brooklyn bridge walking tour review

Brooklyn Bridge Guided Walking Tour

• Guided tour
• 145 Nassau St, New York, NY 10038, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at 145 Nassau St 145 Nassau St, New York, NY 10038, USA See address & details
• 1 Brooklyn Bridge Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 2 Brooklyn Heights Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 3 Brooklyn Bridge Park Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 4 Charging Bull (Wall Street Bull) Stop: 5 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• mkathryna 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Bike Tour of Central Park This was a great tour! We went with our family-including two teenagers and it was a great way to see the park and learn the history of it. The bike company was great-I accidentally confused the tour time-thought it was 1pm when we booked for 10am. They were able to switch things around and include us with the 1pm tour. My son talked me into upgrading from standard bikes to the e-bikes-and we were all glad for it. Philip was a great tour guide-very informative! He kept us all moving, allowed time to stop and take pics and showed us all around the park in 2 hours. Would highly recommend this to anyone! Read more Written April 9, 2024
• jamielabate 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely guided ride through Central Park We had a super time. Our guide (Edward) was warm, funny and knew his stuff. Just a fab thing to do as a family in NYC and it helps blow the jet-lag cobwebs away! Read more Written April 1, 2024
• Q610BVheatherl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun!! We had a great time!! Phillip is a knowledgeable and fun tour guide! Scooters were great! The park is beautiful! We would definitely do it again! Read more Written March 27, 2024
• Corinne B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Park Fun - best way to appreciate the size of Central Park On arrival we were quickly organised with well maintained bicycles and heights of seats modified. Huge range of ladies, mens and kids bicycles. 14s and under need to wear bicycle helmet (New York laws). We walked the bicycles to the start of Central Park and then after a brief explanation of brakes and gears, we set off. Philip went at a good pace and kept checking behind that we were all still together. We stopped at several places around the park with ample time to wander and take photos. Philip gave us just the right amount of information at each point to give us history and interesting facts in a humourous way, he was very approachable and answered our questions well. The best 2 hours of our week! Highly recommend. Thank you Philip. Read more Written February 22, 2024
• GuendalinaCatEyes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to see Central Park! This was such a great day out! The tour was really fun and our guide Michael couldn’t have been nicer. The girl in the shop was super friendly and didn’t mind that we had to change the day of the tour, she went out of her way to accommodate us. Great experience al round. I would not hesitate to recommend this tour Read more Written February 21, 2024
• 532normav 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Central Park bike The tour guide was amazing But the customer service at the shop was bad . We went in and they seemed like they had no idea what we were doing the person that gave us the bikes was extremely rude and sent us on to the park we told him we needed our guide and he wouldn’t listen . Read more Written December 17, 2023
• koraa2023 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great birthday present The tour with Philip was great all round! We got to know many different facets of Central Park. Phillip was very friendly and humorous. He was happy to answer all our questions. Despite our limited knowledge of English, we understood everything and were even able to learn something new. We both highly recommend the tour, even in colder temperatures. Without Philip we would have missed many side facts. The tour with Phillip is a must for anyone visiting New York. Read more Written November 15, 2023
• C5749WYamandineg 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Charged twice !!! Scammers! my husband and I rented two bikes from the stand near central park for an hour. the gentleman took my card the first time and told me that it didn't work. then he took my credit card a second time and told me it was ok now. I saw on my Mastercard statement that two amounts were reserved and the gentleman told me that one of the two amounts was going to be canceled. but he lied! I was charged twice!! thank you for giving me my money back. I was charged twice! Read more Written November 14, 2023
• pj29running 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An interesting and gentle cycle tour of Central Park. This was a nice gentle, but very interesting bike tour of Central Park. Just the right pace and enough, but not too much, information. I did the tour the day after running the New York Marathon to ease my legs and learn more about the park. The tour fulfilled both aims. The bikes were in good condition and cycle helmets were available for anyone who wanted to wear one. An excellent tour (helped by fabulous weather on the day we did it)! Read more Written November 12, 2023
• Julie B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great fun! Michael our guide was very friendly. Gave us super info and kept the tour moving. Would highly recommend. Small numbers and comfy bikes. Read more Written November 4, 2023
• BerkeleyArmsBosham 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful experience! We rented an e bike and e scooter from Bike Rent NYC 3 times during our stay and it was so much fun! Me and my 12 year old had never used either before but even with limited English, it was easy to understand the staff telling us how to use them. We asked for a helmet and were shown where they were so we could choose one ourselves. Let's get to going round Central Park, we had such a good time, hence why we did it 3 times. You have to be very aware of the other park users, particularly speeding up behind but even as non cyclists we had no problems. I would highly recommend electrics as there are a couple of hilly bits. Finally, the young lady on the reception was so friendly and helpful she really deserves a special mention. Read more Written October 28, 2023
• Rita N 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Zipping Thru Central Park Zipping through Central Park on an EBike was so much fun! We saw the whole park. Michael was the best guide! We highly recommend it! Read more Written October 28, 2023
• duartedailey 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour Experience It was an easy bike ride, very informative and lots of fun. Equipment was in decent shape and learned a lot about Central Park. Read more Written October 25, 2023
• G1337XYpatriciar 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great time despite the rain! Our guide Phillip was great. It was pouring rain but he had a good attitude and was personable and knowledgable. Covered alll the high points of the park, gave us time to take photos and explore. The electric bikes worked well! It was fun to try them out and helped grandma keep up without getting exhausted!! Read more Written October 23, 2023
• J991LDericp 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Love Biking Central Park -- Rent Somewhere Else The employees didn’t understand English well. We were supposed to get a helmet but none were provided or offered. Rented an E-Bike and got zero instructions... glad we have some back home. Asked for instructions but workers didn’t understand me. Ask where to go to enter the park, zero help just a hand pointing towards 7th Ave. Biking in Central Park is awesome and so much fun... I would highly recommend doing it, but rent somewhere else (there are so many options close by). We rented for 2 hours and went around Central Park 2.5 times and saw a ton. The only other thing to add it the E-Bikes we rented were average and didn't have a ton of acceleration. Read more Written October 18, 2023

More to explore in New York City

Brooklyn Bridge Guided Walking Tour provided by Central Park Bike Tours

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge (Easy to Follow Local’s Guide + Tips)

Our easy to follow guide to walking the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge tips will help you plan your dream visit to one of the most famous landmarks of NYC, not to mention the history of the Brooklyn Bridge is also fascinating.

We provide you with everything you need to know before walking the Brooklyn Bridge including the history, where to go, what you’ll see, and how to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway as well as how to bike it or drive it!

Here’s all the tips, tricks, dos, and don’ts of walking the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the best walks in Brooklyn and NYC!

Brooklyn Bridge Walk Guide & Tips

Table of Contents

Brief history of the brooklyn bridge, ways to cross the brooklyn bridge, how long is the brooklyn bridge, how long it takes to cross the brooklyn bridge, walking across the brooklyn bridge directions, best views walking the brooklyn bridge, tips for walking the brooklyn bridge, what to do nearby the brooklyn bridge, brooklyn bridge walking tour.

The Brooklyn Bridge was completed in 1883 and is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. The historic and iconic bridge is one of the most recognizable in the country and connects the two boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River.

Brooklyn Bridge was designed by John Augustus Roebling, but after suffering an injury and complications with recovery, he died and his son Washington Roebling took over the project. This wouldn’t be the first complication during the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Many workers developed “caisson disease,” which occurs when workers would leave a compressed atmosphere and enter into a normal atmosphere too quickly.

This took place when workers were sent below the surface of the East River to clear mud and boulders from the bottom of the river to begin laying down granite.

Washington Roebling fell ill to this disease and his wife Emily Warren Roebling took over the operation.

When the Brooklyn Bridge opened to the public on May 24, 1883. Emily Roebling was the first to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.

On the opening day, over 150,000 pedestrians crossed the bridge including American President Chester A. Arthur and New York Mayor Franklin Edson.

Shortly after the Brooklyn Bridge’s completion, rumors that it would somehow collapse filled the city with panic. In order to put these rumors to rest, P.T. Barnum led 21 elephants across the bridge in 1884, wouldn’t that be a sight?

