Bridge and Tunnel? Nah, Bridge and FUNnel: A Pedestrian's Guide to NYC's Walkable Wonders
Forget battling rush hour traffic, the stinky subway, or that sketchy ferry captain with a parrot on his shoulder (seriously, is that still a thing?). Let's get some fresh air and conquer these iconic structures with your own two feet! Here's the lowdown on NYC's most walkable bridges:
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| What Bridges In New York Can You Walk Across |
The Classics: Walk Like a New Yorker
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Brooklyn Bridge: This granddaddy of bridges is a must-do. Soak in those epic Manhattan views, dodge the selfie sticks, and pretend you're a character straight out of a Woody Allen movie. Pro tip: weekdays at dawn offer the best light for photos (and the fewest crowds... unless a particularly enthusiastic yoga group decided sunrise bridge stretches were a good idea).
Manhattan Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge's cooler, slightly less crowded cousin. It offers stunning panoramas of the city skyline and a more local vibe. Fun fact: the bridge's pedestrian walkway is on the south side, so you can watch the yellow cabs scurry below like ants in a fast-food drive-thru.
Hidden Gems: Unveiling NYC's Pedestrian Gems
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Wards Island Bridge: Escape the hustle and bustle on this tranquil pedestrian-only bridge. Spot some local wildlife (geese mostly, but hey, it's nature!), enjoy the calming river views, and pretend you're a millionaire strolling through your private park (technically, Wards Island is a public park, but you get the picture).
High Bridge: Okay, technically this one's not quite finished yet, but it's slated to become NYC's longest pedestrian walkway! Spanning the Harlem River, it'll connect the Bronx and Manhattan with breathtaking cityscapes. Keep an eye out for its grand opening - it's sure to be epic!
Bonus: Walk This Way for Unexpected Delights
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- Brooklyn Bridge Park: Not technically a bridge, but this sprawling park under the Brooklyn Bridge is a pedestrian paradise. Meander along the waterfront, grab a bite at one of the many restaurants, or just sprawl out on the grass and people-watch.
So You've Reached the Other Side: Now What?
Once you've conquered these bridges, you've earned bragging rights and some serious shoe leather cred. But what's next? Well, that depends on which bridge you chose:
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Brooklyn Bridge: Explore the charming Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO, or head to trendy Williamsburg for some vintage shopping and craft cocktails.
Manhattan Bridge: Dive into the vibrant culture of Chinatown, or explore the Lower East Side's edgy art scene.
Wards Island Bridge: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the island's many trails and gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions: Become a Bridge-Walking Boss
How to avoid crowds? Head out early in the morning or on weekdays for a more peaceful stroll.
How long does it take to walk across each bridge? The Brooklyn Bridge takes about 30 minutes, while the Manhattan Bridge is a bit shorter at 20 minutes. Wards Island Bridge is a leisurely 15-minute walk.
What should I wear? Comfortable shoes are key! Dress for the weather, and don't forget your sunscreen and shades.
Can I bring my bike? Only the Manhattan Bridge has a designated bike lane. The others are for pedestrians only.
Is it free to walk across the bridges? You betcha! These bridges are open to the public 24/7, so lace up your shoes and get exploring!
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