New York is one of the most popular destinations in the world and most tourists will make use of the trusty metro service or hop on one of the bus tours to experience it to its full. However, a more active way to see the main attractions of the Big Apple, such as the Empire State Building and the 9/11 Memorial, is by hiring a bike.
With so many NYC city breaks now available from the likes of Thomson, now is the time to get planning your route. Here are some great cycling routes in New York that take you to major attractions and less-visited gems.
Bronx River Path
Bronx River. Pic credit: Jim Henderson
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, ride the path that runs alongside the Bronx River and through Westchester. You’ll start out at Mount Vernon and have the option to take either a five-mile journey from Hartsdale to Kensico Dam Plaza, or a 3.6-mile trip from Bronxville to Scarsdale. You enjoy glorious views of the river.
Hudson River Greenway
The beauty about the Hudson River Greenway route is that the whole trip will be protected from other traffic. As well as the safety factor, there are other obvious benefits. If you’re in the market for great views, this is an ideal outing.
Throughout the trip you will be able to take in all of the sights, but if you can get towards the end of the route and reach the little red lighthouse by GWB things suddenly take a turn for the spectacular.
The whole route is around 11 miles and starts from Battery Park City, spanning to the George Washington Bridge.
Governors Island
Street cycling. Pic credit: Missy S
Governors Island is car-free and while you can’t cycle around the whole island, you can still take in plenty of beauty in New York courtesy of the tree-lined areas and the views of Lower Manhattan.
While this is probably one of the most recommended bike trips you can do, it’s worth mentioning that Governors Island is only open on Saturdays and Sundays during the summer months.