You can find a plaque on your Brooklyn Bridge walk dedicated to John Augustus Roebling, Washington Roebling, and Emily Roebling.

The Brooklyn Bridge’s total cost was over $15 million in the 19th century and led to a few dozen deaths and over 100 caisson disease cases.

Learn more about the history of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Back to the Top

There are a few different ways to cross the Brooklyn Bridge, by foot, car, bicycle, and below by water taxi or ferry.

Driving across the Brooklyn Bridge

If you’re looking for a quick cityscape fix, cruise across the Brooklyn Bridge in your car, rideshare, or taxi. This famous New York City bridge is actually one of the rare toll free motorways in and out of Manhattan, which makes it more appealing for drivers in NYC.

Although you can observe the beautiful skyline from the comfort of your car, don’t forget that traffic is a possibility. If you’re looking for a day of being a tourist and taking your time at this national landmark, you might want to consider our other options of crossing the bridge.

Biking across the Brooklyn Bridge

The key to biking in New York City as a visitor or someone without their own bicycle is using CitiBike rentals who have docking stations all throughout the city.

CitiBike is really easy to use, you just have to download the app for payment as well as finding your nearest docking station to pick up or drop off your bikes.

As of September 2021, biking the Brooklyn Bridge is no longer possible on the pedestrian pathway on the top of the bridge. Prior to the change, bikers and pedestrians shared the same pathway with a few painted lines that distinguished where cyclists stayed and where pedestrians stayed.

This was chaos for everyone as often unknowing tourists didn’t obey either the bike lane or the pedestrian lane making it a really frustrating and chaotic experience.

Now, there is a designated bike lane on the lower level of the bridge alongside the motor traffic. While the lane is separate from the motorists, you do not get the same ‘views’ as you did previously when the bike lane shared the upper level of the bridge with pedestrians.

Crossing By the Brooklyn Bridge by Water

A unique vantage point for seeing the Brooklyn Bridge is via below from the water using the NYC Ferry or New York Water Taxi to take you from Brooklyn to Manhattan or vice versa on the East River.

The NYC Ferry has a route that takes you from South Brooklyn to Wall Street (Pier 11) in Lower Manhattan. This costs $4. However, if you’re bringing a bicycle for any reason there is a small additional fee when you go to buy your ticket.

The other water option is by the New York Water Taxi. This is a sightseeing cruise with multiple stops around popular city landmarks by water! You will have to by an all day pass, so this option only makes sense if you plan on using this to see many attractions.

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge

Many would say, walking the Brooklyn Bridge is the best way to do it. You will deal with difficult crowds, flying selfie sticks, and aggressive cyclist commuters, but it’s totally worth it. I mean taking the slowest way possible gives you a chance to soak in this amazing NYC landmark and views!

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most popular and iconic things to do in Brooklyn and in New York City. Because of its popularity you can imagine that there will be many other people on the bridge trying to see this iconic landmark from up close and experiencing the epic views along the way.

It is estimated that nearly 4,000-10,000 people walk the Brooklyn Bridge per day!

Something you used to have to keep in mind when walking the Brooklyn Bridge is that you needed to stay in the pedestrian lanes, but now that’s no longer an issue, the upper level of the Brooklyn Bridge is now for pedestrians only. 

Before, many people stop to take photos not realizing they are standing directly in the bicycle lane. You’ll probably see at least a dozen during your visit and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge if not more. Besides giving tourists on bikes a hard time, I mean it when I say that these New York City bicyclists will run over you and not even look back. So now, that dilemma is no more.

Many people wonder these common questions including how long the Brooklyn Bridge is in feet and how long the Brooklyn Bridge is in miles! When you’re there in person it really doesn’t look as long as it really is!

How long the Brooklyn Bridge is in feet

The Brooklyn Bridge is 5,989 total feet.

How long is the Brooklyn Bridge in miles

The Brooklyn Bridge is 1.134 miles but the entrances for the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway are approximately 1.6 miles apart.

Planning to cross one of the most famous NYC bridges ? You might want to plan for how long it takes to cross the Brooklyn Bridge, especially if you’re trying to plan around visiting this iconic landmark.

As we mentioned before, time spent driving on the Brooklyn Bridge can vary. If you’re traveling in the early morning or mid-day when everyone should be in their offices, you may be able to drive across the whole bridge without delays. As mentioned, the Brooklyn Bridge is just over 1 mile long, so you can expect to cross quickly by car if there is no traffic.

I would not suggest taking this route when you’re in a cab around rush hour, unless you’re prepared for a long wait and a higher fare at the end of your ride.

You can also ride across the bridge quickly in the later hours of the night if you’re coming back from a night out in Brooklyn or Manhattan.

If you’re in a taxi, you can always ask your driver what the conditions are on the bridge, since they are driving the city all day everyday they might have a good idea of whether or not its a good time to drive across. If not, you can always have them drop you off at the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway to finish the rest of your journey by foot!

Biking across the Brooklyn Bridge may take you as little as 15 minutes. Biking across the Brooklyn Bridge bike lane is on the lower level next to motorists. While there is a barricade between the bike lane and the motorists, some have said that the fast moving vehicles can be a bit alarming, so if you’re new to biking in the city just be aware of this.

If you’re visiting and walking the Brooklyn Bridge for a first time, chances are you’re going to want to take your time and rightfully so.

The quickest walk by foot without stops will take around 30 minutes. However, with crowds and photo and view stops along the way you can expect walking the Brooklyn Bridge to take closer to 60 minutes plus depending entirely on you and your stops as well as the crowds.

Remember, the Brooklyn Bridge is just over 1 mile long, and if you’re walking you’re using the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkways which are approximately 1.6 miles apart.

Unless you come on a slow day, you can imagine that when you’re adding hundreds of people and other people trying to sell you things as you’re walking the Brooklyn Bridge, it could lengthen the process.

My pro tip would be walking across the Brooklyn Bridge at a slow pace – expect for it to take longer than you planned that way you have extra time for unplanned stops and photos and you won’t be in a rush.

This won’t be something you’re going to do everyday whether you live in New York or you’re just visiting, so make it count. Enjoy every second of walking the Brooklyn Bridge.

Read Next: Williamsburg Bridge Walk Guide & Tips

Using the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway is the only way to cross the bridge by foot or access the bridge if you’re a pedestrian. Here are detailed steps on how to access the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway from both the Brooklyn side and the Manhattan side of the Bridge.

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge: Brooklyn Side

Starting your Brooklyn Bridge walk in Brooklyn? Great, there are a couple of entrances to the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway.

If you’re entering from Downtown Brooklyn, the walkway begins on Tillary Street and Boerum Place. On Google maps, this location is called “Brooklyn Bridge Walkway Starting Point.”

The second entrance is a stairway in the underpass located in DUMBO on Washington Street , 2 blocks from Front Street where the famous DUMBO Instagram photo is at. There is a stairway in the underpass that is the entrance leading directly to the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway.

I would always recommend walking the Brooklyn Bridge starting in Brooklyn because of the breathtaking Manhattan and famous NYC skyline views. This is where you can get the most famous views of the city.

Nearest Subway:

Unless you are already in the Downtown Brooklyn or DUMBO neighborhoods of Brooklyn, you will probably be taking the subway to the Brooklyn Bridge and going by foot the rest of the way.

There are a few different options each within a reasonable walking distance to the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway. All of these subway stations are relatively the same distance from the entrance, so choose whatever is most convenient from your starting point!

• A, C or F subway lines to Jay Street/MetroTech Station
• N or R subway lines to Court Street Station
• 2/3 or 4/5 subway lines to Borough Hall Station
• A or C subway lines to High Street (take the High Street Exit – this is the most direct route)

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge: Manhattan Side

I won’t lie, sometimes when I’m traveling back home to Brooklyn, I will just do the Brooklyn Bridge walk to avoid putting more money on my Metrocard and to just enjoy the bridge. I also consider this option after I’ve eaten a delicious New York meal and need to burn some calories.

From the Manhattan side, you can enter the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway at the northeast corner of City Hall Park along Centre Street.

There’s usually a lot of vendors on the Manhattan side, so don’t be afraid to snag a hot dog or pretzel and a souvenir before you embark on your Brooklyn Bridge walk.

