Shorewood Named a Top Biking City
The Oak Leaf Trail is one of the amenities that attracts cyclists to Shorewood, Wi
If you’ve ever taken a family ride down the Oak Leaf Trail, zipped past Estabrook Park, hitched a ride on the trail of the Ghost Train or pedaled through the tree-lined streets of Shorewood, you probably already know: this is a great place to bike. Now, the data backs it up.
According to the newly released City Ratings from PeopleForBikes.org, Shorewood ranks as one of the top biking communities in the world — not just in Wisconsin, or even the U.S.
Out of over 3,000 communities worldwide that were evaluated, Shorewood came in:
4th in Wisconsin
22nd in the United States
70th in the World
That puts Shorewood in the top 2% globally when it comes to bikeability, factoring in safety, connectivity, and how well biking is integrated into daily life.
Why Shorewood Stands Out
What makes Shorewood shine? It’s a combination of smart urban planning, a compact and walkable village layout, and direct access to bike-friendly infrastructure like the Oak Leaf Trail, which cuts through the heart of Milwaukee’s North Shore. Families can safely bike to parks, schools, restaurants and the Shorewood Farmers Market with ease — all without needing to drive.
Shorewood also benefits from its tight-knit community, progressive local government, and investment in sustainable transportation. For families looking to ditch the car on a summer day, this small village packs a global punch.
Other North Shore Communities on the List
Shorewood isn’t alone when it comes to great biking. Several nearby communities also earned recognition:
Whitefish Bay ranked 8th in Wisconsin, 169th in the world, and 59th in the U.S. With beautiful neighborhoods, lake views, and proximity to the Oak Leaf Trail, it's a favorite for family rides and casual cyclists alike. This spring, the Village Board accepted the Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Study, which will give guidance on future short-term and long-term bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements.
Fox Point also made the list, ranking 51st in Wisconsin and 723rd globally. While a bit quieter in terms of infrastructure, it still offers scenic routes along Lake Drive and access to nature-based destinations like Doctors Park.
Glendale, just west of Whitefish Bay and Shorewood, landed 62nd in the state. It may not top the list, but its commercial centers and developing trail links offer potential for more biking opportunities.
Together, these communities form a regional hub for biking families — offering safe, beautiful, and accessible routes that make everyday adventures possible on two wheels. You can explore the area with our guide to biking Milwaukee’s North Shore.
Tips for Family-Friendly Biking in the North Shore
Explore the Oak Leaf Trail: This paved trail system winds through the entire Milwaukee metro area and is easily accessible from Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, and Glendale.
Pack a Picnic: Stop at Estabrook Park, Klode Park, or Big Bay Park along the way for snacks and a scenic break.
Visit Local Businesses by Bike: Grab a treat at Milwaukee’s favorite spots like Stone Creek Coffee in Shorewood or Winkie’s in Whitefish Bay — with convenient bike parking nearby.
Check Bike Safety: Make sure helmets fit snugly and tires are pumped before your ride. Many local bike shops offer quick tune-ups and family gear.
Milwaukee’s first public downtown dog park opens August 20 with a ribbon cutting and "Yappy Hour" celebration featuring beer samples, food trucks, live music, and more. Dogs welcome!