Philadelphia’s car-free recreational cycling event is set to roll through the city next month. The fourth annual Philly Bike Ride takes place Saturday, Oct. 18, and is expected to draw more than 7,000 riders.
The event features a 20-mile route — or a shorter 7.6-mile option — that winds past landmarks including Independence Hall, City Hall, LOVE Park, Penn’s Landing, and Boathouse Row. Both courses finish near the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where participants can join a festival with live music, food trucks, wellness activities, and family-friendly entertainment.
Organizers describe the ride as a “cruise at your own pace” experience open to cyclists of all ages and skill levels. Affordable bike rentals are available for those who don’t own one, and children ages 3–7 can ride for free. Registration also includes a rider ID kit and commemorative water bottle. New this year, Kate’s Real Food will provide healthy snacks at rest stops along the route.
“Philly Bike Ride is more than just a ride. It is a celebration of community, movement, health and the vibrant spirit of this city,” said Chris Browne, Managing Director of Philly Bike Ride. “We look forward to seeing the streets filled with energy, joy, and thousands of riders taking in the best of what Philadelphia has to offer.”
A portion of Philly Bike Ride proceeds will support the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and its Youth Cycling Program (BCYC). Building on that community support, the event introduced “Graduation on Wheels” in May, a program designed to teach young children how to ride. The inaugural session provided bikes, helmets, and locks to 170 students in second through fifth grades at Logan Elementary School who completed the learn-to-ride curriculum. Organizers say the program promotes lifelong healthy habits, confidence, and a love of cycling.
“We know that exercise and play are vital for our overall well-being,” said Dr. Rodrigo Cerdá, chief medical officer at Independence Blue Cross. “It’s one of the many reasons IBX is proud to support Philly Bike Ride … We look forward to seeing the community come together.”
More details, including registration prices and rental information, are available at phillybikeride.com.