Nearest Subway

Chances are you need to get close to the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway via the Manhattan side before crossing! Here are the closest subway stops that are just a short walk away.

The Brooklyn Bridge—City Hall and Chambers St. are closest to the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway, the bridge is located right across the street from these subway stations.

• 4, 5, or 6 subway lines to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall
• J or Z subway lines to Chambers St.
• 2 or 3 subway lines to Park Place
• N or R subway lines to City Hall
• A or C subway lines to Fulton Street

As mentioned before, the best views on the Brooklyn Bridge are starting/coming from the Brooklyn side and walking toward Manhattan. The best way to soak in all the amazing views and photo ops is to take your time on your Brooklyn Bridge walk. This really is one of the best free things to do in Brooklyn too!

Here are some of my favorite views to take in while on the Brooklyn Bridge walk, one of the best places for Brooklyn photography and Instagram spots:

Brooklyn Bridge towers— Pose underneath the famous arches while walking on the Brooklyn Bridge. These pictures turn out the absolute best on an empty bridge day.

Statue of Liberty— Take a look off into the distance and find Lady Liberty dazzling in the horizon during your Brooklyn Bridge walk.

Lower Manhattan— The staggering and stunning skyline is jaw-dropping, make sure to pose for a couple pictures with the cityscape including the World Trade Center.

Manhattan Bridge— Don’t forget about the blue beautiful bridge right across from the Brooklyn Bridge.

About halfway through walking the Brooklyn Bridge, there will be some little areas to pull over and snap some really great shots with Lower Manhattan as your backdrop.

When taking photos, DO NOT SIT OR STAND ON LEDGES when posing for pictures. There are no rails to protect pedestrians from falling down onto the roadway below and besides risking your life, you’re putting others in danger. Please be responsible.

The key to walking the Brooklyn Bridge is being prepared for the possibility of crowds and if you don’t want that experience, you will need to have patience and plan around it.

It’s easy to get frustrated with big crowds, especially if you’ve had a long touristy day. Here are a couple of pro local tips when walking the Brooklyn Bridge:

Wear comfortable shoes:   You’ll be walking alot during your visit to Brooklyn and NYC. Save your feet by coming prepared with stylish and comfortable walking shoes.

Bring your camera: Most people already have great cameras built into their smartphones, but if you do have a DSLR or other camera we do recommend bringing that on your Brooklyn Bridge walk as this is one of the best places for photos in the city. Leave your tripod behind unless you plan at coming as early as sunrise to get to the bridge before anyone else or are coming on a day where the bridge is empty.

Come on a crappy day: Want to avoid people? The worst the weather the more likely the crowds will thin out on the Brooklyn Bridge! Rainy and cold winter days are some of the best times to experience the Brooklyn Bridge without hoards of people!

Prepare for the weather: Rainy and cold days are some of the best times to visit and walk the Brooklyn Bridge if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. If this is the case for you, come prepared! It gets pretty windy above the water so you will probably need more than just an umbrella. Layer up if its a chillier day to make your Brooklyn Bridge walk more enjoyable!

Be ready to be patient: You will get irritated, you will get separated from your group, you might get smacked by a selfie stick, but remember it’s part of sharing this experience with everyone else and while it might test your patience, it’s good to come prepared ready for a more crowded experience.

Start on the Brooklyn Side: This is just a reminder that if you are looking for the most ‘iconic’ way to do the Brooklyn Bridge walk you should start on the Brooklyn side so you can see Manhattan and the NYC skyline when you walk.

Weekdays can be less crowded*: Unless it’s peak summer season, if you come on a weekday you have a better chance to avoid the bigger crowds than on the weekends! But notice we said, *can be*. This is not always the case.

Holidays are always busy: Planning a visit to the Brooklyn Bridge around a holiday? Expect more crowds and be ready to have to practice some extra patience!

Don’t leave a lock on the bridge: This is not allowed and you could get ticketed with a fine if caught.

Be sure to see our entire Brooklyn packing list guide for what you don’t want to leave home without when planning your Brooklyn trip and more great tips.

Both sides of the Brooklyn Bridge have so much to offer, which is the best part about having this bridge that connects the two of the best boroughs in New York City.

Here are some of my top picks for what to do before or after your Brooklyn Bridge walk.

If you’re looking for another bridge walk with views, consider walking one way on the Brooklyn Bridge and the other way on the Manhattan Bridge walk .

Things to do nearby the Brooklyn Bridge in Manhattan

City Hall— Located right next to the Brooklyn Bridge walkway entrance, check out New York City Hall. This City Hall is the oldest city hall in the United States. Built from 1803-1812, so ultimately it’s labeled a U.S. National Historic Landmark!

One World Trade Center— Take about a 15 minute stroll over to the One World Trade Center after walking the Brooklyn Bridge. Make sure to get tickets for the observation deck, one of just three observation decks in New York City! This destination is just about one mile away from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance/exit. Alternatively, you can just visit from the outside and enjoy all the colorful murals here too.

9/11 Memorial & Museum— Just down the street from the One World Trade Center, visit the 9/11 Memorial & Memorial. The Memorial’s twin reflecting pools are free of charge, but if you have time, we would suggest checking out the Museum as well. This historical spot is a little over half a mile from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance, about a 15 minute walk.

Oculus Center— Ever wonder what that crazy looking white building is near One World Trade and the 9/11 Memorial? It’s called the Oculus Center, it’s full of high-end stores, kiosks, and subway stops! Located just half a mile from the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway, it should take just about 12 minutes to walk there.

Brookfield Place— Brookfield is also another spot to fulfill all your shopping needs in New York City. Around a 17 minute walk (.7 miles) from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance, you can find some of New York’s best stores such as Lululemon, Madewell, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Louis Vuitton, J. Crew, and much more!

SoHo— Visit one of the most famous shopping spots and trendy neighborhoods there is! SoHo is just under a mile away from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance and takes just under 20 minutes to get there! Find every store you could imagine just in this area of NYC! Check out some of the options like Topshop, Zara, Urban Outfitters, H&M, & Other Stories, Forever21, and all the designer brands you can think of.

Chinatown— While you’re in the area, check out one of the iconic areas in Manhattan! Chinatown is just about a 16 minute (.7 miles) walk from the Brooklyn Bridge walkway entrance. You can check out some historical museums, the famous Canal St, and try some awesome Chinese food.

Things to do nearby the Brooklyn Bridge in Brooklyn

Hang out in DUMBO – DUMBO is one of our favorite neighborhoods to hang out in. If you’ve built up an appetite be sure to try some of the best pizza in DUMBO (some of the best in the city) or check out the different DUMBO restaurants with a view before/after exploring the rest of the best things to do in DUMBO.

Brooklyn Bridge Park-  Visit this Brooklyn park with the best views in the city! Located on DUMBO’s waterfront you have some of the best views of Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan Bridge all in one spot. See our entire guide for best things to do in Brooklyn Bridge Park .

Time Out Market New York— Time Out Market New York is an amazing food hall in DUMBO featuring the best foodie scene of the city under one roof. There are 21 different gourmet vendors located overlooking the East River and the Manhattan skyline. Time Out Market is about a 7 minute walk (.3 miles) from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance.

Dekalb Market and Food Hall— You will not want to miss this famous Brooklyn spot a short 15 minute (.7 miles) walk away from the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway on Tillary St. Equipped with multiple stores such as Trader Joe’s, Target, Century 21, an ahhhhmazing food hall with over 40 vendors, and the Alamo Drafthouse, you can’t ask for anything more.

Junior’s— Junior’s Restaurant is a New York delicacy with amazing food and even better desserts. Did you even go to New York if you didn’t have a slice of Junior’s cheesecake? Dine in after a quick 16 min walk (.7 miles) from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance.

Fulton St Mall— What is a trip to New York without a shopping spree? Although you can do this in SoHo and other hot spots in Manhattan, you can do it right here in Brooklyn too. Check out awesome stores like Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, H&M, American Eagle, Old Navy, TJ Maxx and more just a short 13 minute walk (.5 miles) from the Brooklyn Bridge walking entrance on Tillary St.

