Washington Street Viewpoint DUMBO
Capture the iconic Manhattan Bridge framed by historic DUMBO architecture. A must-visit for stunning NYC photos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Washington Street Viewpoint DUMBO
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Capture the iconic Manhattan Bridge framed by historic DUMBO architecture. A must-visit for stunning NYC photos.
"This spot is absolutely incredible and offers one of the most iconic views in all of NYC."
🎯 Go Early for Fewer Crowds
Beat the masses for that perfect shot of the Manhattan Bridge. Weekday mornings are your best bet!
📸 Frame Your Shot Wisely
The classic view is at Washington & Water St. Experiment with angles for unique perspectives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Washington Street View
Intersection of Washington Street and Water Street
The quintessential DUMBO shot: Manhattan Bridge framed by red brick buildings. Pure NYC magic!
Jane's Carousel
Brooklyn Bridge Park
A beautifully restored 1920s carousel offering whimsical rides with stunning waterfront views.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Waterfront
Expansive park with piers, green spaces, and breathtaking skyline and bridge vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Perfect Shot
DUMBO's Charm Beyond the View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Fewer Crowds
Beat the masses for that perfect shot of the Manhattan Bridge. Weekday mornings are your best bet!
📸 Frame Your Shot Wisely
The classic view is at Washington & Water St. Experiment with angles for unique perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Viewpoint
DUMBO has charming streets, shops, and cafes. Don't just snap and leave!
💰 Free Views Galore
Enjoy iconic NYC sights without spending a dime. This viewpoint is totally free!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Fewer Crowds
Beat the masses for that perfect shot of the Manhattan Bridge. Weekday mornings are your best bet!
📸 Frame Your Shot Wisely
The classic view is at Washington & Water St. Experiment with angles for unique perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Viewpoint
DUMBO has charming streets, shops, and cafes. Don't just snap and leave!
💰 Free Views Galore
Enjoy iconic NYC sights without spending a dime. This viewpoint is totally free!
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Fuel your exploration with a coffee from a local spot before or after your visit.
🐘 Catch the Toy Elephant Drop
If you're lucky, you might witness the unique toy elephant art installation!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredibly iconic and charming views of the Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street, calling it a must-see in DUMBO. The relaxed vibe, lovely cafes, and photo opportunities are frequently praised. However, be prepared for significant crowds, especially on weekends and at sunset, which can make photography challenging and parking difficult.
"It's a very positive and charming place, with a pleasant, relaxing vibe. There are lots of tourists, but there's no hustle and bustle. Everyone enjoys the moment and the beautiful views. There are lovely cafes and shops. And of course, lots of photo zones."
Julia Davis
"This spot is absolutely incredible and offers one of the most iconic views in all of NYC. It's the famous cobblestone street where you can get that perfect, framed shot of the Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building visible in the arch.
Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and at sunset, as it's a very popular photo location. My best advice is to go early in the morning on a weekday if you want to get a picture without a lot of people in it.
It's a definite must-see if you're exploring the DUMBO area, and it's well worth the walk for a fantastic photo opportunity. Highly recommend!"
Antonio
"The view is nice. The crowds are not. Be prepared for massive amounts of people, especially tourists. It's hard to take photos because everyone else is also trying to. Parking can be a mess."
Tiffany Cheng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach the Washington Street viewpoint is by taking the NYC Ferry to the DUMBO terminal. You can also take the F train to York St or the A/C train to High St and walk. Many visitors also enjoy walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and then heading down to DUMBO.
Parking in DUMBO can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services. If you must drive, look for parking garages in the area, but be prepared for high costs.
The closest subway stations to the Washington Street viewpoint are the F train at York Street or the A/C trains at High Street. From either station, it's a short walk to the waterfront and the iconic view.
Yes, you can walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn. Once you reach the Brooklyn side, it's a pleasant walk downhill towards DUMBO and the Washington Street viewpoint.
Absolutely! DUMBO is very well-connected by public transport. The NYC Ferry, multiple subway lines, and buses all serve the area, making it easy to access without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Washington Street viewpoint is a public street and completely free to access. It's one of the best free photo opportunities in New York City!
As it's a public street, there are no official opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, but early mornings or late evenings offer fewer crowds and different lighting conditions.
