The structures facilitating the movement of people and goods across the waterways of New York hold a cherished place in the hearts of its residents. Not only do these bridges aid commuters and travelers in navigating the city, but these immense constructions also symbolize the significant economic and cultural importance of the Big Apple. Along with the Empire State Building and Central Park, there are recognizable NYC bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, and the Bow Bridge that can be readily identified.
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Of course, New York’s major bridges are necessary for transportation, but they’re also some of the most fascinating places to visit in NYC. Even some of the smaller bridges deserve checking out, so I’m sharing the 10 best bridges in New York to ensure you don’t miss any.
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How many bridges are in New York City?
There exist over two thousand bridges located within the five boroughs that comprise New York City. However, many span only short distances, and some cannot support pedestrian traffic. The city`s Department of Transportation oversees maintenance for seven hundred eighty-nine bridges and tunnels crossing waterways, such as the renowned Holland Tunnel connecting Manhattan to New Jersey. Manhattan alone connects to surrounding areas through twenty-one bridges.
That said, this article focuses exclusively on the most notable bridges in New York City. There’s the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, one of the city’s designated landmarks, and smaller walkways like the Bow Bridge in Central Park.
Below, I’ll present the 10 prime bridges in New York that you must see while touring the massive Apple.
1. Brooklyn Bridge, the most famous bridge in New York
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You can stroll, jog, cycle, or drive over the Brooklyn Bridge. The pedestrian promenade is particularly beautiful, providing a panorama of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the New York skyline. The views are especially striking after dark, making this an excellent location to visit in NYC at night.
During the day, it’s worth dedicating some time at the Brooklyn Bridge Park, one of the top parks in NYC. Another possibility is taking this guided walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO district.
The Brooklyn Bridge is a hybrid cable-suspension structure, and upon completion in 1883, it was the longest hanging bridge globally. It has a complete length of 6,016 feet and connects Lower Manhattan to DUMBO, Brooklyn. It’s free to cross this bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn, so check it out and take your time to admire the views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline.
2. Manhattan Bridge, a photogenic bridge in New York City
The Manhattan Bridge in New York City is another famous landmark, appearing on both the U.S. and the New York State Register of Historic Places. This suspension bridge was constructed between 1901 and 1909 to connect Lower Manhattan to Downtown Brooklyn. With a total length of 6,885 feet, the bridge is accessible by foot, bicycle, car, or subway.
I advise starting in Manhattan and crossing over the East River into Brooklyn, where you can explore DUMBO, one of the borough`s best neighborhoods. From the Manhattan side, you can see the lovely plaza featuring a Beaux Arts-style arch and colonnade.
In addition to being one of the most recognized bridges in NYC, the Manhattan Bridge’s paint color is the official color of Manhattan, known as “Manhattan Bridge Blue.” However, over time, the color has transitioned into more of a steel gray.
Also, I can’t discuss the Manhattan Bridge without bringing up its famous photographic spot on Washington Street. Situated in Brooklyn, this is one of the best locations to take images in NYC, granting you an incredible shot of the bridge with DUMBO’s red brick buildings on either side. If you position yourself just right, you can get the Empire State Building framed below the bridge’s arch.
3. Williamsburg Bridge, another popular bridge in New York
The Williamsburg Bridge represents another major connection crossing the East River in NYC, even though it typically carries less traffic than the Brooklyn Bridge. This suspension bridge links Lower Manhattan`s East Side neighborhood to Williamsburg in Brooklyn. Upon completion in 1903, it set the record as the longest suspension bridge globally, extending a total length of 7,308 feet.
Today, the bridge remains one of the most impressive structures in the city. Both ends of the bridge feature unique views and landmarks, such as the elevated walkway on the Manhattan side. On the Brooklyn side, there is the Continental Army Plaza and its famous statue of George Washington.
You can cross the Williamsburg Bridge on foot, by bicycle, in a automobile, or on the New York City subway. From the bridge, you’ll have nice views of Domino Park and the Manhattan skyline. I recommend starting in Manhattan and traversing the bridge to Brooklyn so you can spend some time in Williamsburg. Known as an artistic and multi-cultural neighborhood, Williamsburg is home to interesting shops and museums, as well as delicious NYC restaurants like Peter Luger Steak House. Williamsburg also has a large Jewish population, so on the Brooklyn end of the bridge, you’ll find two signs in Yiddish displaying the common phrases “Oy Vey!” and “Fuhgeddaboudit.”
4. Queensboro Bridge, a beautiful pedestrian-friendly bridge in New York
The Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, also called the 59th Street Bridge, travels from Midtown Manhattan to Long Island City, Queens. This cantilever truss bridge spans the East River and runs parallel to the Roosevelt Island Tram, providing stunning scenery of NYC.