Stay in DUMBO – Want to stay in DUMBO with an amazing view of NYC in this popular neighborhood? See our full guide for where to stay in DUMBO for your best accommodation options for your visit.

Want to learn about the fascinating history of the Brooklyn Bridge? From the deadly construction to other historical events that took place around the bridge and the fabric of NYC?

Join a Brooklyn Bridge walking tour with a guide! This 2-hour Brooklyn Bridge walking tour will cover all things related to the Brooklyn Bridge from fun facts to history as well as stops in DUMBO and Manhattan.

Book your Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour

Found this guide to walking the Brooklyn Bridge helpful or interesting? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

My name is Katie and I went to college here New York City at LIU in Brooklyn! I love photography and am excited to share some of my favorite Brooklyn and New York City tips and spots on Your Brooklyn Guide.

Similar Posts

New York Aquarium Visitors Guide (Brooklyn Aquarium)

Planning a visit to the New York Aquarium, aka the Brooklyn Aquarium or the Coney Island Aquarium? You’ve come…

30 FUN Things to do in NYC With Kids (Family-Friendly NYC Guide)

From iconic attractions to one-of-a-kind experiences, there are countless things to do in NYC with kids of all ages!…

16 Best Restaurants in Crown Heights (Foodie’s Guide)

Looking for the best restaurants in Crown Heights, Brooklyn? You’re at the right place! Crown Heights is consistently one…

And Just Like That Filming Locations in NYC

Fans of the groundbreaking series Sex and the City know that it’s possible to love something rough around the…

Best Spots for Brooklyn Views of Manhattan

The Brooklyn views of Manhattan are the best skyline views in the city! Try to prove me wrong! I’ve…

The Skinny on Parking in NYC (Where to Park in NYC Locals Tips)

So you’re wondering how to find parking in NYC? We got you covered in this comprehensive guide. It takes…

11 Comments

• Pingback: Don’t be a Tourist in New York City – Vacation and Travel Articles – LeewayVacationRentals.com
• Pingback: Don’t be a Tourist in New York City – hikingyou
• Pingback: Our Favorite Things to Do in New York | Hecktic Travels
• Pingback: 30 of the Best Fall Vacations in the US - World Wide Honeymoon
• Pingback: 26 Irresistible Weekend Getaways on the East Coast of the USA (Highlights + Where to Stay!) - It's Not About the Miles

Do you have any tips for low-cost parking near DUMBO?

Check for free street parking first – although there are very few streets available for this and it’s competitive. Otherwise, there are two Kwik Parking lots available for a fee.

This page was incredibly helpful as I was trying to figure out how to go about walking the bridge from Brooklyn. I was having trouble understanding where the entrance was with Google Maps and the reference on this site to Tillary St. until I spied a marker on google: Brooklyn Bridge Walkway Starting Point

If you’re open to suggestions, adding that reference to this web page might be helpful to those getting their directions from the map app. (It’s how I get anywhere when I’m traveling!)

Thank you for this website!! I especially appreciated the history and looked for the plaques while we walked. And I can see why the bike path changed – who thought bikes and pedestrians was going to work in the first place??

Thanks Kate!! I have added that tip – glad you found the guide helpful!

This whole article was so completely helpful! My mom and I will be driving from Pennsylvania just to walk the bridge in a few weeks. Where would you recommend parking so that we can access the bridge from the Brooklyn side? Thank you so much for the very specific Google map area too!

Glad you found this helpful! Parking isn’t great down there, but there are parking garages, I recommend the garage at 200 Cadman Plaza W.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

 100+ Things To Do in Brooklyn 

Get Our FREE GUIDE  

16 Best Brooklyn Walking Tours of All Time According to a Local

Looking for a mega epic list that features the best Brooklyn walking tours this city has to offer?

If so then this massive local guide to the best walking tours Brooklyn has to offer is for you.

And while I am a born and bred Manhattan girl, I love the cool, hipster vibe that Brooklyn gives off.

Therefore, this 30+ year local dashes off to Brooklyn every chance she gets to check out some of the best walking tours in Brooklyn . Yeah, it sometimes feels like a different world out there!

As a result, you know this list of the best tours in Brooklyn is the real deal, with 100% honest reviews about the best of the best when it comes to Brooklyn walking tours.

So, stop worrying about your NYC itinerary and wondering if the tour you’re about to book is great.

Instead, leave it all in the hands of a pro like me and give this epic list a read.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

My #1 pick 🏆 for the best Brooklyn walking tour is this INSANE Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Food Tour. It’ll have you in a food coma after all that epic pizza. 🍕 NOM NOM !

Best Brooklyn Walking Tours – DUMBO, Brooklyn Bridge, and Brooklyn Heights

1. private guided walking tour of the brooklyn bridge and dumbo.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (19 Reviews) Price: $185 per group (up to 8) Duration: 2.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 1 Centre St, New York, NY 10007 Details: Read more on Viator now!

This 2.5-hour private guided walking tour is the perfect way to learn about Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighborhood and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

Now, your expert guide will first take you over the bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn, sharing stories about the bridge’s history and construction.

Once you arrive in Brooklyn, you’ll explore the waterfront Dumbo neighborhood, with its charming independent shops, wicked awesome street art, and locally-owned restaurants.

“Gary was an absolute gem! He greeted us with energy and enthusiasm and was full of amazing stories and humour. His knowledge and passion were immense and he had some brilliant and illuminating pictures on his iPad. Hugely enjoyable tour which we were so glad we’d had. Gary also roused our interest to explore many other places in the limited time we had in NYC. An absolute joy… Thank you!” Susan ( read more reviews now )

One of the best Brooklyn walking tours will then finish up in Brooklyn Bridge Park, with stunning views and a variety of places to eat (head to Juliana’s and you will not regret it).

Honestly, exploring the area with a private guide gives you a more personalized experience, with the chance to ask questions along the way.

And, of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the stunning views of Brooklyn and the New York City skyline.

Then, afterward hit up some of the best thrift stores in Brooklyn in DUMBO.

2. Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo Food Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (263 Reviews) Price: $94.50 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 200 Cadman Plaza W, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Explore the eclectic food culture of Brooklyn and the Dumbo neighborhood on this small group walking tour .

Just be sure to come hungry since you’ll be sampling some of the most delicious foods and drinks that make up Brooklyn’s diverse food scene.

Plus, yes people, the rumors are true. And all the portions for most of the must-try foods in NYC are enormous.

Now, more specifically, the Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo areas are a melting pot of different cultures.

And that theme is reflected in the diverse mix of bakeries, restaurants, and food markets that can be found here.

“It is always a great idea to go on tours to get to know the place you visit…adding food in it plus a top notch tour guide made this experience delightful. We went on a guided tour of the Brooklyn bridge and Dumbo. They gave us a tour of the bridge and it was extremely informative. Cullen was knowledgeable and intersects with everyone in the group. He was entertaining and made the tour fun 😄 by making us guess when he asked question, not just providing it for us. He’s really an excellent tour guide.” Sylvia ( read more reviews now )

So, your guide will take you on a three-hour expedition that includes stops at a multicultural range of ethnic eateries, in addition to some of the neighborhood’s coolest foodie hotspots.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to captivating stories of the neighborhood’s rich history and enjoy stunning views of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

And, of course, you’ll also sample a wide variety of sweet pastries, international treats, and that most traditional NYC treat – a slice of pizza that can be classified as the best pizza in Brooklyn !

Pro Tip: Either before or after one of the best Brooklyn walking tours, be sure to head to Time Out Market and grab some blueberry pancakes from Clinton Street Baking Company. Yeah, you’re welcome.

3. Brooklyn Heights, Dumbo, and The Bridge

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (13 Reviews) Price: $112.50 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Clark St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

If you’re fascinated by New York City history then you’re sure to enjoy this 2-2.5 hour private walking tour around some of NYC’s most historic areas.

Because during this Brooklyn walking tour, your professional guide will take you around the tree-lined streets of Brooklyn Heights, including Love Lane, Henry Street, and Pierrepont Street.

You’ll then pass through the trendy Dumbo neighborhood (be sure to admire all the street art too), enjoy the famous view from Washington Street, and finally cross the Brooklyn Bridge.

