By midmorning on Saturday, Sept. 6, the streets of Baltimore will be filled with fans cheering, wheels whizzing by and a mosaic of riders in uniform.
The Maryland Cycling Classic is back in Baltimore this year after being canceled in 2024 due to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
This year’s race will span 17.9 miles entirely within Baltimore City—compared with past years’ routes that extended into Baltimore County. It will host athletes from more than 30 countries, including Tour de France cyclists, previous world and national champions, and Olympians.
For the first time, there is a women’s version of the race, which begins at 8:30 a.m. and is projected to finish at 11:30 a.m. The men’s race begins at 12:30 p.m. and is expected to end at 4:20 p.m.
Interested in watching this grand spectacle? Here are the six best spots in Baltimore (including designated Fan Zones) to catch a glimpse.
Harbor Point Central Plaza (Start Line)
Both the men and women’s race begins at Harbor point, specifically South Central and Point streets. The start will have food, drinks, a designated “autograph alley” and big screens to watch the race.
The Cobblestones (Fells Point)
The iconic cobblestone roads in Fells Point will be another gathering place for fans. Spectators can enjoy the race between Point Street and Broadway.
Community Bike Jam (Patterson Park)
Patterson Park’s Pulaski Monument at Fleet Street and South Linwood Avenue is another green space to gather. The park will have big screens, free promotional products, appearances by pro cyclists and Olympians and stunt bike demos.
Charles and Monument Streets (Mt. Vernon)
For a more scenic place to watch, Mt. Vernon is home to Baltimore’s historic Washington Monument.
Kelly Benefits KOM/QOM Point (Northern Parkway)
Located along Northern Parkway, this climbing segment marks the King/Queen of the Mountain point on each circuit. Maryland Cycling Classic said the King/Queen of the Mountain classification “will be awarded to the rider who scored the most points on the available locations on course. The first three riders across the line will be awarded 4, 2, and 1 point accordingly.” Fans will receive promotional giveaways at this zone.
PNC Bank Final Push (Finish Line)
To catch the end of the race, fans can gather in the 300 to 800 blocks of East Pratt Street. Post-race interviews will be broadcast from the finish line followed by awards.
Street and Parking Closures
- Road closures and no parking along the entire race route from 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Violators will be relocated.
- I-83 South closure at Exit 5 from 3 a.m to 8 p.m. Traffic will be detoured to Maryland Avenue.
- Beluga Boulevard to President Street double right lane closure from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Northbound closure from East Pratt Street to halfway up Market Place from 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, to 12:00 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 7.
- Southbound left lane closure from East Pratt to East Lombard Streets from 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, to 12 a.m. Sunday, September 7.
Know Before You Go
- Arrive 1-2 hours early to catch a spot. Fan Zones fill up quickly, so plan ahead.
- Use public transportation if possible.
- Bring essentials including water, snacks, and sunscreen.
- Keep neighborhoods clean.
- Check out designated Fan Zones for free products, food, and more.
