Brooklyn Bridge
Iconic 1883 landmark connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering stunning skyline views and architectural grandeur.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walk
Brooklyn Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walk
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1883 landmark connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering stunning skyline views and architectural grandeur.
"The views from the Brooklyn Bridge are absolutely breathtaking, a must-do for any NYC visitor!"
🎯 Subway is King 🚇
Skip the parking hassle and tolls. Take the subway to Manhattan and walk over, or vice versa for the best views.
🚶♀️ Walk Brooklyn to Manhattan
For the most dramatic skyline views, start your walk from the Brooklyn side.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Manhattan Skyline View
Brooklyn to Manhattan direction
Witness the breathtaking Manhattan skyline unfold as you walk towards the city. A truly unforgettable sight.
Manhattan Bridge Arch Photo Op
Washington Street, DUMBO
Capture the classic shot of the Empire State Building framed by a Manhattan Bridge arch. A must-do for photographers.
Sunrise Serenity
Brooklyn Bridge
Experience the magic of sunrise over the city, with fewer crowds and stunning golden light.
Jane's Carousel
Brooklyn Bridge Park
A beautifully restored 1922 carousel offering whimsical fun with a stunning waterfront backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Best Direction for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Subway is King 🚇
Skip the parking hassle and tolls. Take the subway to Manhattan and walk over, or vice versa for the best views. +1
🚶♀️ Walk Brooklyn to Manhattan
For the most dramatic skyline views, start your walk from the Brooklyn side.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the Bridge
Beat the crowds by visiting before 8 AM on weekdays. You'll have a much more serene experience. +1
📸 DUMBO Photo Spot
Find the iconic Empire State Building view on Washington Street in DUMBO.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Subway is King 🚇
Skip the parking hassle and tolls. Take the subway to Manhattan and walk over, or vice versa for the best views. +1
🚶♀️ Walk Brooklyn to Manhattan
For the most dramatic skyline views, start your walk from the Brooklyn side.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the Bridge
Beat the crowds by visiting before 8 AM on weekdays. You'll have a much more serene experience. +1
📸 DUMBO Photo Spot
Find the iconic Empire State Building view on Washington Street in DUMBO.
🚴♀️ Separate Bike Lane
Cyclists now have a dedicated lane, making pedestrian travel safer and less congested.
🌃 Night Walk Safety
Walking late at night is generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Brooklyn Bridge for its iconic status and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, especially when walking from Brooklyn. The architectural beauty of the bridge itself is also a major draw. However, many find the experience can be marred by overwhelming crowds and numerous souvenir vendors, leading some to recommend early morning visits or alternative routes.
"Iconic walk with stunning skyline views
The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-visit for breathtaking views of Manhattan. A great way to experience it is to take the ferry from Pier 11 to DUMBO and then walk back across the bridge toward Manhattan, which provides an amazing perspective of the skyline.
The bridge is very close to downtown Manhattan, easily accessible, and the walkway offers plenty of photo opportunities. Crowds can be moderate, but the views more than make up for it.
It's iconic, scenic, and perfect for a leisurely stroll with unbeatable city views."
Amin Sameni
"DON’T FORGET TO RECORD AN OUTDOOR WALK ON YOUR FITNESS DEVICE FOR RECORD!
So surreal. I’ve seen the Brooklyn Bridge in paintings, movies, TV shows—even on the black-and-white shower curtain hanging in my own bathroom. But to stand on it, to see it stretch across the East River in person… there’s something almost sacred about that moment.
The bridge has watched over so much history since it opened in 1883—connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, spanning generations, revolutions in architecture, and waves of change in New York itself. It was the first steel-wire suspension bridge ever built, and at the time, the longest in the world. Now, it’s an icon etched into the heart of the city and the people who walk it.
Surprisingly, the best view isn’t at the Manhattan entrance. The most breathtaking moment is when you’re looking back from the Brooklyn side—skyline in the distance, the cables framing it all like a work of art.
Getting there is part of the experience. Once you reach the District and Federal Courthouses, just follow the signs—or follow the crowd. They’ll lead you to one of the most unforgettable walks you can take in New York."
K Rhodes
"Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic and unforgettable experiences in New York City. This historic landmark, completed in 1883, is not only a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of the city’s spirit and innovation.