“Best tour because it was interesting and fun. Irene was adept at personalizing everything to each of the three of our interests. And we had so much fun learning history, seeing exquisite architecture and learning the inside scoop about the places we toured. I’m a New Yorker and I can’t to tour with Irene again and recommend her to all my friends.” Suzanne ( read more reviews now )

Along the way, you’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline from the Brooklyn Promenade. You’ll also learn how the area has transformed over the past 200 years.

Remember, this is a private Brooklyn walking tour.

So, you’ll enjoy the full attention of your tour guide, who will give you the inside scoop on the area’s many hidden gems and share some of the neighborhood’s most entertaining stories.

And, don’t worry because there will be plenty of opportunities to take photographs that will serve as great NYC souvenirs .

4. Underground Brooklyn Walking Brewery Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (11 Reviews) Price: $99 per person Duration : 3.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 623 Sackett St, Brooklyn, NY 11217 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

If you enjoy sampling great craft beers and love learning all about the brewing process then this is the perfect Brooklyn walking tour for you .

See, during this small group tour, you’ll visit three unique Brooklyn breweries that are in totally different neighborhoods.

In fact, you’ll travel between them by subway and begin to feel like a real local as you explore all sots of different areas.

Now, the breweries on your tour will vary, but they will all be smaller ones run by people who are passionate about crafting excellent ales, IPAs, lagers, and more.

So, yes, you are supporting small local businesses during one of the best Brooklyn walking tours and can feel totally good about that.

Additionally, your expert local guide will take you behind the scenes at each brewery , giving you a chance to learn about brewing beer before actually sampling the beers.

“This was awesome, a must for a beer lover visiting NYC. We were looked after by Cam and he made us feel at home right from the off. A great selection of beers followed, great beer chat with Cam and the rest of the group and a few behind the scenes extras at the three breweries. Did I mention that the beer was nice? Nice beer.” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

Seriously, my jaw was on the floor when I learned all about how beer is made. I also just seriously loved Camden since he was a super fun dude to hang out with and learn from.

You’ll also love that the price of this 3.5-hour Brooklyn brewery tour is fully inclusive of drinks and complimentary snacks at each brewery and transport by subway between the breweries.

And I for one love it when a tour is all-inclusive. Yeah, I hardcore hate when you pay for a tour and everything is a la carte.

Because then I want to raise my hand and be like, “Hi, so why did I actually pay for this Brooklyn walking tour? Hmm???”

5. The Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour: “The Brooklyn Revolution!”

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (33 Reviews) Price: $49.95 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 52 Chambers St, New York, NY 10007 Details: Read more on Viator now !

Exploring the historic borough of Brooklyn on your own is fun, but the area is packed with so many iconic sights that it can be easy to overlook some of the highlights.

So, this three-hour guided walking tour of Brooklyn has been designed by savvy locals to ensure that you don’t miss out on anything during your visit.

Therefore, your expert historian guide will introduce you to all the mega epic landmark sites like the Brooklyn Bridge, Jane’s Carousel, the Brooklyn Heights Mansion, and the hipster-chic, cobblestone streets of Dumbo (the street art is cool too).

“An outstanding guide for a great tour. Bruce was engaged and well informed. His addition of the DUMBO Brooklyn tour including a great chocolatier, Jane’s carousel and a Brooklyn Heights mansion history & tour rounded this out beautifully 😉” Walter ( read more reviews now )

Just do me a favor and don’t forget to get that epic shot of the Manhattan Bridge from Water Street and Washington Street while you’re here.

Additionally, you’ll explore the quieter side of the neighborhood, including stunning 19th-century homes along tree-lined streets that make for some of the best hidden gems in NYC .

Along the way, your guide will share some exciting facts and quirky stories about the history of Brooklyn that date all the way back to the Revolutionary War.

You’ll also get super fun local tips like the fact that pizza at Juliana’s > Grimaldi’s (Yes, it’s true. Juliana’s has way better pizza and I learned that during one of the best walking tours in Brooklyn).

6. The Story of Brooklyn Heights Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (10 Reviews) Price: $30.00 per person Duration: 1-1.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Brooklyn Borough Hall, 209 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Discover the 400-year history of Brooklyn as told by a Brooklyn Heights resident on this 60-90 minute Brooklyn walking tour .

Because your guide for this private Brooklyn Heights walking tour will have expert knowledge of the local area’s history.

So, they’ll explain Brooklyn’s essential role in New York’s development and point out some of the district’s grandest residences and most important landmarks.

“Thomas was a friendly and knowledgeable guide. I’ve lived in NYC for more than 15 years and I learned a LOT! We will definitely recommend to friends and family that they take a tour with Thomas!” Lisa ( read more reviews now )

Heck, you’ll even learn about Brooklyn’s colonial and suburban eras before digging into the story behind the fall of Brooklyn Heights and its rebirth in the late 20th century.

Finally, you’ll head to Brooklyn Heights Promenade to admire the stunning Manhattan skyline as your guide regales you with tales about the centuries-long battle to open this glorious view up to the public.

And if you’re looking for some great Brooklyn places to eat, your tour guide can also help out with that during one of the best walking tours Brooklyn has to offer.

7. Brooklyn Art Walk, Drink Crawl, and City Views

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (53 Reviews) Price: $59.00 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Dumbo, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Discover the sights and delicious tastes of Brooklyn on this combined street art walk and tasting tour.

See, you’ll be traveling with a small group. So, you’ll explore the DUMBO district of Brooklyn, learning about its history and culture from your expert guide.

After all, this area has changed beyond recognition in the last 50 years. And during your 90-minute tour , your guide will share some fascinating stories from this era.

“We loved our Brooklyn Art Walk tour with Ari! He took us around Dumbo and gave us some of the history of the area as well as the beautiful street art that brings it to life. He also took us to see some breathtaking sights of the Brooklyn Bridge, happily took all of our photos for us, and even bought us a drink at a brewery at the end of our tour! I would highly recommend a tour with Ari if you’re traveling to NYC!!” Stephanie ( read more reviews now )

First, though, you’ll visit a rooftop bar to drink in the breathtaking views of the three bridges connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn.

You’ll then enjoy a sampling of drinks and snacks from the comfort of a rooftop lounge.

Plus, your tour guide will take stunning photos to give you a wonderful memento of your Brooklyn art walk.

8. Made in Brooklyn Tour®

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (108 Reviews) Price: $55.00 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Pedro’s, 73 Jay St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Discover a new side of one of NYC’s coolest neighborhoods on this small-group walking tour of Brooklyn.

Guided by a Brooklyn resident, you’ll receive a personal introduction to Brooklyn’s crafty side as you call on some of the district’s artists and creatives.

So, this three-hour Made in Brooklyn walking tour starts and ends in the waterfront Dumbo area, conveniently located near public transportation.

“Such a great tour of the area. Dom is so knowledgeable and friendly. He takes great pride in Brooklyn and his enthusiasm for the area makes for a fascinating tour. We highly recommend booking any tour specifically with Dom.” Rachelle ( read more reviews now )

Your guide will then take you to a wide variety of local boutiques, studios, and creative spaces.

Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of local landmarks along the way so that you can tick everything off your NYC bucket list .

9. Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo Neighborhood Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (125 Reviews) Price: $39 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Tweed Court House, 52 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 Operator: Inside Out Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline as you explore the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of as Dumbo (aka Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) with a local guide.

Originally an industrial area, the whole of the Dumbo area was regenerated in the late 20th century.

Nowadays, it’s an upscale residential area known for its exciting art galleries, cool boutiques, great coffee shops, epic ice cream, and fabulous waterfront views.

“Cold cloudy day. Nevertheless excellent tour. Sean was a great guide. Tho the group was large. despite hearing problems I never hsd problems hearing him. He articulately gave pertinent information in a matter of fact way and was eager to answer questions and give additional information. I would highly recommend this tour especially with Sean as guide.” Charles ( read more reviews now )

And during one of the best Brooklyn walking tours of all time , you’ll hear captivating tales about the history of this intriguing area as you explore its streets and landmarks.

Your guide will also share fascinating stories from the history of the Brooklyn Bridge as you walk across this iconic NYC landmark.

