For a first-time visitor to the Big Apple, there’s no view more welcome that that of Manhattan’s hundreds of skyscrapers appearing on the horizon, first as faint grey outlines, then as mammoth towers whose roofs disappear when the clouds are low in the sky.
When arriving in New York City by car, the view of the city from any of the major city bridges is almost unreal, but, while your eyes are on the buildings ahead of you, the very bridge that is bringing you into the city is worthy of attention from tourists. Whether you are a bridge enthusiast or a theatre-fanatic in town to see some Broadway shows, no tourist should leave the city without paying tribute to a little bit of New York’s bridge history.
Here’s a guide to two of the most popular New York City bridges, complete with location information:
Brooklyn Bridge
Constructed over a thirteen year period, ending in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was the first structure to cross the East River connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. At the time that the bridge was constructed, it was the world’s largest suspension bridge. In 1964, the bridge was officially considered to be a National Historic Landmark.
Aside from being a of the Lower Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge has become a home to numerous artistic installations – most recently with the four waterfalls created by artist Olafur Eliasson. For those looking for a way to truly experience the Brooklyn Bridge, try exploring it by foot. The bridge boasts a promenade between the vehicular traffic lanes allowing pedestrians to walk across the almost 6,000 foot span of the bridge.
One of the easiest ways to get to the Brooklyn Bridge is by public transportation. If taking the 2 or 3 train, exit at Clark Street. For those on the 4, 5 or 6 train, take the subway to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall. The bridge is also accessible by the A or C train to High Street and the R and N via City Hall station.
Manhattan Bridge
Like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge often makes appearances alongside its sister bridge in photos of the New York skyline. Unlike the Brooklyn Bridge though, the Manhattan Bridge carries subway trains below the roadway along with a pedestrian and bike path for cyclists.
Also connecting Manhattan with Brooklyn, the Manhattan Bridge, which was completed in late 1909, crosses the East River just north of the Brooklyn Bridge. For those who are Manhattan-bound, the Manhattan Bridge would be an ideal choice for those wishing to visit Chinatown and the Village.
Like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge is easily accessible via subway. The closest stations would be York Street, if on the F train, High Street, from the A or C train, Grand Street, from the B or D and Canal Street from the J, M or Z. For those who wish to ride the subway across the bridge, the following trains use the bridge: B, D, N and Q.
