Things to do FOR FREE in NYC! Part Four: Brooklyn Bridge

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is an unforgettable experience.

Even if you’re only in the city for a short time, it is totally worth doing. Here’s why: The view of the Manhattan skyline. When you’re in the city it’s easy to lose your perspective surrounded by all the skyscrapers. But take the subway just a few stops away and you’re on the other side of the East River, in Brooklyn, facing the iconic New York City skyline.

The Brooklyn Bridge, opened in 1883, is a hybrid cable-stayed and suspension bridge. It hosts six lanes for traffic and has an elevated promenade open to pedestrians and cyclists above the car lanes. Safety Tip: if you’re on foot be sure to stay in the pedestrian lanes. This is safest for everyone!

The bridge tends to be packed, especially when the weather is good. For the chance to snap some photos with fewer people in the frame, I’d recommend going very early, around sunrise. It’s worth it! Otherwise, it’s likely your photos will be more people and less bridge.

Bonus Itinerary! Make a day of it and before heading back over the bridge into Manhattan, spend some time walking through Brooklyn Bridge Park with a visit to Jane’s Carousel. Afterward, explore the Empire Stores and grab a bite to eat at the Time Out Market. Time Out Market is a food hall with dozens of New York City’s best restaurants and food purveyors all under one roof. I recommend the Honey Chicken Biscuit from Jacob’s Pickles or if I’m feeling more virtuous, something a bit healthier but no less tasty from the Avocaderia. From there head up to the rooftop, grab a drink from the bar and enjoy the stunning views!