A walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge offers some of New York City’s most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
The 1.1-mile pedestrian walkway starts at Park Row and Centre Street in Manhattan and ends at Cadman Plaza East in Brooklyn.
Quick Facts
- Length: 1.1 miles (1.8 kilometers)
- Walking time: 30-60 minutes one way
- Best times: Sunrise or sunset for photography
- Cost: Free
- Opened: 1883
Starting Points
Manhattan Side: Take subway lines 4, 5, 6 to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall or A, C to Chambers Street.
Brooklyn Side: Take A, C, F to High Street-Brooklyn Bridge or 2, 3 to Clark Street.
Walking Direction Tips
- Manhattan to Brooklyn: See the Manhattan skyline gradually reveal itself
- Brooklyn to Manhattan: Face the dramatic downtown skyline throughout your walk
Photography Spots
- Gothic archways and towers
- DUMBO view (between the Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge)
- Statue of Liberty vista point (about halfway across)
- Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park
Safety Tips
- Stay in the pedestrian lane – cyclists have their own designated path
- Bring water during summer months
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds
Nearby Attractions
Manhattan Side:
- City Hall
- World Trade Center
- South Street Seaport
Brooklyn Side:
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- DUMBO neighborhood
- Grimaldi’s Pizza
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Contact Information
- NYC DOT: (212) 839-6300
- Emergency: 911
- Brooklyn Bridge Park: (718) 222-9939
The bridge walkway is open 24/7, but optimal visiting hours are between 8 AM and 8 PM for safety and crowds.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures and beautiful blooms
- Fall (September-October): Comfortable weather and stunning foliage
- Early mornings: Less crowded, perfect for photography
- Weekdays: Fewer tourists than weekends
What to Bring
- Camera or smartphone
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottle
- Light jacket (can be windy)
- Sun protection
Historical Significance
The Brooklyn Bridge stands as one of America’s oldest roadway bridges and was the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge. Built between 1869 and 1883, it remains a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering and architecture.
Engineering Milestones
- Total length: 5,989 feet
- Height: 276.5 feet
- Gothic towers made of granite and limestone
- Steel cables spanning 3,578.5 feet
Conclusion
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is an essential New York City experience, combining stunning views, historical significance, and architectural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, the bridge offers something special at any time of day or season. The free access and convenient location make it an unmissable attraction for anyone exploring Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Additional Resources
- NYC Parks Department website
- Brooklyn Bridge Conservancy
- NYC Tourism Office
- Local weather updates
FAQs
1. How long is the Brooklyn Bridge walk from end to end?
The Brooklyn Bridge walkway is approximately 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers) long from end to end.
2. How long does it take to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge?
It typically takes 30-45 minutes to walk across at a leisurely pace, allowing time for photos and viewing.
3. Where is the best entrance point to start the walk?
The most popular starting point is from the Manhattan side at City Hall Park/Park Row, though you can also start from the DUMBO side in Brooklyn at Tillary/Adams Streets.
4. Is the Brooklyn Bridge walk free?
Yes, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is completely free and open 24/7, 365 days a year.
5. What’s the best time to walk the Brooklyn Bridge?
Early morning or sunset are ideal times, offering the best lighting for photos and smaller crowds. Sunrise to 10am typically has the least foot traffic.
6. Is it safe to walk the Brooklyn Bridge at night?
Yes, the bridge is well-lit and generally safe at night, with regular police patrols and steady pedestrian traffic.
7. Which side of the bridge has the best views?
The Manhattan-bound side (right side when walking from Brooklyn) offers the best views of the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty.
8. Are bikes allowed on the pedestrian walkway?
No, bikes have their own dedicated lane separate from pedestrians since 2021, and cyclists must stay in this designated lane.
9. What are the closest subway stations to the Brooklyn Bridge?
On the Manhattan side: Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall (4,5,6), Chambers St (J,Z). On the Brooklyn side: High Street-Brooklyn Bridge (A,C) and York Street (F).
10. What historical significance does the Brooklyn Bridge have?
Completed in 1883, it was the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge and the longest suspension bridge of its time, spanning 1,595.5 feet (486.3 meters).
