Bayonne Bridge
A majestic steel arch bridge connecting Staten Island and New Jersey, offering breathtaking skyline views and maritime sights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Bayonne Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic steel arch bridge connecting Staten Island and New Jersey, offering breathtaking skyline views and maritime sights.
"A favorite with cool views: NYC skyline east, Kill Van Kull below, Staten Island glimpses."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike for Free
Enjoy a free stroll or bike ride across the bridge. It's a fantastic way to get exercise and see the sights.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning photos of the bridge, ships, and skyline. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City & Harbor Views
Mid-span
Gaze at the NYC skyline to the east and the bustling Kill Van Kull waterway below. A truly iconic vista.
Maritime Activity Below
Along the pedestrian path
Watch massive container ships and other vessels navigate the Kill Van Kull waterway.
Crossing Between States
Bridge span
Experience the unique sensation of being in both New York and New Jersey simultaneously.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk or Bike the Bayonne Bridge
Timing Your Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike for Free
Enjoy a free stroll or bike ride across the bridge. It's a fantastic way to get exercise and see the sights.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning photos of the bridge, ships, and skyline. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking or biking, so comfortable footwear is a must!
📍 Connects NY & NJ
Experience the unique feeling of being in two states at once on this impressive structure.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike for Free
Enjoy a free stroll or bike ride across the bridge. It's a fantastic way to get exercise and see the sights.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning photos of the bridge, ships, and skyline. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking or biking, so comfortable footwear is a must!
📍 Connects NY & NJ
Experience the unique feeling of being in two states at once on this impressive structure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bayonne Bridge for its stunning panoramic views of the NYC skyline and the busy Kill Van Kull waterway, noting it's a less crowded and free alternative to other crossings. The unique experience of being in both New York and New Jersey simultaneously is a frequent highlight, making it a memorable spot for photos and a pleasant walk or bike ride.
"The Bayonne Bridge is a favorite with cool views: NYC skyline east, Kill Van Kull below, Staten Island glimpses. Much smaller than Verrazzano, rebuilt with neat engineering upgrades. Never busy, fun crossing—iconic from “War of the Worlds” with Tommy Cruise! 5 stars."
Trucker 2 Millions
"The Bayonne Bridge is a favorite with cool views, the bridge is a steel through arch bridge and can be seen from a far distance like the Staten Island Ferry, and others. The bridge connects Staten Island and New Jersey and the Kill Van Kull below it. Also, many commercial ships pass below the bridge daily."
Jonathan
"Nice bridge to take photos
We can walk across and it’s free"
vitor azinheira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bayonne Bridge connects Staten Island, New York, and Bayonne, New Jersey. You can access it by car via local roads in both states. For public transport, consider the Staten Island Ferry to reach Staten Island, then local buses or ride-sharing services to the bridge.
Parking directly at the bridge is limited. It's often easier to park in designated areas in Bayonne, NJ, or on Staten Island and then walk or bike onto the bridge. Check local parking regulations before you arrive.
While there isn't a direct bus that stops on the bridge, several MTA buses serve areas near the Staten Island side, and NJ Transit buses serve the Bayonne side. You may need to walk or bike the final stretch.
Yes, you can reach the vicinity of the Bayonne Bridge via public transit. The Staten Island Ferry is a popular free option to get to Staten Island, from where you can take local buses or taxis.
For iconic shots, consider approaching from the Staten Island side for views of the NYC skyline, or from the Bayonne side for a different perspective of the bridge's structure and the industrial waterfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking or biking across the Bayonne Bridge is completely free! There are no tickets or fees required for pedestrian or cyclist access.
The Bayonne Bridge is open 24/7 for vehicular traffic. Pedestrian and bicycle access is generally available during daylight hours, though it's best to check with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for any specific restrictions.
There is no admission fee to walk or bike across the Bayonne Bridge. Tolls apply only to vehicles crossing the bridge.
While vehicles can cross at night, pedestrian and bicycle access might be restricted after dark. It's advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views.
While there aren't regular tours, the bridge is sometimes featured in fitness events or organized walks. Keep an eye on local event listings for any special occasions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity is walking or biking across the bridge, enjoying the panoramic views of the New York skyline, the Kill Van Kull waterway, and the surrounding industrial areas. It's also a great spot for photography.
Yes, the Bayonne Bridge has dedicated pedestrian and bicycle paths, making it safe for non-vehicular traffic. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow any posted guidelines.
You'll get expansive views of the New York City skyline to the east, the busy Kill Van Kull waterway with its ship traffic, and the industrial landscapes of Bayonne, New Jersey.
Walking across the Bayonne Bridge typically takes about 30-45 minutes one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos or enjoy the views.
There are no restrooms or facilities directly on the Bayonne Bridge itself. It's best to use facilities on either the Staten Island or Bayonne side before or after your crossing.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning for sunrise and fewer crowds, or late afternoon for golden hour light and sunset views are ideal. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great opportunities to capture ships.
You can capture stunning shots of the bridge's architecture, the vast New York City skyline, passing container ships, and the industrial waterfront. Drone photography is also popular here.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and Port Authority rules. Always check current regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bridge and skyline. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on ships. A tripod can help with low-light shots.
While you can see parts of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty is not prominently visible from the Bayonne Bridge. For Statue of Liberty views, the Staten Island Ferry is a better option.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the bridge. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the edges. The novelty of being in two states at once can be a fun learning moment. Consider combining a visit with a trip to a nearby park on either the Staten Island or Bayonne side for a fuller day out.
👟 Fitness Enthusiasts
Recommendation: Aim for an early morning or late afternoon session to avoid the midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures. The length of the bridge provides a substantial distance for a solid cardio session. You can track your steps or distance, making it a quantifiable fitness goal during your visit.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Best Shots: Focus on capturing the scale of the bridge, the impressive container ships, and the interplay of light on the water and cityscape. Consider using a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens to zoom in on ship details. The unique perspective of connecting two states also makes for compelling content.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bayonne Bridge: An Engineering Marvel
In recent years, the bridge underwent a massive reconstruction project to raise its roadway by over 60 feet. This ambitious project, completed in 2019, was crucial for accommodating larger container ships that now transit the Kill Van Kull waterway. The reconstruction involved complex engineering feats, including lifting the existing deck and building new approaches.
This upgrade not only improved maritime navigation but also enhanced the bridge's capacity for vehicular traffic. The Bayonne Bridge remains a vital artery for commerce and transportation, offering a unique blend of engineering prowess and scenic views.
Experiencing the Bayonne Bridge on Foot or Bike
As you make your way across, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views. To the east, the iconic New York City skyline stretches out, a constant reminder of the bustling metropolis. Below, the Kill Van Kull waterway teems with activity, with massive container ships and other vessels navigating their routes. The industrial landscape of Bayonne, New Jersey, provides a contrasting backdrop to the urban vista.
Many visitors find the experience to be both invigorating and visually stunning. It's a chance to get your steps in, enjoy fresh air, and capture incredible photographs without the rush of traffic. The ability to be in two states simultaneously adds a unique element to the journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit