David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building

The Basics

Standing 40 stories high, just north of the Brooklyn Bridge, the David N. Dinkins building makes a big statement. Fronted by a triumphal-style arch, the structure is crowned by a central tower and gilded copper statue symbolizing New York City’s boroughs. Guided excursions focused on the food and history of the area typically include a pause to admire and discuss the building’s facade, as do select Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge walking and biking tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• It’s possible to enter the ground floor of the David N. Dinkins building, but you must go through security screening. Also, the plain interior doesn’t match up to the magnificent exterior.

• The ground floor is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

Located at the intersection of Centre and Chamber streets, just east of City Hall Park, the David N. Dinkins building is easy to get to by subway. Take the 1, 2, A, C, or E line to Chamber Street station, or the 4, 5, 6, J, or M line to Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall. Drivers will find several paid parking garages in the area.

When to Get There

The ground floor of the David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. For a beautiful view, walk along the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset or at night, when the building’s tower and statue are illuminated.

Must-Sees at the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building

From City Hall Park, gaze up at the figure of Civic Fame atop the central tower—her 5-point crown signifies the city’s five boroughs. Then, get closer to see the central entrance arch and plaza—the latter’s columns appear embedded in the main structure. Finally, head to the building’s CityStore, where you’ll find a top-notch collection of official NYC souvenirs and books.

Ways to explore

Fronted by a triumphal-style arch, the David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building is crowned by a central tower and gilded copper statue that symbolizes New York City’s boroughs. Guided excursions focused on the food and history of the area typically include a pause to admire and discuss the building’s facade, as do select Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge walking and biking tours. While it is possible to enter the ground floor of the building, you must go through a security screening. Also, its plain interior doesn’t match up to the magnificent exterior.

Accessibility

The building is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None.

What to pack

Water bottle, sunscreen (on sunny days)

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

The majority of the building is not open to the public, as it’s office spaces.

Amenities

There are plenty of shops, cafés, and restaurants on the surrounding streets.

Address

Located at the intersection of Centre and Chamber streets, just east of City Hall Park, the David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building is easy to get to by subway or on a walking or cycling tour.

Driving

While taxis and rideshare vehicles are abundant in Manhattan, driving yourself to the building is not recommended. Parking is available at public garages just southwest of the building, near Pace University.

Public transportation

The easiest way to the building is by subway. Take the J or Z trains to the Chambers Street station or the 4, 5, or 6 to the Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall station.

Best times to visit

The ground floor of the building is open during weekday working hours, but expect crowds if you come during the morning or evening rush hours.

Best days to visit

There’s no ideal day of the week to visit the building if you just want to see it from the outside, but the area around it is typically not as busy on weekends.

Best months to visit

New York City’s weather is at its most pleasant in the spring and fall, but summer can be a good time for a trip if you don’t mind the heat. Avoid winters, when temperatures can drop below freezing.

Special events

Visit Manhattan for one of many annual parades, such as the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade or the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.