In addition, the Queensboro Bridge in NYC allows pedestrians to cross free of charge, so taking a stroll across it is worthwhile. Just use caution because the pathway is shared by walkers and cyclists. Another interesting detail about this bridge is that it serves as part of the course for the annual New York City Marathon in November.
This bridge also holds much history. When it initially opened in 1909, it was named after the borough of Queens, but in 2011, it was renamed to include tribute to former NYC mayor Ed Koch.
Stretching over 7,449 feet, it’s sometimes less crowded than other major New York bridges, providing a quick route from Manhattan to Queens. If time allows exploring, check out the Queensboro Oval on York Avenue between E. 59th and 60th Streets in Manhattan. It’s an oval-shaped athletic and recreational area with several clay tennis courts and a softball field.
5. Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the longest bridge in New York City
The expansive Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge connects Staten Island from Brooklyn. It derives its name from the Narrows, a strait in New York Bay, and Giovanni da Verrazzano, the initial European explorer to enter New York Harbor.
At a total length of 13,700 feet, it’s the longest bridge found in New York City and the longest suspension bridge in North and South America. This bridge is reserved solely for vehicular transportation, accommodating 13 lanes of traffic for commuters, sightseers, and commercial conveyance. It towers 228 feet above the water, providing views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and Fort Wadsworth, a Staten Island landmark.
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge was constructed between 1959 and 1964. The original plan was to have a tunnel joining Brooklyn to Staten Island, but inhabitants objected. Instead, the bridge became one of the most impressive structures in the city.
Due to its enormous proportions, the bridge can be seen from different segments of NYC. The most excellent perspectives are in Brooklyn, in particular in Coney Island, on the Brooklyn Promenade, and in Bay Ridge at the Shore Park and Parkway.
6. Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, one of the busiest New York bridges
Previously known as the Triborough Bridge, the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge is a complex of elevated roadways and connections linking Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. This New York bridge comprises a vertical-lift bridge spanning the Harlem River, a truss bridge over Bronx Kill, and a suspension bridge over Hell Gate. All three sections are connected by elevated highway viaducts.
The bridge connecting the three boroughs – Triborough – originally opened in 1936 and was renamed the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge in 2008 at the request of the Kennedy family. All three spans of the structure offer panoramic city views and are accessible to pedestrians, buses, and automobiles. The longest section is the Queens span, measuring 2,780 feet (the Bronx span is 1,600 feet, and the Manhattan span is 770 feet).
From the Triboro Plaza in East Harlem, you can take the bridge over the Harlem River, Randalls Island, and East River into Queens. The bridge runs above the southwestern corner of Astoria Park, a must-see in Astoria, Queens.
As an alternative route, once you cross the Harlem River, you can take the bridge to the Bronx. To the west, you are able to go to Yankee Stadium, while to the east, you can visit New York Botanical Garden. Both are exceptional places to explore in the Bronx.
7. George Washington Bridge, a double-decker bridge in New York
The George Washington Bridge is a double-level crossing in New York. It opened in 1931, although its lower section wasn’t included until 1962. It holds significance; not only is it named after the first President of the United States, but it also boasts one of the largest American flags. Measuring 60 feet by 90 feet, the flag was first flown in 1947 to celebrate the Allies’ victory in World War II.
This structure that crosses over water and connects New Jersey to New York specifically links Fort Lee, NJ, to Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan. It towers 212 feet above the Hudson River, and at 4,760 feet in length, it held the record as the longest suspension bridge up until the opening of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Given its prime location between Manhattan and New Jersey, the George Washington Bridge is among the busiest bridges in the country. There are 14 lanes of traffic and two sidewalks that are accessible to pedestrians and bicyclists. The views from the bridge are very pleasant, offering a vista of Harlem, NY and Hudson Park in NJ.
8. The High Bridge, the oldest bridge in New York City
The notableHigh Bridge is a unique landmark with significant history. Spanning the Harlem River, this Manhattan bridge crosses into the Bronx and measures 1,450 feet long. It’s a steel arch bridge that solely permits non-motorized traffic, like pedestrians and cyclists.
Originally, this bridge was part of the Croton Aqueduct system, which transported water from Manhattan to the Bronx. Opening in 1848, it is considered the oldest across New York City. Then called the Aqueduct Bridge, it contained sixteen exquisitely built stone arches to serve its purpose.
Over the years, the High Bridge has undergone renovations and changes. Part of it was rebuilt in 1927, and the entire bridge closed in 1970, completely shutting down until 2015 when it was reopened as a walkway for pedestrian traffic.
