Dozen of Events to Enjoy on the Region’s Circuit Trails Network

Posted on

by Mark Hostutler

Saturday, April 25 is Celebrate Trails Day, an annual, nationwide invitation to get outside and experience the trails that connect our communities. Led regionally by the Circuit Trails Coalition and nationally by Rails to Trails Conservancy, the day highlights the growing network of trails that make it easier to explore, commute, and connect.

Across Greater Philadelphia and southern New Jersey, the Circuit Trails network now includes more than 420 miles of multi-use trails. As part of Celebrate Trails Day, Circuit Trails Coalition members are hosting  a wide variety of events, from community gatherings and group bike rides to a trailside creek clean-up and guided hikes. Whether you’re a frequent trail user or discovering the network for the first time, there are countless ways to get involved and explore what’s happening on the Circuit Trails.

While Celebrate Trails Day invites people to get outside and enjoy their local trails, it also highlights something bigger: trails don’t sustain themselves without ongoing public support.

“Trails are essential to our communities — providing safe routes for commuting, access to nature, and connections across neighborhoods, counties, and state lines,” said Justin Dennis, Chair of the Circuit Trails Coalition. “Celebrate Trails Day is not only a great reminder of how valuable this network is, but a reflection of years of sustained investment and community advocacy. To keep this momentum going, continued year-round engagement is essential, especially as we work towards our next goal of 550 miles by 2030.”

Residents can support the Circuit Trails beyond Celebrate Trails Day by contacting local elected officials to share why these trails matter and urge continued investment and maintenance across the region.

As the region gears up for Saturday, there’s no better time to experience the trails for yourself. Find an event on a Circuit Trail near you and see where you can join in on the fun!

Celebrate Trails Day Sunset Bike Ride
When: 6-8 PM
Where: Lloyd Hall, 1 Boathouse Row, Philadelphia 19130

Healing Through the Land is hosting a celebratory sunset bike ride along the Schuylkill Riverbank, beginning with a walk before an approximately one-hour ride toward Boathouse Row. Participants will travel in illuminated surrey bikes from Wheel Fun Rentals.

Read the full article on Vista.Today >>

Wheel Fun Rentals Brings Back Iconic Swan Boats to Humboldt Park Boathouse in Chicago

Posted on

For Immediate Release:
April 23, 2026

Chicago, IL – The lagoon in Humboldt Pak just got a whole lot more fun… again! Wheel Fun Rentals is thrilled to announce the reopening of its location at the Humboldt Park Boathouse, offering visitors and locals a great way to enjoy all the park has to offer with its iconic Swan Pedal Boats and flagship 4-wheel Surrey cycles.

Nestled on Chicago’s West Side, Humboldt Park is celebrated for its historic charm, scenic lagoon, and vibrant community. With picturesque views and a peaceful setting, it’s an ideal escape for families, couples, and groups. The return of Swan Boats adds a nostalgic touch, blending the park’s rich history with new memories for today’s visitors. Swan Boat rentals will open on Saturday, April 25th with Surrey cycle rentals following in early May.

Wheel Fun Rentals at Humboldt Park will feature both the brand’s iconic Swan Pedal Boats and its signature multi-rider 4-wheel Surrey cycles, giving guests two fun-filled ways to explore by water and by land. Whether gliding across the lagoon in a whimsical swan boat or cruising the park’s scenic pathways with family and friends, visitors can enjoy an easygoing, laughter-filled outing perfect for all ages.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Swan Boats back to Humboldt Park,” said franchise owner Rodney Knight. “The community has been asking for their return, and it’s exciting to once again offer an activity that brings people together, gets them outside, and highlights the beauty of the park.” He added that the goal is to create a welcoming, family-friendly experience that reflects the spirit and pride of the surrounding neighborhood.

Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis with Swan Boat rentals priced at $30 per hour. Each boat can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children under 10 years of age. Wheel Fun’s Surrey cycles are priced at $29 for a Single Surrey (seats up to 3 adults and 2 small children) and $39 for a Double Surrey (seats up to 6 adults and 2 small children). Group outings and special events will also be accommodated, making it an ideal destination for celebrations and community gatherings.

Wheel Fun Rentals has been a trusted, national leader in outdoor recreation for over 30 years, bringing unique, people-powered fun to parks and waterfronts nationwide. For more information on Wheel Fun Rentals at Humboldt Park, including rental details and hours of operation, visit wheelfunrentals.com/humboldt.

 

###

Media Contact:   Rodney Knight •  (320) 266-1164 •  wheelfunrentals@msn.com

 

About Wheel Fun Rentals
Founded in 1987, Wheel Fun Rentals started with four wheel Surrey cycles, evolved into specialty bike rentals and bike tours, and now offers recreational rentals of all kinds from more than 100 outlets in 16 states.  Specializing in unique bikes and tours, Wheel Fun Rentals has been offering clean, healthy family fun and affordable outdoor entertainment to nearly 3 million customers annually from city and state parks, resorts, and retail outlets through corporate locations and franchised territories. For more information about Wheel Fun Rentals please visit www.wheelfunrentals.com or call 805-650-7770. Follow Wheel Fun Rentals: @WheelFunRentalsOfficial and @WheelFunBend on Facebook, @WheelFunRentalsOfficial on Instagram, and @WheelFunRentals on Twitter.

Swan Boat Rentals Are Returning To The Humboldt Park Lagoon

Posted on

A familiar bevy of swans have again landed at Humboldt Park’s lagoon.

They’re set to receive some tender loving care after being cooped up in storage for nearly a year, but the flock of swans will soon be ready to carry people out onto the lagoon after taking last season off.

Wheel Fun Rentals, a California-based company that had offered swan boat rentals at the lagoon in partnership with the Chicago Park District, is bringing back its popular rentals to Humboldt Park, Franchisee co-owner Rodney Knight confirmed.

Over the weekend and on Monday, company workers were seen getting the boats back out onto the lagoon, conducting necessary maintenance work before they’re ready to pedal. Some of the boats will receive new heads, a fresh wash and some new parts.

The company, offering the pedal boat and bike rentals, had operated out of the lagoon boathouse at 1301 N. Humboldt Park Drive since 2018. Business, however, had been slow since the pandemic, so the franchise owners decided to close the concession before the start of last summer, with no immediate plans to return.

But with a prospective all-day cafe set to open at the boathouse veranda this year, Wheel Fun Rentals’ franchise owners decided to return its boat and bike services to Humboldt Park, Knight said. He also admitted to missing the popular boat service business last summer, which factored into the decision to return.

“Especially if there is a restaurant there, it can bring energy to the park and we need to be there,” Knight said. “We ultimately decided that even if the restaurant did not open, we were going to be coming back.”

The swan boats — about 15 of them — will be open for business April 25, he said.

Read the full article at WLSam.com >>

Wheel Fun Rentals Introduces New Pedal-Assist Surrey Bikes at Shoreline Village in Long Beach

Posted on

For Immediate Release:
April 16, 2026

Long Beach, CA – Wheel Fun Rentals is excited to introduce its new Pedal Assist E-Surrey cycles, now available exclusively at their Shoreline Village location in Long Beach. This new offering provides guests with an upgraded way to enjoy the brand’s signature group ride experience along the scenic Long Beach waterfront, blending classic pedal-powered fun with technology that makes the ride smoother and more comfortable for everyone.

Designed with ease and accessibility in mind, Pedal Assist E-Surreys feature a torque-assisted electric motor that enhances the pedaling experience but does not replace it. Riders still pedal together as a group, just like a traditional 4-Wheel Surrey cycle. The added motor support makes pedaling much easier, helping groups get moving more easily, maintain momentum, and enjoy a more relaxed, leisurely ride for a smoother ride from start to finish. The result is the same interactive, social, and active experience guests love, now with added comfort and accessibility for longer rides and full-capacity groups.

