Picture this: cobblestone streets lined with converted warehouses, the Manhattan skyline reflecting off the East River, and the majestic Brooklyn Bridge towering overhead. Welcome to DUMBO, the neighborhood that perfectly captures Brooklyn’s transformation from industrial powerhouse to cultural hotspot.
DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) has become one of New York City’s most sought-after destinations, and for good reason. Whether you’re seeking Instagram-worthy views, family adventures, culinary delights, or artistic inspiration, this waterfront neighborhood delivers experiences you’ll remember long after you’ve left.
This comprehensive guide explores the absolute best things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn, from sunrise photo sessions to late-night cocktails, ensuring you make the most of every moment in this remarkable neighborhood.
Walk Across the Iconic Brooklyn Bridge
No visit to DUMBO would be complete without experiencing one of the world’s most famous bridges firsthand. Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is arguably one of the best things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn and serves as the perfect introduction to the neighborhood.
The pedestrian walkway offers unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the surrounding waterways. Starting from DUMBO means you’ll walk toward Manhattan with the skyline growing larger with each step, creating an unforgettable experience.
The walk takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes at a leisurely pace, though you’ll want to budget extra time for photos. The bridge gets crowded, especially during weekends and golden hour, so early morning visits offer the most peaceful experience.
Access the Brooklyn Bridge from DUMBO via the entrance at Washington Street and Prospect Street. The dedicated pedestrian path sits above the bike lane, keeping walkers safe from speeding cyclists.
Pro tip: If you’re seeking a less crowded alternative, the Manhattan Bridge offers equally stunning views with a fraction of the foot traffic. The blue-hued bridge provides a different perspective of the city and makes for fantastic photographs.
Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park stands as DUMBO’s crown jewel, stretching 85 acres along the East River waterfront. This meticulously designed park offers something for everyone, making it one of the most versatile things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn.
The park is divided into several distinct sections, each with its own character. Main Street Park features spacious lawns perfect for picnics, while Pebble Beach invites visitors to skip rocks or simply sit on the stone shore watching boats drift by.
The six numbered piers each serve different purposes. Pier 1 delivers panoramic Manhattan skyline views that rival any paid observation deck. Pier 2 caters to athletes with basketball courts, handball courts, roller skating rinks, and fitness equipment.
Pier 3 offers beautifully landscaped greenery ideal for relaxation, while Pier 4 features a sandy beach area. Pier 5 includes soccer fields and a fishing station, and Pier 6 hosts beach volleyball courts, playgrounds, and the Governors Island Ferry terminal.
Brooklyn Bridge Park transforms throughout the seasons. Summer brings free outdoor movies through the Movies with a View series, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Winter offers a quieter, more contemplative experience, and spring bursts with blooming gardens.
The Environmental Education Center provides fascinating insights into the park’s ecosystem and sustainability efforts, making it an educational stop for families.
Capture That Famous DUMBO Photo
The intersection of Washington Street and Front Street has become one of the world’s most photographed locations, and capturing your own version ranks among the essential things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn.
This iconic view frames the Manhattan Bridge perfectly between historic brick buildings, with the Empire State Building visible through the bridge’s arch on clear days. The composition creates an instantly recognizable image that screams “New York City.”
Timing significantly impacts your photo experience. Early weekday mornings offer the fewest crowds, though you’ll sacrifice the warm lighting. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) provides beautiful lighting but attracts massive crowds.
The street section between Front and Water Streets has been closed to traffic, making photography safer and easier. However, expect to share the space with dozens of other photo enthusiasts, especially during peak tourist season.
Consider visiting during weekday late afternoons for a balance of decent lighting and manageable crowds. Bring patience, as getting that perfect shot without strangers in the background requires timing and persistence.
Local photographers recommend trying different angles. Move closer to capture more architectural detail, or step back to include more of the street in your composition. Experiment with both portrait and landscape orientations for variety.
Ride Jane’s Carousel
Jane’s Carousel represents DUMBO’s perfect blend of history, art, and family entertainment. This beautifully restored 1922 carousel sits within a stunning glass pavilion designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel.
