Walking tour in Manhattan Brooklyn Bridge and Waterfront

New York City , United States of America

Walking tour in Manhattan Brooklyn Bridge and Waterfront

Active

(220 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

NEW: For a special treat, book my new Sunset tour offered at 6 pm on Saturday, and watch the sun set and Manhattan skyline come alive.

All tours are delivered in English, and by the proprietor Scott, and feature small groups. Enjoy a 3-hour, 3-mile stroll with a 30-year resident of Brooklyn. I'll lead you to the most picturesque photo ops and find corners that only a local would know. Learn about the history of the people, eras, and technology that defined Brooklyn's rise. We'll pass by the homes of some very famous stars of TV and film, as well as through shoot locations you will almost certainly recognize from popular TV and films.

You'll end up in NYC's hottest neighborhood, Dumbo, home of NYC's best pizza. Make time for lunch and, during warm-weather weekends, to browse Brooklyn Flea for a bespoke, vintage souvenir.

This is a walking version of my popular, five-star rated bike tour, also listed on Viator.

Available options

Walking tour in Manhattan Brooklyn Bridge and Waterfront

What's included

Expert local insight

Detailed itinerary

Learn about the vicinity of City Hall, where General George Washington read the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution was born. Other nearby places of note: City Hall, Municipal Building, Woolworth Building, St Paul's Chapel, Tweed Courthouse.

Stop 2

Marvel at unprecedented views of the New York Harbor, Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines while suspended 133 ft (40.5 m) over the East River. Learn the amazing history of the 16 year effort to build this remarkable 19th century monument to science and art.

We'll stop by one of NYC's most instragrammable spot for an icon photo op under the Manhattan Bridge, surrounded by DUMBO's historic warehouses and factories. DUMBO is today one of NYC's hottest neighborhood as the industrial buildings have been transformed into posh shop, swanky eateries and some of the city's most glamorous loft homes.

Stop 4

We'll cover the history of the Roebling family while enjoying a refreshing break under the shadow of the Bridge.

Stop 5

This 85 acre expanse of picturesque woodlands, lawns, tidal pools, basketball courts and soccer fields is one of NYC's newest, biggest and most innovative park spaces. Learn about Brooklyn's shipping history, and the innovative and sustainable design principals employed in park while drinking in breathtaking views of the city.

Stop 6

This balcony cantilevered over the Brooklyn waterfront offers the best view of Manhattan skyline you'll find in the Big Apple.

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

83 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

137 reviews

5★

130

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Be prepared to walk approximately 3 miles. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Meeting point

Look for me on east side of the Jacob Wrey Mould Fountain in City Hall Park. Nearby Subway stations include City Hall (R, W), Brooklyn Bridge City Hall (4, 5, 6) Chambers Street (J, Z), Chambers Street (A, C) and Park Place (2, 3).

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information