The Brooklyn Bridge is an important transport connection between Manhattan and Brooklyn. However, it is also one of New York’s most famous landmarks and a masterpiece of engineering. Its construction history is shaped by pioneering spirit and curious events, such as the march of 21 elephants for its opening.
The fascinating history of the Brooklyn Bridge: From tragedies and elephant
The engineer Johann August Roebling (a German immigrant from Thuringia) designed the bridge in the late 1860s, but died as a result of an accident before construction even began. Washington Roebling, his son, took over the management. During the construction period, he contracted decompression sickness (the bends) because he spent too much time in the pressurized chambers at the bottom of the river. The result: He remained paralyzed and could only supervise the construction site with a telescope from his window.
His wife, Emily Warren Roebling, became a key figure in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. She acquired the necessary technical knowledge and for years transmitted her husband’s instructions to the engineers. At that time, this was rather unusual, as she was effectively managing the bridge construction. In 1883, she was also the first person to officially cross the bridge. At that time, the Brooklyn Bridge was still the only connection between Manhattan and Brooklyn.
21 elephants as a load test
Shortly after the opening, there was a rumor that the bridge was unstable. To win back the trust of New Yorkers, circus pioneer P.T. Barnum had a total of 21 elephants march across the bridge at the same time in 1884. That finally convinced the critics of the steel structure’s load-bearing capacity.
Technical facts: Why the Brooklyn Bridge was a world wonder
- World record: Upon its completion, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world (a span of 486 meters).
- Steel innovation: It was the first bridge to use steel cables instead of iron. In total, over 22,000 kilometers of steel wire were woven together.
- Gothic style: The characteristic granite pylons with their neo-Gothic pointed arches were the second tallest structures in all of New York at the time – only the spire of Trinity Church was taller.
Secrets beneath the pavement: Wine cellars and nuclear bunkers
There are huge vaults located within the massive stone foundations on the Manhattan side. These were previously rented out as wine cellars because they offered constant, cool temperatures. The rental income helped finance the bridge’s construction. Even a Cold War-era nuclear fallout shelter was discovered in one of the pillars during maintenance work in 2006, complete with supplies like crackers and medication.
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: Practical tips
Anyone who researches the Brooklyn Bridge online beforehand will often read: Start in Brooklyn heading towards Manhattan (skyline), ideally early in the morning (fewer visitors, better light), and bring a jacket (windy).
Jacket, time of day, walking direction: What you really need to know
Topic jacket:
Yes, it’s true. Even in warm, sunny weather, there is always a light, slightly cooler wind blowing on the bridge. So anyone who is a bit more sensitive should better bring a jacket.
Topic time of day:
The position of the sun is, of course, an important point for photographers. The blue hour, meaning about 30 minutes before to 60 minutes after sunrise, is clearly the most beautiful time. The light is soft and golden, and the Manhattan skyline is perfectly illuminated by the rising sun behind the camera. At this time, you also have the bridge almost to yourself..
Topic walking direction:
I think this is a matter of taste. I have walked in both directions and each route had something special. It took me about 45 minutes for one way. The bridge is roughly 1.8 kilometers long, and I constantly stopped to soak up the atmosphere and, of course, to take photos. It was simply indescribably beautiful!
And how was it?
My path begins in the Financial District, right by City Hall Park. A ramp gently climbs up onto the bridge. Even after the first few steps, I can barely hear the traffic noise anymore.
I was lucky and the weather was gorgeously beautiful. Although there were quite a few pedestrians on the bridge, everyone had the same goal: to experience the “Brooklyn Bridge”, take photos, and enjoy the day.
The sun reflects in the windows of the skyscrapers in Lower Manhattan. My gaze drifts to the left. I see the Manhattan Bridge with its striking blue steel and further north, the silhouette of the Empire State Building. If I look to the right, I can vaguely see the Statue of Liberty.
The highlights are the two massive granite pillars with their neo-Gothic pointed arches, and the elegance of the wire cables reaching into the blue sky like a giant harp mesh. In the sunlight, these cables cast long, geometric shadows onto the walkway.
I really enjoyed the walk. Walking between the steel cables that create incredible perspectives towards the sky and seeing the huge rivets connecting the bridge parts is truly unique.
After about 45 minutes, the view opens up to Brooklyn. The red brick buildings of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) come closer.
As I step down the final stairs from the bridge, the atmosphere changes abruptly. I dive into a world that feels like a movie set from old New York, combined with the chic vibe of a modern art gallery.
Arrival in DUMBO: Where industrial history meets lifestyle
Today, DUMBO is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city, but its name is actually a pragmatic abbreviation created by residents in the 70s and stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Originally, artists chose this somewhat strange name in the hope that real estate sharks would stay away from the neighborhood – a plan that obviously didn’t quite work out!
To my right and left, massive, deep-red brick buildings rise up. These used to be factories for coffee beans, cardboard boxes, or machinery; today, they house loft-style offices for tech startups or luxurious apartments. Some of the cobblestone streets still have the tracks of the old freight trains embedded in them.
Photo spot Washington Street: Instagram vs. Reality
You cannot visit DUMBO without making a quick stop on Washington Street. When you stand there, the dark brick buildings of the factories perfectly frame the steel Manhattan Bridge.
The little detail: If the sun is positioned just right, you can see the Empire State Building in the distance through the lower framework of the bridge pillar. The warm sunlight makes the red stone of the buildings almost glow, while above, the blue steel girders of the bridge reach into the sky.
Of course, I had seen the pictures too and so I absolutely “had” to go there. Honestly, the view is beautiful indeed. But here comes a BUT! I ask myself when these Instagram pictures were taken. It is almost impossible to take a photo without other people in it. It feels like every visitor to New York is here. I found it super funny to watch people here trying to capture “the” shot.
Culinary tip: Feasting at the Time Out Market
After the photoshoot on Washington Street, it’s time for a reward. Just a few steps away, in the historic Empire Stores building, awaits the culinary heart of DUMBO: the Time Out Market.
The concept is as simple as it is brilliant. In a large market hall, the city’s best chefs and restaurants offer their food. You stroll from stand to stand here and choose between New York classics and international trends. Whether it’s the legendary pizza from Forno Rosso, juicy pastrami sandwiches, or innovative vegan bowls, the selection was huge and making a decision was genuinely difficult for me.
A tip: There is a rooftop terrace from which you have a great view of the city.
Visitor information
Address Time Out Market
55 Water St, Brooklyn,
NY 11201
Accessibility
The ramp leading to the Brooklyn Bridge at City Hall Park is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Opening hours
Time Out Market:
daily from 11.00 am
Published 30 September 2026
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