The carousel’s 48 hand-carved horses have been meticulously restored to their original glory, making each ride a journey through time. Originally stationed at Idora Park in Youngstown, Ohio, the carousel found its current home thanks to Jane and David Walentas, who purchased it at auction and spent decades on restoration.
Rides cost just three dollars, making this one of the most affordable yet memorable things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn with kids. The carousel operates year-round with seasonal hours, typically opening between 10 AM and 11 AM.
The glass pavilion creates magical lighting effects, especially during golden hour when sunlight streams through the structure. The combination of the restored carousel, modern architecture, and waterfront location creates photo opportunities that extend far beyond the ride itself.
Visiting Jane’s Carousel works beautifully as part of a larger Brooklyn Bridge Park exploration, as it sits in the Empire Fulton Ferry section between both bridges.
Experience Time Out Market New York
Time Out Market revolutionized DUMBO’s dining scene when it opened in 2019. This 21,000-square-foot culinary destination features over 20 eateries and three bars, all housed within the historic Empire Stores building.
What makes Time Out Market special isn’t just the food variety, though having Jacob’s Pickles, Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyors, and Wayla under one roof certainly helps. The real draw is the stunning rooftop terrace on the fifth floor, offering some of the best free skyline views in all of New York City.
The rooftop provides 360-degree views encompassing the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and the entire Lower Manhattan skyline. You can visit the rooftop without ordering food, though the market’s offerings make eating there an easy choice.
Standout options include Wayla’s street-style chicken wings and Sen Chan Pad crab noodles, Pat LaFrieda’s legendary sliders, and Chote Miya’s Chicken Khurchan Frankies. Sweet tooths shouldn’t miss the churros from Ivy Stark Mexology.
The communal seating encourages a social atmosphere, making Time Out Market perfect for groups where everyone wants something different. The market operates Sunday through Thursday from 8 AM to 11 PM and Friday through Saturday from 8 AM to midnight.
Most vendors don’t accept cash, so bring cards for payment.
Indulge in Legendary DUMBO Pizza
The pizza rivalry between Grimaldi’s and Juliana’s has become the stuff of New York legend, creating one of the most delicious things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn for food lovers.
The story begins with Patsy Grimaldi, who opened Grimaldi’s in 1990 at 19 Old Fulton Street. The coal-fired brick oven pizzas quickly gained a devoted following. After Patsy retired and sold the business, complications arose with the lease renewal.
In 2012, Patsy opened Juliana’s in his original location, while Grimaldi’s (now under new ownership) moved next door to 1 Front Street. The proximity of these two legendary pizzerias creates a unique opportunity to compare and contrast.
Both establishments refuse to sell pizza by the slice, requiring full pie purchases. Neither takes reservations, leading to notoriously long lines, especially during peak dining hours and weekends.
Here’s the insider strategy: call ahead and order pizza for pickup from both spots. While waiting, grab drinks and any additional items from nearby shops. Then take your pizzas to Brooklyn Bridge Park’s picnic tables near Jane’s Carousel for a comparison feast with million-dollar views.
Juliana’s typically garners praise for slightly lighter, more refined pies, while Grimaldi’s delivers a heartier, more traditional experience. Ultimately, both produce exceptional coal-fired pizza that justifies their legendary status.
Note that Juliana’s closes for “stoking” (maintaining the coal oven) between 3:15 PM and 4 PM daily.
Visit the DUMBO Walls Street Art
The DUMBO Walls project transformed the neighborhood into an outdoor art gallery, making street art exploration one of the most creative things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn.
Launched in 2012, the project designated eight walls near the York Street subway station as canvases for internationally renowned street artists. Names like Shepard Fairey, MOMO, Faith47, and Yuko Shimizu have left their mark on DUMBO’s walls.
While some original murals remain, others have been replaced with new works, ensuring the street art scene stays fresh and dynamic. CAM’s giant colorful owls peeking through trees at York Street and Pearl Street remain particularly popular with visitors and photographers.
The murals appear throughout the neighborhood, particularly along Pearl Street, Washington Street, and near the Manhattan Bridge archway. The First Thursday Gallery Walk each month features extended hours at local galleries and often includes new street art installations.
Street art hunting works perfectly as a self-guided walking tour. Download a DUMBO Walls map from the DUMBO Improvement District website, or simply wander and discover pieces organically.
