Central Park Southern Loop
The Southern Loop of Central Park is one of the most popular bike rides in NYC. It’s scenic, easy – and completely car-free!
Start Here
Head to the Citi Bike station at Central Park South & 6th Ave and use your bike key or pre-purchased ride pass to begin. If you need to get a pass, use the Citi Bike app or kiosk at the station and follow the on-screen prompts to complete your purchase.
Remember, the first 30 minutes of each ride on a classic bike are included in the price of a single ride and day pass. If you're an annual member, the first 45 minutes of each ride on a classic bike are included. For more information about Citi Bike pricing and pass options, please head here.
Once you have your bike, ride north into the park and take Center Drive a short distance to connect with Park Drive, the main road (“loop”) that runs around Central Park.
Ride Here
Follow the few steps below and biking the Central Park Southern Loop will be a breeze!
- Follow Park Drive north up the East Side of the park
- Turn left onto the Terrace Drive transverse that crosses the park (this will be around 72nd St)
- When you reach the end of the transverse, turn left to pick up Park Drive again and travel south, down the West Side of the park
- Loop back around to Center Drive, where you can return your bike
The total distance is about 1.7 miles, and takes most people 15-30 minutes on a classic Citi Bike.
See the interactive map below and download Central Park Bike Map for more information.
See this
Located along this biking route are many great Central Park attractions worth checking out. These include:
- Bethesda Fountain
- The Carousel
- Strawberry Fields
We suggest purchasing a day pass, as opposed to a single ride, if you're interested in doing some sightseeing along the Southern Loop. This way you can dock and re-rent a bike without going over the 30-minute time limit or needing to purchase an additional pass. Check the map above for available Citi Bike stations along this route.
Try this ride
Pick up a single ride or day pass through the mobile app and be on a bike within minutes!
No smartphone?
You can also purchase a day pass at any Citi Bike station kiosk.
Nearby Stations
- Central Park S & 6 Ave
- Grand Army Plaza & Central Park S
- 5 Ave & E 63 St