Family-Friendly Bike Trails Around NYC

Lisa R:  The Staten Island Greenbelt Perimeter Trail comprises 2.6 miles of crushed gravel path along the west side of LaTourette Park (Rockland to Richmond Avenues). The path is wide, mostly flat, and closed to cars. The middle of the trail branches off towards Historic Richmond Town, making it easy to combine a bike ride with a trip to this interactive history museum.

Lisa R:  For a unique day trip, families can pair a (free!) ride on the Staten Island ferry with a trip to Silver Lake Park. Those who ride the ferry must navigate a 2 mile inclined route to the park, where the flat loop around the reservoir is 1.3 miles. The ride can be broken up by visiting some of the shops and cafes along Victory Blvd. Once at the park, families can enjoy learning about the park's 150 year history or visit one of the many playgrounds. Kids might be interested to learn that the reservoir currently serves as the endpoint of the Catskill water supply system for NYC!

Lisa R:  This waterfront trail gives bikers a prime view of some of New York's most popular attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, new World Trade Tower, Fort Wadsworth, and Coney Island. The southernmost tip of the trail is the best place to catch a sunset view of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The wide, flat paved path and cultural attractions along the way make this a fun way to round out a beach day or trip to the Aquarium.

Lisa R:  This route spans the length of the park from Battery Place to W. 59th Street. A connection to Riverside Park, just to the north, lets bikers extend their trip to include the entire east side of Manhattan. Rentals are available inside the park at 44th St., as well as at a number of locations nearby. Like Prospect Park, this is a busier route. Riders should be prepared to ride single file and avoid obstacles. Attention to the rules pays off with views of the Hudson and quick access to all of the Lower East Side. More information about kid friendly attractions along the way can be found here.

Lisa R:  The 3.35 mile paved loop inside Prospect Park is home to a number of cycling events and bicycle meet-ups throughout the year. Bike rentals are available seasonally from the LeFrak Center inside the park. Families visiting the park for a bike ride will have quick access to the full wealth of Prospect Park's attractions, including the carousel, splash pad and zoo (as well as beautiful scenery).

Lisa R:  No list of bike trails in NYC is complete without Central Park. The main 6.1 mile loop of paved roadway circling the inside of the park takes families within a stones throw of all of the park's main attractions, including the carousel, Belvedere's Castle, the Metropolitan Museum and more. The main path is wide and flat, making it easy to ride as a group without obstructing faster bikers.

Lisa R:   The wide array of free public events, festivals and learning opportunities hosted on this NYC gem make Randall's Island a great destination for families. A walk or bike ride down the eight miles of meandering, car-free paths takes visitors by an urban farm, numerous public gardens, and waterfront natural areas.

Lisa R:  This former marshland is often called "The Gateway to the Bronx River" and is the site where the Bronx River opens up into the East River. The park is noteworthy in particular for being subject to restoration efforts to bring back the native salt marsh. Bikers enjoying its flat, paved paths will be treated to sweeping views of the river and a chance to glimpse native birds and wildlife in a unique ecological setting.

Lisa R:  Pelham Bay Park has five miles of designated cycling trails that guide visitors from Orchard Beach to all of the park's main attractions, including one of the city's top rated playgrounds. The wide array of activities available at this park and smooth, flat, kid-friendly paths make it a great biking destination for larger families and younger bikers.

Lisa R:  This lush, natural area has a number of kid friendly recreation areas that make it a pleasant place to spend the day. Generally quiet and free from crowds, its shaded, paved bike paths are perfect for new bikers.