East 21st Street Bridge - Image 1
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East 21st Street Bridge

4.6
·8 reviews·Tacoma, United States

An iconic Brooklyn bridge, known locally as 'Two First,' connecting vibrant Flatbush neighborhoods and offering access to serene parks below.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the rush

CrowdLow
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East 21st Street Bridge - Image 1

East 21st Street Bridge

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the rush

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic Brooklyn bridge, known locally as 'Two First,' connecting vibrant Flatbush neighborhoods and offering access to serene parks below.

4.6
(8 reviews)

"A beautiful iconic local bridge with two beautiful parks resting peacefully under it."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Beat the Traffic

Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid congestion on this busy street.

🌳 Explore Underneath

Discover the hidden gems of Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park beneath the bridge.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Span

The Iconic Span

A vital connection and a symbol of Flatbush, this bridge is a landmark in its own right.

Instagram
Tacoma Park

Tacoma Park

West side of the bridge

Enjoy peaceful moments in this park situated directly under the bridge's impressive structure.

Reddit
21st Street Park

21st Street Park

East side of the bridge

Discover this charming park offering unique perspectives of the bridge from below.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating East 21st Street Bridge

This iconic bridge, also known as 'Two First' by locals, connects vibrant Flatbush neighborhoods. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak hours, as it's a well-used artery. Instagram

Beyond the Bridge: Parks Below

Don't just cross it; explore the beautiful parks nestled beneath the East 21st Street Bridge. Tacoma Park on the west and 21st Street Park on the east offer serene escapes. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the rush
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Vibrant local scene
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Do you think there is a GIANT Octopus living under the Tacoma Narrows Bridge? According to legend, this underwater monster has been terrorizing divers and workers since the 1940s! The largest Giant Pacific Octopus ever recorded was 600lbs and 30ft long, meaning this local legend would need to be almost 1,500lbs and 90ft long! So, do you think there’s a giant in the water or is this a made up tale...
@uncover_exploration
40.5K likes • 510.7K views

🚗 Beat the Traffic

Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid congestion on this busy street. Reddit

🌳 Explore Underneath

Discover the hidden gems of Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park beneath the bridge. Reddit

(EAST 21st aka TWO FIRST) EAST 21st BETTER KNOWN AS “TWO FIRST” FROM NEWKIRK AVE to WOODRUFF AVE EVERY BLOCK IS DIFFERENT HOOD… ITS ONE THE ILLEST BACK BLOCK IN FLATBUSH…. WHAT PART OF TWO FIRST YOU REPPING? SALUTE TO ALL MY TWO FIRST FAMILY… WAF🌳 #twofirst #east21street #flatbush #wrareflatbush #street #myblock #documentary #documentaryphotography #eastflatbush #backblocks #casanova
weareflatbush
924 likes • 22K views

📸 Capture the Views

The marina area offers stunning vantage points for bridge photography. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Span

Experience the bridge firsthand by walking or cycling across it. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the Traffic

Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid congestion on this busy street. Reddit

🌳 Explore Underneath

Discover the hidden gems of Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park beneath the bridge. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The marina area offers stunning vantage points for bridge photography. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Span

Experience the bridge firsthand by walking or cycling across it. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(8 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Reviewers consistently praise the East 21st Street Bridge as a reliable and iconic local landmark, appreciating its role in connecting communities and its integration with the charming parks below. While traffic can be a concern, the overall sentiment highlights its functional importance and aesthetic appeal as a piece of the Flatbush landscape.

"5/5 bridge. Has always held my car up without collapsing without issue. Have used it thousands of times. Sometimes traffic isn't great, but that's not really the bridge's fault. There are no public bathrooms on this bridge."

luke alger

"A beautiful Iconic local bridge. The bridge has two beautiful parks resting peacefully under it. These parks are, Tacoma Park, and 21st Street Park. With Tacoma Park being on the west of the bridge and 21st Street Park being on the east."

graysonspots

"Stunning bridge in Tacoma, methinks best viewed from the marina area."

