Pedal & Explore: 5 Museums You Can Ride Your Bike to This Month
Celebrate Bike Month by exploring local museums by bike! Whether you’re an art aficionado or just going for the gift shop, biking to your favorite local museums is a fun and cost-effective way to get out and explore.
So, pump up those tires, grab your helmet and check out these bike-friendly museums across Hampton Roads, courtesy of your friendly neighborhood bike amenities in Hampton Roads experts!
1. Chrysler Museum of Art – Norfolk, VA
With over 30,000 pieces of art (and a whole room dedicated to glass!), the Chrysler Museum is a must-see. Even better, they’re cool with you rolling up on two wheels.
🚲 Bike Bonus: Norfolk’s got bike racks aplenty, and you’ll find one right near the museum’s entrance for easy parking. Plus, if your bike needs a little TLC, there’s a free bike repair station nearby to keep you rolling smoothly.
2. Virginia Living Museum – Newport News, VA
Where else can you see a bald eagle, touch a horseshoe crab and learn about the stars in one afternoon? The Virginia Living Museum combines nature and science in a way that’s fun for the whole crew.
🚲 Bike Bonus: There’s a designated bike rack right by the entrance. Plus, with scenic bike trails weaving through Newport News, your ride here is as enjoyable as the museum itself.
3. Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) – Virginia Beach, VA
Love bold, modern artwork? MOCA has you covered. With ever-changing exhibitions and a community-driven vibe, this spot is perfect for a creative recharge.
🚲 Bike Bonus: Virginia Beach is serious about cycling. You’ll find bike racks at MOCA, and the city has a few bike repair stations if you need a quick tune-up.
4. Mariners’ Museum – Newport News, VA
Set sail for a maritime adventure at the Mariners’ Museum. With exhibits on naval history, shipwrecks and the legendary USS Monitor, there’s plenty to dive into (figuratively, of course).
🚲 Bike Bonus: The museum is located along the Noland Trail, a 5-mile scenic loop perfect for a pre- or post-museum ride. And yes, there’s a bike rack waiting for you.
5. Children’s Museum of Virginia – Portsmouth, VA
Perfect for a family outing, the Children’s Museum of Virginia is packed with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and even a Hampton Roads Transit bus to check out (*insert shameless plug about starting them young here*). It’s a place where kids (and adults) can let their curiosity run wild.
🚲 Bike Bonus: Portsmouth is bike-friendly with plenty of racks. Bring the whole family for a bike-and-learn day and explore nearby attractions while you’re at it.
Why Biking to Museums Is Basically a Superpower
Let’s be real: there’s more perks to biking in Hampton Roads than just skipping traffic. Every time you choose two wheels over four, you’re helping reduce congestion and improve air quality. Plus, there’s the bonus cardio (hello, calves!).
And with goCommute’s free ConnectingVA Rewards program, your bike trips can earn you actual rewards. Think discounts, deals, and bragging rights. All you need to do is sign up, track your trips, and start cashing in. It’s like a loyalty program, but cooler... because the planet wins too.
Tips for Biking to Museums Like a Pro
Plan Your Route: Use local bike maps to find the safest, most scenic path. Bonus points if you share your route with a friend and turn it into a biking buddy date.
Pack Smart: Bring a lock (preferably a sturdy U-lock), a water bottle, and your favorite tote bag for museum souvenirs.
Check for Amenities: Many Hampton Roads cities offer free bike repair stations, so you’re never far from a quick fix.
Get Rewarded: Seriously, don’t forget to log your trips with ConnectingVA Rewards. Freebies for biking? Yes, please.
Ready to Ride?
This Bike Month, ditch the car and embrace the joys of biking to your favorite museums. You’ll save money, get a workout in and earn rewards along the way.