There are no entrance fees for the DUMBO neighborhood itself. Attractions like Jane's Carousel have a small fee per ride, but exploring the streets and viewpoints is free.
Yes, many New York City tours include a stop in DUMBO, often highlighting the Washington Street view. You can also find specialized DUMBO walking tours.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially before 10 AM. Weekends and sunset are the busiest times.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the classic shot. Sunsets provide a dramatic backdrop, but expect significant crowds.
For the classic shot, a wide-angle lens is helpful. Consider using a tripod for stability, especially in lower light. Experiment with aperture to control depth of field.
Absolutely! Brooklyn Bridge Park offers stunning skyline views, Jane's Carousel is picturesque, and the piers provide unique perspectives of the bridges.
Drone usage is generally restricted in New York City, especially in busy public areas like DUMBO and near bridges. Always check current FAA regulations before flying.
The unique framing of the Manhattan Bridge between historic red-brick buildings, with the Empire State Building often visible in the distance, creates a truly iconic New York City vista.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, DUMBO has a vibrant food scene with options ranging from casual cafes and pizza joints to upscale restaurants. Many offer waterfront dining with great views.
You can find excellent coffee and pastries at places like One Girl Cookies or Butler. For a historical coffee connection, explore the area where the largest coffee roaster in the US once stood.
DUMBO offers family-friendly dining, including pizza places and ice cream shops, making it easy to find something for everyone.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like pizza slices or grab-and-go sandwiches from bakeries.
DUMBO offers a diverse culinary landscape, including American, Italian, and various international flavors. You'll find everything from artisanal bakeries to fine dining.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the NYC Ferry to get there; kids often love the boat ride. The general vibe of DUMBO is relaxed, so you don't have to worry too much about keeping noise levels down. Just be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and keep a close eye on little ones near the water and busy streets.
💰 Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, look for pizza slices, bakeries, or food trucks. The NYC Ferry is a cost-effective way to travel to and from DUMBO, offering great views for the price of a standard transit fare. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park for an even more economical option.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the main view, explore Brooklyn Bridge Park for skyline shots, the Brooklyn Bridge itself for architectural details, and the charming cobblestone streets for street photography. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens and a tripod to maximize your creative options.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of DUMBO's Bridges
Many visitors find that walking across or near these bridges provides a profound sense of scale and engineering prowess. The steel towers and sweeping cables of the Manhattan Bridge, in particular, are often described as powerful and grand against the urban backdrop. Whether viewed from the waterfront, a park bench, or even from a ferry, the bridges are central to the DUMBO experience, offering endless photographic opportunities and a tangible connection to the city's history.
For an even more immersive experience, consider exploring the Squibb Park Bridge, which connects Brooklyn Bridge Park to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, offering elevated views and a unique pathway. These bridges are not just transit routes; they are landmarks that shape the identity and visual appeal of DUMBO, making them essential elements of any visit.
Capturing the Perfect DUMBO Photograph
When composing your shot, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the bridge and surrounding architecture. Experiment with different apertures to control the depth of field, ensuring both the bridge and foreground elements are sharp, or to create a pleasing bokeh effect. Many photographers also recommend using a tripod for stability, especially if you're shooting during the 'golden hour' around sunrise or sunset, when the light is particularly beautiful.
Beyond the iconic Washington Street view, DUMBO offers numerous other photographic opportunities. Brooklyn Bridge Park provides panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty in the distance. Jane's Carousel, with its vibrant colors and waterfront setting, also makes for charming photos. Don't forget to explore the cobblestone streets and unique street art that add character to the neighborhood.
DUMBO's Vibrant Community and Events
The neighborhood also hosts unique public art installations and community fundraisers. The annual toy elephant drop on Washington Street, for instance, is a whimsical event that supports local schools, adding a touch of playful charm to the iconic view. This blend of art, commerce, and community spirit makes DUMBO more than just a photo backdrop; it's a dynamic place to experience.
During the summer months, the waterfront comes alive with events and activities, and even during colder seasons, the neighborhood maintains a cozy and inviting ambiance, especially with the possibility of a picturesque snowfall. Whether you're browsing for unique finds at the flea market or enjoying a coffee at a local cafe, DUMBO's community spirit is palpable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit