Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists around Central Park
Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists around Central Park
1. Central Park Loop
The park’s classic counterclockwise circuit traces West, North, and East Drives for a flowing, mostly car‑free 6.1-mile ride with gentle flats, punchy hills, and landmark views from Bethesda Terrace to the Ramble and the Harlem Meer.
✓ Why Go:
It’s NYC’s signature training loop—safe, scenic, and efficient—perfect for stacking laps or a single spin that captures the park’s greatest hits without leaving the green.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunrise to mid‑morning on weekdays for the lightest crowds; spring and fall deliver crisp air and fast pavement.
✓ Insider Tip:
Roll in at Columbus Circle and warm up on West Drive before tackling the northern climbs; obey lights and yield at pedestrian crossings to keep your rhythm—and goodwill—intact.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists rave about the silky flow and iconic scenery; newcomers are surprised by how peaceful the loop feels in the middle of Manhattan.
2. Harlem Hill
The park’s marquee climb rises near the northern tip with a steady pitch that stings the legs, rewarding grinders with breezy views over the Harlem Meer before a fast descent.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the loop’s ultimate test piece—ideal for hill repeats, threshold efforts, or simply earning that post‑ride coffee.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings year‑round; cooler temps make multiple repeats manageable.
✓ Insider Tip:
Shift early and hold a smooth cadence through the steep middle section; recover on the northbound descent but watch for crosswalks at the bottom.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Loved for its challenge and sense of accomplishment—many riders call it their ‘New York climb.’
3. Cat's Paw Hill
A short, sharp kicker on East Drive near 72nd Street, Cat’s Paw is where sprinters light it up and climbers practice punchy efforts before the loop levels out by the Terrace.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the perfect micro‑interval: 30–60 seconds of power that slots neatly into any lap without derailing your ride.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dawn to 9 am when foot traffic is lightest; weekdays beat weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start your sprint just before the bend to carry speed into the rise; soft‑pedal past Bethesda Terrace where pedestrians cross frequently.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders call it addictive—tough enough to burn, short enough to try again.
4. West Drive Rollers
The north‑west stretch undulates between the 90s and 100s with a rhythm of small climbs and descents, shaded by towering elms and framed by glimpses of the Great Hill.
✓ Why Go:
Linked rollers teach gear choice and pacing while keeping things playful—ideal for tempo work without monotony.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on sunny days for dappled shade; autumn foliage makes it sublime.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the crests to shift up and accelerate; maintain lane discipline on descents and anticipate runners near crosswalks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for flow and variety—many say it’s where the loop feels most like a rolling country road.
5. Tavern on the Green
An iconic post‑ride refuel spot just off West Drive with patio seating, restrooms, and nearby bike racks—perfect for coffee, brunch, or a celebratory toast after fast laps.
✓ Why Go:
Convenience meets classic NYC ambiance, right on route, making it the de facto cyclists’ clubhouse on the south‑west side.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to early afternoon; in winter, swing by for a warm‑up after brisk rides.
✓ Insider Tip:
Aim for opening hours to beat crowds; water fountains and restrooms nearby are clutch between intervals.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved for atmosphere and location—riders call it the most Central Park way to cap a ride.
6. Strawberry Fields
A serene memorial to John Lennon beside West Drive, this elm‑lined corner invites a contemplative pause mid‑ride with buskers and mosaic tributes.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a uniquely New York blend of music history and quiet green—an easy add without leaving the loop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for a peaceful vibe; weekdays to avoid dense crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dismount and walk your bike into the memorial; lock up briefly at nearby racks if you plan to linger.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Described as moving and reflective—cyclists appreciate the calm reset before tackling more laps.
7. Central Park West Bike Lane
A protected north‑south approach running the park’s western edge, CPW’s bike lane offers a safe, direct feeder to multiple entrances and a smooth warm‑up stretch.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the most stress‑free way to reach the loop from the Upper West Side while staying in your own lane.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
All day; mornings feature fewer delivery stops and smoother flow.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter the park at 81st or 85th to join West Drive with minimal merging; watch doors and turning vehicles at intersections.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Widely appreciated for safety and convenience—many call it their default artery to the park.
8. East Drive 90th Street Climb
A steady northbound rise near 90th Street that rewards even pacing and smooth pedal strokes, cresting with views toward the Reservoir treetops.
✓ Why Go:
Great for tempo efforts and practicing controlled climbing without the sting of Harlem Hill.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning or late afternoon shade; spring blossoms and fall color make it extra scenic.
✓ Insider Tip:
Hold back early and shift as the grade bites; carry speed over the top to set up the fast, curvy run ahead.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Seen as a confidence builder—newer riders love the manageable gradient, veterans use it for intervals.
9. Gapstow Bridge
At the park’s south‑east corner above the Pond, this stone arch frames skyline reflections—an iconic spot to snap a quick photo mid‑ride.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential Central Park postcard within minutes of the loop, perfect for sharing the ride’s scenery.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour for mirror‑like water and warm light; winter mornings are crisp and crowd‑free.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dismount and walk the short path to the bridge; mind slick stones after rain.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Consistently wowed—riders call it an unbeatable skyline + nature combo.
10. W 72nd Street Riverside Connector
A handy cross‑town link to extend your ride from Central Park to the Hudson River Greenway via 72nd Street and Riverside Park’s waterfront path.
✓ Why Go:
Adds traffic‑light‑free miles and river breezes to your Central Park session without straying far from the Upper West Side.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid‑morning to sunset; sunsets on the Hudson are a scenic cooldown after park laps.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head west from West Drive at 72nd, follow bike markings to Riverside; expect wind—save a gear for the return.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised as the perfect add‑on—cyclists love the variety and easy access to extra mileage.
