This spring and summer, explore the outdoors and the sights and scenes in Chicago by checking out the area’s bike-friendly places. When the weather starts to get nice, bring your bike, your family, a picnic and your sense of adventure to see some of Chicago’s best parks, outdoor areas and trails. Here are the best bike-friendly places in Chicago to check out in 2022.
250 Miles of Bike Lanes
The city of Chicago has transformed the bike riding atmosphere in the area in the last decade. There are approximately 250 miles of bike lanes in the city, more than 13,000 bike racks and plenty of protected parking for bike riders throughout the metro region. Chicago is one of the most bike-friendly large cities in the country and leaders are working to add more bike lanes and trails throughout the region.
Paths & Trails
Chicago has also worked hard to spruce up its many miles of bike paths and trails in and around the metro region. The city’s bikeways include more than 55 miles of off-road trails around greenways and parks. The city is committed to giving residents more eco-friendly transportation options, such as riding a womens electric bike on one of the bikeways trails. Here are some spots you can check out on your bike.
Miles of Lakeside Living in EdgeWater
One place you can explore on your bike is Chicago’s lakefront neighborhood, Edgewater. This trendy community has bike paths that overlook Lake Michigan. The area is full of shops, restaurants and historical homes that make the perfect setting for an afternoon ride.
Gorgeous Backdrop of Chicago Botanic Garden
The next spot to check out on your bike is the Chicago Botanic Garden exhibit. You can explore the miles of trails in and around the gardens. Your nose and your eyes will be in a for a treat, with beds of colorful roses, lilacs and geraniums along the way. Be sure to slow down on your tricycle for adults to take it all in.
Fishing and More at Meacham Grove Forest Preserve
Another beautiful outdoor space that offers a network of bike paths is the Meacham Grove Forest Preserve. You can explore the wetlands and the forest setting or bring your fishing pole on your bike to try to catch bass, bluegill or catfish.
Downtown at the 606 Trail
An abandoned Chicago railway is the next place to visit with your bike, the 606 trail. This former elevated railway is now a popular spot for bikers and walkers to get outside and see some of Chicago’s most interesting downtown spots. Order your cruiser bikes online and check out art exhibits and the city’s skyline from this trail
Adventure at The Forge
South of Chicago, bring your bike to an adventure park called The Forge. Besides biking, you can try ax throwing, climbing, trail running and playing a laser tag game at this large park with free admission.
Chicago’s bike-friendly atmosphere offers plenty of things to see and do for bicycle enthusiasts. Bring your electric bike to these famous spots and experience more adventure and excitement.
