Brooklyn Navy Yard

The Basics

Established in 1801, the Brooklyn Navy Yard operated continuously as a shipbuilding facility until it was decommissioned in 1966. More recently, the 300-acre industrial site was revived by New York City's investment, and today, the yard is home to more than 300 companies producing everything from baked goods to high-end apparel.

Visitors should head for BLDG 92, where the eco-friendly visitor center has exhibitions about the yard's history and plans for future development. Tours are also a great choice to get the most out of your visit. From bike tours to guided walking tours and whiskey tastings, there's an option for everyone.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Urban planners and sustainable-architecture enthusiasts will appreciate guided Brooklyn Navy Yard tours.

• Visit the yard’s historic sites, from the Civil War–era dry dock to the old naval hospital.

• The on-site café offers locally roasted coffee, breakfast, and lunch.

• Check the bus and subway schedule, since weekend service in Brooklyn is spotty.

How to Get There

To find the Brooklyn Navy Yard, take the A or C Train to the High Street–Brooklyn Bridge Station, the F Train to York Street, or the G Train to Clinton/Washington. Alternatively, several buses stop nearby, including the B48, B57, B62, B67, and B69. For registered visitors, the free shuttle from Atlantic Terminal is a great option.

When to Get There

The Brooklyn Navy Yard Center, located in BLDG 92, holds exhibition hours Wednesday to Sunday from 12pm to 6pm. The café is open daily, and tours for the public run on weekends. The Navy Yard is a great year-round destination, though it may be windy and chilly in winter. To join a tour, arrive in the late morning or afternoon—you'll want to visit the yard in daylight.

Taste Local Whiskey

Kings County Distillery produces whiskey at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Center. Foodies and cocktail enthusiasts will enjoy the distillery tour, where guests learn about the history of America's favorite spirit and discover how whiskey is crafted. If you can't make the tour, come in any day of the week for a sip at the Kings County’s Gatehouse tasting room.

What is Brooklyn Navy Yard known for?

Brooklyn Navy Yard is an industrial complex spanning 300 acres of Brooklyn waterfront along the East River. Located roughly between the neighborhoods of DUMBO and South Williamsburg, the area is home to more than 500 businesses. These include film and TV soundstages, design firms, manufacturing warehouses, and Kings County Distillery, an artisanal whiskey maker.

Is Brooklyn Navy Yard open to the public?

Yes—at least, parts of it are. There are four piers and over 40 buildings in Brooklyn Navy Yard, some with history dating back to the 1800s. Building 77, a former naval intelligence office, is open to the public, and Building 92 has an exhibition on Brooklyn Navy Yard’s history.

What is there to do at Brooklyn Navy Yard?

One of the most popular activities is a weekly whiskey tasting at Kings County Distillery. Weekend walking and cycling tours are offered around various themes, from World War II to the industrial park’s urban ecology. Parlor Coffee Roasters is open at Sunday brunchtime. You can also enjoy Manhattan views from Rooftop Reds, a rooftop vineyard.

Why is it called Brooklyn Navy Yard?

After opening in 1801, Brooklyn Navy Yard served as a naval shipbuilding yard for the next 165 years. The manufacturing complex was in continuous operation until it was decommissioned in 1966. Brooklyn Navy Yard peaked during World War II when Navy Yard-built warships served critical roles in maritime operations.

Is it easy to reach Brooklyn Navy Yard by public transportation?

Yes, although be prepared for a bit of walking. Multiple subway stops are located within a mile, including Clinton-Washington Avenue, York Street, Dekalb Avenue, and a half-dozen MTA bus lines. The Astoria Route on the NYC Ferry stops at Dock 72 within Brooklyn Navy Yard. You can also bike.

Is there a shuttle to Brooklyn Navy Yard?

Yes, on weekdays, Brooklyn Navy Yard operates a free shuttle from both DUMBO and Atlantic Terminal. An internal shuttle also makes a fleet of stops within the sprawling industrial complex. But here’s the catch: Both shuttles are reserved for employees or pre-registered Brooklyn Navy Yard guests.

Ways to explore

The sprawling campus includes hundreds of small businesses and public spaces and takes up more than 300 acres (121 hectares) of waterfront. Start at the food hall on the ground floor of Building 77: Grab a bite or explore the area, then move on to an exhibition space or a public event. The Yard often hosts themed art days at the design studios or installations.

Alternatively, book an art or bike tour—or a street art bike tour—that pedals around to the Bushwick Collective outdoor art gallery, Dumbo, and other Brooklyn destinations in addition to the old Navy yards.

Accessibility

Some shipyard buildings, such as Building 77, are ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible; check with specific buildings before your visit.

Age limits

None, though younger kids might tire of walking across the large site.

What to pack

Contactless payment for public transit, appetite for the food hall

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sun protection for outdoor areas, light jacket for East River breezes

Not allowed

Slow walking (it’s still New York City)

Amenities

Restrooms, water bottle filling stations, free Wi-Fi on Dock 72 public ferries, food hall

Address

The Navy Yard lies between Williamsburg and Dumbo on the Brooklyn Waterfront. It’s extremely well-connected: Your transportation options range from public shuttles and ferries to bikes and subway trains. Parking inside the Yard is limited.

Driving

From Manhattan, take the Manhattan Bridge into Brooklyn and take the exit toward the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Loop back to Sands Avenue and head east onto Perry Avenue and Chauncey Avenue. When using GPS, navigate to 63 Flushing Avenue.

Public transportation

Coming from Manhattan, the closest subway stations are York Street (F) and High Street (A, C). Some MTA bus lines get you closer to the yard. The NYC Ferry Astoria Route stops at Dock 72.

Best times to visit

Visit between mid-morning and early afternoon when tours and exhibits are typically available. Public areas close during the evening unless hosting events.

Best days to visit

Visit on weekends for a better chance of encountering exhibits, events, and open shops. The Yard is more of a commercial zone during weekdays.

Best months to visit

The Yard is full of outdoor public spaces. Visit during spring for the best outdoor weather and a full lineup of public tours, March through May.

Special events

Come in July for the Brooklyn Summer Fest to sample local beers, wines, and spirits—some of which are crafted at the Yard itself.