DUMBO, short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is a small Brooklyn neighborhood on the East River between the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge. It is known for its skyline views, its waterfront park, its cobblestone streets and its pizza. This guide covers the best views, what to do in Brooklyn Bridge Park, where to eat and shop, and how to get there.
Key Takeaway:
- For views, walk the Brooklyn Bridge and stand on Washington Street for the classic shot of the Manhattan Bridge.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park has lawns, waterfront paths and Jane's Carousel.
- Time Out Market, Grimaldi's and Juliana's are the neighborhood's best-known places to eat.
- The Archway under the Manhattan Bridge hosts events, and the Brooklyn Flea is a popular market.
What is the quickest way to get to DUMBO from the NYC airports
BLADE offers scheduled helicopter flights between JFK or Newark and Manhattan. Flights take about 5 minutes and start from $195 per seat. BLADE's Manhattan lounges are BLADE Lounge West at the West 30th Street Heliport, BLADE Lounge East at the East 34th Street Heliport and BLADE Downtown at the Wall St. Heliport. From Manhattan, DUMBO is a short trip by subway or car, or a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
BLADE does not offer airport-to-airport flights and does not fly directly to Brooklyn on its scheduled service. LaGuardia is available by charter only. All flights are operated by FAA-licensed carriers.
Exploring the Brooklyn Bridge and its stunning views of the city skyline
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the classic ways to arrive in DUMBO. The pedestrian walkway gives you wide views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River and the harbor. Start on the Manhattan side and walk toward Brooklyn so the views of DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park are in front of you. Go early in the morning if you want fewer people around you.
Brooklyn Bridge Park: A versatile and picturesque attraction in DUMBO
Brooklyn Bridge Park runs along the waterfront and has some of the best views of Lower Manhattan. It has lawns, paths, sports facilities and places to picnic.
Empire Fulton Ferry: A waterfront spot with panoramic views and recreational activities
Empire Fulton Ferry is a waterfront section of the park. It is a good place for a walk, a picnic or a sunset view of the skyline. Events are held here during the year.
Jane's Carousel: A restored carousel adding charm to the park
Jane's Carousel is a restored carousel with hand-carved horses, set by the water in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Riders get views of the Manhattan Bridge and the skyline while they ride. It is a favorite with families.
Must-visit attractions in DUMBO for photography enthusiasts
Washington Street: Iconic views of the Manhattan Bridge and DUMBO
Washington Street is where you get DUMBO's best-known photo: the Manhattan Bridge framed between historic brick buildings on a cobblestone street. It is popular, so expect other photographers, especially on weekends.
Photogenic spots in the neighborhood
- Washington Street for the Manhattan Bridge view.
- The Archway under the Manhattan Bridge, with its stone arches.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park, for skyline views from Empire Fulton Ferry and around Jane's Carousel.
- The Brooklyn Bridge walkway, for the skyline and the bridge's towers and cables.
Food and dining experiences in DUMBO
Time Out Market: A vibrant and diverse food hall
Time Out Market is a food hall in the Empire Stores building with counters from local restaurants, bars and an outdoor rooftop area. It is an easy place to eat with a group, since everyone can choose something different.
Grimaldi's and Juliana's: Historic pizza places in DUMBO
Grimaldi's and Juliana's are two of DUMBO's best-known pizzerias. Grimaldi's is known for coal-fired brick oven pizza, and Juliana's for classic New York-style pies. Lines can be long at peak times, so go early or late.
Exploring art and culture in DUMBO
The Archway Under the Manhattan Bridge: Live music and events
The Archway is a public space beneath the Manhattan Bridge that hosts live music, markets and community events. Even when nothing is on, it is worth walking through.
Art galleries and performances in the neighborhood
DUMBO's old warehouses and factories now house galleries, studios and performance spaces. Artists began moving here in the 1970s for affordable studio space, which is also when the neighborhood got its name. Developer David Walentas later played a major role in turning the former industrial area into the residential and commercial neighborhood it is today.
Shopping and small businesses in DUMBO
Brooklyn Flea: A popular outdoor market with unique vendors
The Brooklyn Flea sells vintage clothing, antique furniture, handmade crafts and food from local vendors. Arrive early for the best choice and fewer crowds.
Boutique shops and local businesses
DUMBO's boutiques sell clothing, accessories, home goods and work by local makers. Front General Store is one to look for.
Plan a day in DUMBO
- Early morning: walk the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan.
- Morning: photos on Washington Street.
- Late morning: Brooklyn Bridge Park and Jane's Carousel.
- Lunch: pizza at Grimaldi's or Juliana's, or Time Out Market.
- Afternoon: the Brooklyn Flea, galleries and shops.
- Sunset: the waterfront at Empire Fulton Ferry.
FAQs about Fun Things To Do Near Nyc'S Dumbo
What are some fun things to do near NYC's DUMBO?
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, take photos on Washington Street, spend time in Brooklyn Bridge Park, ride Jane's Carousel, eat pizza at Grimaldi's or Juliana's, and shop at the Brooklyn Flea.
Where can I find top-rated restaurants in DUMBO?
Time Out Market brings many local restaurants together in one food hall. For pizza, try Grimaldi's and Juliana's.
What are some popular attractions near DUMBO?
Brooklyn Bridge Park, Empire Stores and the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge are the main ones.
What is the history behind DUMBO's name?
DUMBO stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. The name dates from the 1970s, when artists moved into the area looking for affordable studio space.
Where can I shop for unique items near DUMBO?
The Brooklyn Flea, Front General Store and the neighborhood's boutiques are good places to start.