New York City Sights

Guidebooks

Mobile App

New York City Guide App Download Fodor's City Guide App for FREE!

Brooklyn Bridge

Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  

Brooklyn Bridge Review

"A drive-through cathedral" is how the journalist James Wolcott described the Brooklyn Bridge, one of New York's noblest and most recognized landmarks, perhaps outdoing Walt Whitman's comment that it was "The best, most effective medicine my soul has yet partaken." The bridge stretches over the East River, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. A walk across its promenade—a boardwalk elevated above the roadway, shared by pedestrians, in-line skaters, and cyclists—takes about 40 minutes and delivers exhilarating views. If you start from downtown Manhattan, you'll end up in the heart of Brooklyn Heights. It's worth noting that on weekends when the weather is nice, the path can get pretty congested; it's most magical, and quietest, early in the morning or during sunset when the city lights come to life.

    Contact Information

  • Address: E River Dr., Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10035 | Map It
  • Subway: 4, 5, 6 to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall; J, Z to Chambers St.; A, C to High St.--Brooklyn Bridge.
  • Location: Financial District
Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Brooklyn Bridge Review

    This bridge was constructed in 1883. It was designed by John Augustus Roebling, Washington Roebling, and Emily Roebling. This bridge was the first steel wire suspension bridge and it was the longest suspension bridge on Earth until 1903. This bridge was built because it was a direct link between Manhattan and Brooklyn.

    by PoonWong123_1, 7/9/10
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    A stunner -- walk it

    A remarkably beautiful bridge well worth seeing in its own right. Even better, there's a wide pedestrian walking area which is a must-do -- seeing the bridge this close up is wonderful, and assuming you walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan, the view is first rate. Absolutely should be at the top of any New York City agenda.

    by bachslunch, 12/14/08
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Great idea - but start in Brooklyn

    We recently moved to New York and when my sister came to visit, several co-workers recommended that we walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. One smart co-worker recommended that we take the subway to Brooklyn and then walk back to Manhattan - much better views. He was right.

    by frogoutofwater, 8/20/08
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    I am not a great walker but........

    If you are in New York and don't walk the Brooklyn Bridge you are missing one of the great treats of the city. I like to walk it from Brooklyn to Manhattan so you are looking at the skyline the whole time. I have a problem walking for too long but this is one you can do at your own pace and rest along the way - although there are only seats at the beginning and end. You can easily lean against the wire and gaze at one of the most beautiful sights in the world. Have a go - it is worth it.

    by newfoundlandgirl, 7/17/08
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Walking the Brooklyn Bridge on an Autumn Afternoon

    Late last September I walked the Brooklyn Bridge on a sunny Sunday afternoon with my son and a few thousand of our closest friends. It was lots of fun and a great experience.

    by jimbittner, 7/17/08

Add your own review

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

· Browse New York City sights

By Location

 Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas

Travel Deals in New York City

View all travel deals
* Some taxes, fees additional

· Forums Trip Reports

View more trip reports

·

View more travel discussions

· News & Features

View more blog stories