New York Bike Tours: The Best and the Rest

New York is renowned for its vibrant cityscape and stunning natural landscapes, making it a prime destination for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re keen to pedal through iconic urban streets or explore scenic countryside trails, both New York City and State offer a wide range of bike routes suited to all interests and fitness levels. This guide highlights the best rotes and tours available, as well as some lesser-known gems worth considering for your next cycling adventure.

The Best Bike Routes in New York State

Hudson Valley Rail Trails

• The Hudson Valley boasts a string of rail trails converted from former train lines. The Walkway Over the Hudson connects trails on both sides of the river, providing dramatic views and access to charming towns like Poughkeepsie and New Paltz.

Finger Lakes Wine Country

• Cycling through the Finger Lakes region is a feast for the senses. Guided tours often include stops at local wineries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. The rolling hills and lakeside routes are ideal for both casual and experienced cyclists.

Adirondack Range

• The Adirondacks offer rugged mountain scenery and peaceful lake views. Bike tours here range from leisurely loops around Lake Placid to challenging climbs for more experienced riders. Autumn tours are especially popular for their vibrant foliage.

Erie Canalway Trail

• This historic trail stretches over 580 kilometres from Buffalo to Albany, following the path of the Erie Canal. While self-guided rides are common, supported group tours are available and provide accommodation, luggage transfers, and local guidance.

The Best Bike Routes in New York City

• Central Park
  • Central Park is a must-see for both locals and tourists. Guided bike tours offer a leisurely way to discover the park’s famous landmarks, such as Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields, and The Mall. Tours typically last around two hours and cater to all fitness levels.
• Brooklyn Bridge and Waterfront Rides
  • The Brooklyn Bridge provides breathtaking views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Many tours take you across the bridge and along the Brooklyn waterfront, stopping at DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, and other cultural hotspots. This is a fantastic way to soak in the city’s architecture and vibrant neighbourhoods.
• Harlem and Uptown Manhattan
  • For those eager to delve into history and culture, Harlem bike tours explore the neighbourhood’s jazz heritage, stunning brownstones, and historic churches. Some tours offer food stops at iconic soul food eateries for a true taste of local flavour.
• Hudson River Greenway
  • The Hudson River Greenway is the longest greenway in Manhattan, stretching from Battery Park to the George Washington Bridge. It’s a popular route for both guided and self-guided rides, offering river views, parks, and access to piers and cafes along the way.

The Rest: Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Routes

• Governors Island Loop – Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, this car-free island offers a relaxed circuit with views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan.
• Queens’ Flushing Meadows Corona Park – Explore New York’s largest borough with a ride through this culturally rich and diverse neighbourhood, home to the iconic Unisphere and scenic lakes.
• Long Island’s North Fork Vineyards – For a tranquil escape, bike tours through North Fork’s vineyards combine picturesque landscapes, wine tastings, and charming seaside villages.
• Catskill Scenic Byways – Guided and self-guided tours traverse rolling hills, covered bridges, and riverside paths, perfect for those seeking a peaceful countryside ride.

Tips for Enjoying New York Bike Tours

• Always wear a helmet and follow local road rules.
• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
• Cycling is certainly possible year-round, but the best experiences to avoid more extreme conditions are typically from April to June and September to early November. Dress in layers; New York’s weather can be unpredictable.
• Check if the tour includes bike hire, or bring your own if preferred.
• Don’t forget your camera—there’ll be plenty of photo opportunities!
• Join one of the amazing bike tours below to make the most of your limited time

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Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong New Yorker, the city and state offer an impressive array of bike tours. From iconic city landmarks to rolling vineyards and serene mountain trails, there’s a cycling adventure to suit everyone. So, grab your bike - or hire one - and set off to explore the best and the rest that New York has to offer, one pedal at a time.

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From the Editor:

Over 60 New York Bike Tours that you can join

The bike tours listed below are not ranked in order but the results are heavily weighted towards tours or operators that I can vouch for and can be confident of having a successful (if not amazing!) trip where you are looked after at least as well as the listing implies.
You can also use the filters to reduce the list (e.g. by guided tours, family tours, easy tours or many more).
Of course you can, as I did, choose a section or stage and do another as and when suits you.

Read about my experience on tours that I have been fortunate enough to join.

• A day on the Empire State Trail ... with beer!

Another source of good independent opinions is reviews from fellow cycle tourists. Why not share your opinion when you get home?