Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists in the Bronx
Top Things to Do in New York City for Cyclists in the Bronx
1. Putnam Greenway
A paved former rail bed winding through Van Cortlandt Park, the Putnam Greenway delivers a shady, car-free cruise past wetlands and old stone bridges, with gentle grades ideal for all levels and seamless connections toward Westchester’s trail network.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the Bronx’s quickest escape to nature on two wheels, perfect for stress-free mileage and linking longer adventures beyond the city limits.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings year-round; fall (late September–November) for peak foliage and fewer crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start by the golf house for water and restrooms, then continue north to the city line if you want extra flat miles.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders praise the smooth pavement, deep shade, and away-from-traffic calm that feels far from city streets.
2. Bronx River Greenway
A flat, family-friendly ribbon along the Bronx River linking parks, murals, and new pedestrian bridges—especially scenic between Starlight Park and Concrete Plant Park.
✓ Why Go:
You get riparian scenery, wildlife sightings, and a surprisingly tranquil ride through the city’s only freshwater river corridor.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or late afternoons; avoid after heavy rains when puddles can linger.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wayfinding signs help bridge short gaps—bring lights for underpasses and plan photo stops by the river overlooks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the mellow vibe and easy cruising; families highlight its safety and frequent park amenities.
3. Mosholu-Pelham Greenway
This east–west spine stitches together Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx Park, and Pelham Bay Park via parkway malls and sidepaths, creating a continuous, mostly protected corridor across the borough.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the Bronx’s backbone for cyclists—practical for commuting, perfect for connecting multiple park rides in one outing.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for comfortable temps; midday is calmest on shared sections.
✓ Insider Tip:
At Bronx Park, follow the sidepaths near the zoo and garden to stay away from traffic and enjoy leafy cover.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists applaud the connectivity and parkland feel, noting it’s efficient without sacrificing scenery.
4. Orchard Beach Promenade
A smooth, seaside promenade with big-sky views of Pelham Bay, ideal for relaxed spins, sunrise rides, and salty breezes after tackling nearby park loops.
✓ Why Go:
Beach vibes meet bike-friendly pavement—great for cool-down laps and ocean views without leaving the city.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning in summer to beat beach crowds; off-season for wide-open paths and crisp air.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lock up near the main pavilion for a quick swim or snack break before rolling back through Pelham Bay Park.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders call it a mini-vacation on wheels—easy, scenic, and wonderfully breezy.
5. City Island
Pedal over the City Island Bridge to a nautical village of marinas and seafood spots; the lengthwise main street is a classic there-and-back ride with harbor views at Belden Point.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a destination lunch ride with charming small-town energy and waterfront vistas at the edge of NYC.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays late morning from April–October; summer weekends are festive but busier.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the shoulder along City Island Ave and watch crosswinds on the bridge; aim for a photo stop at the southern tip.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists love the old-school charm and consider the seafood reward well worth the extra miles.
6. Soundview Park
A flat waterfront circuit where the Bronx and East Rivers meet—broad paths, tidal marsh views, and easy spins that tie into the Bronx River Greenway.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a mellow loop with skyline peeks and birdlife, perfect for beginners and recovery rides.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour for glowing water and cooler temps; spring for migrating birds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Combine with the nearby NYC Ferry landing for a multi-modal adventure; bring lights if you linger for sunset.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the serenity and space, calling it a hidden gem for unhurried laps.
7. Grand Concourse Bike Lanes
Cruise one of NYC’s great boulevards on upgraded lanes past Art Deco facades, cultural institutions, and bustling neighborhoods.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a living architecture tour by bike with safer infrastructure and easy detours to parks and museums.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings for the smoothest flow and best light for photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the calmer service roads where available and plan a culture stop at the museum mid-ride.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Riders appreciate the improved safety and big-city energy—watch for occasional double-parking.
8. Roberto Clemente State Park
A riverside esplanade along the Harlem River with clear sightlines, benches, and bridge views—ideal for easy out-and-backs and cooldown rides.
✓ Why Go:
Car-free waterfront mileage with skyline drama and access to restrooms and water fountains when facilities are open.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays and early evenings; summer sunsets are especially photogenic.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check park hours before you go; combine with a roll to the nearby High Bridge for panorama photos.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists describe it as clean, safe, and relaxing—great for families and casual riders.
9. Barretto Point Park
Tucked in Hunts Point, this compact waterfront park rewards riders with industrial-chic views and quiet paths overlooking North Brother Island.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an off-the-beaten-path endpoint for scenic pauses, photos, and peaceful river breezes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset for glowing light on the water and skyline silhouettes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Approach via Lafayette Ave bike lanes and pack a snack—seating and views make for a perfect break.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors like the calm, clean setting and unique harbor vistas away from crowds.
10. New York Botanical Garden
A world-class garden beside the greenway network—while riding inside isn’t permitted, cyclists use the trip as a restorative stop with secure racks near the gates.
✓ Why Go:
Pair miles with culture: seasonal exhibits, vast collections, and shady grounds to wander on foot.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring for blooms, autumn for foliage, and December–January for the Holiday Train Show.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lock up at the Mosholu Gate and refill bottles before continuing via Mosholu Parkway or Pelham Parkway paths.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cyclists appreciate the bike-friendly access and consider it a rewarding mid-ride interlude.
