City: Chicago, IL

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (312) 427-3325

Description: It’s a one-day-only novelty to be able to pedal down Lake Shore Drive. And it’s quite a site to see when it happens—but even more fun to do. No cars, just bikes, tons and tons of all types, riders of all ages, and smiles on everyone’s faces. Run by the Active Transportation Alliance as a fund-raiser for their programs and advocacy, the ride starts at the break of dawn, 5:30 a.m., so that the drag can reopen to vehicles by 10 a.m. The whole route is 30 miles, but you’re not required to bike the whole thing, and several rest stops along the way provide snacks, water, and bike repairs. Bring your own bike or rent one for a discount from Bike and Roll Chicago and Bobby’s Bike Hike. When you’re done riding, head over to the participants’ festival at Jackson Boulevard and Columbus Drive where there’s breakfast ($7), live music, a kids’ activity area, and booths of goodies. Advance registration is $42 for non-Active Transportation Alliance members ($37 members); children 17 and under $15; day-of registration is $55. There are discounts for registering by a certain date, and if you sign up for more than one Active Transportation Alliance ride and/or become a member, it’s also cheaper.