The juxtaposition of contemporary street art against historic industrial architecture creates a visual dialogue between DUMBO’s past and present.
Explore Empire Stores
Empire Stores represents DUMBO’s transformation better than perhaps any other location. This massive 19th-century coffee warehouse sat abandoned for decades before undergoing extensive renovation and reopening in 2018.
The six-building complex now houses retail shops, offices, cafes, and restaurants while maintaining its historic architectural character. The exposed brick, large windows, and industrial details create an atmosphere that honors the building’s heritage.
Beyond Time Out Market, Empire Stores contains West Elm (perfect for design inspiration and home goods), Cecconi’s (upscale Italian dining with beautiful outdoor seating), and various boutiques selling everything from clothing to artisan goods.
The building’s public spaces encourage exploration. Wander through the corridors, check out the architecture, and don’t miss the public restrooms on the first floor (a valuable find in busy things to do in DUMBO).
The outdoor plaza facing Brooklyn Bridge Park provides excellent people-watching and photograph opportunities, especially during summer when outdoor dining reaches peak activity.
Empire Stores history dates back to the 1860s, when it served as one of the last major cargo warehouses along the East River. Coffee from around the world arrived here for the Arbuckle Coffee Company, making this building essential to New York’s role as a commercial hub.
Shop at Brooklyn Flea
Every weekend from April through December, Brooklyn Flea transforms the Manhattan Bridge archway area into a bustling outdoor market featuring around 80 vendors.
Brooklyn Flea describes their things to do in DUMBO location as “part vintage bazaar, part old-fashioned town square, and part food bonanza,” and the description fits perfectly. Vendors sell vintage furniture, retro clothing, handmade jewelry, rare records, and countless one-of-a-kind treasures.
The food offerings deserve special mention. Smorgasburg, the food-focused component of Brooklyn Flea, brings together some of New York’s most innovative food vendors. Expect creative offerings you won’t find anywhere else, from international cuisines to experimental fusion concepts.
The market operates Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM during its seasonal run. Arrive early for the best selection, though the atmosphere grows more festive as the day progresses.
Brooklyn Flea embodies the neighborhood’s creative spirit and community focus. Many vendors are local artisans and entrepreneurs, making purchases here as a way to support independent businesses.
During winter months (January through March), Brooklyn Flea and Smorgasburg operate indoors at 25 Kent Avenue in Williamsburg.
Discover Fulton Ferry Landing
Fulton Ferry Landing holds profound historical significance as the site of America’s first commercially successful steam-powered ferry service, launched in 1814 by Robert Fulton.
Before the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883, this ferry provided the primary connection between Brooklyn and Manhattan, essentially making modern commuter culture possible. The ferry service helped Brooklyn grow from a small settlement into a major city.
Today, Fulton Ferry Landing serves as a NYC Ferry stop while offering some of DUMBO’s most beautiful waterfront views. The wooden pier provides unobstructed sightlines to the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline, and Governors Island.
The landing’s railings feature engraved lines from Walt Whitman’s poem “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry,” creating a literary connection to the location’s history. A bronze plaque commemorates George Washington’s strategic evacuation of Continental Army troops from this spot during the Revolutionary War.
The area around Fulton Ferry Landing includes benches perfect for contemplative sitting, making this spot ideal for sunrise or sunset viewing. The relatively quiet atmosphere contrasts with busier sections of Brooklyn Bridge Park.
The Brooklyn Bridge Boathouse operates a free kayaking program from Fulton Ferry Landing during summer months, offering 20-minute sessions that put you right on the East River with incredible perspectives of the bridges and skyline.
Take an NYC Ferry Ride
The NYC Ferry system offers one of the most underrated and scenic things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn, providing both transportation and sightseeing opportunities.
Two ferry routes stop at DUMBO’s Fulton Ferry Landing terminal. The South Brooklyn route connects to Bay Ridge, Red Hook, Governors Island, and Lower Manhattan’s Wall Street. The East River route serves Long Island City, Greenpoint, Williamsburg, and Midtown Manhattan’s East 34th Street.
