DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View

Dumbo View of Manhattan: The Best Places For An Iconic View

It’s a miss if you don’t visit the Manhattan Bridge when traveling to Brooklyn. Here are some tips for the best Dumbo view of Manhattan to save the moments!

Intro

Located in the vibrant Brooklyn borough, the Manhattan Bridge is a must-visit destination for travelers. Thousands of tourists come here for Instagram-worthy photos, capturing its timeless charm.

What makes this bridge special is that it can either be a nostalgic, retro setting or a lively backdrop for your pictures, depending on where you stand. Let’s see the ideal spots for the best Dumbo view of Manhattan!

Dumbo View Of Manhattan: Top 3 Spots For Your Photos

The best place to capture the most iconic view of Dumbo Manhattan is the intersection of Washington and Water Streets. However, you can take a close-up picture while standing against the red brick buildings or crossing the bridge.

Stand at the intersection of Water and Washington Streets for the best view.
Stand at the intersection of Water and Washington Streets for the best view

From The Washington Street

Standing at the crossroad between Water and Washington streets provides the most striking view of Manhattan Bridge. You can capture the vintage, red brick buildings while giving a glimpse into the bridge behind. 

Each corner in this scene whispers its own story, from the timeless architecture that contrasts against the blue sky to the iconic bridge that stands the test of time. Taking a photo against this backdrop is a great way to celebrate the intertwined beauty of the old and the new.

Against The Brick Buildings

Are you more of a nostalgic person? Get closer to the brick buildings on Washington Street to feel the flow of time, leaving traces on every wall on its path. The vibrant red walls and the domed windows seem to transport you back to a bygone era.

From this place, you can admire the bridge from a closer distance. A photo of the bridge framed against the open sky highlights its majestic beauty. Or, you can take a close-up picture against the wall for a more vintage vibe.

Across The Dumbo Manhattan Bridge

Going through the Manhattan Bridge won’t give you a panoramic view of it. However, this allows you to get closer to this historic witness. 

Don’t forget to zoom out and focus on the cold, metallic hue, the intricate latticework, and the towering arches of the bridge. Whenever you view those pictures again, all the details will bring the memories back to life.

You can also take a close-up picture of the bridge.
You can also take a close-up picture of the bridge

When To Get To Dumbo Manhattan Bridge For The Best View?

For the best experience at Dumbo Manhattan Bridge, timing is everything! The golden hour—just after sunrise or right before sunset—is the perfect time to visit. During this magical period, the soft, warm light makes the red-brick buildings glow and adds a dreamy touch to your photos.

If you prefer a quieter experience, early mornings are your best bet. There will be fewer crowds, making it easier to capture that picture-perfect shot without interruptions. Weekdays also tend to be less busy than weekends, so plan accordingly for a more relaxed visit!

How To Get To Dumbo Manhattan Bridge?

Getting to Dumbo Manhattan Bridge is super easy, whether you’re traveling by subway, ferry, or on foot!

  • By subway: Take the F train to York Street for the closest stop, or hop on the A/C trains to High Street-Brooklyn Bridge and enjoy a short walk.
  • By ferry: Catch the NYC Ferry to the Dumbo/Fulton Ferry stop for a scenic ride with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
  • By walking: Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a fun and picturesque way to arrive in Dumbo. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the East River and the city skyline along the way.

No matter how you travel, look for the cobblestone streets and red-brick buildings that lead to this iconic photo spot!

5 Expert Tips For The Best Pics At Dumbo Manhattan

Manhattan through Dumbo. Original public domain image from Wikimedia Commons
Manhattan through Dumbo. Original public domain image from Wikimedia Commons

Want to snap the perfect shot at Dumbo Manhattan Bridge? Here are five easy tips to make your photos shine:

  • Find the ideal spot: As mentioned, the best angle is at the intersection of Washington Street and Water Street. This spot perfectly frames the Manhattan Bridge, with the Empire State Building peeking through the arch. Explore nearby streets for unique perspectives, too!
  • Mind the weather: Sunny days bring out the best in the red-brick buildings and the bridge’s steel structure. Plan your visit on a clear day for the most vibrant colors if you can.
  • Adjust your camera settings: For serious photographers, a wide-angle lens captures the entire scene beautifully. Play with aperture and shutter speed to get the lighting just right. Even a smartphone camera can work wonders!
  • Be patient: Dumbo is a popular spot, so you might need to wait for crowds to clear. Early mornings or weekdays are less crowded, but sometimes waiting for the right light is also worth it.
  • Don’t forget to edit: Editing can take your photo to the next level! Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation to make your shot pop. Crop out distractions to keep the focus on your subject—whether it’s you or the view.

FAQs

Is There An Opening And Closing Hour At The Dumbo Manhattan Bridge?

No, the Dumbo Manhattan Bridge View is located on public streets, so it’s accessible 24/7. While you can visit anytime, it’s a residential area, so if you’re there late at night, remember to be respectful and keep noise levels down.

Do I Have To Pay For Entrance Fees At Dumbo Manhattan?

No, visiting the iconic Dumbo Manhattan Bridge View is entirely free. Stroll through Washington Street, take as many photos as you like, and enjoy the breathtaking views without spending a dime.

What Are Some Alternatives For Dumbo Manhattan?

If you’re looking for other stunning spots nearby, consider Pebble Beach, Brooklyn Bridge Park, or Jane’s Carousel.

Did Dumbo Manhattan Bridge Appear In Movies?

Yes, this iconic spot has been featured in many movies! It appeared in Once Upon a Time in America, Godzilla, Gangs of New York, and The Dark Knight Rises. Its cinematic charm also makes it a favorite location for TV shows like The Blacklist and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

Last Words

To get the most stunning Dumbo view of Manhattan, the key is to find the ideal spot and the right timing. The vibrant scene, paired with the striking light, makes for an Instagram-worthy photo that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Try capturing the view from different angles to choose the best place!

Related keywords: DUMBO view, Manhattan Bridge photo, NYC instagram spots, Brooklyn photography, NYC skyline views

This location combines historical charm with modern NYC views, making it one of the most photographed spots in New York City.