The Philadelphia International Championship Bike Race
Date:
June 7, 2009
The Race
The world’s most competitive cyclists turn their sights on Philadelphia for the annual Philadelphia International Championship every June, when about 300,000 fans line an arduous road course to watch hundreds of elite pro cyclists whip through some of Philadelphia’s most beautiful streets.
The scenic course includes the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and, of course, the infamous Manayunk “Wall,” a 17% grade hill rising sharply off the banks of the Schuylkill River.
The race is a culmination of a weekend of related festivities that are great for the entire family.
Best Places To Watch
The best places from which to watch the race are:
- the “Feed Zone” located near the start/finish line along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway,
- the Family Fun Zone on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art,
- along Main Street in Manayunk,
- along the Manayunk Wall,
- Lemon Hill in Fairmount Park,
- and various spots along Kelly Drive in Fairmount Park, which you must walk to since the Drive is closed to traffic.
Thinking of coming to see the Race? The Independent Hotel in Philadelphia is now taking reservations. Click on make a reservation or call us today!