Ferry tickets cost four dollars one-way, making this an incredibly affordable alternative to expensive harbor cruises while providing similar views. The boats offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor decks delivering the best photo opportunities.
Watching both bridges recede into the distance as the ferry departs creates a cinematic New York moment. The water-level perspective reveals architectural details invisible from land, while the boat’s movement adds dynamism to photographs.
Consider using the ferry for practical purposes too. Taking it to Governors Island creates a perfect day trip combination, while the Williamsburg connection makes exploring Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhoods easy without subway transfers.
The ferry operates year-round with seasonal schedule variations. Download the NYC Ferry app for real-time scheduling and mobile ticket purchases.
Experience DUMBO Nightlife
While things to do in DUMBO isn’t known for wild nightlife, the neighborhood offers sophisticated evening entertainment that ranks among the fun things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn at night.
Gair Cocktail Bar at 41 Washington Street occupies prime real estate at the famous photo intersection. The cocktail menu emphasizes independent distillers and craft spirits, with innovative low-ABV options for those seeking lighter alcohol content. Prices reflect the premium location and quality ingredients, but the ambiance and views justify the cost.
Time Out Market’s rooftop bar becomes magical after sunset when Manhattan’s lights reflect off the East River. The three bars within the market offer different atmospheres, from casual to more refined.
Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge represents DUMBO’s most upscale nightlife option. The year-round rooftop features seasonal themes, including a winter ice bar with sculptures and ice glass cocktails. The indoor lounge provides the same stunning views from behind floor-to-ceiling windows.
Dumbo Station, a seasonal wine and beer bar under the Manhattan Bridge archway, operates April through October. Live music performances create a festive atmosphere, though train rumbles overhead add punctuation to conversations.
For craft beer enthusiasts, Randolph Beer things to do in DUMBO on Prospect Street offers a garage-style tap room with healthy food options and a seasonal rooftop. Evil Twin Brewing on Main Street specializes in hazy IPAs and strong brews.
St. Ann’s Warehouse occasionally hosts evening performances ranging from experimental theater to concerts, providing cultural nightlife alternatives.
Visit PowerHouse Arena
PowerHouse Arena represents DUMBO’s intellectual and literary side, functioning as far more than a typical bookstore.
This 5,000-square-foot space at 28 Adams Street serves simultaneously as a bookstore, event venue, and community gathering space. PowerHouse Books, the critically acclaimed publisher behind the store, curates an exceptional selection emphasizing art, photography, design, and Brooklyn-themed titles.
The children’s book section receives particular praise, considered among New York City’s best by many parents and educators. The selection balances classic literature with contemporary diverse voices.
PowerHouse Arena has hosted readings and events featuring major authors including Paul Auster, David Sedaris, Joyce Carol Oates, and Jonathan Franzen. The store helped establish DUMBO as a serious literary destination.
Beyond books, PowerHouse Arena sells unique Brooklyn-themed gifts, postcards, stationery, and locally made items perfect for souvenirs or gifts. The carefully curated selection ensures everything reflects quality and creativity.
Check the PowerHouse Arena events calendar before visiting. Catching an author reading or book signing adds a special dimension to the experience and provides opportunities to meet writers whose work you admire.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
DUMBO’s dessert scene delivers some of the neighborhood’s most delightful and memorable things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn for those with sugar cravings.
Jacques Torres Chocolate at 66 Water Street earned legendary status for good reason. The French pastry chef and chocolatier (you might recognize him from Netflix’s “Nailed It!”) creates artisan chocolates that elevate the craft to fine art. His signature hot chocolate, served year-round but especially beloved during winter, ranks among New York’s best.
The shop sells beautifully packaged chocolate boxes featuring New York City themes, making them ideal gifts or personal souvenirs. Unusual flavor combinations like Earl Grey tea-infused dark chocolate or Love Potion #9 showcase Torres’ creativity.
Van Leeuwen at Fulton Ferry Landing serves artisanal ice cream in both dairy and vegan varieties. Their creative flavors change seasonally, with options like honeycomb and royal wedding cake earning devoted followings.
Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory at 14 Old Fulton Street takes a classic approach with small-batch production and traditional flavors. The location in Brooklyn Bridge Park makes it perfect for grabbing a cone before waterfront strolling.