Henz v Zyl

What People Like

Reliable crossing
Iconic local landmark
Beautiful parks below

What People Dislike

Traffic congestion

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The East 21st Street Bridge, also known as 'Two First,' is a key thoroughfare in Flatbush, Brooklyn. It's accessible by various public transportation options, including subway lines that stop nearby, and numerous bus routes that traverse the area. Instagram Driving is also an option, but be mindful of local traffic patterns. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging in the surrounding Flatbush neighborhoods. It's advisable to check for available parking garages or lots in the vicinity if you plan to drive. Reddit

Yes, the bridge is accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, offering a great way to experience the local atmosphere and views. Reddit

Several subway lines serve the areas around East 21st Street Bridge, including the B and Q trains, which stop at stations within walking distance. Instagram

While the bridge itself is generally accessible, the surrounding sidewalks and park areas may have varying levels of accessibility. It's recommended to check specific park accessibility if needed. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, crossing the East 21st Street Bridge is free and open to the public. There are no admission fees. Reddit

The East 21st Street Bridge is a public roadway and is open 24/7. The adjacent parks have their own operating hours, typically from dawn to dusk. Reddit

There are no tolls associated with crossing the East 21st Street Bridge. Reddit

Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park generally follow park hours, usually opening at dawn and closing at dusk. It's best to confirm specific park hours if you plan to visit late or early. Reddit

Both Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park are public parks and do not have an entrance fee. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For stunning bridge photography, head to the marina area for panoramic views. Reddit You can also capture unique angles from Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park directly beneath the span. Reddit

When walking or cycling, be mindful of traffic. For the best and safest photo opportunities, utilize the sidewalks and the adjacent parks. Reddit

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the bridge's architecture. Reddit Midday can also provide clear views, especially from the parks below. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the FAA and local authorities regarding drone operation in this area. TikTok

Yes, you can walk or cycle on the bridge itself, and the parks underneath offer close-up perspectives. Reddit+1

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

Explore the vibrant Flatbush neighborhood, visit the parks beneath the bridge (Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park), and enjoy the local street art and culture. InstagramReddit

No, there are no public restrooms located directly on the East 21st Street Bridge. You may find facilities in nearby parks or businesses. Reddit

Locals often refer to East 21st Street as 'Two First' (21st), reflecting its significance and identity within the Flatbush community. Instagram

Absolutely! Walking across the bridge offers a great way to experience the local environment and see the surrounding areas. Reddit

Expect a lively urban atmosphere, characteristic of Flatbush, with a strong sense of local community. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the East 21st Street Bridge can make a day of it by exploring the adjacent parks. Tacoma Park and 21st Street Park offer open spaces for children to play and run around. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy under the bridge, providing a unique shaded spot for a meal. While there are no specific playgrounds directly under the bridge, the parks offer a safe environment for younger children to explore. Remember that there are no restrooms directly on the bridge itself, so plan accordingly. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Pedestrians & Cyclists

For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, the East 21st Street Bridge is a fantastic option. It provides a safe and accessible route across the area, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere at your own pace. Reddit The sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the bridge offers a unique vantage point of the surrounding Flatbush neighborhood. Combine your walk or ride with a visit to the parks beneath the bridge for a more complete experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 'Two First' Identity: East 21st Street Bridge

East 21st Street Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol deeply embedded in the fabric of Flatbush, Brooklyn. Known affectionately by locals as 'Two First,' this street and its bridge represent a vibrant and diverse urban landscape. The nickname itself speaks to the community's pride and unique identity, a sentiment captured in local street art and cultural expressions. Instagram

This area is a hub of activity, with each block offering a distinct flavor of the neighborhood. Exploring 'Two First' means experiencing the pulse of Flatbush, from its people to its energy. It's a place where local legends, like the one about a giant octopus under a different bridge, can spark imagination, even if not directly tied to this specific span. TikTok

Understanding the 'Two First' moniker provides a deeper appreciation for the bridge as a local landmark, connecting not just physical spaces but also the community's shared history and culture. Instagram

Exploring the Green Spaces Beneath the Bridge

The East 21st Street Bridge is uniquely complemented by two serene parks situated directly beneath its impressive structure: Tacoma Park on the west and 21st Street Park on the east. These parks offer a peaceful respite from the urban bustle, providing green oases for relaxation and recreation. Reddit

Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of these spaces, taking in unique perspectives of the bridge's architecture from below. They are ideal spots for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply to unwind. The presence of these parks enhances the overall experience of visiting the bridge, making it a destination that offers both urban connectivity and natural calm. Reddit

These parks are a testament to thoughtful urban planning, integrating public infrastructure with accessible green spaces. They serve as valuable community assets, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to connect with nature amidst the city. Reddit

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