Of all the bridges of New York City—and there are a few—the Brooklyn Bridge is without question the most iconic and well-known.

Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest and most iconic suspension bridges in the United States. It spans the East River, connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn in New York City. Obviously there’s no better view of the bridge than from the water on a City Cruises yacht, but there’s no doubt this is complemented by a walk, bicycle or even bike tour across the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you are taking a trip across the bridge, it’s best to start on the Brooklyn side so you’ll have the impressive Manhattan skyline in your view the whole time. And don’t worry about cars, the designated walking and cycle paths are above the traffic, all you have to worry about is cyclists and pedestrians! Make sure you take a selfie on the way.

The bridge’s designer was also the first of many victims to the construction. John Augustus Roebling had three toes amputated after having his leg pinned by a ferry; he later died from tetanus as a result of the accident. His son, who took over the project, suffered from the bends and was bedridden while it was completed. His wife aided the completion in his physical absence.

You’ll also notice a section devoted to ‘love locks’. Love locks are a recent phenomenon, arguably started at the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris, which is slowly having its locks removed due to issues the weight is causing. They’re also regularly removed from the Brooklyn Bridge as well, so perhaps best not to add one if you wish it to symbolise endless love!

The completion of the Brooklyn bridge was the first time Manhattan and Brooklyn had been connected, with the bridge stretching over the East River.

The Brooklyn Bridge has been featured in endless movies over the years, often serving as an iconic backdrop for memorable scenes. Here are just a few notable films that have prominently featured the Brooklyn Bridge: Manhattan, Saturday Night Fever, Spider-Man, Gangs of New York, I Am Legend, And Brooklyn.

Take a look at the Brooklyn Bridge Cam, you’ll often see a City Cruises yacht cruising by, better yet, view the bridge day or night with a New York dining cruise – and the chance to view several iconic landmarks up close in one siitting, such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.

FAQ’s – Brooklyn Bridge

How long is the Brooklyn Bridge?
With a with a main span of 1,595.5 feet, it was easily the longest suspension bridge in the world but was exceeded by the Williamsburg Bridge in 1903.

Can pedestrians walk across the Brooklyn Bridge?
Yes, the Brooklyn Bridge has a designated pedestrian walkway elevated above the roadway, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to cross the bridge safely. The walkway offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Statue of Liberty.

Is there a fee to walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge?
– No, there is no fee to access the pedestrian walkway on the Brooklyn Bridge. It is open to the public and free to use.

How long does it take to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge?
The time it takes to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the views or snap photos. On average, it takes about 30 to 40 minutes to walk from one end of the bridge to the other.

Are there guided tours available for the Brooklyn Bridge?
Yes, there are guided walking tours available that provide historical information and interesting facts about the Brooklyn Bridge and its construction. Some tours may also include visits to nearby landmarks and attractions.

Is the Brooklyn Bridge accessible to vehicles?
Yes, the Brooklyn Bridge has lanes for vehicular traffic, including cars, trucks, and buses. However, there is often heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, so it’s advisable to check traffic conditions before driving across the bridge.

What are some nearby attractions to visit after crossing the Brooklyn Bridge?
After crossing the Brooklyn Bridge into Brooklyn, visitors can explore attractions such as Brooklyn Bridge Park, DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), Brooklyn Heights Promenade, and the Brooklyn Bridge Park Carousel.

Original Post Date: February 27, 2019