“Pedal-assist Surreys are all about making the experience more accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” said Mike Ullerick, Operations Director at Wheel Fun Rentals. “You still get the fun of riding together as a group, but with added support that makes longer rides and full-capacity bikes feel easier and more comfortable. The pedal-assist motor simply provides a little extra torque that makes the ride feel smoother and more manageable with less work.”

Perfect for families, groups of friends, date outings, and riders of all experience levels, Pedal-Assist E-Surreys are an ideal choice for guests looking to extend their ride distance or simply enjoy the waterfront at a more relaxed pace. The enhanced torque helps reduce fatigue while keeping the ride active, engaging, and social – staying true to the classic Wheel Fun Rentals experience.

Pedal Assist E-Surrey rentals are available exclusively at Wheel Fun Rentals at Shoreline Village in Long Beach. Pricing is $35 per hour for a Single Pedal Assist E-Surrey (seats up to 3 adults and 2 small children), and $45 per hour for a Double Pedal Assist E-Surrey (seats up to 6 adults and 2 small children). Advance online reservations are available. For more information and to book your Pedal Assist E-Surrey rental, visit wheelfunrentals.com/reserve-shoreline.

Wheel Fun Rentals has been a trusted leader in outdoor recreation for over 30 years, bringing unique, people-powered experiences to parks, waterfronts, and iconic destinations across the country. The introduction of Pedal Assist E-Surrey bikes at Shoreline Village reflects the company’s continued commitment to innovation, accessibility, and creating memorable outdoor adventures for guests of all ages.

For more information about Pedal Assist E-Surrey bike rentals at Shoreline Village, including availability, reservations, pricing, and hours of operation, visit wheelfunrentals.com/shoreline or call (805) 650-7770.

###

Media Contact:   Sheena Walenta •  (805) 650-7770  •  marketing@wheelfunrentals.com

 

About Wheel Fun Rentals
Founded in 1987, Wheel Fun Rentals started with four wheel Surrey cycles, evolved into specialty bike rentals and bike tours, and now offers recreational rentals of all kinds from more than 100 outlets in 16 states.  Specializing in unique bikes and tours, Wheel Fun Rentals has been offering clean, healthy family fun and affordable outdoor entertainment to nearly 3 million customers annually from city and state parks, resorts, and retail outlets through corporate locations and franchised territories. For more information about Wheel Fun Rentals please visit www.wheelfunrentals.com or call 805-650-7770. Follow Wheel Fun Rentals: @WheelFunRentalsOfficial and @WheelFunBend on Facebook, @WheelFunRentalsOfficial on Instagram, and @WheelFunRentals on Twitter.

Lakes Regional Park’s Iconic Miniature Train Takes Center Stage

Posted on

by Jason Drew

FORT MYERS, Fla. —
Lakes Regional Park in Fort Myers is a Southwest Florida staple — more than 300 acres of lakes, trails, gardens, wildlife, and family‑friendly activities that draw visitors year‑round. And this week, Good Morning Gulf Coast’s Jason Drew took “Gulfcoasting” to the tracks for a special look at one of the park’s most beloved attractions: the miniature train ride.

Jason hopped aboard with a group of dedicated volunteers and Barbara Manzo, president of the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, for a behind‑the‑scenes ride through the park’s winding pathways and scenic landscapes. The volunteers who operate the train — many of whom have been involved for years — help maintain the tracks, run the locomotives, and keep this unique experience alive for families across the region.

The train isn’t the only thing that makes Lakes Regional Park a standout. Visitors can explore miles of walking and biking trails, rent kayaks or swan boats, and cruise the park on surrey bikes. Kids can wander through the Children’s Garden, while local growers and artisans fill the grounds every Wednesday for the park’s popular Farmers Market.

The Community Gardens add another layer of charm, giving residents a place to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers while connecting with neighbors.