Just don’t forget your camera since there will be lots of fantastic photo ops along your 2 to 2.5-hour walk.

10. Secrets of the Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (13 Reviews) Price: $39.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: City Hall Park, 43 Park Row, New York, NY 10038 Operator: Untapped New York Details: Read more on Viator Now!

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of NYC’s most beloved landmarks, but how much do you really know about it?

Well, after this two-hour Brooklyn Bridge walking tour you’ll know a lot more.

See, your expert guide will share little-known secrets and give you the inside scoop on intriguing 130-year-old stories from the bridge’s iconic past.

“Lots of fun and great historical stories! I really enjoyed seeing and learning about the history of NY. Thanks so much!” Betsy ( read more reviews now )

And as you stroll over the bridge, your pro guide will fill you in on the Brooklyn Bridge’s secret Cold War role and its importance in the development of NYC’s mega epic transportation system.

Next, you’ll head beneath the bridge to discover a whole new perspective on the structure.

Your Brooklyn Bridge tour will then end at the City Hall Promenade, which offers some of the best views in NYC of the bridge.

Yeah, this tour moves at a relaxed pace and gives you plenty of time to take photos of the bridge and the surrounding cityscape.

11. Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Neighborhood Tour – from Manhattan to Brooklyn

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (400 Reviews) Price: $39.00 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Tweed Courthouse, 52 Chambers St, New York, NY 10007 Operator: Inside Out Tours Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Want to learn about the best way to see Manhattan? Or how about getting the inside scoop about Dumbo?

Either way, this guided tour is 110% for you since your local guide will introduce you to some of the city’s sights and share neat historical facts as you walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Dumbo.

Initially, though, your tour will get off to a stress-free start with a meeting spot that’s easily reached by public transport.

“A wonderful and informative tour, at exactly the right pace by a knowledgeable tour guide. Kevin is obviously very passionate about history and it was a well constructed and enjoyable experience that I would recommend to anyone visiting New York, whether a first timer or a more regular visitor as myself.” Denice ( read more reviews now )

You’ll then see immortal Manhattan hidden gems like the Tweed Courthouse from 1881 (combo of 19th-century opulence/corruption) and The Municipal Building.

In fact, The Municipal Building is one of the biggest government buildings in the city and is where you’ll find the second biggest public statue in the city.

You’ll also learn about the compelling history behind the Brooklyn Bridge before crossing the bridge and exploring the cobblestone streets and art galleries of the Dumbo.

You’ll then wrap up your visit with a stop at Brooklyn Bridge Park, where you can take tons of epic shots of the Manhattan skyline.

All in all it’s a next-level magical, 2.5-hour tour that’s perfect for first-time travelers to NYC as well as regular visitors.

Best Brooklyn Walking Tours – Bushwick

12. brooklyn street art walking tour.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (188 Reviews) Price: $32.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 30 Wyckoff Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Brooklyn is well known for its vibrant street art scene, with a graffiti culture that’s one of the world’s best.

But it can be hard to find the best works Brooklyn has to offer if you don’t know where to look.

So, a Brooklyn graffiti tour , led by a guide who knows the area inside and out, is the best and easiest way to explore Brooklyn’s urban art scene.

And this tour does just that in the now iconic Bushwick neighborhood, where you will find the one and only Bushwick Collective.

So, during your vist, you’ll stand in awe of the incredible diversity of the local street art scene as you look at no less than hundreds of street art murals.

Plus, over the course of your two-hour Brooklyn street art tour , you’ll hear the story behind the Bushwick Collective and discover why it’s so essential to the graffiti scene in NYC.

Your expert guide will then explain how street artists turn a blank wall into a fantastic work of art, and help you recognize some of the best-known artists and their signature styles.

“Nick led us on an informative, fun and vibrantly colorful tour of the powerfully creative street art (and graffiti) adorning buildings in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn. A perfect complement to a gallery walk in Chelsea.” Andrew ( read more reviews now )

You’ll also learn how to identify different types of street art techniques while admiring the colorful murals here.

Yeah, there are so many works to see on this tour, so you might want to retrace your steps after the tour ends to fully appreciate the color and skill on display.

Local Tip: Grab a slice of artichoke pizza from Artichoke Basille’s here after the tour. Bushwick is also not super close to Manhattan.

So, it will take you around 35 minutes to get here by subway from Times Square.

13. Bushwick Street Art Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (214 Reviews) Price: $20.00 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 282 Meserole Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206 Operator: Graff Tours Details : Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

The Brooklyn neighborhood of Bushwick was founded by the Dutch in the 17th century, and it has been a melting pot of different communities ever since then.

Now, over the years, Bushwick has become a thriving artist community, with dozens of galleries and art studios dotted throughout the area.

It’s also home to one of the largest outdoor collections of street art in the entire city.

And this Brooklyn street art tour will help you discover the history and culture of street art in Brooklyn.

“The tour was very interesting. we didn’t walk much- there was plenty to see in just a few streets. the guide was very knowledgeable- practically a walking-street-art encyclopedia. she gave a detailed overview of all aspects- from history to law, artistic styles and interpretation. she really seems as someone who both knows and is passionate about what she does.” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

So, get ready to explore the Bushwick Collective in the company of a local street artist and learn about Jo Ficalora, who established the Bushwick Collective way back when.

Now, during your 1.5-hour Bushwick graffiti tour , you’ll see examples of different styles of street art and hear about the stories behind the fabulous artworks that decorate the neighborhood’s walls.

Your Bushwick street art tour will also give you the chance to meet a New York graffiti artist and discover how they create their works.

You’ll also get the inside scoop on some of the issues they consider when planning a new piece of street art.

Best Brooklyn Walking Tours – Williamsburg

14. williamsburg food tasting & walking tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (135 Reviews) Price: $85.00 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 285 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a must-visit for foodies exploring New York City.

After all, this part of the city is positively brimming over with fantastic eateries and a great weekly farmer’s market that visitors will adore.

So, if you want to discover the very best foodie destinations in Williamsburg, this Brooklyn food tour is perfect for you.

See, your friendly guide will take you on a three-hour exploration of the neighborhood’s charming streets, dipping into several eateries along the way.

Therefore, you’ll enjoy some of NYC’s most famous foods, like pizzas and bagels, with epic stops at local faves like Pie & Thighs, Rosa Pizza, and Doughnut Plant (my personal fave).

Altogether, you’ll sample up to six different dishes on this relaxed walking tour of Brooklyn. Your guide will also be able to give you insider knowledge on some of the best places to eat in Brooklyn.

Local Tip: If you want even more doughnuts from Doughnut Plant, you can rest easy knowing that they have a location at Grand Central too.

Also, come to this Brooklyn walking tour hungry since portions are very generous.

Best Brooklyn Walking Tours – Carroll Gardens

15. pizza walking tour of downtown brooklyn.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (9 Reviews) Price: $65.00 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 214 Hicks St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

You can’t visit New York City without sampling a classic slice of New York pizza. But, only real locals know where to go to find the best pizza in the city.

And your guide on this pizza walking tour is a savvy local who will take you to some of the best pizza places in Brooklyn, where you’ll discover a range of slices that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

So, during your 2.5-hour Brooklyn walking tour , you’ll explore the traditionally Italian-American neighborhood of Carroll Gardens with its gorgeous Italian cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Your guide will then take you on a deep (crust) dive into the Italian heritage of Brooklyn and share some of the secrets of making the perfect pizza.

“What a fun and amazing experience! We had a group of family coming in to New York for a wedding and this tour was a terrific high light of the weekend. Great information, friendly and outgoing guide Alex gave us laughs, history, personal attention and we all ended with hugs! Highly recommend this tour.” Linda ( read more reviews now )

You’ll meet the pizza chefs at some of Brooklyn’s top pizzerias and sample three different pizzas, including thin-crust slices and traditional Neapolitan pizza.

So, if you love pizza, this is the perfect Brooklyn tour for you!

Best Brooklyn Walking Tours – Flatbush

16. victorian flatbush, brooklyn walking tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (4 Reviews) Price: $32.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 1512 Beverley Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11226 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Explore the picturesque and historic neighborhood of Flatbush during this two-hour Brooklyn walking tour .

Accompanied by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, you’ll get a real local’s perspective on this incredible part of the city.

