Intro…
The bridge is a landmark of New York City, dating back to 1883. It became the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world, measuring 1,595 feet in length. The blend of its lightweight materials—the wires—and its impressive stone towers adds to its storied history and spectacle.
10 Interesting Things About The Brooklyn Bridge You (Probably) Didn’t Already Know
1. It once held the title for the longest bridge of its type in the world. A workforce of 600 men transformed 6,114 tonnes of materials to create this engineering marvel. The Brooklyn Bridge gained worldwide recognition upon its opening in 1883 for being the longest suspension bridge worldwide at a length of 1,595 ft. It retained this title until 1903 when the Williamsburg Bridge was constructed, surpassing it by 4.5 ft.
2. The Brooklyn Bridge project was initiated with a bribe. Architect John A. Roebling had already been appointed, but work on the bridge couldn’t commence due to insufficient funds. To get things moving, the project required some assistance, leading political figure William “Boss” Tweed to distribute $65,000 in bribes to city council members to secure the necessary funding.
3. The bridge is linked to the struggle for gender equality. Following John A. Roebling’s death due to an unfortunate accident that cost him his toes, his son, Washington A. Roebling, took charge but fell ill as well. He suffered from “the bends” (decompression sickness) and was confined to bed in 1872. During this time, his wife, Emily Warren Roebling, stepped in, initially running messages between her husband and the workers, but she soon assumed full control of the project, managing its design, construction, and overall direction. She later studied law at NYU and published multiple articles advocating for gender equality. Today, she is widely regarded as a trailblazing female engineer and a key contributor to the Brooklyn Bridge project.
4. The initial creature to traverse the bridge was a rooster.. Technically, Emily Roebling was the first person to make the crossing, but a rooster was perched on her lap during the journey! After her significant contributions to the project, Emily earned the privilege of being the first to cross the bridge a week prior to its official opening. She made the crossing in a carriage while carrying a rooster on her lap as a charm for good fortune and triumph.
5. It used to connect two separate cities until 1898. Brooklyn did not become a borough of New York City until 1898. Before its merger with NYC, Brooklyn was the fourth most populous city in the U.S., trailing only New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia. Consequently, when the bridge was inaugurated in 1883, it functioned as a connection between Manhattan and the city of Brooklyn.
6. In a single event, 21 elephants walked across the bridge.Following the bridge’s opening in 1883, a stampede made the public concerned about its durability. Thus, in May 1884, circus performer P.T. Barnum was invited to lead a parade of 21 elephants across the Brooklyn Bridge to assure the community of its safety.
7. It was once utilized as a wine storage facility.The bridge’s compartments were used for wine storage until World War I. Engineers constructed vaults underneath the anchorages that reached heights of up to 50 feet. Their granite construction kept the chambers cool enough to serve as ideal cellars, which people could rent at a rather steep cost. The liquor distributor Luyties is rumored to have paid $5,000 for the space beneath the Manhattan anchorage.
8. It also served as a bomb shelter.During a routine inspection in 2006, city workers uncovered a Cold War-era bomb shelter beneath the bridge. The shelter was filled with boxes that dated back to the Sputnik launches and the Cuban missile crisis, prepared for a potential nuclear assault on the city. The boxes contained shock medication, water barrels, blankets, and more than 300,000 packets of expired high-calorie crackers. Yum!
9. The bridge’s location was once home to George Washington’s first presidential residence.On the Manhattan anchorage of the bridge, there’s a bronze plaque honoring the site as the previous location of the nation’s first presidential home. This mansion, known as the Samuel Osgood House or Walter Franklin House, was where George Washington resided during his initial months as president. It existed at the crossroads of Cherry and Pearl Street until its demolition in 1856.
10. The Brooklyn Bridge occasionally increases in height.It’s dynamic! The bridge actually experiences slight growth (on occasion) due to the wires. These wires contract and expand in very cold weather, causing the bridge to rise by about 3 inches during chilly days.