Whether you’re paddling across the lake, strolling the boardwalk, pedaling through the trails, or enjoying the train ride that’s delighted generations, Lakes Regional Park remains one of Fort Myers’ most treasured outdoor escapes.

For more information about the park, visit its website at Lakes Park.

Read the full article on GulfCoastNewsNow.com >>

Echo Park Swan Boats Featured in LA Times Article

Posted on
image by Jason Armond, LA Times
Photo by Jason Armond, LA Times

We’re excited to share that the iconic Swan Boats at Echo Park Lake were recently featured in an article by the Los Angeles Times!

In a recent story covering incoming Santa Ana winds across Southern California, a photo of visitors enjoying the Swan Boats was included as the lead image—highlighting the beauty and everyday joy found at Echo Park.

While the article focused on weather conditions and forecasted wind gusts, the image captured a calm and picturesque moment on the water, showcasing Swan Boats as a beloved Los Angeles experience.

Located just minutes from downtown, Echo Park Lake continues to be a go-to destination for both locals and visitors looking to relax, explore, and take in stunning skyline views. Being featured in such a prominent publication is a great reminder of how special this experience truly is.

Next time you’re in the area, come experience it for yourself! Whether you’re planning a casual outing or a picture-perfect day on the water, the Swan Boats at Echo Park are ready to make your day unforgettable. Reserve your swan boat rental today!

Read the full article on LAtimes.com >>

Guidelines & Safety Instructions (Portland, OR)

Posted on

Select Your Language in the Top Right Corner. Seleccione su idioma en la esquina superior derecha.

 

Skip to: Safety Instructions

RENTAL GUIDELINES

Rules differ for group reservations.

  • Renters must be 18 years of age or older and provide a valid, physical government-issued photo ID to be held as rental collateral until rental product is returned.
  • All Rentals: One-hour minimum. After first hour all rental hours are prorated in 15-minute increments.
  • We do not offer refunds for weather – Rain Checks Only.
  • Damaged Goods – You will be charged for product damaged during your rental.

 

SAFETY GUIDELINES:

  • Helmets and other safety equipment offered FREE. We recommend it!
  • All riders under 16 years of age must wear a helmet. – Oregon State Law.
  • Surrey and Deuce Coupe drivers must be 16 years of age or older, or accompanied in the front seat by a licensed adult.
  • Ride safely, use common sense, watch for others and obey all traffic laws.
  • Please be certain you receive and understand riding instructions prior to renting.

 

ELECTRIC BIKES (if applicable at location):

  • Electric Bike riders must be 16 years of age or older and wear a helmet at all times regardless of age.
  • Be prepared to take evasive action or stop suddenly and maintain safe speeds of under 10mph when near other cyclists and pedestrians.

 

Review Release of Liability Agreement for full rental terms & conditions. All equipment rented is subject to the rules of operation. Failure to obey is subject to immediate termination of rental without refund.

 

Jump to Instructions For:   Surreys | Specialty Cycles | Electric Bikes | Multispeed Bikes | Cruiser Bikes

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SURREY CYCLES:

  • The brake lever is located next to the steering wheel. Please use the brake at all times when going downhill. Practice and become comfortable with the brakes before beginning your ride. 
  • For all people in the pedaling position – when backing up please put your feet on the ground away from the pedals & cranks, not on frame or Chainguard and push backwards. The pedals rotate backwards and can hit you in the shin or pinch your foot.
  • Maximum 3 riders per seat, no sidesaddle, no standing & no hanging on the outside.
  • Obey all rules of the road, maintain safe speeds and watch for cars & pedestrians.
  • Helmets are recommended for everyone, and helmets are required for minors under 18 years old – California State Law.
  • Secure your wallet, cell phone, and anything else that may be in you back pocket.

IF NIGHT RIDE

  • Also, please keep the noise level down, so as not to disturb the surrounding community.

 

SPECIALTY CYCLES (DEUCE COUPES, CHOPPERS, QUAD SPORTS):

  • These have pedal brakes which work by backpedaling. Please use the brakes at all times when going downhill. Practice and become comfortable with the brakes before beginning your ride.
  • No extra riders, no sidesaddle, no standing & no hanging on the outside.
  • Obey all rules of the road, maintain safe speeds and watch for cars & pedestrians.
  • Helmets are recommended for everyone, and helmets are required for minors under 18 years old – California State Law.
  • Secure your wallet, cell phone, and anything else that may be in your back pocket.

 

ELECTRIC BIKES (if applicable at location):

  • Please ride safely and obey the rules of the road at all times.
  • The front brake is on your left. The rear brake is on your right. Be cautious using the front brake, when turning or if sand, gravel, water or other debris is on the road surface; your front wheel could slide out. Practice and become comfortable with the brakes before beginning your ride.
  • When on roads, ride single file do not ride two or three abreast. Ride with the traffic (on the right side of the road).
  • Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals.
  • Ride carefully where cars are parked; people don’t look for cyclists when they pull out or open their car doors.
  • E-bike riders must be 16 years of age or older.
  • E-bike riders must wear a helmet at all times, regardless of age.
  • Maintain safe speeds of under 10mph when approaching or near other cyclists and pedestrians.
  • When approaching slower riders, pass on their left hand side and verbally state “on your left” as you approach them to prevent incident.
  • Allow for greater braking distance and be prepared to take evasive action or stop suddenly relating to vehicles, other riders, or pedestrians.
  • Monitor battery life on the digital display during your ride. It is your responsibility to manage the appropriate pedal assist level for the duration & distance of your rental. 

 

MULTISPEED BIKES (if applicable at location):

  • Shifting is simple – lower numbered gears make pedaling easier for uphill or headwinds, higher numbers give you more speed.
  • The front brake is on the left. The rear brake is on your right. Be cautious using the front brake, when turning on sand, gravel, water or other debris is on the road surface; your front wheel could slide out.
  • Practice and become comfortable with the brakes before beginning your ride.
  • When on roads, ride single file do not ride two or three abreast. Ride with the traffic (on the right side of the road).
  • Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals.
  • Ride carefully where cars are parked; people don’t look for cyclists when they pull out or open their car doors.
  • Helmets are recommended for everyone, and helmets are required for minors under 18 years old – California State Law.

 

CRUISERS/SINGLE-SPEED BIKES (if applicable at location):

  • These have pedal brakes which work by backpedaling. Please use the brake at all times when going downhill. Practice and become comfortable with the brakes before beginning your ride.
  • Be cautious when turning on sand, gravel, or debris is on the road surface; your front wheel could slide out.
  • When on roads, ride single file do not ride two or three abreast. Ride with the traffic (on the right side of the road).
  • Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals.
  • Ride carefully where cars are parked; people don’t look for cyclists when they pull out or open their car doors.
  • Helmets are recommended for everyone, and helmets are required for minors under 18 years old – California State Law.

Penn’s Landing Marina Swan Boats & Bikes by Wheel Fun Rentals Now Open!

Posted on

For Immediate Release:
March 31, 2026

Philadelphia, PA – The Delaware River waterfront just got a whole lot more fun. Wheel Fun Rentals is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest location Penn’s Landing Marina Swan Boats & Bikes by Wheel Fun Rentals, offering visitors and locals a playful new way to experience the scenic riverfront with its iconic Swan Pedal Boats and flagship 4-wheel Surrey cycles.

At the center of the new experience are Wheel Fun Rentals’ iconic Swan Pedal Boats, offering a charming, leisurely way to cruise the marina while taking in stunning views of the Delaware River waterfront. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, these eye-catching boats deliver a fun, photo-worthy experience that’s as relaxing as it is unforgettable. Swan Boat rentals are $12 per adult and $7 per child (17 yrs & younger), per hour. Reservations are required and can be booked at wheelfunrentals.com/book-penns-landing.

