DUMBO, New York City - a night scene of a city and a bridge
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DUMBO

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

DUMBO, Brooklyn: Iconic bridge views, waterfront park, and cobblestone charm. A photographer's paradise with stunning Manhattan skyline vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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DUMBO, New York City - a night scene of a city and a bridge

DUMBO

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

DUMBO, Brooklyn: Iconic bridge views, waterfront park, and cobblestone charm. A photographer's paradise with stunning Manhattan skyline vistas.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The most famous street in Brooklyn, famous for nothing more and nothing less because the Manhattan Bridge frames perfectly."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Iconic Bridge Photo Spot

Get the classic Manhattan Bridge shot on Washington Street, but be ready for crowds! Go early for fewer people.

🚢 Ferry for Skyline Views

Take the NYC Ferry to DUMBO for amazing skyline views for just $4. It's a budget-friendly and scenic way to arrive.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Washington Street View

Washington Street View

Intersection of Washington St and Water St

The iconic shot of the Manhattan Bridge framed by buildings, with the Empire State Building peeking through. A must-see for any visitor.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Waterfront promenade

Stunning waterfront park offering panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and bridges. Perfect for strolls and picnics.

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach

Brooklyn Bridge Park

A serene spot with incredible, unobstructed views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. Great for quiet reflection.

Jane's Carousel

Jane's Carousel

Brooklyn Bridge Park

A beautifully restored 1922 carousel offering a whimsical ride with breathtaking waterfront and city views.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views

DUMBO's most famous photo spots, like Washington Street, get packed. Visit early morning or late afternoon for clearer shots and a more relaxed experience. Consider weekdays over weekends for fewer people.

Embrace the Waterfront & Beyond

While DUMBO is known for its bridges and skyline views, explore Brooklyn Bridge Park's diverse attractions. Don't miss the chance to ride the ferry for unique perspectives of Manhattan.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon/Sunset
Why
Golden hour light, city glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturday/Sunday mornings
Why
Brooklyn Flea market buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Top 5 Things to do in Dumbo Brooklyn #nyc #Brooklyn #visitnyc #NewYork #nybucketlist #travenyc #dumbo
@jeffreyinnyc
173.9K likes • 3.1M views

📸 Iconic Bridge Photo Spot

Get the classic Manhattan Bridge shot on Washington Street, but be ready for crowds! Go early for fewer people. TikTok+2

🚢 Ferry for Skyline Views

Take the NYC Ferry to DUMBO for amazing skyline views for just $4. It's a budget-friendly and scenic way to arrive. TikTokReddit

Mark your calendars 🐘🪂 #dumbobrooklyn #nycevents #thingstodoinnyc #nycforfeee
@sincerelymaureen
34.3K likes • 325.8K views
Stop paying for NYC views 😳 Try these 3 FREE spots instead 👇 📍Brooklyn Bridge 📍Squibb Park Bridge 📍Manhattan Bridge (DUMBO shot!) 📌 Save this NYC tip ✨ Follow for more budget travel hacks! #visitnyc ...
@travelmorewithrita
28K likes • 297.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park

Wander through the park for diverse views, picnic spots, and access to Pebble Beach. Go early to avoid crowds. Reddit+1

🍔 Foodie Paradise at Time Out

Time Out Market offers a wide variety of food vendors. Grab a bite and head upstairs for a view! TikTokReddit+1

Dumbo es una de mis zonas favoritas en Nueva York 😍 desde aquí están las mejores vistas de Manhattan y todo es hermoso 🫶🏼 Esta ruta siempre la hago con mis viajeras 🥰 #nyc #ny #nuevayork #quehacerennu...
@mimirojas.co
26.5K likes • 514.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Iconic Bridge Photo Spot

Get the classic Manhattan Bridge shot on Washington Street, but be ready for crowds! Go early for fewer people. TikTok+2

🚢 Ferry for Skyline Views

Take the NYC Ferry to DUMBO for amazing skyline views for just $4. It's a budget-friendly and scenic way to arrive. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park

Wander through the park for diverse views, picnic spots, and access to Pebble Beach. Go early to avoid crowds. Reddit+1

🍔 Foodie Paradise at Time Out

Time Out Market offers a wide variety of food vendors. Grab a bite and head upstairs for a view! TikTokReddit+1

🛍️ Browse Brooklyn Flea

Shop for vintage clothes, antiques, and unique finds at the Brooklyn Flea market on Saturdays and Sundays. TikTokReddit

💡 DUMBO Drop Block Party

If visiting in June, don't miss the DUMBO Drop Block Party for fun, food, and fundraising. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

DUMBO is celebrated for its breathtaking skyline views, iconic photo opportunities, and vibrant waterfront park. Visitors love the classic shots of the Manhattan Bridge and the expansive Brooklyn Bridge Park. However, the extreme popularity means crowds can be overwhelming, especially at the main photo spots.