Shopping and dining near the Brooklyn Bridge:
Shopping Near the Brooklyn Bridge
1. Brooklyn Flea Market (DUMBO)
This well-known flea market offers a rotating selection of vintage attire, antiques, art pieces, jewelry, and crafts. It’s an ideal spot for anyone searching for something distinctive, quirky, and local.
2. DUMBO
Notable shops to visit:
– J. Crew Factory Store – Offers reasonably priced preppy-style garments.
– Shinola – A Detroit-based company that specializes in premium leather goods, watches, and bicycles.
– Sincerely, Tommy – A boutique that merges streetwear with a relaxed, minimalist aesthetic.
3. The Shops at Brooklyn Bridge Park
The park is home to various pop-up shops and artisan stands, especially during the summer season. Shoppers can find everything from locally crafted products to curated boutiques.
4. Powerhouse Arena (DUMBO)
This bookstore doubles as a gallery and event venue, frequently hosting book readings and art gatherings. It’s a fantastic stop for enthusiasts of literature and art.
Dining Near the Brooklyn Bridge Casual & Comfort Food
1. Juliana’s Pizza
Considered one of Brooklyn’s top pizza spots, Juliana’s offers thin-crust pies in a cozy, straightforward environment. Renowned for its delectable classic Neapolitan-style pizza, it’s a must-try for pizza fans.
2. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Known for its coal-fired brick oven pizza, this long-established pizzeria is a classic Brooklyn landmark. Expect to wait in line, but the taste of their legendary pizzas makes it worth the wait.
3. The River Café
For a more refined dining experience, The River Café provides breathtaking views of both the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. Although it’s on the pricier side, it’s perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration, focusing on seafood and American cuisine.
4. Dough
A cherished doughnut shop located in Brooklyn that provides gourmet doughnuts featuring distinctive flavors such as hibiscus, spicy chocolate with cayenne, and lemon poppyseed.
Trendy & Modern
1. Cecconi’s Dumbo
Situated within the fashionable 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, Cecconi’s serves Italian dishes with a contemporary flair and offers stunning views of the waterfront. It’s a chic and modern venue for brunch or dinner.
2. Atrium Dumbo
A stylish restaurant that presents French-American cuisine in a breathtaking glass-enclosed setting with sights of the Brooklyn Bridge.
3. Shake Shack (DUMBO)
For a more laid-back dining experience, Shake Shack serves tasty burgers, fries, and milkshakes, all while providing amazing views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.
Cafés & Sweet Spots
1. Butler
A fashionable café and bakery that provides everything from gourmet pastries to artisanal sandwiches and coffee. It’s an ideal place for a quick breakfast or brunch.
2. Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
Offering delicious homemade ice cream with views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline, it’s a perfect stop on a warm day or following a park stroll.
3. One Girl Cookies
A delightful bakery in DUMBO famous for its scrumptious cookies, cakes, and pastries, making it a wonderful place for a sweet indulgence while experiencing the local atmosphere.
4. Two Hands
A trendy Australian café known for its healthy breakfast and brunch selections, focusing on fresh ingredients, avocado toast, and smoothie bowls.
Fine Dining & Special Occasions
1. The Brooklyn Brewery
If you appreciate craft beer, visit The Brooklyn Brewery in the adjacent Williamsburg area. They provide brewery tours and tastings, allowing you to try some of the city’s finest craft beers.
2. Liberty Warehouse
Located in Red Hook, Liberty Warehouse features upscale dining with breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. It’s an excellent location for large gatherings but also a lovely choice for a romantic dinner.
3. Clinton St. Baking Company
Renowned for its famous pancakes, this American comfort food restaurant is ideal for brunch, although you should expect lengthy wait times due to its popularity.
Tickets & Offers Information
NYC: Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo Guided Walking Tour
Embark on a guided walking tour from Manhattan to Brooklyn. Stroll across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge while learning about its history and discover the trendy Dumbo neighborhood.
About this activity
Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
Reserve now & pay later
Maintain your travel flexibility—book your spot without any upfront payment.
Duration
2 hours
Check availability for starting times.
Live tour guide
English
PRICES STARTING AT:
From
$34.00
per person