The Getaway
From Sea to Shining Sea - Explore the USA by Bike

Open roads. Fresh air. Scenic vistas that will take your breath away. Biking is an incredible way to experience America, and you don't have to be a professional athlete or even own a high-end bike to get started. From coast to coast, these are the best destinations in the U.S. for biking adventures of all levels — from beginner family rides along waterfronts or through historical towns to challenging mountain passes with breathtaking views from the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River.

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01 New York City, New York

Bicyclist on New York City streets Photo by Liza Rusalskaya on Unsplash

The hustle and bustle of New York can be tough to navigate but hop on the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway for an incredible journey around the island.

If you want to experience the sights and sounds of New York City but don't have enough time or resources for a complete visit, take this NYC bike tour. It's 31 miles long, with stops at famous landmarks like The Battery near the Financial District. So hop on the greenway and explore one of America's greatest cities from ground level.

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02 Washington, D.C.

Beautiful sunset on East Capitol street in Washington DC on a hot summer afternoon Kristiyana Demirevska / Getty Images

Washington, D.C., is a beautiful city to explore on your bike, and you can end your ride with some of the best pizza in America.

Biking is a great way to see all that Washington, D.C., offers without worrying about how much time or energy you'll have left for sightseeing after dinner. Riders can tour iconic places like Georgetown Waterfront Park near DuPont Circle, view the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial on Capitol Hill, and pedal right up Pennsylvania Avenue toward one of America's most famous monuments: The Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool.

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03 Long Beach, California

A young girl rides her tricycle towards the sunset on a bike path during a summer evening in Long Beach, Ca. matzaball / Getty Images

Long Beach is one of the most bike-friendly cities in America. It offers miles of paved pathways for all riders to enjoy, from scenic waterfront paths and urban greenways to historic neighborhoods like Bixby Knolls. Long Beach businesses provide bike rentals, guided tours, and a Bike Co-Op where you can borrow or rent bikes for the day.

Additionally, Long Beach is one of California's most diverse cities with an artsy community that includes photography studios and indie coffee shops, all within easy reach via your trusty two-wheeler.

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04 San Francisco, California

Bicyclists on the Golden Gate bridge Photo by Emily Woolerton on Unsplash

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the states, with an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, numerous shops for repairs and gear, and ample bicycle parking.

Whether you're looking to take your family for a ride or challenge yourself by tackling steep hills up to Golden Gate Park or exploring along the Embarcadero waterfront among sailboats and sea lions, San Francisco offers something different every time. Explore at your own pace while taking in some of the West Coast's most fantastic attractions.

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05 Portland, Oregon

A woman bike commuting along the Portland Oregon waterfront trail. Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

Portland is one of the top destinations for cyclists in the U.S. Its extensive network of bike lanes and trails takes you through some of this beautiful city's best attractions.

Whether you're looking to ride your way into Downtown Portland alongside bridges over the Willamette River or cruise down tree-lined avenues past historic homes, riders can explore at their own pace while taking in some of Portland's most outstanding attractions. These include the famous Powell's City of Books or the iconic Hollywood Theatre.

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06 Tucson, Arizona

Road on Mt Lemmon in Tucson Arizona 4kodiak / Getty Images

Tucson is a great city to explore by bike, and you can end your ride with some of the best Mexican food in America.

Biking is a great way to get an overview of all that Tucson has to offer. Riders can tour iconic places like Old Town's colorful streets and funky shops, desert-urban neighborhoods near downtown, and lush tree-lined avenues close to nature preserves in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. And at the end of the journey? A stop at one of Tucson's most famous restaurants: El Charro Café.

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07 Greenville, South Carolina

Modern buildings and walkway along the Reedy River, in downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

Greenville, South Carolina, offers cyclists some of the best and most scenic paths in the states. On top of that, you can savor the best barbecue in the country when the day is done.

Biking is a great way to tour Greenville. Be sure to enjoy places like Falls Park on the Reedy River and lush, tree-lined avenues.

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08 Boulder, Colorado

bikers on a road along the Rocky Mountains foothills near Boulder

This bike-friendly city is a destination for both mountain and road bikers. There are many trails to explore around town that will have something perfect for every skill level.

Riders can tour famous places like Pearl Street Mall with its myriad shops and eateries and scenic neighborhoods on either side of downtown Boulder Creek.

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09 Seattle, Washington

Boy rides bike with training wheels next to the Puget Sound in West Seattle. Aaron McCoy / Getty Images

Seattle isn't just known for some of the best coffee in the world; it's also a world-class destination for cyclists. Bikers can check out Space Needle and Pike Place Market, plus scenic neighborhoods around downtown Puget Sound.

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10 Austin, Texas

Austin panorama at night on Congess avenue bridge. A biker crosses at high speed while numerous tourists and locals are waiting for the bats to come out. Nicolas McComber / Getty Images

Austin is undergoing a cultural renaissance. Why not get some exercise and see what all the fuss is about? With clear skies and warm weather perfect for cycling year-round, Austin has it in spades. From famed group rides to cruises through quirky neighborhoods like South Congress, visitors can enjoy a unique glimpse into Texas culture while getting their hearts pumping.

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