A bicycle tour of Washington, D.C., can make the sights and sounds of the nation's capital come more fully to life. You can take in the majesty of historic buildings as well as natural beauty close up, without the worries of parking or fighting traffic. During the tourist season, you have lots of choices, no matter what your experience level or sightseeing plans.
Guided Tours
Get acquainted with Washington by seeing it with a knowledgeable guide. Several companies, such as Bike and Roll, provide tours that highlight major landmarks and monuments. They take about three hours, and you'll get lots of chances along the way for pictures and information gathering. The pace is comfortable enough for both adults and children. Night time tours add drama -- imagine the White House or the Lincoln Monument lighted against a dark sky. Bikes, helmets, water and snacks are included in the cost. You'll find a link to Bike and Roll's website in the Resource section.
Bike Rentals
If you decide to head off on your own adventure, renting a bike in the city is the best option. Local cycle shops make it convenient, whatever your needs. You can choose hourly or daily rates and experienced staff will fit you and your companions with the right bike size and style. Thompson Boat Center, located in Georgetown, stocks adult-sized cruisers and all-terrain bikes, as well as helmets, locks and baskets. A link to the business website is in the Resources section. Another idea for short commutes is bike sharing. Companies like SmartBike allow you to register, pick up a cycle, then drop it off at one of its many center locations, all with the swipe of a card. See the link in the Resources section for more information on that service.
Educational Tours
Any tour around the city provides information on the city's best-known sites. But if you want more unusual tidbits to take home, plan to take one of the National Park Service's free weekend tours. With names like "The History of the National Mall - Myth Busters Edition" and "The Hunt is On!", these fun, interactive trips are geared for families to join in together. For a full list of tours, refer to the National Park Service link in the Resources section. Participants must bring their own bikes and reservations are required, since space is limited.
Trails
A network of trails connects downtown D.C. with surrounding areas. These paths offer you a less crowded and more relaxed riding experience. The Mount Vernon Trail and The Capitol Crescent Trail will lead you on picturesque journies along the Potomac at an easy level. If you are a seasoned rider who wants more of a challenge or a longer ride, try trails such as the Washington & Old Dominion. The link to Bike Washington in the Resources section will lead you to detailed maps and directions, along with helpful hints for navigating the routes.
Long-distance Tours
Consider the thrill of arriving in Washington by bike. You can find trips to D.C. from as far away as Boston or even beyond. A link to one of them, Wilderness Voyageur, is included in the Resources section. These travel packages include lodging, food and van support. You'll pedal your way through urban areas and scenic countryside, learning about history as you go. Then, after reaching the city, you can take in all the sights at your leisure. Other treks head out from the capital for destinations such as Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Cumberland, Maryland.
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