What People Like

Iconic bridge views
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Ferry ride experience

What People Dislike

Overcrowded photo spots
Can be touristy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient subway lines for DUMBO are the F train to York Street or the A/C trains to High Street. Both stations are a short walk from the main attractions. Reddit

Yes, it's very accessible. You can take the subway, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, or take the NYC Ferry for scenic views. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! After walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, you can take a small path down to Washington Street for the iconic DUMBO views. TikTok+1

The NYC Ferry is a budget-friendly option, typically costing around $4 per ride. It offers fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline. TikTokReddit

Yes, DUMBO is very walkable, with most attractions concentrated along the waterfront and main streets. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the cobblestone streets. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most of DUMBO's main attractions, like Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Washington Street viewpoint, are free to access. Jane's Carousel has a small fee per ride. TikTok+1

No, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. You can enjoy the views and amenities for free. Reddit

Jane's Carousel typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, browsing the Brooklyn Flea market is free. You only pay for any items you choose to purchase from the vendors. TikTok

No, DUMBO itself does not have timed entry requirements. However, popular photo spots like Washington Street can get very crowded, so early visits are recommended. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spot is the intersection of Washington Street and Water Street, offering a perfect frame of the Manhattan Bridge. Other great spots include Pebble Beach and the Brooklyn Bridge Park promenade. TikTok+2

Stand on Washington Street between Front and Water Streets. For fewer people, try visiting very early in the morning or on a weekday. TikTok+2

Pebble Beach offers stunning views with generally fewer crowds than Washington Street. The Brooklyn Bridge Park promenade also provides ample space for photos. TikTokReddit

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for skyline photos. Early mornings are also great for avoiding crowds and capturing clear shots. TikTok

Yes, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities of the Manhattan skyline and the bridge itself. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Time Out Market is a popular choice with diverse vendors. For pizza, Juliana's Pizza is highly recommended. Other options include Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory and various cafes. TikTokReddit+2

Juliana's Pizza is a legendary spot in DUMBO, known for its delicious pies. Reddit

Time Out Market offers a wide variety of food that can please different tastes, making it a good family-friendly option. The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory is also a hit with kids. TikTok

Consider Harriet's Rooftop for cocktails with a view, or explore the diverse offerings at Time Out Market. For a more local feel, AlMar offers cozy Italian. Reddit+1

Harriet's Rooftop at One Hotel offers stunning views. Time Out Market also has seating areas with city vistas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

DUMBO is a fantastic destination for families. Brooklyn Bridge Park offers playgrounds, open spaces for running around, and the charming Jane's Carousel for a fun ride with a view. TikTok

Time Out Market is a great option for meals, as it provides a wide variety of food choices to satisfy picky eaters. Grabbing an ice cream from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory is also a classic family treat. TikTok The iconic Washington Street photo op can be managed with kids by visiting early or being patient with the crowds.

💰 Budget Travelers

DUMBO offers several free and low-cost activities. The NYC Ferry ride to DUMBO provides incredible skyline views for just $4, making it a scenic and affordable way to arrive. TikTokReddit

Exploring Brooklyn Bridge Park and taking photos at the Washington Street viewpoint are completely free. TikTok+1 Packing a picnic to enjoy in the park or grabbing affordable eats at Time Out Market can also help keep costs down.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

DUMBO is a photographer's dream, especially for capturing iconic New York City landmarks. The Washington Street view of the Manhattan Bridge is a must-do, but be prepared for crowds and consider early morning or late afternoon for better light and fewer people. TikTok+3

Beyond the famous street, Pebble Beach offers unobstructed views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan skyline, often with fewer visitors. The Brooklyn Bridge Park promenade also provides numerous vantage points for capturing the cityscape and bridges. TikTokReddit Experiment with different angles and times of day to get unique shots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Washington Street View

The intersection of Washington Street and Water Street in DUMBO is arguably the most photographed spot in the neighborhood. It offers a perfectly framed view of the Manhattan Bridge, with the Empire State Building visible in the distance. This unique perspective has made it a must-visit for tourists and photographers alike. TikTok+2

To capture this shot without a throng of people, early morning visits on weekdays are highly recommended. The cobblestone streets and historic architecture add to the charm, but be mindful of traffic as people often stop in the street to take photos. Reddit+1

While the view is free, the experience can be enhanced by understanding the best angles and times. Many creators suggest looking up for unique perspectives or waiting for a moment when the street clears slightly. TikTok+1

Exploring Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a sprawling 85-acre waterfront park that stretches along the East River. It offers a multitude of attractions, from lush green lawns and playgrounds to piers with stunning views and recreational facilities. Reddit+1

Key highlights within the park include Pebble Beach, which provides unobstructed views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge, and Jane's Carousel, a beautifully restored 1922 carousel offering a whimsical ride with a spectacular backdrop. The park is also home to various sports courts, picnic areas, and walking paths, making it a versatile destination for relaxation and activity. TikTok

Visitors often praise the park for its accessibility and the diverse experiences it offers. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the skyline or a place for family fun, Brooklyn Bridge Park delivers. Going early in the morning is advised to fully appreciate its beauty without the peak crowds. Reddit

DUMBO's Culinary Scene

DUMBO's food scene has evolved significantly, with Time Out Market emerging as a central hub for diverse culinary experiences. This vibrant market brings together a curated selection of local eateries, offering everything from gourmet burgers and artisanal pizzas to international flavors and sweet treats. It's an ideal spot for groups with varied tastes or families looking for convenient dining options. TikTokReddit+1

Beyond the market, DUMBO boasts some highly-regarded independent restaurants. Juliana's Pizza is a legendary establishment renowned for its classic New York-style pies, often cited as a must-try for pizza aficionados. For those seeking a more intimate or unique dining experience, spots like AlMar offer cozy Italian fare, while Vinegar Hill House (a short walk away) is frequently recommended for its exceptional farm-to-table dishes, though reservations are often necessary. Reddit+1

While DUMBO offers excellent dining, some locals suggest that for a truly extensive culinary adventure, exploring adjacent neighborhoods might be beneficial. However, for convenient and high-quality options within DUMBO itself, Time Out Market and acclaimed pizzerias like Juliana's provide a satisfying experience for most visitors. Reddit

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