Brooklyn Bridge

The basics

Today crossing the Brooklyn Bridge is an essential New York experience. Visitors come in droves to admire the bridge's dramatic neo-Gothic towers and the stellar views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront.

The Brooklyn Bridge features on plenty of New York City walking tours and bike tours and offers spectacular views over the Manhattan skyline. For a whole new perspective of the Brooklyn Bridge, tours on the river aboard a sightseeing cruise are a great option. Alternatively, hop aboard a helicopter flight and buzz over the iconic structure and other area landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Things to know before you go

• In cooler months, wear an extra layer or two, as it can be colder and windier on the bridge than on street level.

• The bridge's pedestrian path is narrow. Be careful not to veer into the adjacent bike lane.

• Crossing the bridge on foot takes around 25 minutes, or longer if you pause for photographs.

How to get there

From Manhattan, you can access the bridge's walkway from Park Row and Centre Street, opposite City Hall Park. The closest subway stations are Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall (4, 5, and 6 trains) and Chambers Street (J and Z). On the Brooklyn side, access the pedestrian walkway from Tillary Street and Adams Street in Brooklyn Heights. Here the nearest subway stations are Jay Street–MetroTech (A, C, and F), Court Street (N and R), and Borough Hall (2, 3, 4, and 5).

When to get there

Avoid the morning and evening rush hours, when the bridge is congested with commuters. Weekends and evenings are generally quieter, and the bridge’s neo-Gothic towers are dramatically illuminated after dark.

The fascinating history of the Brooklyn Bridge

John Roebling designed the bridge in the 1860s, but he never got to see his creation realized, as he died in 1869, before it was completed. After Roebling’s death, his son, Washington Roebling, and his wife, Emily, oversaw the construction.

On May 30, 1883, just a few days after its opening, the bridge was the site of a tragic stampede that killed 12 pedestrians. In 1884, to allay concerns about the bridge’s structural integrity of the bridge, circus owner P.T. Barnum had a troupe of 21 elephants, including the famous Jumbo, cross it.

Ways to explore

Set aside about 30 minutes to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge promenade, a classic NYC experience. It’s easier to start from Manhattan at the pathway across Centre Street, but if Brooklyn is calling, you can enter via the rampway near Cadman Plaza Park.

Take a guided walking tour to learn about the bridge’s history and where to stop for the best views. Book a bike tour to zip across the bridge and explore trendy area neighborhoods like the Sea Port and DUMBO. Alternatively, view the bridge from different angles on river cruises—or soar over it all on quick helicopter flights.

Accessibility

Find wheelchair-accessible entrances on Centre Street (Manhattan) and Adams Street (Brooklyn). The walkway can be narrow and is often crowded.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water, sunscreen, binoculars for spotting peregrine falcons and other birds

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers, parkas (for winter), brimmed hat

Not allowed

Entering the bike lane as a pedestrian, walking anywhere besides the designated pathway

Amenities

Brooklyn Bridge Park has restrooms, picnic areas, and a playground.

Address

Driving through New York City can be stressful and expensive (those parking prices!). Walking, public transportation, and rideshares are far more convenient.

Driving

From Lower Manhattan, take Broadway to Chambers Street and turn left. Then, turn right on Centre Street and follow the signs. From Downtown Brooklyn, head west from Flatbush Ave Ext and follow Brooklyn Bridge Boulevard north.

Public transportation

Take the Manhattan 4/5/6 trains to Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall, or the J/Z trains to Chambers Street. In Brooklyn, take the A/C trains to High Street, or the 2/3 lines to Clark Street.

Best times to visit

The earlier, the better. Arrive at sunrise for the best light and to avoid rush hour. Sunset is a worthy alternative—but it’s also when crowds gather.

Best days to visit

The bridge rarely has downtime, but weekdays are less busy than weekends and holidays. Clear days offer the best views, so check the weather before departing.

Best months to visit

Weather is paramount. In New York City, the best strolling weather is usually during spring and early fall: April, May, June, and October.

Special events

Every May, New York City celebrates the bridge’s birthday with family walks and free guided tours departing from Emily Warren Roebling Plaza in DUMBO.