Because believe it or not, Flatbush is actually renowned for its stunning Victorian mansions and 19th-century architecture.

“ The tour guide was incredibly informative and enthusiastic. He brought such a unique neighborhood to life! I would highly recommend the tour and the tour guide!” Maxi ( read more reviews now )

So, it makes sense that this super cool and super unique tour includes Flatbush landmarks like Ditmas Park, King’s Theatre, and NYC’s largest collection of Victorian homes.

And while you’ll be said that your tour has ended, you’ll love the fact that this experience ends at Cortelyou Road, which is close to a great selection of cafes and restaurants.

Yup, it’s hungry work enjoying some of the best walking tours Brooklyn has to offer. So, go on, treat yo’self to some foodie goodness.

My #1 pick 🏆 for the best Brooklyn walking tour is this INSANE Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Food Tour . It’ll have you in a food coma after all that epic pizza. 🍕 NOM NOM!

Best Brooklyn Walking Tours FAQs

Where can i walk around downtown brooklyn.

Some of the best places to walk around downtown Brooklyn are the Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Plymouth Church, Brooklyn Borough Hall, and Deklalb Hall Market.

What is the Best Walking Street in Williamsburg?

The best walking street in Williamsburg is Bedford Avenue. It’s basically like Brooklyn’s version of “Main Street”.

So, it’s where you’ll find all sorts of shops, restaurants, bars, and sidewalk vendors during the weekend.

Are Walking Tours Popular?

Yes, walking tours are very popular. They offer visitors a unique and fun way to explore a brand-new city. You can also do them with a guide or totally on your own.

Additional Brooklyn Resources You’ll Love

• Best Diners in Brooklyn
• Best Thrift Stores in Brooklyn
• Best Bars in Brooklyn

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best Brooklyn walking tours.

Tell me, did your picks for the best walking tours brooklyn has to offer make the list if not then let me know below., and if you found this post useful, be sure to sign up for our email list now for more great new york tips.

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO Tour

Tour Information

Brooklyn bridge, heights & dumbo, brooklyn bridge, heights & dumbo highlights.

This is a 3-hour tour that begins with a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, an icon of New York City for over 125 years, with spectacular views of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

For our full tour calendar, click here .

Searching Availability...

TOUR DESCRIPTION

The tour then moves on to a stroll of Brooklyn Heights, America’s and New York City’s first suburb.  

The tour then explores the neighborhood DUMBO before ending at the Fulton Ferry landing.

Brooklyn Bridge

The tour begins at the fountain inside City Hall Park in Manhattan. It’s a full mile (1.6 km) across the bridge.

But, we will be making plenty of stops to talk about the history and design of the bridge and to have the opportunity to capture scenic photographs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New York Harbor.

Check out our self-guided Brooklyn Bridge walk (also available as a  GPS-led audio tour ) to get a better idea of what you will experience.

Before you read our top ten, consider listening to an episode of our NYC Travel Tips podcast that covers the Brooklyn Bridge.

This podcast offers bite-sized audio clips with tips on how to plan your trip to NYC. You can get our podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

• Brooklyn Heights

The bridge lets out in Brooklyn’s finest residential neighborhoods, filled with interesting people and architecture.

Nicknamed America’s first suburb, Brooklyn Heights will certainly amaze.

Learn about George Washington’s doomed stand against British marines and walk past the homes of Truman Capote, Arthur Miller, and Norman Mailer.

Last but not least, we will visit the promenade for arguably the best views of Manhattan and New York Harbor.

From the promenade, we will walk down to the ferry landing area and explore a small part of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).

Once a manufacturing and industrial district, economic change sapped the area of its economic strength, leaving large and vacant factory lofts as attractive destinations for artists starving for large and affordable living space.

The neighborhood's unique urban landscape is partially the result of being below two bridges, an interesting sight to see.

Learn more about this neighborhood with our self-guided tour of DUMBO (also available as a  GPS-led audio tour ).

This tour finishes near the Fulton Ferry Landing in DUMBO, where you could take the  East River Ferry to Lower Manhattan.

TOUR INFORMATION

Reservations: REQUIRED. Click here to reserve . Groups of 5 or more traveling together should visit our groups' page .

Duration: Approximately 3 hours. Tour distance is approximately 2.5 miles (4 km).

BOOKING NOTES:

• You will not have time to do this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 1pm.
• You will have very limited time to do this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 2 pm - it will require no sit-down lunch and immediate travel from one tour to the other.
• This tour route uses stairs. Please notify your guide if you cannot use stairs so the guide can plan a reroute to accommodate your needs.
• This tour covers Brooklyn Heights so you do not need to book that tour as well!

Start point: Tour begins from  the fountain  in the center of City Hall Park ( map ).

Endpoint:  Tour ends near the Fulton Ferry Landing in Brooklyn.

When: @9:30am Tuesdays through Sundays and our twilight version runs Sunday evenings (time dependent on the sunset) mid-March through Thanksgiving weekend.   View Our Full Calendar .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

Languages:  Public tour is in English or Spanish only (see our Spanish tour page for calendar) . Private tours for individual groups are also available in both languages upon request.

Save even more money with a  tourist discount pass  as well as with our tips on  bus ,  boat  and  food  tours. We also have a free app where you could download several  GPS audio versions  of our tours.

Additional planning information:  You will NOT have time to do this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 1 pm. You will have very limited time to take this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 2 pm.

It will require no sit-down lunch and immediate travel from one tour to the other.

Tours go out rain, snow or shine. Dress appropriately for the weather. 

GPS-LED AUDIO TOUR

Take this tour in our GPS-led audio tour app. It's actually 3 separate tours. Listen to the samples.

Sample of our Brooklyn Bridge Tour

Sample of our Brooklyn Heights Tour

Sample of our DUMBO Tour.

You'll need to download our free audio tour app. Downloads are only $1.99. Some tours are free.

Here is how it works:

• Book a tour on our booking page above.
• Receive a confirmation email with all the details.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Available Tours:

• Central Park
• Lower Manhattan
• 9/11 Memorial and World Trade Center
• The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• Greenwich Village
• Food Tour of Greenwich Village
• The Brooklyn Bridge (in English, Spanish, and German)
• The High Line
• Midtown Manhattan
• Grand Central Terminal

Available Without Audio (full text):

• Times Square

RELATED POSTS:

• Other NYC Tours
• Things to Do in NYC
• Things to Do in Brooklyn

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Neighborhood Tour

Quick Details

Calendar Schedule: Mar – Sep: Wed & Sat | Oct – Feb: Sat

Hour Glass Duration: 2.5 hours (2 MI / 3.2 KM)

Clock Departure Time: 10 am/Spanish; 11 am/English

Globe Other Languages: Spanish (Apr-Sep/Oct-Jan)

Hear captivating stories about the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge as you cross this incredible landmark on our Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Neighborhood walking tour. Enjoy unparalleled views of the famous and beautiful New York City skyline from Brooklyn – a photo opportunity you can’t miss while in New York! 

Then, explore the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO, known for its galleries, shops, and scenic waterfront views, with your expert NYC tour guide. This 2.5 hours walking tour is a great way to learn more about New York City, enjoy the beautiful Brooklyn DUMBO waterfront, and get stunning views of the city while crossing the Brooklyn Bridge.

Tour Highlights:

• Discover the harrowing and exciting story of the building of the Brooklyn Bridge including the dangerous conditions, acts of heroism, immigrant contributions, and cutting-edge innovations that made the Bridge one of the most beautiful and enduring  landmarks of  NYC
• Enjoy fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline, while learning the fascinating history of the Brooklyn Bridge
• Explore the trendy Brooklyn waterfront neighborhood known as DUMBO
• Stop at an early 20th-century waterfront Carousel and hear about its history and restoration
• Take stunning photos of the New York City Skyline from one of the best vantage points in the city.

All attractions are exterior visits only

This Brooklyn Bridge tour is not wheelchair-accessible.

• This tour is included in the New York Pass, Go City All-inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass.
• Pass customers please visit the  page  and follow the instruction to make a reservation.

