Philadelphia, PA – Thousands of cyclists will take over the streets of Philadelphia this Saturday for the fourth annual Philly Bike Ride, a 20-mile car-free event that invites riders of all ages to explore the city’s most scenic and historic routes. The event begins at 7:30 a.m. on October 18, 2025, offering a rare chance to experience the City of Brotherly Love without any vehicle traffic.
The Event: Philadelphia’s Only Car-Free Community Ride
The Philly Bike Ride, themed “Cruise At Your Own Pace,” is the city’s only car-free social ride, welcoming over 7,000 participants this year. Riders can choose between two routes — a 20-mile course for experienced cyclists or a 7.6-mile option for families and casual riders.
Both routes will finish near the Philadelphia Museum of Art, right by the iconic Rocky Steps, where the Finish Festival will greet participants with live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and family-friendly entertainment.
“Philly Bike Ride is more than just a ride. It is a celebration of community, movement, health, and the vibrant spirit of this city,” said Chris Browne, Managing Director of Philly Bike Ride. “We’re proud to offer a fun, safe, and accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to experience Philadelphia on two wheels, completely car-free.”
The event is presented by Independence Blue Cross (IBX), which will also host a special “Well-Being Zone” during the festival to promote health and fitness.
“We know that exercise and play are vital for our overall well-being,” said Dr. Rodrigo Cerdá, IBX Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer. “Philly Bike Ride is a perfect way to make our city’s neighborhoods accessible and enjoyable for all ages.”
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and its Youth Cycling Program, which supports young riders and encourages safe biking practices across the region.
Road Closures for Philly Bike Ride 2025
City officials have announced that several major roads will be closed to vehicular traffic to make the event completely car-free.
Closures beginning at 3:30 a.m. and reopening by 2 p.m.:
- Eakins Oval in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Benjamin Franklin Parkway between Eakins Oval and 20th Street
- Kelly Drive between Spring Garden Street and 25th Street
- Spring Garden Street off-ramp exit at Eakins Oval
Closures beginning at 6:30 a.m. and reopening by 12 p.m.:
- Benjamin Franklin Parkway between 20th Street and 15th Street
- Arch Street between Benjamin Franklin Parkway and 15th Street
- N. 15th Street between Arch Street and Penn Square
- Market Street between Penn Square and 5th Street
- Penn Square between Market Street and 15th Street
- 5th Street between Market Street and Race Street
- Race Street between 5th Street and N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
- Christopher Columbus Boulevard between Race Street and Christian Street
- Christian Street between N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard and 22nd Street
- 22nd Street between Christian Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
- Kelly Drive between 25th Street and Falls Bridge
- Falls Bridge between Kelly Drive and MLK Drive
- MLK Drive between Falls Bridge and Black Road
Parking Restrictions and Vehicle Relocations
Street parking will be restricted on key streets from 12 a.m. to 1 p.m. on October 18, with signs posted as “Temporary No Parking” zones.
Restricted streets include:
- Benjamin Franklin Parkway between 22nd Street and 16th Street
- Logan Square between 18th Street and 19th Street
- Arch Street between 16th Street and 15th Street
- N. 15th Street between Arch Street and Market Street
- Market Street between 6th Street and Penn Square
- Penn Square between Market Street and 15th Street
- Race Street between 5th Street and N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
- Christian Street between N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard and 22nd Street
- 22nd Street between Christian Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
- Art Museum Drive between Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Pennsylvania Avenue
- Spring Garden Street between Pennsylvania Avenue and Kelly Drive
Officials warned that any vehicle parked in restricted zones will be relocated. If your car is missing, contact the local police district where it was parked for details.
Public Transit and SEPTA Detours
Cyclists and spectators are encouraged to use public transportation to reach the event.
The following SEPTA stations are located within one mile of the start line:
- Fairmount, Spring Garden, and Race-Vine stations (Broad Street Line).
Free transfers are available from the Market-Frankford Line and Trolley routes at 15th Street/City Hall. The start area is also a short walk from Regional Rail stations in Center City.
However, several bus routes will be detoured starting at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, including:
Routes 2, 4, 7, 9, 12, 16, 17, 21, 23, 25, 27, 31, 32, 33, 38, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 47, 48, 49, 57, 61, 124, and 125.
For detailed detour maps, visit SEPTA.org or check updates on the SEPTA app before traveling.
Background: A Philadelphia Fall Tradition
The Philly Bike Ride began in 2021 and has quickly become a signature fall event for local cyclists, families, and visitors. The ride promotes health, sustainability, and community connection, while encouraging residents to see the city from a new perspective — one free from cars and congestion.
Organizers emphasize that the event is not a race, but a celebration of movement and unity across Philadelphia’s most famous landmarks.
Conclusion
With live music, community spirit, and miles of car-free streets, the 2025 Philly Bike Ride promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience for cyclists of all levels. Whether joining for fitness, fun, or family time, this year’s event highlights Philadelphia’s commitment to active living and public safety
Are you joining the Philly Bike Ride this weekend? Share your experience or photos in the comments below.
