Quick ride by bicycle from Philadelphia to Bala-Cynwyd

Kick off your ride in the heart of Philly, where the energy’s always high and history is around every corner. You’ll head northwest, sliding out of bustling Center City onto a route that’s impressively bike-friendly—over half the way is on dedicated cycleways, and most of the route sticks to quiet, paved roads.

Expect a few gentle climbs (about 277 meters up in total), but nothing too wild—just enough to give your legs a decent workout. If you’re a fan of smooth riding, you’ll like this trip since nearly all of it is on paved surfaces with minimal rough stuff. Pedal through verdant Fairmount Park, and maybe take in a Schuylkill River vista or two if you want a quick break.

Your finish line is Bala-Cynwyd, a leafy Main Line suburb known for its beautiful residential streets and classic stone homes. The vibe is a far cry from Center City’s bustle, making it a perfect cool-down spot. In all, it’s about 19 km—manageable at an easy pace and packed with scenery. Just bring your bike, some water, and enjoy the ride!