Take a Ride Through Historic Downtown Huntsville

By Abigail Harrison, DHI Communications Coordinator

Tweed Ride Huntsville is back for the sixth year of its free, historic bike tour through downtown Huntsville.

For the ride, participants dress up in dapper attire, such as tweed pants, wool skirts, and bow ties, and take a bicycle ride through historic spots. This year’s route covers nearly seven miles of Northeast and downtown Huntsville, and riders will be joined by two local historians who will share stories at several of the stops.

Riders will leave from Historic Lowry House at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 4. The tour lasts four hours, including a one hour lunch break in Big Spring Park East. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic or visit one of the many restaurants near the park or on the Square.

Established in 2017, Tweed Ride Huntsville takes inspiration from the original bike ride that took place in London, England, when 300 tweed clad cyclist took to the streets in 2009. Since then, similar Tweed Rides have become popular all around the world, from Washington D.C. to Tokyo to San Francisco.

Event organizer Brandy Baird brought the ride to Huntsville to build a vibrant community and bring a fun approach to downtown’s history.

“We are passionate about building inclusive community, partnering with local small businesses, celebrating the preservation and restoration of historically significant areas, and giving riders a joyous experience of our beautiful city,” Baird said. “Since 2017 we have rejoiced in riders from all over the Southeast, and as far away as Texas and Michigan! These new friends return year after year because of the warm welcome they receive from fellow riders and the wider community of Huntsville.”

There is still time to register for Saturday’s ride. For more information, visit https://tweedridehsv.com.

Note: Participants can rent a bike through Blue Bike and Rocket City Rental, or loan a bike from Huntsville Urban Bike Share Coop.