OddFellows Ice Cream Co. at 44 Water Street pushes flavor boundaries with inventive combinations that change regularly. Their willingness to experiment creates surprising taste experiences.
Lazy Sundaes at 170 Front Street specializes in bingsoo, a Korean shaved ice dessert topped with various ingredients. Their less-sweet approach offers refreshing alternatives to traditional American desserts.
Almondine Bakery at 85 Water Street brings French pastry excellence to things to do in DUMBO. Their croissants, tarts, and cakes showcase traditional techniques with impeccable execution.
Enjoy DUMBO’s Cafe Culture
DUMBO’s cafe scene provides perfect respites during neighborhood exploration, offering both excellent coffee and comfortable environments for relaxing between activities.
Butler at 60 Water Street combines quality coffee with beautiful presentation. Their photogenic cups have become Instagram favorites, but the contents match the aesthetic appeal.
% Arabica at 20 Old Fulton Street represents this Japanese coffee chain’s New York presence with precision-crafted espresso drinks. Their minimalist approach focuses on coffee quality above all else.
Almondine Bakery doubles as both pastry destination and excellent cafe, with coffee perfectly complementing their French baked goods.
Cha Cha Matcha at 55 Water Street inside Empire Stores specializes in colorful, photogenic matcha drinks. Their creative presentations make ordering almost as enjoyable as drinking.
The beauty of DUMBO’s cafes extends beyond the drinks themselves. Most locations offer to-go service that pairs perfectly with Brooklyn Bridge Park walks. Imagine sipping excellent coffee while watching sunrise over the Manhattan skyline or taking afternoon breaks on waterfront benches.
Explore DUMBO with Kids
Family-friendly activities abound, making the neighborhood excellent for discovering things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn with kids of all ages.
Jane’s Carousel obviously tops the list, but Brooklyn Bridge Park’s playgrounds deserve equal mention. The Main Street Playground features nautical themes with climbing structures, swings, and sand play areas. The Pier 1 Playground offers a quieter alternative with similar amenities.
The park’s Pier 6 section contains multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, along with beach volleyball courts and a dog run. Pebble Beach invites rock skipping and water play without actual swimming.
Free kayaking through Brooklyn Bridge Park’s program provides memorable experiences for older children and teens. The 20-minute sessions introduce paddling basics while offering unique waterfront perspectives.
Area 53 at 53 Bridge Street brings laser tag to a converted warehouse, creating exciting indoor entertainment for rainy days or extreme weather. The facility also includes arcade games and, during evening hours, transforms into an adult-only lounge.
The Museum of Digital Experiences (MoDE) at 65 Jay Street offers interactive digital art installations that engage children through technology and creativity. Fourteen different exhibits ensure variety and sustained interest.
Time Out Market provides easy family dining where everyone can choose from different vendors while sitting together. The variety ensures even picky eaters find options they’ll enjoy.
See Historic Gleason’s Gym
Boxing history lives at Gleason’s Gym, located at 130 Water Street since 1984. This legendary training facility has shaped champions since its original 1937 founding in the Bronx.
Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, and Jake LaMotta all trained at Gleason’s, making this location sacred ground for boxing enthusiasts. The gym continues training world-class fighters while also welcoming amateur boxers and fitness enthusiasts.
Gleason’s has served as filming location and training site for numerous boxing movies. Robert DeNiro prepared for “Raging Bull” here, while Hilary Swank trained for her Oscar-winning role in “Million Dollar Baby.”
While Gleason’s functions as an active training facility rather than tourist attraction, passing by allows glimpses through windows of fighters working heavy bags and sparring. The gym offers classes for all skill levels if you’re interested in trying boxing yourself.
The building’s exterior maintains an industrial character that fits things to do in DUMBO aesthetic while standing as a reminder of the neighborhood’s working-class athletic traditions.
Discover Belgian Block Streets and Railroad Tracks
Walking DUMBO’s streets provides history lessons beneath your feet. The Belgian block paving (often mistakenly called cobblestone) represents rare preservation of 19th-century street surfaces.
