Two people having coffee outside a wooden kiosk cafe, with touring bikes leaned alongside the deck
Smithers, BC · Photo: Andrew Strain

Something quietly big happened in the directory this month: the first 145 accredited places went live on BC Bike Stops. These aren't paid placements or self-nominations we took on faith. Each one earned it the same way, by showing us, in their own words, that cyclists are part of how they do business.

Red Beard Cafe in Kamloops was one of the first to be accredited. "Red Beard is just off the Rivers Trail on the flat North Shore of Kamloops. We have many bike racks, and locks if you forget yours." Locks if you forget yours. That's the spirit of the whole program in six words.

Evening patio at Red Beard Cafe: plates and drinks on a red table under string lights at dusk
Red Beard Cafe, Kamloops, BC · Photo: Red Beard Cafe

In Vancouver, Our Community Bikes has been fixing bikes and teaching people to fix their own since long before we showed up. "We strive to create an environment where all people feel safe, included and respected."

Inside Our Community Bikes: rows of refurbished bikes, a brick wall of parts, wheels and a disco ball hanging from the ceiling
Our Community Bikes, Vancouver, BC · Photo: Our Community Bikes

And Accent Inns has made bike-friendliness a chain-wide promise across five BC locations. "Love your bike? Bring it to your room." There's also a wash station and a 37-piece tool kit waiting if your drivetrain needs attention.

The wave runs wider than cafes, shops, and hotels. The Butchart Gardens and Kelowna's Okanagan Heritage Museum are among the attractions now accredited, because a great ride usually has a destination.

The full directory now covers more than 18,000 places across BC, from water refills to welcoming beds. The accredited ones are where someone has gone further and put it in writing. Know a business that belongs on the list? Send them to bccycletourism.ca/apply.

— Heather