NY Harbor. Renting a bike is easy on the island but you should keep in mind that not all areas of the island are accessible.

Westside Greenway Path

Bike along a 13-mile long route with sweeping views of the Hudson River. Cycle along riverside parks and walkways under blue skies.  This route begins at Staten Island Ferry and concludes at the George Washington Bridge which is mostly traffic-free. It won’t take you more than 60 minutes to finish the loop, provided pedestrian traffic isn’t too heavy.

Hudson River Greenway

Did you ever wonder where city cyclists love to get away? A favorite destination for both locals and tourists is the bike path lining the Hudson River.  Take this route and enjoy New York sightseeing at its finest. This smooth paved route is well-protected and takes riders to and from Battery Park to the George Washington Bridge.  Expect to make room for joggers and pedestrians along the way.