Exploring New York City by bike is an exhilarating way to experience the city’s vibrant energy. With an all-day bike rental and a delightful picnic in Central Park, visitors can enjoy the city’s iconic sights and sounds. From the scenic pathways to the delectable treats, this self-guided tour promises a memorable day of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this activity offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s hidden gems and create lasting memories.
This experience made our article of 2 Best Bike Rentals In Central Park (With Prices).
Key Points
- Self-guided bike tour in Central Park with gourmet picnic lunch for $70.77 per person, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.
- Bike rental options include Cannondale or Specialized models, and the picnic boxes include a small water, sides, and sweet treats.
- The meeting point is at 56 W 56th Street, and the tour operates from 8 AM to 5 PM in winter and 8 AM to 8 PM in summer.
- Explore 47 miles of pathways in Central Park and visit iconic attractions like Strawberry Fields, Imagine Mosaic, and the Central Park Carousel.
- Overall customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with recommendations to book picnic arrangements in advance and bring a blanket for a comfortable picnic.
Activity Overview
This activity offers a self-guided bike tour in Central Park complemented by a gourmet picnic lunch.
The experience lasts for one day and costs from $70.77 per person. Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is a reserve now, pay later option.
This is a one-day experience that costs $70.77 per person, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance. It is a reserve now, pay later option.
Bike choices include Cannondale or Specialized models. Picnic boxes feature options like herb roasted chicken, vegetable rollatini, or hummus and crudités.
Riders receive additional gear like helmets, locks, and maps. The tour runs from 8 AM to 5 PM in winter and 8 AM to 8 PM in summer, departing from Unlimited Biking on 56th Street.
Enjoying two wheels? We've reviewed these other cycling options in Central Park
Bike Rental and Picnic Details
For the bike rental, guests can choose between Cannondale or Specialized models. The gourmet picnic boxes offer a variety of options, including a signature chicken sandwich, vegetable rollatini, and a healthy hummus and crudités selection. All picnics come with a small water, sides, and sweet treats. Plus, cyclists receive a bike helmet, lock, bag, attraction map, and tour tips to enhance their experience.
| Picnic Options | Contents |
| — | — |
| Signature Box | Herb roasted chicken sandwich, seasonal fruit salad, gourmet sea salt potato chips, small water |
| Vegetarian Box | Vegetable rollatini, watermelon & feta salad, oatmeal cookie, small water |
| Healthy Box | Hummus & crudités, gourmet trail mix, fruit salad, miniature brownie, small water |
Meeting Point and Operational Hours
The meeting point for the Bike Rental and Central Park Picnic experience is located at 56 W 56th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue, where guests can find the Unlimited Biking desk.
During the winter months from November 1st to March 31st, the operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
In the warmer months from April 1st to October 31st, the hours are extended from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
This allows visitors to explore the 47 miles of pathways in Central Park and enjoy their picnic lunch at their own pace during the daylight hours.
Tour Experience Highlights
Visitors can explore the expansive 47 miles of pathways that wind through Central Park, taking in iconic attractions like the Strawberry Fields memorial, the Imagine Mosaic, Cleopatra’s Needle, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, and the beloved Central Park Carousel.
Staff provide tips and recommendations on the best picnic spots to enjoy the gourmet meals. Whether it’s the signature box with herb-roasted chicken, the vegetarian rollatini, or the healthy hummus and crudités, the carefully curated picnic options offer something for every taste.
With a full-color map and tour tips, guests can create their own memorable self-guided adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
According to customer reviews, the overall rating for this bike rental and picnic experience is 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews.
Customers found the picnic experience enjoyable, though some noted the busy bike paths with mixed traffic. To ensure a comfortable picnic, it’s recommended to bring a blanket.
Plus, booking the picnic arrangements a day in advance can help avoid any issues.
Want to see more of Central Park? Here are other city tours we've reviewed
Exploring Central Park’s Pathways
Exploring Central Park‘s Pathways
With over 47 miles of trails to discover, Central Park offers endless opportunities for cyclists. From the scenic East Drive to the peaceful West Side waterfront, the park’s well-maintained pathways wind through lush greenery and iconic landmarks.
Riders can coast past the serene Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, stop to admire the stately Cleopatra’s Needle, or pay tribute at the Imagine Mosaic in Strawberry Fields.
While the paths can get busy, especially on weekends, the park’s car-free zones provide a safe and enjoyable biking experience.
With a detailed map in hand, adventurers can customize their route and embrace the beauty of Central Park.
Discovering Iconic Attractions
As cyclists pedal through Central Park’s winding pathways, they can’t help but be captivated by the iconic attractions that dot the landscape.
Riders can visit the Strawberry Fields memorial, dedicated to John Lennon, and the nearby Imagine Mosaic, a stunning art installation.
Cleopatra’s Needle, an ancient Egyptian obelisk, stands tall, while the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir offers stunning skyline views.
And no visit is complete without a spin on the beloved Central Park Carousel.
With a full-color map and staff recommendations, cyclists can easily navigate the park and discover its most famous landmarks during their self-guided adventure.
Picnic Spot Recommendations
With staff on hand to provide insider tips, cyclists can easily find the perfect spots to unfurl their picnic blankets and savor the gourmet fare.
The tree-lined shores of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir offer stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. For a lively ambiance, the shady lawns near the iconic Bethesda Fountain are hard to beat.
The tranquil shores of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir offer stunning views, while the lively Bethesda Fountain lawns evoke a vibrant atmosphere.
Those seeking a bit of whimsy can settle by the nostalgic Central Park Carousel.
No matter the choice, the combination of a leisurely bike ride and delectable picnic makes for an unforgettable New York experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Bring My Own Bike?
While the experience includes bike rentals, it doesn’t mention an option to bring your own bike. The package seems focused on providing a full, hassle-free experience with the rental bikes and picnic included.
Can I Upgrade the Picnic Options for an Additional Cost?
Yes, you can upgrade the picnic options for an additional cost. The standard picnic boxes can be customized with premium items, such as gourmet sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and specialty desserts, to enhance your outdoor dining experience.
Are the Bikes Suitable for Children or Families?
The bike rental options are best suited for adults and teens. While the bikes can accommodate children, the customer may want to consider a family-friendly bike option, such as a tandem or child trailer, for a more comfortable experience.
Is There a Guided Tour Option Available?
There is no guided tour option available for this self-guided bike rental and picnic experience in Central Park. Customers explore the park and attractions independently using the provided map and tips from staff.
Can I Extend the Bike Rental Duration for an Additional Fee?
Yes, you can extend the bike rental duration for an additional fee. The bike rental is valid for 1 day, but you can keep the bike out longer by paying an extra fee.
The Sum Up
This all-day bike rental and Central Park picnic is a fantastic way to experience the vibrant charm of New York City. Explore the park’s scenic pathways, indulge in a gourmet picnic, and discover iconic attractions – all for a great value. With flexible hours and customizable options, it’s the perfect self-guided tour to create a memorable day in the city that never sleeps.
📍 This experience made our list of the 2 best Bike Rentals in Central Park