Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Tour De Proviso
Get ready to pedal your way into a day of excitement, camaraderie, and two-wheeled adventure with Tour de Proviso! This community bike ride is not just your ordinary event; it's a pedal-powered extravaganza that's all about bringing people together. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or someone who hasn't dusted off their bike in years, this family-friendly and fun-filled day is your ticket to a memorable experience.
With a mission to promote health, wellness, transportation, and tourism in the Proviso region, it's time to pump some air into those tires, grab your helmet, and join us for a celebration like no other!
IT'S TIME FOR THE 2025 TOUR DE PROVISO
Get ready for a day of excitement, camaraderie, and a unique two-wheeled adventure at Tour de Proviso on Saturday, October 4, 2025—hosted in Oak Park, Forest Park, and River Forest for the first time! This pedal-powered celebration of health and wellness brings together 14 communities across Proviso Township, including Bellwood, Broadview, Forest Park, Maywood, Oak Park, River Forest, and many more.
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, someone who hasn't been on the back of a bike for years, or a spectator, this family-friendly, fun-filled community celebration is designed for you. Everyone is welcome!
What is Tour de Proviso?
Tour De Proviso, which began as a simple invitation to a neighborly bike ride, quickly grew into much more. Looking for a way to help residents stay connected and active early in the pandemic, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson invited the community to come along on her regular Sunday morning bike rides. Now in its sixth year, Tour de Proviso has become a 14-community event, hosted by a different town each year. This year’s event, set to begin in Oak Park on Saturday, October 4, will bring neighboring communities together for a morning of cycling and a celebration of Chicago’s western suburbs, highlighting the unique features, local businesses, and people who make these towns so inviting.
What Can You Expect?
Tour De Proviso is a family-friendly event designed for cyclists of all skill levels, co-hosted this year by the villages of Oak Park, Forest Park, and River Forest. Two routes of varying distance will be offered: a 7-mile route and a 20-mile route. Both begin and end in Oak Park, near Village Hall (123 Madison Street) and extend through neighboring River Forest and Forest Park. The longer route, designed for more advanced riders, will also cover Maywood, Bellwood, and Broadview. Registered riders should gather on Saturday morning, October 4, around 7:00 a.m. to check in for both races. The 20-mile ride begins at 8:00 a.m., and participants in the shorter ride take off around 8:30 a.m.
Check out the route maps here:
What About Non-Riders?
There are many activities and events for non-riding friends, neighbors, and family members! Find a spot along the route to cheer on the cyclists, then head to the south lawn of Oak Park’s Village Hall for the Community Fair from 9 a.m. to noon. There, you can meet, mingle, and learn more about the participating communities. The fair will feature more than 20 participants from West Cook County, including elected officials, local organizations, and businesses, as well as food vendors and a DJ providing music. On or off a bike, there's something for everyone at Tour de Proviso!
Explore Oak Park
While you are in town, discover numerous examples of architectural excellence, varied shopping districts, beautiful parks and green spaces. With so many attractions and activities in Oak Park and beyond, it makes an ideal escape from the city. Visit OakParkandBeyond.com to plan a memorable day in Oak Park exploring the village’s shops, cafes, and locally owned boutiques.
You’ll find many restaurants, from fine dining to brewpubs and taquerias, that welcome your family with open arms. Visit OakParkandBeyond.com to discover local spots throughout the near west suburbs that offer free or discounted meals when you bring your little ones along. Many local restaurants are offering dine-in specials to celebrate Tour de Proviso and welcome riders, their friends and family, and other spectators.
Billy Bricks (128 North Oak Park Avenue) is offering 20% off your total bill when you dine in on Saturday, October 4—just show your Tour de Proviso t-shirt. Wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas plus salads and sandwiches.
Grape Leaves (129 S Oak Park Ave) is offering a free appetizer or refreshment with the purchase of a meal on Saturday, October 4 when you show your Tour de Proviso t-shirt. Casual Mediterranean/Lebanese spot with grape leaves, kabobs, falafel, and fresh salads. They’re also donating a $20 gift certificate for the raffle.
