Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists in Long Island City
Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists in Long Island City
1. Gantry Plaza State Park
A smooth, scenic waterfront esplanade with iconic skyline views and wide paths ideal for relaxed spins or cooldown laps after longer rides.
✓ Why Go:
Bike-friendly surfaces, plentiful benches, and photogenic piers make it a rewarding pause point that links easily to nearby LIC lanes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunrise or golden hour from April–October for calmer paths and spectacular light on Midtown.
✓ Insider Tip:
Water fountains and restrooms sit near the central plaza; lock up to the racks along Center Blvd before walking the piers.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists love the stress-free cruising and unbeatable views that feel a world away from city traffic.
2. Hunter's Point South Park
LIC’s southern waterfront park features a riverside bikeway, breezy lawns, and a dramatic cantilevered lookout—perfect for spins with skyline backdrops.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a seamless extension to Gantry rides, with ample space to stretch, refill, and watch ferries glide by.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into sunset, May–October; winter weekdays for quiet loops.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the pavilion for bathrooms and shade; combine with the nearby NYC Ferry landing for multi-modal adventures.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders praise the car-free feel, river breezes, and easy connections to LIC’s bike network.
3. MoMA PS1
A contemporary-art anchor with bike racks and nearby protected lanes—an inspiring cultural pit stop mid-ride.
✓ Why Go:
Combines world-class exhibitions with convenient cycling access off Jackson Ave and 11th St corridors.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons outside major openings; visit Saturdays in warmer months for courtyard vibes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the racks in the public plaza on 46th Ave; a Citi Bike dock sits by Jackson Ave for quick swaps.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists appreciate the easy roll-in access and creative jolt before continuing along the waterfront.
4. The Noguchi Museum
Isamu Noguchi’s serene galleries and sculpture garden offer a contemplative break just off the Vernon Blvd bike route.
✓ Why Go:
Minimalist spaces and a leafy courtyard reset tired legs and minds without straying from LIC’s cycling spine.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings Wednesday–Friday for quieter galleries; spring and fall for garden ambience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lock to street racks on Vernon Blvd and loop nearby waterfront blocks for a calm cool-down after your visit.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders rave about the peaceful atmosphere and how close it sits to LIC’s safest bike corridors.
5. SculptureCenter
An adventurous contemporary art space tucked near Court Square with quick access from 44th Dr and 11th St lanes.
✓ Why Go:
Compact, thought-provoking shows fit neatly into a ride plan and keep you close to LIC’s bike grid.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late afternoons or weekend openings; pair with a sunset roll to the waterfront.
✓ Insider Tip:
Street racks on Purves St fill fast—arrive earlier and bring a sturdy lock for peace of mind.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists call it a smart cultural detour that doesn’t derail ride momentum.
6. Queensbridge Park
Flat riverside paths, courts, and breezy lawns beneath the Queensboro Bridge—great for easy spins and group meetups.
✓ Why Go:
Connects nicely to Vernon Blvd riding while offering shade, water, and space to stretch or snack.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings in summer; crisp fall weekends for relaxed cruising and bridge views.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a portable lock; racks cluster near the field house and playgrounds close to Vernon Blvd.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals appreciate the mellow vibe and connectivity to LIC’s north–south bike route.
7. Spokesman Cycles
A long-running LIC bike shop on Vernon Blvd for emergency fixes, tubes, and route advice before you roll the waterfront.
✓ Why Go:
Quick repairs and knowledgeable staff keep rides from ending early; the location sits on LIC’s main cycling artery.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon to avoid pre-commute rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about local gear and tire recommendations for mixed LIC surfaces and seasonal salt/grit.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders value the no-nonsense service and convenient address steps from the bike lane.
8. Queens Public Library at Hunters Point
A striking waterfront library with river views—ideal for route planning, charging, and refilling between park loops.
✓ Why Go:
Bike-friendly location by the esplanade offers clean restrooms, Wi‑Fi, and shaded steps to rest legs.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday on weekdays; catch golden-hour light from the terraces in spring and fall.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use racks along Center Blvd; bring a small lock and pop inside for maps or a cool-down read.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists praise the architecture, quiet nooks, and rider-friendly amenities on the waterfront.
9. Fifth Hammer Brewing Company
A rider-favorite taproom near the waterfront with spacious seating and frequent food pop-ups for a well-earned post-ride pint.
✓ Why Go:
Steps from protected lanes and racks, it’s a relaxed meetup spot to debrief routes with friends.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weekdays or weekend afternoons after long spins.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lock up on 46th Ave and opt for lighter styles if you’re pedaling back—hydration stations are inside.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists love the community feel, rotating drafts, and easy roll-in location.
10. LIC Beer Project
Hazy-forward brewery in Dutch Kills with ample indoor space—an industrial-chic cap to LIC loops via Jackson Ave bike routes.
✓ Why Go:
Close to key lanes and bridges, it’s a convenient finish line with inventive releases and a laid‑back vibe.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoons Friday–Sunday; quieter weekday evenings for small groups.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a u‑lock; combine a stop here with nearby Court Square eats to refuel before riding home.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders highlight friendly staff, creative pours, and easy access from LIC’s cycling grid.