New York City once contained approximately 140 miles of Belgian block streets, but only about 15 miles remain today. Things to do in DUMBO preserve significant stretches, particularly along Water Street, Plymouth Street, and near the bridges.
Embedded within these streets, old railroad tracks tell stories of DUMBO’s industrial past. The Jay Street Connecting Railroad transported goods between waterfront warehouses during the neighborhood’s manufacturing heyday.
The Arbuckle Brothers coffee company created this railroad system around 1900 to efficiently move cargo through their facilities. The railroad operated until 1958, when trucking replaced rail for local freight transportation.
The best-preserved track section appears at Plymouth and Jay Streets, where rails curve dramatically through the Belgian blocks. This spot provides excellent photography opportunities, especially when composing shots that include the Brooklyn Bridge in the background.
These historic street features remind visitors that DUMBO’s current artistic and residential character emerged from industrial foundations.
Catch Performances at St. Ann’s Warehouse
St. Ann’s Warehouse at 45 Water Street brings cutting-edge performing arts to DUMBO’s converted industrial spaces. The venue occupies a former tobacco warehouse, maintaining architectural character while providing state-of-the-art technical capabilities.
Founded over three decades ago when things to do in DUMBO were still emerging, St. Ann’s helped establish the neighborhood’s creative credentials. Their programming emphasizes innovative theater, experimental music, and boundary-pushing performances.
Major artists including Debbie Harry, Al Pacino, Marianne Faithfull, and the late Lou Reed have graced St. Ann’s stage. The intimate venue creates powerful connections between performers and audiences.
The theater’s beautiful brick patio, open to the public even when shows aren’t running, provides a secret garden atmosphere tucked away from street activity. The patio offers peaceful retreat and excellent Brooklyn Bridge views from unique angles.
Check St. Ann’s website for current programming. Productions often sell out quickly due to limited seating, so advance ticket purchases are recommended for shows of interest.
Experience Bargemusic Concerts
Bargemusic presents chamber music concerts aboard a converted coffee barge docked at Fulton Ferry Landing, creating one of DUMBO’s most unusual and intimate cultural experiences.
Since 1977, this floating performance venue has presented approximately 200 concerts annually, featuring both established classical musicians and rising talents. The hour-long to 90-minute performances occur without intermission in an intimate setting that seats just 130 people.
The barge’s glass walls provide stunning Brooklyn Bridge and skyline views that serve as dramatic backdrops to musical performances. Gentle water movement occasionally adds unexpected dynamics to the experience.
Bargemusic offers select free admission performances, including some Saturday afternoon family concerts. Regular ticketed shows maintain affordable pricing to keep classical music accessible.
Important notes: The barge contains no restrooms, and food and drinks aren’t permitted during performances. Plan accordingly, especially for afternoon shows. The seasonal venue operates spring through fall.
The juxtaposition of classical music traditions with DUMBO’s industrial-turned-artistic environment creates memorable concerts that engage multiple senses.
Explore Art Galleries
DUMBO’s artistic heritage continues through numerous galleries showcasing contemporary works across various media.
First Thursdays gallery walks occur monthly from 6 PM to 8 PM, when galleries extend hours and often host special exhibitions, artist talks, or receptions. Over a dozen galleries participate, making these evenings ideal for art appreciation.
A.I.R. Gallery at 155 Plymouth Street, established in 1972, ranks among America’s first women-focused cooperative galleries. The space provides visibility and support for women artists while encouraging creative risk-taking. Exhibitions rotate regularly, showcasing diverse artistic voices and media.
Klompching Gallery at 89 Water Street specializes in contemporary photography from both emerging and established photographers. Their carefully curated exhibitions often explore themes relevant to urban life and modern culture.
The DUMBO Arts Festival historically brought together hundreds of artists each autumn, though recent years have seen format changes. Check current status if visiting during fall months.
Gallery hopping works wonderfully as a rainy day activity or as a complement to outdoor explorations. Most galleries welcome visitors during regular hours beyond First Thursday events.
Dine at Waterfront Restaurants
Several restaurants capitalize on DUMBO’s waterfront location to pair excellent food with stunning views.
