Manhattan Bridge

The Basics

Approach the bridge from Chinatown on the Manhattan side to discover an arch and colonnade with city landmark status and then cross to the Brooklyn side to enjoy views of Downtown.

Spot the bridge on citywide sightseeing tours and cruises, which typically offer skyline views. Bus tours, motorcycle tours, and thematic neighborhood tours also tend to pass the bridge; if you book a private tour you can usually customize your itinerary. Boat tours typically pass under the Manhattan Bridge, with some offering dinner and drinks, while athletic visitors can take a tour that crosses the bridge and lets you work up a sweat.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Architecture fans enjoy the bridge's plaza—created by Carrère and Hastings—who designed the Public Library's celebrated main branch.

• You can cycle over the bridge via the bikeway, which separates bikes from pedestrians.

• The bridge is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

How to Get There

To cross the Manhattan Bridge from the Manhattan side, enter at the intersection of Canal and Bowery Streets. On the Brooklyn side, enter at Jay and Sands Streets. To get to the bridge, it's easiest to take the subway. On the Manhattan side, take the N, Q, R, or W trains to Canal Street or the F to East Broadway. On the Brooklyn side, take the F train to the York Street Station.

When to Get There

Since the Brooklyn Bridge gets extremely crowded on weekends, the Manhattan Bridge is a great place to visit on Saturday or Sunday; you can avoid crowds altogether in the evening and during the week. Winter in New York can be cold and windy, so expect the bridge to be blustery. Take an evening walk across the bridge for stunning views of New York's skyline.

Walking Across the Bridge to Chinatown

The Manhattan side of the bridge exits a few short blocks from Chinatown. As one of New York's historic immigrant neighborhoods, you'll find narrow streets, shops and markets, and some of New York's best Chinese food.Don’t miss Doyers Street, which has a mural painted on its asphalt and several great restaurants.

Ways to explore

The Manhattan Bridge connects Chinatown in Manhattan with Dumbo in Brooklyn. On the Chinatown side, admire its arched entryway—a city landmark in its own right—and cross to the Brooklyn side to enjoy views of Downtown.

You can also spot the bridge on sightseeing tours and cruises, many of which offer skyline views. Citywide bus tours and local neighborhood tours often pass the bridge; if you book a private tour, you can usually customize your itinerary. Many boat tours also pass under the Manhattan Bridge, with some offering dinner and drinks, too.

Accessibility

The bridge’s paved path is wheelchair accessible. On the Manhattan side, Jay Street–Metrotech subway station is accessible, while Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall station is accessible on the Brooklyn side.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, umbrella, camera, water bottle

What to wear

Wear comfortable, weather-proof layers and walking shoes—remember it may be cooler and breezier near the water.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Walking path, proximity to shops and restaurants, proximity to public transit

Address

The Manhattan Bridge connects Chinatown in Lower Manhattan with northern Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighborhood. It’s possible to walk, bike, drive, or take the subway over the bridge. Both entry points to the bridge are well served by public transportation and taxis.

Driving

It is possible to drive a car across the Manhattan Bridge, but traffic congestion and paid tolls can make driving frustrating. Walking over the bridge is generally the best way to experience it and enjoy its views.

Public transportation

To reach the Manhattan side of the bridge, take the N, Q, R, W, J, Z, 4, 5, or 6 trains to Canal Street. Alternatively, board the B or D trains to Grand Street, or the F train to East Broadway. To reach the Brooklyn side, take the F train to York Street, or the A or C to High Street.

Best times to visit

Visit early in the morning for the calmest experience at the bridge. Alternatively, sunset is a photogenic time, but be prepared for crowds.

Best days to visit

As a general rule, weekends are likely to be busier than weekdays at the Manhattan Bridge.

Best months to visit

Summer is popular, but it can bring crowds and uncomfortable temperatures. If you can, aim for the autumn or spring shoulder seasons instead.

Special events

The Manhattan Bridge is a great place to admire the annual fireworks show on the Fourth of July.