Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists in Chinatown
Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists in Chinatown
1. Manhattan Bridge Bike Path
Roll onto the dedicated north-side bikeway of the Manhattan Bridge from Chinatown and glide over the East River with sweeping views of the skyline, bridges, and working waterfront—an iconic, efficient link to Brooklyn without the crowds of the Brooklyn Bridge.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the fastest, most photogenic way for cyclists to jump boroughs, with a true bike-only path and seamless connections to Chinatown’s lanes and Brooklyn’s waterfront routes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning or late afternoon for softer light, lighter winds, and fewer riders; avoid weekday rush hours if you prefer a mellow pace.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter and exit on the north side—aim for Chrystie Street at Canal—and watch the steel joints and train-induced vibrations; keep lights on in low visibility.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists rave about the quick climb, skyline payoff, and stress-free separation from pedestrians.
2. Chrystie Street Protected Bike Lane
This two-way protected corridor hugs Sara D. Roosevelt Park and stitches Chinatown directly to the Manhattan Bridge and uptown avenues—your safest north–south spine through the neighborhood.
✓ Why Go:
Reliable protection, intuitive wayfinding, and direct connections make it ideal for both confident commuters and casual riders exploring Chinatown.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Daytime hours for maximum visibility; evenings are well lit but intersections can be busy with deliveries.
✓ Insider Tip:
Northbound at Canal, stay right for the bridge ramp; approach intersections at Delancey and Grand with caution for turning vehicles.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals applaud the protection and connectivity, noting only occasional pinch points near cross streets.
3. Grand Street Bike Lane
A vital crosstown link through Chinatown, Grand Street’s bikeway puts you at the doorstep of markets, bakeries, and quiet side streets while connecting west toward SoHo and east toward the LES.
✓ Why Go:
It’s your best east–west route for sampling Chinatown blocks without heavy traffic, with protected segments west of Chrystie and shared markings to the east.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning hours when loading activity is lighter and storefronts are just opening.
✓ Insider Tip:
Mind door zones and loading trucks; if it’s hectic, hop a block south to Hester for a calmer parallel.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders find it practical and tasty—great for rolling food stops—though they stay alert for double-parked vehicles.
4. Allen Street Protected Bike Lanes
Flanking the landscaped Allen Street mall, these one-way protected lanes run to Chinatown’s southern edge (continuing as Pike Street), threading plazas, murals, and shade.
✓ Why Go:
Smooth surfacing and refuge islands make it a confidence-boosting route and a scenic connector to the lower East River area.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to mid-afternoon for steady flow and fewer school drop-offs.
✓ Insider Tip:
Southbound, transition to Pike Street at Division for a continuous protected run; watch for left-turning cars at Delancey.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Appreciated as an approachable, leafy ride with reliable protection.
5. Columbus Park
Chinatown’s communal living room: pause your ride to watch morning tai chi, sip water by the pavilion, and take in music and mahjong beneath mature trees.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a cultural immersion and cyclist-friendly rest stop with shade, restrooms, and proximity to great eats.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for tai chi and serene vibes; late afternoon for lively pickup games and music.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use bike racks along Mulberry Street and roll slowly through the paths—this is a pedestrian-first space.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved for its authenticity and calm within the bustle of Canal Street.
6. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Fuel up at a century-old dim sum institution on curved, atmospheric Doyers Street—perfect carbs and tea after climbing the bridge.
✓ Why Go:
Historic setting, classic dumplings, and quick service make it a rider-approved refuel.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays around 11:00 am to beat peak lunch queues.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dismount on Doyers (it’s often pedestrianized); lock up on Bowery or Pell Street and walk your bike over.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists praise the nostalgia and consistency—an only-in-Chinatown stop.
7. Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
Cool down with small-batch scoops—think lychee, black sesame, or pandan—steps from Bayard’s bike-friendly racks and Columbus Park.
✓ Why Go:
A sweet, quick stop that keeps rides enjoyable in summer heat and rewards a bridge climb.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid- to late afternoon; lines move quickly and benches nearby make for easy breaks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lock up on Bayard Street and try a duo of one classic + one adventurous flavor.
✓ What Visitors Say:
An adored neighborhood staple—many call it a must on any Chinatown route.
8. Mahayana Temple
Step off Canal Street into a serene hall with gilded statuary and incense—an unexpected moment of quiet amid the traffic and markets.
✓ Why Go:
A cultural reset that adds depth to a ride; it’s visually striking and spiritually calming.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday between services for a peaceful visit.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dress modestly and park at nearby racks on Bowery or Elizabeth; photography may be limited inside.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate the welcome calm and photogenic details right on Canal.
9. Sara D. Roosevelt Park
A long green ribbon paralleling Chrystie Street’s bike lane, with courts, community gardens, and spots to stretch, snack, or pump tires before the bridge.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the natural staging area for Chinatown rides—benches, shade, and quick access to protected lanes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning for quieter paths; evenings for lively pickup games and neighborhood energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Meet friends at the Grand Street section for easy roll-ins to Chrystie or Grand Street lanes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists value the convenience and community feel along the park’s edge.
10. Kimlau War Memorial
Pause at the granite arch in Chatham Square honoring Chinese American service members—an important neighborhood landmark where several key streets converge.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a meaningful cultural stop and a smart navigation point linking East Broadway, Bowery, and Park Row.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for gentle light and calmer traffic.
✓ Insider Tip:
Traffic swirls here—dismount to explore the plaza safely and use nearby racks before walking in.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Respected and reflective; riders often note the sense of place it gives to Chinatown.
