Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The walk across the bridge takes 30 minutes or so, and it's easy to spend an hour walking around on the Brooklyn
side. Adding galleries, meals, and park time can stretch out the visit to 2 or 3 hours.
Best Times to Go
A sunny afternoon is ideal, but it's all good. Late at night it gets pretty sparse around the bridge and DUMBO, which
can have its own appeal. It's more disconcerting than it is dangerous..
Tip
If you're interested in the galleries, check in advance to see which ones have exhibits up. Note that galleries in
DUMBO keep different hours than those in Manhattan; many are closed midweek, but open on Sundays.
1
The Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York's great treasures, and as such, it's not a very well kept secret. Tourists,
bikers, joggers, and commuters jam the planks on sunny days. The dizzying rigging, stunning views, and tower-
ing Gothic charm leave a person feeling like they're within the sanctuary of an inside-out cathedral. The bridge's
official romance with New York began in 1883, and from Walt Whitman through Hart Crane, the love has only
grown. When you reach the first tower, stop for a while so you can admire the Manhattan views. The assorted
plaques here are a mix of the ceremonial and the informative.
2
The Brooklyn Side: DUMBO & Its Galleries
On the far side of the bridge, the pathway slants downward and divides. Staying to the right takes you to Down-
town Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights, and veering to the left will put you beneath an overpass. Walk down the
stairs, hang a left, and head toward the water. You'll find yourself among the cobblestones and broad-shouldered
buildings that characterize
DUMBO.
DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a surprisingly
well-preserved patch of old industrial New York. Artists have infiltrated the area, and their touches can be seen
on and around many of the loft structures. For a closer look, check out some of the galleries. (Even if you don't
like the art, many of the spaces have killer views.) The
1st Thursdays DUMBO Gallery Walk
(
718/222-2500;
www.brooklynartproject.com
)
is a great way to sample the goods, augmented with free music and artists' talks.
If you don't feel like much of a schlep, 111 Front St., between Washington and Adams streets, hosts several fine
institutions, including:
•
A.I.R. Gallery
This gallery has made a name for itself as an advocate for women in visual arts. Suite
#228.
212/ 255-6651.
www.airgallery.org
. Wed-Sun 11am-6pm.
•
BAC Gallery
The gallery arm of the Brooklyn Arts Council is particularly good for group shows. Suite
#218.
718/625-0080.
www.brooklynartscouncil. org. Mon-Fri 10am-5pm.
•
DUMBO Arts Center
Innovative art shows take place here, with a $2 suggested donation. Suite #218.
718/
694-0831.
www.dumboartscenter.org
.
Wed-Sun noon-6pm.
