In recent years, biking has emerged as a popular urban transportation choice for an increasing number of Americans. It’s healthier, more affordable, eco-friendly, and simply more enjoyable than driving. However, most major American cities were originally designed with cars in mind, lacking the bike-friendly infrastructure you’d typically find in European cities such as Amsterdam or Copenhagen.
That being said, the U.S. is rapidly working to close this gap. We’ve curated a list of the top bike cities in America, where cities are not only embracing cycling but are also making it easier and safer for residents and visitors alike to pedal around town. These cities are at the forefront of promoting bike-friendly urban design, with an emphasis on sustainable transportation, eco-conscious initiatives, and improving cycling infrastructure.
Denver, Colorado
With over 85 miles of paved trails, Denver has become one of the top bike cities in America, making cycling around the city an easy and enjoyable experience. These trails not only provide a convenient way to explore Denver but also connect cyclists to scenic routes leading into the stunning nature beyond the urban area. The Cherry Creek Trail, located near downtown, is the most popular pathway, while the Greenway Trail offers a 30-mile stretch of riverside parks, complete with informational signs posted by the Colorado Historical Society along the route. For those looking for a full-day adventure, the Bear Creek Bike Trail leads to Morrison, home to the renowned Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre.
For accommodation that blends modern comfort with rustic charm, the Kimpton Hotel Born is a perfect choice, located just a two-minute ride from both the Cherry Creek and South Platte River Trails, ideal for cyclists visiting this bike-friendly city.
Boston, Massachusetts
Over the last decade, Boston has become one of the top bike cities in America, revitalizing its cycling culture with an expanding bike-share program and miles of newly created bike lanes and trails. The Charlestown Waterfront Bike Path is a mile-long route filled with history and offering stunning views of the waterfront. Additionally, the Emerald Necklace provides a vast network of trails connecting over 1,000 acres of greenspace, a zoo, and an arboretum, ensuring there’s something for every cyclist along the way.
For a perfect place to rest after a day of cycling, The Gryphon House, located right by the Charles River, offers a cozy, historic atmosphere—ideal for unwinding after exploring one of America’s most bike-friendly cities.
Madison, Wisconsin
Milwaukee may be the home of Harley Davidson, but Madison is truly Wisconsin’s capital for two-wheel travel (at least when it comes to non-motorized bikes). The city boasts an extensive network of bike paths, allowing cyclists to easily and safely navigate to any destination. After a relaxing lakeshore ride through Olin Park, cyclists can continue along the Lake Monona Loop and take advantage of the bike elevator that lifts them to the top of Monona Terrace, designed by the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright.
The Graduate Madison offers a quirky mix of modern kitsch, ideally located between the beautiful bike trails that run along the shores of both Lake Monona and Lake Mendota—perfect for cyclists looking to explore this bike-friendly city.
Chicago, Illinois
With its flat terrain and thoughtful urban planning, Chicago has earned its spot as one of the top bike cities in America. The city’s bike-sharing system includes around 600 stations and offers over 100 miles of dedicated bike lanes. Cyclists can enjoy scenic yet efficient routes like the Chicago Riverwalk downtown or The 606, an elevated park built on a former train line. For those looking for a longer ride, the Lakefront Trail stretches over 18 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan, passing iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and Navy Pier.
Located in a prime area, the historic Majestic Hotel serves as the perfect starting point for a ride down the Lakefront Trail, and later, a convenient base for catching a ballgame at Wrigley Field.
Eugene, Oregon
Although Eugene is a relatively small city, it consistently ranks among the top bike cities in America, often competing with larger cities that have much bigger budgets for bike-friendly infrastructure. One standout feature is that Eugene has more bridges for cyclists than for cars. Most of the city’s main routes are equipped with designated bike lanes or access to shared-use paths, but what really sets Eugene apart is its quick access to some of the best mountain biking in the nation.
The Willamette River Bike Trail and Alton Baker Park are tucked within the city but offer such thick forests in certain areas that you’ll feel like you’re deep in the wilderness. For convenient access to both, consider booking a room at the EVEN Hotel, ideally located for cyclists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rise of bike-friendly cities in America like Denver, Boston, and Chicago demonstrates how urban areas are becoming more accessible and enjoyable for cyclists. Whether you’re cruising through scenic parks in Eugene, exploring vibrant city trails in Madison, or enjoying the lakeshore paths of Chicago, these cities offer an exceptional experience for both casual riders and avid cyclists. With dedicated bike lanes, bike-sharing systems, and a growing commitment to sustainability, it’s clear that biking is not only a healthy and eco-friendly transportation option but also a fun and efficient way to explore some of America’s most iconic locations. So, gear up and start exploring these top bike cities—your next cycling adventure awaits!
FAQs
1- What makes a city bike-friendly?
A bike-friendly city features dedicated bike lanes, bike-sharing systems, and infrastructure that ensures cyclist safety and comfort.
2- Which city is considered the best for biking in America?
Cities like Portland, Denver, and Chicago are considered among the best due to their extensive bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.
3- What is a bike-sharing system?
A bike-sharing system allows users to rent bikes for short trips from stations located around the city, making cycling more accessible.
4- Are there bike trails in every top bike city?
Yes, most top bike cities in America offer bike trails that connect key landmarks, parks, and scenic areas for cyclists to explore.
5- How safe are bike paths in top bike cities?
Bike paths in these cities are designed for safety, with proper signage, traffic separation, and infrastructure to protect cyclists from vehicle traffic.
6- What should I bring when cycling in a city?
Always bring a helmet, a water bottle, and a map or GPS to navigate the city’s bike paths.
7- Can I rent a bike in any of these cities?
Yes, many bike-friendly cities have bike-sharing programs where you can easily rent bikes for short-term use.
8- Do top bike cities have mountain biking options?
Many cities, such as Eugene, offer access to mountain biking trails or nearby areas, making them great for off-road cycling enthusiasts.
9- What are the benefits of biking in these cities?
Biking in these cities promotes health, reduces environmental impact, and offers a fun and efficient way to explore urban and natural landscapes.
10- How can I plan a bike trip to a top bike city?
You can plan your trip by checking bike trails, bike-sharing systems, and local biking events in the city’s tourism resources or official websites.