Walk this way at CicLAvia

CicLAvia rolls through L.A.’s streets for the third time on Sunday, October 9, but don’t let the “cicla” part of the name fool you. Pedestrians are not only welcome—they may have the best vantage point on the route.

Two new segments—one running north to El Pueblo de Los Angeles and the other south through the Fashion District to the African American Firefighter Museum—bring more opportunities for street level interaction and sightseeing along the 10-mile, car-free route that stretches from the Bicycle District to Boyle Heights. Some 100,000 people are expected, so get there early (here’s how), wear comfortable shoes and come prepared to share the space with lots of bicyclists.

Joe Linton, a CicLAvia organizer, says a little eye contact and mutual respect should make sharing the street fun and safe for all.

“It’s become known as kind of a cycling event but it’s also for walking,” Linton says. “You can just go two blocks and people watch.”

Or you can do so much more: shop for a piñata, grab a bite to eat, pose in a photo booth, soak up some L.A. history, check out an iconic building shaped like a ship, and experience dozens of planned and impromptu diversions, including musical and dance performances. (Click here and here for some of the highlights.) There’s even a festival planned for those who want to sample moles, complex and savory stews cooked from authentic Mexican regional recipes.

Guided tours are being offered in Little Tokyo, Boyle Heights and an area dubbed the Spring Street Promenade downtown. For times and locations, check out this downloadable flyer, which also lists locations for some of the fixed attractions. Who could resist a solar-powered DJ or chance to cavort with what’s being billed as a “costumed colony of furry pranksters” at the Bunny Rest Stop?

And for those who want to have their bike and check it too, rest assured—CicLAvia’s free bike valets will be on hand at key points so you can drop off your wheels and join the passing promenade on foot.

Posted 10/5/11