Planning a trip to New York? Then check out our 6 ideas for a fun and original way to visit the Brooklyn Bridge!
Located in the heart of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is a landmark of the Big Apple. Crossing the East River to link the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, it is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. At 1,825 meters long and 84 meters high, it’s a colossus that doesn’t go unnoticed in the New York landscape.
But above all, it offers incredible views of this World City. As you cross the Brooklyn Bridge towards Manhattan, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the New York cityscape. Would you like to visit the Brooklyn Bridge? In this article, we’ll give you some ideas on how!
The Brooklyn Bridge in a nutshell
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Before the Brooklyn Bridge was built, you had to take the ferry to Manhattan from Brooklyn, or vice versa. The two cities were separate, and Brooklyn didn’t become part of New York City until 1898. A bridge was therefore needed, and John August Roebling was commissioned to design it.
Sadly, the architect died at the start of the work, which began in 1869. After his death, his son Washington Roebling led the project, assisted by his wife Emily Warren Roebling. Also the victim of a serious accident, he had to follow the bridge’s construction from his apartment through a telescope. So it was his wife Emily who took charge of the work and gave the orders to the workers. The bridge was finally opened to traffic on May 24, 1883. Six days after its opening, there were still doubts about its solidity. Residents were afraid it would collapse! In response, P.T. Barnum demonstrated its safety by parading his 21 elephants over it a year later.
Today, 120,000 cars, 4,000 pedestrians and 2,600 cyclists use the Brooklyn Bridge every day. What’s more, traffic flows over two levels.
1. Walking tours of the Brooklyn Bridge
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To visit the Brooklyn Bridge, you can of course opt for a walk on this colossal structure. As mentioned above, traffic flows on two levels:
- One is dedicated to motor vehicles
- The other for pedestrians and cyclists
Walking on the bridge will allow you to discover it slowly and at your own pace. You can stop and take in the breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, the East River and Hudson Bay!
Symbolically, the Brooklyn Bridge was intended to link New York City Hall and Brooklyn City Hall. However, since the latter has joined the former, its City Hall has now been renamed Brooklyn Borough Hall. The entrance on the Manhattan side is at Centre Street. The walk begins opposite the Brooklyn Bridge – City Hall subway exit. Signs clearly show the way from here. Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge takes an average of 40 minutes. Of course, this time doesn’t take into account the many stops to marvel at the bridge’s panoramic views.
Note that the Brooklyn entrance is at the intersection of bStreet and Adams Street. The walk starts right in the middle of the intersection. You can’t miss the entrance!
Guided walking tours of the Brooklyn Bridge
Of course, you can also book a guided walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge. These tours generally last two hours and allow you to discover this New York landmark accompanied by an expert and passionate guide. He or she will tell you all about the history of the bridge and the city, and share with you some interesting anecdotes. He’ll also show you the best views and buildings to see from the bridge.
At what price?
For this type of guided tour, expect to pay an average of €30 per person.
2. Bike tours of the Brooklyn Bridge
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The Brooklyn Bridge can, of course, be visited by bike. You can discover the bridge on your own, and linger at your favorite vantage points. Some travelers may also like to take a trip to Brooklyn. This city within a city is a mecca for the art and history of New York’s popular culture. Be sure to explore it after your visit to the Brooklyn Bridge!
Terms and conditions
You can rent a bike in town or book a guided tour directly. Lasting an average of two hours, like the walking tours, this type of tour will enable you to learn more about the building, the history of the city and its other monuments. You’ll also discover beautiful panoramas, commented on by your enthusiastic guide.
Note that the bridge promenade is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists. There is a cycle path in the middle of the bridge. Be sure to respect it, whether you’re a pedestrian or a cyclist. If you’re crossing on foot, avoid walking on it. It particularly annoys New York cyclists!
At what price?
This type of guided tour generally costs between €30 and €40 per person. Some tours even offer competitively-priced bike hire after your first visit.
3. Drive across the Brooklyn Bridge
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To visit the Brooklyn Bridge, you can, of course, take a rental car and drive over the bridge, as thousands of New Yorkers do every day. The crossing only takes a few minutes. Unfortunately, you won’t have time to take in the unique views the bridge affords.
However, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the New York atmosphere and discover a new aspect of it. You’ll be reminded of some of the films or TV series you might have seen.
At what price?
Please note that there are no tolls at either end of the Brooklyn Bridge.
4. Brooklyn Bridge bus tours
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If you don’t have a vehicle to drive across and visit the Brooklyn Bridge, you can always opt for a guided bus tour. On the bus, you’ll enjoy the beautiful views, and can always walk back across the bridge on the way back. During the tour, you can visit not only the Brooklyn Bridge, but also theEmpire State Building and Times Square.
Terms and conditions
For example, travelers can purchase a ticket for a multi-stop bus. With this type of bus, your ticket valid for 24 hours or more will enable you to discover several of New York’s monuments and must-see sites at your convenience.
Buses are usually equipped with audio guides. So you can enjoy commentary and anecdotes about the Brooklyn Bridge as you cross it.
At what price?
For this type of activity, expect to pay between €40 and €50 per person on average for a 24-hour ticket.
5. Cruises to visit the Brooklyn Bridge
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After crossing the Bridge on foot, by bike, by car or by bus, why not discover it from the water? A cruise is obviously an excellent way to visit the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll admire it from a whole new angle, pass underneath and observe it from every angle. It’s an activity not to be missed if you come to New York! Especially since there are so many cruises available today, to suit all tastes and interests.
We recommend cruises around Manhattan, where you’ll discover New York’s three rivers. You’ll also have the opportunity to admire several must-see sites, such as the Statue of Liberty, which you can photograph from every angle. You’ll also pass under seven New York bridges, including the iconic Brooklyn Bridge!
Finally, you can opt for more romantic or spectacular cruises. We recommend river cruises at dusk. At dusk, New York and its Brooklyn Bridge are bathed in warm, sublime colors. It’s the perfect time for unforgettable photos and extraordinary views. Lovers can also opt for a cruise that includes a romantic dinner.
Terms and conditions
- Single cruise: 1h30 to 2h.
- Theme cruise: usually up to 3h30.
At what price?
- Single cruise: €30 to €40 per person.
- Theme cruise: €50 to €100 per person.
6. Admire the Brooklyn Bridge from the waterfront
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Mihai_Andritoiu
You’ve visited the Brooklyn Bridge but just can’t get enough of it? For sublime views of the Brooklyn Bridge, we recommend a visit to Brooklyn Bridge Park, especially near Pier 1. This park is located on the Brooklyn side of the bridge. You can get there after crossing the bridge. Then you can wander around the park and admire the bridge.
You can also choose accommodation facing the building. You’ll be able to admire it throughout your stay in New York :
- 1 Brooklyn Bridge is famous for its superb views over the famous bridge. This chic hotel is the ideal place for couples traveling to the Big Apple. In addition to its views, it offers exceptional services, luxurious and comfortable rooms, a spa and wellness center. A night in this dream establishment will cost you an average of €400 for two people.