The views are absolutely stunning – with the Manhattan skyline on one side, Brooklyn on the other, and the East River flowing beneath you. Whether you go during the day or at sunset, the scenery is breathtaking and perfect for photos.
The pedestrian walkway is well-maintained, and despite the crowds, the overall experience is peaceful and full of energy at the same time. It’s a great place for a walk, a run, or simply to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
A must-see for any NYC visitor – both beautiful and historic!"
Alper K.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most travelers recommend using the subway to avoid parking issues. From Manhattan, take the 4, 5, or 6 train to Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall. From Brooklyn, take the A, C, or F train to Jay St-Metrotech or the 2, 3 train to Clark St. +1
Many prefer walking from Brooklyn to Manhattan for the progressively stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. +1
Driving is possible but parking can be expensive and difficult. Using apps like SpotHero can help find garages in DUMBO. Some suggest parking at the Brooklyn Army Terminal and taking the ferry.
Take the downtown 1 train to South Ferry, then transfer to the 4 or 5 train to Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall. Alternatively, take the A or C train downtown to Fulton Street.
Yes, you can take the NYC Ferry to the DUMBO/Brooklyn Bridge Park stop, which offers great views and access to the bridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is completely free and open to the public.
The Brooklyn Bridge is open 24/7 for pedestrian and bicycle access.
There are no entrance fees to walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Vendors were banned from the Brooklyn Bridge starting in late 2023/early 2024, aiming to reduce congestion and improve the visitor experience.
The main entrance on the Brooklyn side is at the intersection of Tillary St and Brooklyn Bridge Blvd. There's also a less obvious entrance on Washington Street.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Walking the entire length of the Brooklyn Bridge typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
Running can be challenging due to crowds and frequent stops. Visiting very early on a weekday is recommended for a smoother run.
The classic view of the Manhattan skyline from the Brooklyn side is a must. Also, look for the framed view of the Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street in DUMBO.
Yes, you can bike across the Brooklyn Bridge. A separate bike lane has been established, improving safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll be on your feet for a while. Dress in layers, as the weather can change.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise offers beautiful golden light and fewer crowds. Sunset provides stunning cityscapes. Evenings offer illuminated views.
Head to Washington Street in DUMBO, between Front and Water Streets, for the iconic shot of the Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building in the background.
Brooklyn Bridge Park offers fantastic views of Lower Manhattan. Squibb Park Bridge also provides lovely vistas.
For night photography, use a tripod to keep your camera steady, a longer exposure, and a lower ISO to capture the city lights without excessive noise.
Drone usage is generally restricted in New York City, especially over crowded areas and landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge. Check FAA regulations before attempting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Don't miss the iconic DUMBO shot of the Manhattan Bridge framed by buildings on Washington Street. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Brooklyn Bridge: A Pedestrian's Guide
To make the most of your walk, timing is crucial. The bridge can get incredibly crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and times. Early mornings on weekdays are highly recommended by locals and frequent visitors to avoid the densest crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Recent changes have improved the pedestrian experience. The bike path is now separated from the pedestrian walkway, reducing conflicts and making it safer for everyone.
Capturing Iconic Views: Photography on and around the Brooklyn Bridge
For this, walking from Brooklyn towards Manhattan is ideal, allowing the city's grandeur to unfold before you. For those seeking unique perspectives, consider visiting during sunrise or sunset. The golden hues of dawn and the vibrant colors of dusk cast a magical glow over the city and the bridge itself.
+1 Early morning visits, as mentioned, not only offer fewer crowds but also the best light for capturing the bridge's architectural details and the awakening city. Evenings provide a different kind of beauty, with the city lights twinkling to life, creating a romantic and dramatic atmosphere. Beyond the bridge itself, Brooklyn Bridge Park and its adjacent areas offer excellent photographic opportunities. The Squibb Park Bridge provides elevated views of Lower Manhattan,
while Jane's Carousel offers a charming foreground element against the city backdrop. Getting Around: Transportation to and from the Brooklyn Bridge
If you're starting from Brooklyn, several subway lines provide convenient access. The 2 or 3 train to Clark Street, or the A, C, or F train to Jay St-Metrotech, will bring you close to the Brooklyn entrance.
For a unique perspective, consider using the NYC Ferry. The ferry service offers stops at DUMBO/Brooklyn Bridge Park, providing scenic water views and easy access to the bridge.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit