You may have seen signs indicating a bike route in the system without even knowing what it was. | Graphics via USBRS
Happy National Bike Month, CBUS. Did you know that an extensive system of bicycle routes connecting cities like Columbus, OH and Indianapolis, IN exists right here in the US?
The US Bicycle Route System (USBRS) is a network of numbered, developing bike trails that are officially approved by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Currently, the network features 19,000+ miles of bike routes, but it’s not pumping the brakes there; USBRS’s goal is to eventually establish a 50,000-mile bike route network that connects all of America.
While some of these routes span hundreds of miles, you don’t need years of training to take advantage of them — check out the trails local to us and explore how you might use them.
Know before you go
While the routes are open to all, most are designed for cyclists 16 or older who have at least a few years of bicycling experience. In other words, this isn’t where you should teach little Sally to ride a bike. Stick to local parks for that.
Not all routes are marked with signs, and route conditions can vary.
A red line on an individual route map indicates a shared roadway, while a green line indicates an off-road path.
Connects: West Virginia and Indiana + Aberdeen, OH and Cincinnati, OH.
Where they can take you: Cincinnati, OH; Lexington, KY; Indianapolis, IN; and more via connecting routes.
Short ride: Start on USBR 50 westbound at North Bank Park Pavilion and ride the off-road path ~2 miles until you get to Woodland’s Backyard. Cool off with a drink, fuel up with a burrito, watch a volleyball match, and bowl a few frames before heading back. Note: ~0.5 miles of this path is unpaved.
Long ride: Take the almost completely off-road ride on USBR 21 southbound from Columbus into Cincinnati for a weekend trip. After you’ve cycled the ~120 miles, you’ll probably be hungry — check out our recommendations for what to eat (and do) while there.
A. < 5 miles; I’ll stick to the park. B. 5-20 miles; I love a slightly longer ride around the city. C. 20-75 miles; I’d enjoy riding to a nearby town. D. 75-150 miles; I’ll head to my weekend getaway via bike. E. 150+ miles; I’m up for anything.
“TINA - The Tina Turner Musical” | Wednesday, May 8-Sunday, May 12 | Times vary | Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus | $40-$125 | This touring Broadway show chronicles the life of the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” through her music, which is “Simply the Best.”
Thursday, May 9
Columbus May Pairs Speed Jigsaw Puzzle | Thursday, May 9 | 5-8 p.m. | Seventh Son Brewing Co., 1101 N. 4th St., Italian Village | $25 | Puzzles and pints — test your teamwork skills with this fast-paced jigsaw puzzle competition.
Beer & Chocolate Pairing | Thursday, May 9 | 6-7:30 p.m. | BrewDog DogTap, 96 Gender Rd., Canal Winchester | $30 | Taste three craft beers expertly paired with three pieces of chocolate — dreams do come true, friends.
Taste of Westerville | Thursday, May 9 | 6-9 p.m. | The Renaissance Columbus, 409 Altair Pkwy., Westerville | $70 | Sample food, wine, and beer from beloved local restaurants; guests will vote on their favorite restaurant to receive the People’s Choice Award.
Friday, May 10
2024 KidsLinked Gahanna Summer Bash & Summer Camp Expo | Friday, May 10 | 5-8 p.m. | Shepherd Christian School, 425 Hamilton Rd., Gahanna | Free | Bring the family to this community event featuring a bounce park, mini golf, carnival games, music, live entertainment, a petting zoo, contests, and more.
Kameron Marlowe: “Strangers Tour” | Friday, May 10 | 7 p.m. | KEMBA Live!, 405 Neil Ave., Arena District | $76-$242 | The country crooner — who once competed on “The Voice” — headlines with special guest Tucker Wetmore.
D.L. Hughley | Friday, May 10-Sunday, May 12 | Times vary | Columbus Funny Bone, 145 Easton Town Ctr., Easton | $48 | The longtime actor + standup comic takes the mic in the Capital City.
Hilltop Spring Jamboree | Saturday, May 11 | 1-7 p.m. | Hilltonia Park, 880 S. Wayne Ave., Hilltop | Free | This family-friendly event will feature live music, an instrument petting zoo, art-making activities, and food trucks.
Did you experience storms overnight in your neighborhood? Thunderstorms are possible again today, but likely less severe this afternoon. The wet weather could also bring large hail, strong winds, and localized flooding. (10TV + National Weather Service)
Civic
Columbus City Council has approved ~$8.6 million to fund 90 youth programs this summer. The programs will cover activities like arts, athletics, music, workforce development, and gardening. Nonprofit Highland Youth Garden is among the funding recipients and is offering a nine-week gardening program called Green Teens. (NBC4)
Opening
Johnson’s Real Ice Cream is on a hot streak. The beloved brand will debut another new location, this time in Canal Winchester on Wednesday, May 22 at 6 p.m. Johnson’s recently opened stores in Grandview + Italian Village, bringing its tally to a cool six locations across our region. (614now)
Coming Soon
Pitabilities — a local Mediterranean food truck rolling strong for the past 13 years — plans to open its first standalone restaurant at 2167 Stringtown Rd. in Grove City this September. The eatery will feature indoor seating + a drive-thru window, and more recipes inspired by owner Joe Pashovich’s grandma. (614now)
Plan Ahead
After clinching a spot in the Concacaf Championships Cup Final, the Columbus Crew has changed the schedule for the team’s MLS regular season games originally set for May 29 + June 1. The matches are now on Saturday, Oct. 12 and Saturday, Sept. 7.
Shop
Talk about a closeout sale. The Walmart that shuttered this year at 3579 S. High St. will host an auction this Friday, May 10 to liquidate its remaining fixtures, tech, and unsold merchandise like kitchen appliances + toys. Customers can also bid on shelving units, security cameras, maintenance tools, and more. (Columbus Business First)
Arts
Nonprofit Boxland Media is on a mission to fuel the growth of local multimedia artists through its services. The organization features gallery space, artist networking events, a room for theatrical presentations, and a podcast studio. Its academy also offers voiceover acting, improv classes + theater camps for creatives of all ages. (10TV)
Sports
The NFL season schedule should be announced soon, and we’re pumped. Get the latest news, analysis, and insider information for the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Purple Carrot delivers plant-based meals right to your door. This month’s chef-prepared meal kits are spring-themed + filled with seasonal ingredients (think: Super Greens Fried Rice with Peanut Drizzle).*
Hi, Columbus. I’m Monica, senior national editor with 6AM City, happily working with my friends Mitch + Hanna this week. I’m from San Diego, so I screamed a little when I saw the Columbus Fury vs. San Diego Mojo match going down this Saturday, May 11 at Nationwide Arena.
Did you know? Columbus is one of only seven teams that debuted as part of the Pro Volleyball Federation this year. More teams are coming next year.
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