Starting later this summer, LED-illuminated Swan Boat Night Rides will light up the water after sunset for magical summer evenings along the waterfront. This after-dark offering will add a whole new dimension to the marina, creating a must-do activity for summer nights in Philadelphia.

On land, the fun continues with Wheel Fun Rentals’ signature 4-wheel Surrey cycles, perfect for exploring the waterfront, nearby parks, and the Delaware River Trail. Surrey rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexible, spontaneous fun for those looking to ride along the scenic riverfront.

“Penns’ Landing is truly about bringing the community together and creating memorable experiences along the river,” said Mike Ullerick, Wheel Fun Rentals’ Director of Operations, “We’re honored to be part of such a great community along the waterfront and to help create a destination where families, friends, and visitors can gather, explore, and enjoy the outdoors.”

Whether planning a family outing, date night, group celebration, or simply searching for fun things to do along the waterfront, Penn’s Landing Marina Swan Boats & Bikes by Wheel Fun Rentals offers fun for all ages. For more information about Penn’s Landing Marina Swan Boats & Bikes by Wheel Fun Rentals, including rental details, pricing, and hours of operation, visit wheelfunrentals.com/penns-landing.

With over 30 years of experience in the recreation industry, Wheel Fun Rentals stands as the leading provider of outdoor recreational activities nationwide and is also the official bike rental concessionaire for Philadelphia Parks and Recreation in Fairmount Park at Boathouse Row offering Surreys, specialty cycles, electric bikes, kids bikes, bike tours, and more.  For current hours of operation at available rentals at Wheel Fun Rentals Boathouse Row, visit wheelfunrentals.com/BHR.

###

Media Contact:  Sheena Walenta  •  (805) 650-7770  •  swalenta@wheelfunrentals.com

 

About Wheel Fun Rentals
Founded in 1987, Wheel Fun Rentals started with four wheel Surrey cycles, evolved into specialty bike rentals and bike tours, and now offers recreational rentals of all kinds from more than 100 outlets in 16 states.  Specializing in unique bikes and tours, Wheel Fun Rentals has been offering clean, healthy family fun and affordable outdoor entertainment to nearly 3 million customers annually from city and state parks, resorts, and retail outlets through corporate locations and franchised territories. For more information about Wheel Fun Rentals please visit www.wheelfunrentals.com or call 805-650-7770. Follow Wheel Fun Rentals: @WheelFunRentalsOfficial and @WheelFunBend on Facebook, @WheelFunRentalsOfficial on Instagram, and @WheelFunRentals on Twitter.

Wheel Fun Rentals Featured in Old Mill District Weekly Newsletter

Posted on
Image by Old Mill District newsletter
Image by Old Mill District

Exploring Bend, Oregon by bike is a true local favorite, and one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty that makes this destination so special. From scenic rides along the Deschutes River Trail to cruising through some of Bend’s most beloved neighborhoods, biking offers a fun, active, and immersive way to take it all in. At Wheel Fun Rentals in the Old Mill District, guests can enjoy a wide variety of bike rentals perfect for all ages, as well as Guided Bike Tours that take the guesswork out of planning and showcase the very best sights Bend has to offer.

We’re excited to share that Wheel Fun Rentals was recently featured in the Old Mill District’s weekly newsletter! Here’s what they had to say:

Wheely Good Time
Wheel Fun Rentals is set to reopen their doors for the season on March 20. Head on down to Wheel Fun Rentals found near Riverbend Dog Park off of Southwest Columbia Street to discover the rental packages they offer and begin your Bend, Oregon sightseeing this spring. Pedal your way to stunning views of the Deschutes River, stay on the lookout for river otters, and breeze through some of Bend’s most beloved areas.

As we kick off another exciting season in Bend, we invite locals and visitors alike to get outside, explore, and ride with us. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely solo ride, a fun family outing, or a fully guided experience, Wheel Fun Rentals has something for everyone. Plus, reservations for all bike rentals and Guided Bike Tours are available online—making it easier than ever to plan your adventure ahead of time.

Start planning your next ride today!