Biking in Philadelphia

 

Cycling in Philly is a great way to get outside, get some exercise and see the sights but it’s also important to be safe and know the rules of the road. We put together some tips to keep in mind as well as some prime cycling trails to get you started. And be sure to take a look at our bike itineraries for some ideas.

Some rules of the road:

• All cyclists on the road have the same rights and duties as drivers.

• Cyclists must ride predictably, which includes properly signaling turns, riding with the flow of traffic and stopping at red lights and stop signs.

• Philadelphia laws require a cyclist under the age of 12 to wear a helmet when riding.

• Riders over the age of 12 are not permitted to ride their bikes on the sidewalk; they must ride on the road. Remember to stay as close to the right-hand curb while riding on the street.

• Philly law bans the use of headsets and earplugs while riding a bike on the road.

• Riders must ride single file when cycling on the road.

• Between dusk and dawn, a bike must have a front white light, a red rear reflector or red taillight and amber reflectors on each side.

Where to rent a bike:

Wheel Fun Rentals
Rent individual, tandem or tag-a-long bikes for kids and adults for the day at their Independence Mall or Boathouse Row locations.

Indego Bike Share Program
Participate in Philly’s bike share program, Indego. With more than 70 stations located throughout the city, go for a ride and explore Philadelphia, then return your rented bike to any station location.

Take a Bike Tour
Interested in exploring the city on two wheels, but would rather have someone show you the way? Sign up for a Philly Bike Tour and choose your difficulty, from easy to advanced. Or sign up for the daily tour offered by Wheel Fun Rentals, which departs from the Independence Visitor Center.

Bike Lanes in the City:

• East/West bike lanes on Pine and Spruce streets

• Benjamin Franklin Parkway

• 5th and 6th streets from Spring Garden Street to Chestnut Street

• 22nd Street from Race Street to Oregon Avenue

Trails to try:

• Fairmount Park: Here you can cycle on or off-road for miles, but be sure to ride up the hill to the Belmont Plateau where you can plop down for a rest and take in the amazing view of the city skyline.

• Schuylkill River Trail: This paved scenic trail stretches along the river for 25 miles and includes Boathouse Row and Kelly Drive.

• Cobbs Creek Trail: This trail runs from 63rd and Market streets to 70th and Cobbs Creek, meandering through a heavily-treed forest, making for a quiet, one-with-nature kind of ride. Take the trail all the way to Bartram’s Garden, which is the oldest botanical garden in the U.S.