Meeting & End Locations

• Meet the guide in front of Tweed Courthouse located at 52 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 between Broadway and Centre Street.
• The guide will be holding up a Red, Inside Out Tours Flag .
• Tour ends at Brooklyn Bridge Park in Brooklyn

Frequently Asked Questions

• Chevron down How do I reserve the tour using my Attraction Pass?
•  If you are booking with a Go City PASS (Including New York Pass, All Inclusive Pass, or Explorer Pass),  please book the tour from the page below:  https://insideouttours.com/book-with-pass/
• If pass holders select the wrong option and purchase full-price tickets and you will  NOT  receive a refund and will  NOT  be able to exchange paid tickets for a pass reservation. To book using a pass, please select visit this  page  & follow the booking instructions to make a reservation with a Pass.
• Chevron down Can I reschedule my reservation?

Cancellations made with a minimum of 48 hours advance notice will receive the opportunity to reschedule. All requests must be put in writing and received by us. Please email us here !

• Chevron down I'm running late, what should I do?

Once a tour has started we cannot delay for late arrivals or interrupt a tour guide so that latecomers may find them, as this adversely affects the tour experience for others. Please call 800-258-7359 and we will try our best to direct you to the next destination on the tour.

• Chevron down What happens in inclement weather?

Our tours run rain or shine. In the case of severe inclement weather , tours will be canceled and a full refund will be provided.

• Chevron down Do tour guides accept gratuities?

Gratuities are accepted and greatly appreciated. They’re a great way to tell your guide they did an awesome job and show your appreciation.

• Chevron down More Questions?

Check out Frequently Asked Questions  for more details.

Or contact us here!

We had a fantastic time on this tour. Kevin was amazing! There were so many interesting facts and information about the city and the bridge that you just wouldn’t know by just walking across it yourself. Would highly recommend this to anyone visiting the city.

Such a nice tour! it's a lot of walking but totally worth it. I wish the tour manager will allow more time for pictures, you still want to hear what he has to say but in the same time, you want to take nice pictures with your family.

Did this tour with my wife and 2 children on a damp and misty day with Sarah who was a great guide. She was humorous and very knowledgeable, giving loads of interesting facts about not only the bridge but the history of New York itself. Would highly recommend it!

Blue skies, crisp cold air, stunning architecture, spectacular bridge walk & a most engaging guide made for a fantastic day walking from Manhattan to Brooklyn. Kevin was a consummate guide for this tour & we loved the historical perspectives he shared. Highly recommend doing this walk.

How to Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

kolderal/Getty Images 

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge connects two great New York City boroughs, Manhattan and Brooklyn, and you can walk it , drive it, bike it, or admire it from afar from multiple vantage points around the city.

One way or the other, the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see when traveling to Brooklyn . It's not just an enjoyable experience for tourists; many born-and-bred New Yorkers find themselves still charmed by the bridge.

There's even a dedicated pedestrian walkway on the Brooklyn Bridge, above the roaring car traffic, so it's a wonderful stroll, but first, you need to decide which side you want to start on and how you'll get there to begin your journey.

According to the New York City Department of Transportation, more than 100,000 vehicles, 10,000 pedestrians, and 4,000 cyclists cross the bridge daily.

The bridge accommodates six lanes of automobile traffic, and there's no toll for vehicles crossing the Brooklyn Bridge. The wide central pedestrian pathway is elevated above the traffic whizzing by just below, but cyclists have their own dedicated lane protected from automobile traffic—a new addition in 2021. To avoid a potentially dangerous collision, be sure to diligently observe the designated lanes for walkers and cyclists.

The entire length of the bridge is just over a mile long. By foot, you'll need about 30 minutes to traverse it while going at a brisk pace, and up to an hour if you make stops for pictures and to enjoy the view (which you absolutely should).

From Brooklyn

There are two entrances to the Brooklyn Bridge on the Brooklyn side, and many subways run nearby in the borough for easy access to the pedestrian walkways. 

The Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway begins at the intersection of Tillary Street and Boerum Place and is the entrance one sees from a car when crossing the Brooklyn Bridge. The second way to get onto the walkway is to access it via the underpass on Washington Street, about two blocks from Front Street in Brooklyn. This underpass leads up a stairway to a ramp directly to the walkway itself.

In terms of public transit, you'll still need to walk anywhere from a third to two-thirds of a mile from a subway station to access the pedestrian walkway, no matter which subway you take:

• You can take the A or C subway to the High Street-Brooklyn Bridge stop for the closest access to the bridge. From the station, take a right on Pearl Street, then take a left on Prospect Street to the underpass entrance on Washington Street.
• For a more charming adventure, exit the 2 and 3 subways at Clark Street Station, then take a left onto the historic Henry Street, heading downhill toward the bridges. Take the pathway through the co-opt houses at Cranberry Street and cross Cadman Plaza West, then follow the path through the park to Washington Street (Cadman Plaza East), where the underpass will be on the left.
• You can also take another, longer but more straightforward route from the 2, 3, 4, 5, N, or R subways from Borough Hall. From here, you'll walk along Boerum Place for about 12 minutes, passing the Brooklyn Marriott on the right before coming to the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian path at Tillary Street.

To get back to Brooklyn, you can always walk back across, but you can also take the J, Z, 4, or 5 from City Hall or the 2 and 3 from Chambers Street. The coolest and fastest way to return is on the NYC Ferry from the Fulton Ferry Landing Stop in Brooklyn Bridge Park.

From Manhattan

Accessing the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walk is easier from the Manhattan side, but the views aren't quite as breathtaking as coming from the other way.

From Manhattan, the entrance begins just across from the northeast corner of  City Hall Park  along Centre Street. The closest subway stops are via the 4, 5, and 6 trains at Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall station; the J or Z train at the Chambers Street station; or the R train at City Hall. However, if you are traveling from Manhattan's west side and don't mind walking a few extra blocks, you can also take the 1, 2, or 3 trains to Chambers Street, walk east, then cross Park Row to begin your walk across the bridge.

Once you arrive in Brooklyn, there are two exits, one that leads down into DUMBO and the other into Downtown Brooklyn. To get back to Manhattan, get off via the staircase at the first exit in DUMBO, which leads across Prospect Street to Washington Street, and take the nearby F train on York Street or the A and C train on High Street. Farther along on the bridge, a descending ramp continues (a better option for cyclists) to let out onto Tillary Street and Boerum Place in Downtown Brooklyn; the nearest subway lines from that exit are the A, C, and F at Jay Street-Metrotech; 4 and 5 at Borough Hall; or the R at Court Street.

Early History

The bridge opened to the public in 1883 in a dedication ceremony presided over by President Chester A. Arthur and New York Governor Grover Cleveland. Any pedestrian with a penny for the toll was welcomed to cross—an estimated 250,000 people walked across the bridge in the first 24 hours—horses with riders were charged 5 cents, and it cost 10 cents for horses and wagons.

Unfortunately, tragedy unfolded just six days after the bridge's debut, when 12 people were trampled to death amidst a stampede incited by a panicked (false) rumor that the bridge was collapsing into the river. The following year, P. T. Barnum, of circus fame, led 21 elephants across the bridge to quell public fears about its stability.

The pedestrian toll was repealed in 1891, along with the roadways toll in 1911, and the bridge crossing has been free to all ever since. Although there used to be subway and streetcar services over the bridge, the elevated trains ceased operations in 1944, and the streetcars followed suit in 1950.

Can You Walk From Brooklyn to Staten Island on Verrazano Bridge?

The Coolest Bridges in New York City

Brooklyn: A Visitors Guide

12 Top Summer Things to Do in Brooklyn

How to Travel From LaGuardia Airport to Brooklyn by Subway, Bus, and Car

48 Hours in Lower Manhattan: The Perfect Itinerary

48 Hours in Brooklyn: The Perfect Itinerary

5 Great Walks in Manhattan

How to Get to Brooklyn Bridge Park and DUMBO

The 20 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn

Taking a Run or Going for a Jog Across the Brooklyn Bridge: 4 Tips

Tips for Walking and Biking Across the Williamsburg Bridge

The 4 Best Things to Do After Walking Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge Park and Brooklyn Heights Promenade: Planning Your Visit

Discovering Red Hook, Brooklyn

Brooklyn Flea: Planning Your Visit