Van Cortlandt's flat southwest parade grounds are the perfect low-stakes classroom for bike skills, and this free day-long class meets riders wherever they are — true beginners, rusty adults, kids ready to drop the training wheels. Learn the fundamentals, then test them immediately on the park's car-free paths and the flat Putnam rail-trail. Free instruction plus a giant practice park is an unbeatable combination.
What to expect
Expect drills and instruction in a protected area, safety and rules-of-the-road talks, and plenty of individual attention across the day's sessions. Drop in during the run; bring a bike and helmet if you have them.
Good to know
- Free at Van Cortlandt Park's southwest fields
- Take the 1 to Van Cortlandt Park-242nd St
- Bring a bike and helmet; ask about loaners in the listing
- All ages and abilities welcome
- The flat Putnam Trail is ideal first-ride terrain after class
- Runs through the day — arrive when you can
Planning Sep 19–20, 2026 in NYC?
This list keeps changing as events are verified. We'll send you the final version the Thursday before — and you can unsubscribe right after if that's all you need.
Common questions
Can adults who never learned to ride attend?
Yes — adult learn-to-ride students are exactly who these free park classes serve, alongside kids and returning riders.
What should I bring?
A bike and helmet if you have them, water, and closed-toe shoes — and check the listing for loaner availability.
