Your Complete Guide to Biking in Evanston

Evanston is truly a haven for biking enthusiasts. Back in February we posted an article about all the incredible bike shops here in Evanston, so you can get your bicycle tuned up for our warmer months.? But Evanston has something even more to offer: Whether you are a resident or just visiting, I encourage you to explore the incredible bike routes you can find here – including many exclusive and even protected biking lanes and off-street routes – and to check out all our picturesque neighborhoods and, of course, the lakefront.

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Want to eliminate the use of your car to commute to work or run errands? Biking might become your preferred option for commuting here in Evanston. To help, most CTA and Metra stops in the city and local business districts maintain secure racks to lock up your bike. While Evanston generally safe, never leave your bike unlocked. If you can’t find a designated bike rack, make sure you lock it to something permanently fixed to the ground and be sure to use a high-quality chain or U-lock. You can also securely park your bike at two covered garages in downtown Evanston: 1800 Maple Self Park and Sherman Plaza Self Park.

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Need to go into Chicago or up north? If you don’t want to ride your there, bicycles (and scooters) can be taken on El CTA trains except between 7 AM and 9 AM and between 4 PM to 6 PM – i.e., during rush hours – and placed on the bike rack on the front of buses, if your bike passes certain requirements. You can also take your bicycle (or scooter) onto Metra, but note that conductors can refuse them if there isn’t enough space for it and/or if their ADA seating is being used.

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Don’t own a bicycle? You can easily rent a Divvy classic bike, ebike, or even a scooter. Evanston has 14 convenient Divvy locations throughout the city, many near public transportation stops, and more than 140 bikes to share. And in the spirit of fostering community connections and promoting a healthier lifestyle for everyone, the City of Evanston sponsors a Divvy for Everyone (D4E) program that enables a $5 Annual Membership for qualifying residents.

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On final note: While it might seem far off, Bike the Ridge 2024 is just around the corner. The part of Ridge Ave. that is usually not open for bicycles, is opened for Bike the Ridge, so this is your chance to experience riding on this street – and a great way to connect with your neighbors during this highly popular community event. Be sure to watch for the date and get it on your calendar. It probably will be on a weekend day near the end of September or at the beginning of October.

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Should you find yourself captivated by the beauty of Evanston while biking through it and are considering making it your home, I and my team at Jackie Mack & More are here to assist you in finding the perfect single family home, town home, duplex, condo, or coop that supports with your lifestyle. In fact, feel free to reach out to us for any real estate needs. After all, whether you’re a biking enthusiast or someone seeking a community that values well-being, Evanston welcomes you with open arms. Contact us today, and let's make Evanston your home.