Scottsdale’s Cycle the Arts turns 20, celebrates Bike Month with art-filled ride

Scottsdale’s beloved Cycle the Arts event is marking a major milestone this year, celebrating 20 years of combining public art, community and cycling as part of April’s Bike Month festivities.

The free, 10-mile guided bike ride takes place Sunday, April 19, and invites participants to explore Scottsdale’s extensive public art collection through a curated tour featuring nine stops. Along the route, riders will hear insights from local artists, community volunteers and Scottsdale Arts staff, offering a deeper look at the stories behind each installation.

This year’s route highlights public art at several city parks and facilities, including Arabian Library, Bell94 Sports Complex and WestWorld. While the event is free, registration is required and space is limited.

“Cycle the Arts brings bike riders and art enthusiasts together for a cycling experience that is uniquely Scottsdale, showcasing select public art installations and the city’s bicycle network,” said City Manager Greg Caton. “This year’s event coincides with Scottsdale’s 75th anniversary celebration and will incorporate a Biking in Scottsdale timeline that highlights milestones like construction of the city’s first bike lane and our continued recognition as a Bicycle Friendly Community.”

Adding to the celebration, original artwork for this year’s event was created by Arizona artist Ariana Enriquez. Her design features bold colors and dynamic movement, including an optical illusion inspired by bicycle wheels. Enriquez recently completed mural work in Old Town, where she transformed APS transformer boxes near the Noriega Livery Stable and Scottsdale Rodeo Museum with painted scenes reflecting the area’s history and spirit.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the City of Scottsdale on the 20th Cycle the Arts,” said Kati Ballares, director of Scottsdale Public Art. “Two decades of this event reflect the enduring power of public art to bring people together and transform city streets into shared spaces of creativity, connection and discovery.”

Following the April 19 event, an interactive, self-guided map of the route will be available online. The map will include details and links to featured artworks, along with additional information about Scottsdale’s public art collection.

Scottsdale has been recognized as a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists since 2011. The city continues to invest in a robust network of bicycle amenities, including 136 miles of multiuse paths, 168 miles of unpaved trails, and 289 miles of on-street bike lanes and routes.

Register early and be part of this milestone celebration that highlights Scottsdale’s commitment to arts, connectivity and active lifestyles.