The Brooklyn Bridge links Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn across the East River, and walking it is one of the classic free things to do in New York. When it opened in 1883 it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and its Gothic stone towers and web of steel cables still make it the city's most loved bridge. A raised promenade runs down the middle above the traffic, so you can cross the Brooklyn Bridge on foot with the skyline on one side and the harbour on the other.
Why walk the Brooklyn Bridge
The bridge was designed by John A. Roebling, who died after an accident during the early survey work. His son Washington Roebling took over, and when he was left bedridden by illness, his wife Emily Warren Roebling played a key role in carrying the project through to the end. The granite towers, with their pointed arches, were among the tallest structures in New York when they were built.
The walk itself is about 1.1 miles, roughly 1.8 kilometres, between the two ends. At an easy pace with photo stops, allow 30 to 45 minutes. It costs nothing and is open around the clock.
Getting to the Brooklyn Bridge by subway
You can start from either end. On the Brooklyn side, the closest stop is High St on the A and C lines, a few minutes from the stairs up to the promenade near Cadman Plaza. York St on the F, in DUMBO, and Clark St on the 2 and 3 are also nearby.
On the Manhattan side, use Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall on the 4, 5 and 6, or Chambers St on the J and Z. The walkway starts on Park Row, across from City Hall Park.
Which direction to cross
Most people recommend starting in Brooklyn and walking toward Manhattan. That way the Lower Manhattan skyline, with One World Trade Center, is in front of you the whole way. You also finish near plenty of subway lines heading uptown. If you would rather end the day in DUMBO with food and the waterfront, cross from Manhattan to Brooklyn instead and turn around for the views.
Tips for the walk
- Stay on the walkway. Bikes now use a separate protected lane on the roadway level, so the elevated promenade is for pedestrians, but it is still narrow in places and gets crowded.
- Stop at the towers. The areas around the two stone towers widen out and have plaques about the bridge's history. They are the best places to step aside for photos.
- Watch for vendors. Street sellers sometimes crowd the Manhattan end; keep the path moving.
- Dress for the weather. There is no shelter on the bridge, and the wind off the river can be strong.
Best time to walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Early morning is the best time by a wide margin. At sunrise the light comes from behind Brooklyn and falls on the Manhattan towers, and you will share the bridge mostly with joggers and commuters. By late morning on a sunny weekend the promenade can be packed shoulder to shoulder. Sunset and the hour after dark are popular for skyline photos; the bridge is lit at night and the walk feels different but still busy.
What to see on the Brooklyn side
DUMBO
The neighbourhood under the Manhattan Bridge overpass is full of cafés, galleries and converted warehouses. The view of the Manhattan Bridge framed between old brick buildings on Washington Street, with the Empire State Building in the gap, is one of the most photographed spots in the city.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
A string of waterfront piers and lawns runs south under the bridge, with Jane's Carousel near the water and sweeping views back across to Manhattan.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
A short walk south, this raised walkway above the expressway has one of the finest skyline views in New York, and it is usually much quieter than the bridge.
Nearby on the Manhattan side
- City Hall Park and the ornate Woolworth Building on Broadway.
- South Street Seaport: historic ships and cobbled streets a short walk east.
- The World Trade Center site and the 9/11 Memorial, about 15 minutes' walk west.
For more around the Brooklyn end, see the Brooklyn Bridge on Around the Metro, or explore the whole New York subway map.