Midnight Bike Ride 2026

Since 1989, Loyola University history professor Timothy Gilfoyle has conducted a "midnight bike ride" for his students and friends. The event introduces students to major themes in American history by visiting various historic sites in Chicago. 

The Midnight Bike Ride begins at 9:00 pm in the plaza just south of the East Quad and bounded by Cuneo Hall, Madonna della Strada Chapel, and Mundelein Center on the lsc-map-080924.pdf of Loyola University. Riders normally return to campus between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. the following day. The ride takes place in the late evening and morning hours in order to avoid daytime and rush-hour traffic and because participants always see and learn more on a bike than during a bus ride or walking tour. Riders pedal at a leisurely pace (this is not a race), frequently stopping at important historical and architectural sites. Pit stops to eat, drink, and visit the rest room are frequent. All Loyola students, faculty and alumni are invited, and they are encouraged to bring family and friends.

Participants are urged to dress warmly, preferably wearing layers of clothing in order to adapt to the frequently changing Chicago weather. Gloves are also recommended in the event of cold weather, particularly in the early morning hours. Participants should bring money to pay for food and drink, and are also required to sign a legal waiver of release prior to the ride.

Questions? Contact Professor Timothy Gilfoyle at tgilfoy@luc.edu.