Exploring Brooklyn: Dumbo, Williamsburg, and the Bridge

While Manhattan holds the classic tourist icons, Brooklyn represents the cultural pulse of modern New York City. If you want to experience the city's cutting-edge art, fashion, and culinary scenes, you must cross the East River. For fans staying near MetLife Stadium, taking a day trip to Brooklyn offers a completely different, grittier, and cooler vibe than Midtown Manhattan.

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge

The most iconic way to enter the borough is by walking across the historic Brooklyn Bridge. The wooden pedestrian promenade sits above the car traffic and offers stunning views of the Lower Manhattan skyline. Start on the Manhattan side (near City Hall) and walk eastward. Try to do this early in the morning to avoid the massive crowds of tourists and cyclists.

The Two Essential Neighborhoods

• DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass):

  When you get off the Brooklyn Bridge, head directly to DUMBO. It features stunning cobblestone streets and massive brick warehouses converted into luxury lofts and art galleries. Washington Street offers the most famous photo op in NYC: the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed between brick buildings.

• Williamsburg:

  Take the subway (or the NYC Ferry) north to Williamsburg. This is the global capital of hipster culture. It is packed with vintage clothing stores, independent coffee roasters, massive rooftop bars, and incredible street art.

• Brooklyn Bridge Park:

  This revitalized waterfront park stretches along the East River. It is the perfect place to grab a slice of famous Brooklyn pizza (like Grimaldi's or Juliana's) and eat it on the grass while watching the ferries pass by.

Brooklyn is massive; do not try to explore the entire borough in one day. Stick to the waterfront neighborhoods facing Manhattan for your first visit.