While it`s not an essential bridge, it`s an essential section of the city`s history, and the perspectives from the High Bridge are remarkable. In addition to the river and the surrounding scenery, you can see Highbridge Park along the Harlem River. Located in Washington Heights, Manhattan, the park has several playgrounds, a bathhouse, two pools, and the renowned 200-foot-tall High Bridge Water Tower.
9. Bow Bridge, a romantic bridge in New York’s Central Park
An additional small but significant bridge is the Bow Bridge in Central Park. Named for its arc-like appearance, which resembles an archer’s bow, the Bow Bridge is the oldest cast ironbridge in Central Park and the second oldest in the U.S.
The bridge is beautifully enchanting throughout the year, and has an atmosphere of romance whether experiencing it firsthand or viewing depictions in films. Spanning 87 feet across the Lake, one of Central Park’s main attractions, it possesses Classical Greek architecturally reminiscent of Victorian era design and offers scenic perspectives of rowboats upon the Lake along with the Fifth Avenue skyline.
The Bow Bridge was completed in 1862 and continues to draw in visitors to the park, especially couples. However, it’s not the only renowned bridge in Central Park, New York. I also advise checking out the Gapstow Bridge, an antiquated stone bridge at the Pond. This petite, charming bridge appears something from a fairytale, particularly during springtime when it’s surrounded by greenery and vines.
The Gapstow Bridge, originally constructed in 1874, required rebuilding in 1896 due to wear and damage over time. It provides a unique sight within the urban landscape of New York City and has been featured in various films and television programs. This Central Park tour, one of the best walking tours in NYC, allows visitors to see the Gapstow Bridge, the Bow Bridge, and other noteworthy landmarks. this Central Park tour.
10. Hell Gate Bridge, the strongest bridge in New York City
Finally, the Hell Gate Bridge is another famous New York City bridge that shouldn`t be missed. Constructed between 1912 and 1916, it`s also been called the New York Connecting Railroad Bridge and the East River Arch Bridge due to its steel through arch design. Presently, it`s named the Hell Gate Bridge as it crosses Hell Gate, a strait of the East River.
This installation really includes three connecting constructions, with the well-known steel arch section being the most famous. The other parts are an inverted bowstring arch over Little Hell Gate and a small truss bridge linking the Bronx and Randalls Island. The Hell Gate Bridge was once the longest steel arch bridge on the planet until the Bayonne Bridge opened. Its longest span evaluates 978 feet, although the total distance of the bridge totals up to 17,000 feet.
The truss bridge features twin railroad tracks for Amtrak trains and a lone track for freight trucks, plus a pedestrian walkway underneath. Despite its intricate design, the bridge was carefully strategized and precisely constructed to withstand loads of twelve tons per foot. Remarkably, it`s believed the Hell Gate Bridge could survive a full millennium lacking repairs!
Map of bridges in NYC
There are so many interesting bridges in New York City, but I definitely recommend visiting the ones in this guide. You can use this New York City bridges map during your trip to ensure you don’t miss any:
Download this map and keep it handy to help you pinpoint the most famous bridges in New York City!
FAQs – Bridges in New York
To finish this guide to the bridges in New York City, below are answers to some common queries:
Do the northern lights produce any audible sounds?
There are 2,027 total passages in New York City, but most of them are pretty small. In Manhattan, there are 21 passages.
An elementor-toggle-title class tabindex=”0″>Could you traverse across the Brooklyn Bridge on foot?
Yes, walking freely across the Brooklyn Bridge is permitted.
What is the number of bridges situated in New York City?
There are 21 bridges connecting to Manhattan, such as the Brooklyn Bridge, the Queensboro Bridge, and the Manhattan Bridge.
What does the term “Northern Lights” refer to?
The city of Brooklyn has multiple bridges that connect it to various areas, most notably the Brooklyn Bridge which links it to Manhattan, along with the Manhattan Bridge and the Williamsburg Bridge.
What is the longest bridge in New York City?
The longest bridge located in New York City is the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, which possesses a total length of 13,700 feet.
What is the oldest bridge still standing in New York City?
The oldest structure across the water in New York City to facilitate travel is the High Bridge (originally designated as the Aqueduct Bridge), which was built in 1848.
Which bridges in New York can one walk across?
Some of the most elevated and notable pathways in New York City that you can traverse on foot comprise the Brooklyn Bridge, the George Washington Bridge, the High Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, the Queensboro Bridge, the Roosevelt Island Bridge, the Williamsburg Bridge, and the Bow Bridge in Central Park.
Here are the coolest bridges found in New York that you can check out on your next visit. Feel free to leave a comment below if you`ve seen these structures in NYC yourself. I`m also happy to help if you have any other questions.
Stay safe, and delight in New York City!
