Old Washington Street Bridge
Capture the iconic DUMBO view: Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed with the Empire State Building, set against historic cobblestone streets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Old Washington Street Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Capture the iconic DUMBO view: Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed with the Empire State Building, set against historic cobblestone streets.
"The most photographed street and bridge with an iconic view of the Manhattan Bridge and Empire State Building."
🎯 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for the iconic Manhattan Bridge shot. Weekday mornings are best! :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Those charming cobblestones can be tough on your feet. Wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manhattan Bridge & Empire State View
Washington Street between Front and Water Streets
The quintessential DUMBO shot: Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed by historic buildings, with the Empire State Building peeking through.
Cobblestone Charm
Washington Street, DUMBO
Experience the historic ambiance of DUMBO's picturesque cobblestone street, a photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Embrace the Cobblestones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for the iconic Manhattan Bridge shot. Weekday mornings are best! :camerawithflash: 
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Those charming cobblestones can be tough on your feet. Wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Frame the Shot
Position yourself to get the Empire State Building perfectly framed by the Manhattan Bridge towers. :iphone:
📍 DUMBO Exploration
Don't just snap a pic; explore the rest of DUMBO's shops and waterfront. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for the iconic Manhattan Bridge shot. Weekday mornings are best! :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Those charming cobblestones can be tough on your feet. Wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Frame the Shot
Position yourself to get the Empire State Building perfectly framed by the Manhattan Bridge towers. :iphone:
📍 DUMBO Exploration
Don't just snap a pic; explore the rest of DUMBO's shops and waterfront. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredibly iconic and picturesque view of the Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building, calling it a quintessential New York City photo opportunity. The charming cobblestone streets of DUMBO add to the historic ambiance. However, many note that the spot gets extremely crowded, especially on weekends and afternoons, making it challenging to get a clear shot.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Washington Street for the iconic view is via the NYC Subway. Take the F train to York St or the A/C trains to High St. From there, it's a short walk to Washington Street between Front and Water Streets. :subway:
Street parking in DUMBO can be extremely difficult and time-consuming to find. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a rideshare service. :car:
Yes, if you're exploring other parts of DUMBO or Brooklyn Bridge Park, Washington Street is within walking distance. Enjoy the scenic stroll! :walking:
The F train to York Street station is often considered the most convenient, putting you just a block away from the prime photo spot. :subway:
Several bus routes serve the DUMBO area, including the B62 and the B25, which can get you close to Washington Street. Check MTA schedules for specific stops. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Washington Street is a public street in DUMBO, Brooklyn. There are no tickets or admission fees required to visit and take photos. :free:
Washington Street is accessible 24/7 as it's a public thoroughfare. However, for the best photographic opportunities and fewer crowds, early mornings are recommended. :clock1:
Absolutely not! The iconic view of the Manhattan Bridge and Empire State Building from Washington Street is completely free to enjoy. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can visit Washington Street at night, and the city lights offer a different, beautiful perspective. However, the iconic framing of the Empire State Building might be less distinct. :nightwithstars:
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially before 9 AM. Weekends and afternoons are significantly busier. :running:
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning, especially during the 'golden hour' just after sunrise, offers the best light and fewest people. Weekday mornings are ideal. :sunrise:
Stand in the middle of Washington Street, looking towards the Manhattan Bridge. The bridge towers will naturally frame the Empire State Building in the distance. :camerawithflash:
For daytime shots, a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) will keep both the bridge and the distant Empire State Building in focus. Consider a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light. :camera:
Drone usage is generally restricted in New York City, especially in populated areas like DUMBO. Always check current FAA and local regulations before flying. :noentrysign:
Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park for stunning skyline views, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, or find other unique perspectives of the Manhattan Bridge from nearby streets. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! DUMBO is packed with fantastic dining options, from casual pizza joints like Grimaldi's and Juliana's to upscale restaurants with waterfront views. :pizza:
You'll find a diverse culinary scene, including classic New York pizza, seafood, Italian, American cuisine, and trendy cafes. :hamburger:
Yes, DUMBO has several excellent coffee shops perfect for a pre- or post-photo caffeine boost. Consider Butler or One Girl Cookies. :coffee:
Definitely! There are numerous delis, bakeries, and casual eateries offering quick and delicious options for a snack or light meal. :sandwich:
Yes, many restaurants in DUMBO offer spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River, making for a memorable dining experience. :cityscape:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as navigating the cobblestones can be tricky for little ones. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid overwhelming crowds and allow kids more space to explore. For a treat, grab some ice cream or a slice of pizza from one of DUMBO's many family-friendly eateries. The open spaces in the park offer a great place for kids to burn off energy after the photo session.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Experiment with different focal lengths to capture the scale of the Manhattan Bridge and the detail of the Empire State Building. A tripod can be beneficial for sharper images, especially if you're shooting in lower light conditions. Beyond the main shot, explore the surrounding streets for unique architectural details and different angles of the bridge. Consider the golden hour for warm, soft light. Remember to be mindful of pedestrians and traffic while composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic DUMBO View: More Than Just a Photo Op
+1While the view is the main draw, the experience is enhanced by the surrounding DUMBO neighborhood. Known for its art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront parks, DUMBO offers a vibrant atmosphere. Many visitors combine their photo stop with a stroll along the Brooklyn waterfront for breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline or a visit to the nearby Jane's Carousel.
To truly capture the magic, timing is crucial. Early weekday mornings are highly recommended to avoid the dense crowds that can make getting that perfect shot challenging. The soft morning light also enhances the visual appeal of the scene.
+1Navigating DUMBO: Getting Around and What to Expect
+1 While public transport is king here, be prepared for the cobblestone streets that characterize much of DUMBO. They add to the area's historic charm but can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must. Parking in DUMBO is notoriously difficult and often expensive, making rideshare services or public transit the preferred methods of arrival for most visitors. Once you're in the area, DUMBO is very walkable, allowing you to easily explore its shops, galleries, and waterfront parks.
Beyond the famous bridge view, DUMBO offers a rich experience. Consider visiting Brooklyn Bridge Park for unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty, or take a ride on the Jane's Carousel. The area is also a hub for dining, with numerous acclaimed restaurants and casual eateries to satisfy any craving.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit