The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City, drawing thousands of tourists daily. For those brave enough to make the journey, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is an experience you won’t soon forget. Here’s what you should know before taking the plunge.
Important Considerations
Before walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, there are several important considerations to take into account.
• Weather: The Brooklyn Bridge spans the East River and features wide walkways with minimal guardrails. If there’s inclement weather, such as high winds or snow and icy conditions, it’s probably best to hold off on your journey.
• Time of Day: Traffic on the Brooklyn Bridge is busiest during rush hour from 6:00AM to 10:00AM, and 3:00PM to 7:00PM. Try to plan your crossing outside of these windows to avoid the heavy vehicle traffic.
• Time & Distance: It’s important to consider the amount of time and distance you’ll need to traverse the bridge. From Manhattan to Brooklyn, walking the entire length of the bridge is 1.1 miles and takes around 40 minutes at a moderate pace.
• Direction of Travel: Make sure to pay attention to the direction of travel as you enter the bridge. Cyclists and motorists use the lower level, while pedestrians use the upper, so plan accordingly.
Things to Consider Bringing Along
Before heading out, there are a few items you might want to consider bringing along for your journey across the Brooklyn Bridge.
• Clothing: Dress appropriately according to the weather. Don’t forget a jacket, something to cover your head, and footwear with good grip, such as sneakers or hiking shoes.
• Food & Drink: Bring snacks and hydration to keep your energy levels high, plus backups such as granola bars, candy, and a thermos of hot beverage for those particularly chilly days.
• Phone & Camera: You’ll definitely want to document your journey across the Brooklyn Bridge with photos and videos. Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged and ready to go.
• Money: It’s a good idea to carry a bit of cash in case you need to buy something along the way.
• Comfortable Bag: It’s hard to enjoy yourself if you’re lugging around a heavy bag. Bring a comfortable, lightweight bag to carry everything you’ll need on your journey.
The Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Starting Point: Manhattan
When you’re ready to begin, simply head to the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian entrance on Park Row in Manhattan. The entry point will be marked, so it’s tough to miss.
Halfway Point: Suspension Towers
As you walk, you’ll come across two giant granite towers clad in neo-Gothic style stonework. These are the suspension towers, and the bridge only gets better from here.
Brooklyn Viewpoints
When you reach Brooklyn, two of the best places to take in the views are on either side of the bridge at Furman and Cadman Plazas. From these vantage points, you can finally take that perfect Instagram shot of the Manhattan skyline.
Exit Point: Brooklyn
The Brooklyn exit point is marked clearly and is located at the end of Tillary Street.
The walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is more than just a walk—it’s an experience. By following the tips and guidance outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to making your own lasting memories. Happy walking!
