Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour NYC: Complete Self-Guided Guide
Photo by Ismail Merad
Brooklyn Bridge: What to Know Before You Walk It
The Brooklyn Bridge isn’t currently part of our guided route, but if you’re spending a day in Lower Manhattan, it’s one of the easiest “must-see” landmarks to add on your own.
Completed in 1883 after 14 years of construction, the bridge was designed by John A. Roebling, who died before it was finished 5 his son Washington Roebling saw the project through. At the time, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and it’s still one of the most photographed structures in the city.
Walking it yourself: start at City Hall Park in Manhattan and follow the elevated pedestrian path across to DUMBO in Brooklyn. It’s about 1.1 miles and takes most people 30 60 minutes at an easy pace, longer if you stop for photos (which you will 5 the Manhattan skyline views from the middle of the bridge are worth it). Mornings and early evenings are your best bet for avoiding the crowds.
Pair it with a guided tour of Midtown. If you want a local guide’s take on New York before or after your bridge walk, our Midtown NYC Tour runs pay-what-you-wish and covers Bryant Park, the NY Public Library, Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s, Radio City, and Times Square 5 about 2 to 2.5 hours, roughly 1.5 miles. It’s a separate route from the bridge, but a great way to bookend your day.
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