Dumbo Travel Guide

New York

A bridge with a city skyline in the background.
A nighttime cityscape with a prominent bridge and skyscrapers.
A city skyline with a prominent bridge spanning a body of water.
A carousel with ornate decorations and lights.
A large suspension bridge, a waterfront promenade, and a carousel.

There’s something at once familiar and exciting about the Brooklyn waterfront, which has become emblematic of a generation.

Sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and former redbrick warehouses that are now start-ups partially explain why DUMBO is one of Brooklyn’s most iconic new neighborhoods. Standing for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, the neighborhood’s whimsical name reflects its thoroughly modern origins. A former industrial area of the borough has been completely revitalized by an influx of new restaurants and businesses. Visit DUMBO to learn what all the excitement is about and get iconic pictures along its cobbled streets.

Avant-garde culture is everywhere in the reclaimed brick buildings of DUMBO. See cutting-edge New York theater at St. Ann’s Warehouse. Browse books and attend cultural events at the Powerhouse Arena or visit the Archway Under the Manhattan Bridge for community events, from concerts to festivals. Shop at the Empire Stores or amid stalls of the distinctly high-end DUMBO Flea on spring and summer Sundays.

Despite its industrial nature, enjoy nature in DUMBO too. View the East River and Manhattan from Main Street Park’s wide waterfront lawns. In the middle, have whimsical fun on Jane’s Carousel, which, protected by a glass box, operates year round.

Dip your toes into the water or take a kayak tour from the shores of Pebble Beach. Ride a bigger boat from the Fulton Ferry Landing, which is decorated with the words of Walt Whitman’s poem about the historical ship.

DUMBO is one of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods connected to Manhattan. In addition to the bridge, which gave it its name, several subway and bus lines run through the neighborhood. Get here in about 20 minutes by subway from Brooklyn’s Atlantic Terminal, which has Long Island Railroad and MetroNorth connections, or in 30 minutes from Penn Station. Taxis are easy to find, but parking is extremely limited, so leave your car at home.

Before leaving DUMBO, get an iconic picture of the neighborhood at the corner of Washington Street and Front Street, where a street of warehouses frames the Manhattan Bridge. The bridge frames the Empire State Building in the distance.

Stay near popular Dumbo attractions

A large suspension bridge with a glass building at the base, surrounded by a river and cityscape.

Jane’s Carousel

Take a nostalgic journey on this beautifully restored antique carousel enclosed within a sleek glass pavilion overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge.
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Where to stay in Dumbo

Find the best Dumbo areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A bridge with an American flag, a city skyline, and a waterfront park.

Brooklyn

Known for its great live music and charming cafes, there's plenty to explore in Brooklyn. You can visit top attractions like Barclays Center Brooklyn and Brooklyn Bridge, and jump on the metro at Kingston - Throop Avs. Station or Nostrand Av. Station (Fulton St.) to see more of the city.

A city skyline with various high-rise buildings, including a distinctive skyscraper under construction, and a body of water in the foreground.

Midtown

Times Square and Rockefeller Center are a few top attractions in Midtown. Hop around the city on the metro at 42 St. - Bryant Pk. Station or Times Sq. - 42 St. Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, soaring skyscrapers and acclaimed art galleries.

A large glass-domed building with a pond in front, surrounded by potted plants and people walking.

Bronx

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Bronx. If sightseeing is on the list, Yankee Stadium is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Bronx Park East Station or E 180 St. Station to see more of the area.

A cityscape with a large park in the center, surrounded by high-rise buildings.

Central New York City

Known for its soaring skyscrapers and eye-catching views, there's plenty to explore in Central New York City. Check out top attractions like Times Square and Rockefeller Center, and jump on the metro at 49th St. Station or 50 St. Station (Broadway) to see more of the city.

A riverside walkway with fountains, people sitting and walking, and a bridge in the background.

Williamsburg

Noted for its cafes and live music, there's plenty to explore in Williamsburg. Top attractions like McCarren Park Pool and The Living Room are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Metropolitan Av. Station or Lorimer St. Station (Metropolitan St.) to see more of the city.

Dumbo Travel Guide