Circling the Big Apple: Your Bike Adventure Around Manhattan

Circling the Big Apple: Your Bike Adventure Around Manhattan

Ever wondered if you could actually bike all the way around Manhattan? Well, I’m here to tell you, you absolutely can! And trust me, it’s one heck of a ride. Forget those crowded subway cars; this is a chance to see the city from a whole new angle, feel the breeze in your hair, and get a decent workout while you’re at it. The secret? It’s all thanks to the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway.

Think of the Greenway as your own personal yellow brick road, except instead of leading to Oz, it loops around the entire island of Manhattan. We’re talking a cool 32 miles of paths designed for walkers and cyclists, hugging the coastline and giving you front-row seats to some of the best views in the world. For the most part, you’ll be cruising along dedicated paths in parks and recreational areas, safely away from the honking taxis and crazy city traffic. But now and then, when the waterfront gets a bit tricky, you’ll hop onto designated “greenway connectors” – basically, special on-street routes that keep you moving in the right direction.

The Greenway’s really three awesome trails stitched together:

First up, the Hudson River Greenway. This is the big kahuna, the longest stretch, and probably the one you’ve heard most about. It runs down the West Side, from the very tip of Manhattan at Battery Park all the way up to Dyckman Street. Picture yourself gliding past iconic spots like Hudson River Park and Riverside Park – it’s pure magic.

Then there’s the East River Greenway. This one hugs the East Side, taking you from Battery Park up towards East Harlem. Now, a little heads-up: this section’s got a few gaps, especially in Midtown. So, you’ll need to channel your inner New Yorker and navigate some city streets for a bit.

Last but not least, we’ve got the Harlem River Greenway. Short and sweet, this uninterrupted path runs from 155th Street to Dyckman Street in northern Manhattan. It’s a smooth ride with some great views.

Okay, so what’s the ride actually like? Buckle up, because you’re in for a treat.

You’ll be pedaling past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and the towering World Trade Center. Seriously, the photo ops are endless. And it’s not just about the big-name attractions. You’ll also be soaking up the vibes of different neighborhoods, from the posh Upper East Side to the historic South Street Seaport. You’ll see parks, piers, and maybe even catch a street performer or two.

Now, a quick word of warning: remember those gaps in the East River Greenway? The biggest one’s between 34th and 83rd streets, so be prepared to share the road with cars for a bit. And keep an eye out for construction detours – they can pop up unexpectedly.

Alright, safety first, people! This isn’t the Tour de France; it’s a leisurely ride around a bustling city.

• Helmet, always. No exceptions.
• Those traffic laws? Yeah, they apply to you too. Red lights mean stop, even on a bike.
• Hand signals are your friend. Let people know what you’re planning.
• Pay attention! This isn’t the time to daydream or text your friends.
• Lights and reflectors are a must, especially when it’s getting dark.
• Watch out for car doors! Seriously, they’re the bane of every city cyclist’s existence.
• Give your bike a once-over before you head out. Brakes working? Tires pumped? Good to go!

So, you’re ready to roll? Awesome! Here’s a little pre-ride checklist:

• Bike: Bring your own trusty steed or rent one. Citi Bike is always an option, too.
• Map: Scope out the route beforehand. Knowing where those gaps are is key.
• Pit stops: Plan where you’re going to grab water, use the restroom, and maybe snag a snack.
• Time of day: Some parts of the Greenway have limited hours, so check before you go. Weekends can also get pretty crowded, especially in the summer.
• Hills: Don’t say I didn’t warn you! The section north of the George Washington Bridge has a bit of a climb. But hey, you’ll earn those views!

Bottom line? Biking around Manhattan is an amazing experience. It’s a chance to see the city in a whole new light, get some exercise, and have a blast. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and get ready for an adventure!