Iowa Hosts a 450-Mile Bike Ride Every Summer That’s Been Going Since 1973

Every July, the world's premier cycling event, the Tour de France, sets out on a three-week excursion across the country, covering more than 2,000 miles in 21 stages. Since 1903, crowds have flocked to the roadsides to cheer on their favorites among the 20-plus teams of eight professional riders. It's truly a spectacle to behold—but you have to travel to France to see it in person. If you're not up for making the trip, I have good news for you: You can find similar excitement closer to home—all you have to do is head on over to Hawkeye State in mid-July and line up to cheer on your favorite cyclists, or even participate in, RAGBRAI.

The (Des Moines) Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa, "RAGBRAI," has attracted cyclists and fans for more than half a century. The inaugural ride was organized by the state's flagship newspaper and took place in 1973. It's grown bigger and bigger every year. Like the Tour de France, the route across the state varies each year, but typically covers around 450 miles in seven stages across a week of riding. Unlike Le Tour, however, RAGBRAI sees as many as 50,000 daily riders, almost all of whom are amateurs, making it a huge community event in the state. In fact, it's generally considered the largest recreational cycling event in the U.S., as well as the world.

Cyclists start somewhere near the Missouri River in western Iowa and ride eastward over the course of the ride. They bike between host towns, which are announced in early spring when the Register unveils the route. The ride is a boon for the communities along the route, many of which host celebrations centered around RAGBRAI. Many communities go all out to welcome riders, with massive arches or other decor—giant ears of corn, for instance—to introduce cyclists to their host towns. Food vendors, games, events, and live music make each stop a party for both the riders and the hosts.

The towns sometimes struggle to accommodate all the guests, as tent cities pop up for the night. Some riders shuttle to local hotels or Airbnbs, and local residents typically step up, as well, permitting riders to pitch their tents or set up camp in their yards or driveways. The next morning, they pack up and continue their journey toward the Mississippi River.

Each year, a Mississippi River town hosts RAGBRAI's finish line and usually the biggest party of the race. Whether you're a rider or a spectator, this is one event that belongs on your Iowa bucket list. I know it's not the Tour de France, but in some ways, it's better: You can actually participate as a rider and get a feel for the camaraderie involved in sharing a long, multistage bike ride along a route of communities cheering you on. I still remember the excitement of the riders rolling into town when I was a kid and the festival atmosphere of that evening. It's something you shouldn't miss, either.

Visit RAGBRAI on the web for more information about the ride and registration.