Jerusalem Cafe (1030 Lake Street) is offering a free drink—no purchase necessary—when you show your Tour de Proviso t-shirt on Saturday, October 4. A neighborhood favorite for Middle Eastern & Mediterranean classics like falafel, shawarma, and hummus.
Maya del Sol (144 South Oak Park Avenue) delivers an innovative, flavorful menu of housemade favorites from Mexico, Central America, and South America. On Saturday, October 4, enjoy buy-one-get-one house margaritas, red or white sangria, and house wine when you mention Tour de Proviso.
Q BBQ (124 North Marion Street) is offering 10% off your bill when you show your Tour de Proviso t-shirt on Saturday, October 4. A local smokehouse known for ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and classic sides.
Tacos el Tio (1115 Lake Street) is offering 15% off your bill when you dine in on Saturday, October 4. Enjoy truly authentic Mexican flavors, such as tripe and lengua, flavorful aguas frescas, creamy beans, and a delicious green salsa, at this local favorite after your ride.
Tours in and around Oak Park highlight the area’s rich history and provide a unique insight into Oak Park's cultural heritage. Visit OakParkandBeyond.com for tours that explore the history of organized crime, the brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright and Frederick Law Olmsted, and much more.
If the riders inspire you to explore the area from the saddle of your bike, remember that this town was made for meandering, and your bike is your all-access pass. Grab your helmet, air up those tires, and see it for yourself. Visit OakParkandBeyond.com for insider tips on biking this beautiful village after Tour de Proviso riders have cleared the bike lanes.
Directions & Parking
It’s easy, fast, and direct to get to Oak Park—by car or by train. Taking I-290 to either Austin or Harlem Avenue offers the quickest path by car. Event day parking in Oak Park is free and is available for all riders, volunteers, friends, family, and other supporters. Refer to the Oak Park Parking Map for convenient, free parking at the event. Whether you’re coming from the city or a nearby suburb, getting there with your bike on public transportation is simple.
CTA “L” Trains
Bikes are allowed on CTA trains at all times on weekends and holidays. Exit the CTA Green Line at the Austin or Oak Park station. Oak Park Village Hall is a short ride from both stations.
Metra Trains
Bikes are welcome on Metra trains any time! Most lines allow up to five bikes per accessible railcar. You’ll need to secure your bike with a bungee cord or strap—either to built-in racks or the lower rail under the folding seats, depending on the car. The Metra Oak Park station is a short ride to Oak Park Village Hall.
Pace Buses
Every Pace bus has a front-mounted rack that fits two bikes. Just load your bike before boarding and you’re all set. For bus schedules, call 847-364-PACE (7223) or visit PaceBus.com.
Why is Tour de Proviso Important?
Tour De Proviso is not just a bike ride; it's a celebration of community, builds lasting relationships, and promotes ongoing interest in cross-community events and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is this year’s Tour de Proviso?
This year’s Tour de Proviso takes place on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Where is this year’s Tour de Proviso?
This year’s Tour de Proviso begins and ends in Oak Park.
Where does this year’s Tour de Proviso start and end?
This year’s Tour de Proviso starts and ends at Oak Park Village Hall (123 Madison Street)
What time is this year’s Tour de Proviso?
Registered riders should gather at Oak Park Village Hall (123 Madison Street) at 7:00 a.m. and be prepared for an 8:00 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. start, depending on which ride you're participating in.
Where does the ride go?
The 7-mile family ride goes through the villages of Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park. The longer, 20-mile main ride will also tour Maywood, Bellwood, and Broadview.
How long is the ride?
The ride will take about an hour for most riders.
What are the safety considerations for this year’s Tour de Proviso riders?
The local police department officials will guide riders along the route, and a water station will be available for those who need it. Riders who need to exit the ride early will be assisted.
Do I bring my own bike? Are there bikes available to rent?
Riders must provide their own bike or e-bike. Additionally, a helmet is required for safety.
What clothing is recommended?
Riders should wear layers to stay comfortable as the temperature changes. A cool morning start will likely give way to a warmer afternoon, especially once you begin pedaling.
Who can participate in this year’s Tour de Proviso?
The ride is open to everyone of all ages and riding abilities. Non-area residents are also invited to participate.
Is there a cost for participating in this year’s Tour de Proviso?
The ride is free.