Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge spans the East River, linking Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn. Opened in 1883, its neo-Gothic towers and web of cables make it one of NYC’s most enduring landmarks. The Manhattan Bridge appears in the distance. File photo: Resul Muslu, licensed.

The Brooklyn Bridge links Lower Manhattan’s Civic Center with Brooklyn Heights/DUMBO over the East River. When it opened on May 24, 1883, it was the world’s longest suspension span and the first permanent East River crossing. Today it remains toll-free for motor vehicles and a must-walk NYC experience thanks to its landmark granite towers and elevated promenade.

History

  • Conceived by engineer John A. Roebling; after his death, his son Washington Roebling led construction, with Emily Warren Roebling famously managing day-to-day work while Washington.
  • Opened to massive celebration on May 24, 1883; dignitaries included U.S. President Chester A. Arthur
  • Designated a National Historic Landmark (1964) and a NYC Landmark (1967).

Design & Features

  • Type: hybrid cable-stayed/suspension with neo-Gothic stone towers.
  • Main span: 1,595.5 ft; Total length: ~6,016 ft (1.1 mi); Clearance: ~127 ft above mean high water.
  • Traffic: passenger vehicles only; trucks are prohibited.
  • Walk/Bike: Elevated promenade for pedestrians; a two-way protected bike lane on the roadway opened in 2021.
  • Toll: Free (no toll to cross the bridge itself).

Why it matters for Long Island travelers

Brooklyn sits on the western end of Long Island. The Brooklyn Bridge gives a toll-free route into Lower Manhattan, with quick access to City Hall, the Financial District, and subways—plus one of the city’s signature skyline walks. :

Nearby Landmarks

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park (piers, lawns, and waterfront paths in DUMBO/Brooklyn Heights)
  • South Street Seaport & Pier 17 (historic ships, dining)
  • One World Observatory, 9/11 Memorial & Museum (short walk in Lower Manhattan)

Brooklyn Bridge

CrossesEast River
ConnectsManhattan (Civic Center/City Hall) ↔ Brooklyn (DUMBO/Cadman Plaza)
OpenedMay 24, 1883
DesignHybrid cable-stayed/suspension; neo-Gothic stone towers
Main span / Total length1,595.5 ft / ~6,016 ft (≈1.1 mi)
Clearance~127 ft above mean high water
Lanes6 for passenger vehicles (no trucks); elevated pedestrian promenade; protected 2-way bike lane
TollNone
Best times to visitEarly morning or near sunset; avoid peak mid-day weekends in summer/holidays

Key facts from public sources: design, dimensions, opening date, toll status, landmark designations, bike lane (2021)

Q&A – Brooklyn Bridge

Q: How long is the walk?
A: About 1.1 miles end-to-end. Plan 25–45 minutes one way depending on crowds and photo stops

Q: Is it open 24/7?
A: Yes – the promenade is open at all hours; sunrise and sunset are most popular.

Q: Do I pay a toll?
A: No – there’s no bridge toll for cars, pedestrians, or bikes.

Q: Are trucks allowed?
A: No – trucks are prohibited on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Q: Where are the nearest subways?
A: Manhattan: 4/5/6 at Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall, J/Z at Chambers St, R/W at City Hall. Brooklyn: A/C at High St; F at York St. (Wayfinding only.)

Q: Can I bike on the promenade?
A: The promenade is pedestrian-only; cyclists use the protected two-way lane on the roadway (since 2021).