Celestine at 1 John Street delivers Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting beneath the Manhattan Bridge. The outdoor patio, surrounded by Brooklyn Bridge Park landscaping, provides a serene dining atmosphere. Both bridge views and quality food make Celestine popular for special occasions.
Cecconi’s at 55 Water Street in Empire Stores serves upscale Italian fare with outdoor seating facing Brooklyn Bridge Park. The heated patio extends the season, making dining comfortable even during cooler months. The Empire State Building and Manhattan skyline views enhance the refined experience.
The River Cafe at 1 Water Street represents DUMBO’s most formal dining option, requiring dress codes (jackets for men at dinner) and advance reservations. The elegant restaurant floating on a barge has served special occasions since 1977, with flower arrangements, live piano, and panoramic views justifying premium pricing.
Gran Electrica at 5 Front Street offers Mexican cuisine in a more casual atmosphere. The beautiful backyard patio provides intimacy that contrasts with DUMBO’s busier corridors, while great margaritas complement flavorful dishes.
Luke’s Lobster at 11 Water Street under the Brooklyn Bridge serves grab-and-go lobster rolls perfect for park picnics. Their fresh seafood offerings provide quick, quality meals without sit-down commitment.
Visit Vinegar Hill
Though technically separate from things to do in DUMBO, Vinegar Hill sits adjacent and shares similar cobblestoned charm while feeling like time-forgotten treasure.
This tiny micro-neighborhood features Federal and Greek Revival architecture from the 19th century along Belgium block streets. The area’s Irish immigrant heritage influenced its name, derived from an 1798 Irish Rebellion battle.
Vinegar Hill’s quiet streets invite leisurely wandering without specific destinations. Few businesses operate here, creating residential character that contrasts with DUMBO’s bustle. Random galleries or shops might catch your eye, but the main attraction remains the architectural ambiance.
Vinegar Hill House, the neighborhood’s culinary jewel, serves exceptional farm-to-table cuisine in a charming space with a gorgeous outdoor patio perfect for warm-weather dining. The restaurant ranks among Brooklyn’s best brunch destinations while also excelling at dinner service.
Reaching Vinegar Hill requires walking from things to do in DUMBO, as public transportation doesn’t directly serve the area. The short walk rewards visitors with discovery of Brooklyn’s hidden corners.
Practical Tips for Visiting DUMBO
Getting to DUMBO offers multiple options depending on your starting point and preferences.
By subway, the F train to York Street provides closest access, placing you in the neighborhood’s heart. The A and C trains stop at High Street, requiring about an 8-10 minute walk to the waterfront. The 2 and 3 trains serve Clark Street in Brooklyn Heights, also about 10 minutes from DUMBO.
NYC Ferry stops at Fulton Ferry Landing, providing scenic arrival while connecting to multiple Brooklyn and Manhattan neighborhoods plus Governors Island. The four-dollar fare makes this affordable water transportation.
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan creates memorable arrival experiences. The bridge entrance near City Hall puts you about 25-30 minutes from things to do in DUMBO depending on pace.
CitiBike stations dot things to do in DUMBO, making bike-share convenient for neighborhood circulation or connections to surrounding areas. Download the CitiBike app for rentals.
Street parking exists but can be challenging, especially during peak times. Consider public transportation unless visiting during early mornings or late evenings.
Plan weather-appropriate attire, as much of what makes DUMBO special involves outdoor activities. Comfortable walking shoes prove essential given cobblestone streets and bridge walks.
DUMBO gets crowded during weekends and summer months. Weekday visits, particularly mornings, offer more relaxed exploration. However, some venues (like Brooklyn Flea) only operate weekends.
Many things to do in DUMBO businesses don’t accept cash, so carry credit or debit cards for purchases.
Best Times to Visit DUMBO
DUMBO transforms throughout the day and across seasons, with each period offering distinct experiences.
Early mornings provide peaceful exploration with minimal crowds. Sunrise at Brooklyn Bridge Park creates magical moments, especially during summer when early light illuminates Manhattan’s glass towers. The famous Washington Street photo spot sits nearly empty, allowing easier shots.
Afternoons bring energy and activity as locals and tourists fill parks, restaurants, and shops. This liveliness creates a vibrant atmosphere but also means crowds at popular spots.
Golden hour (the hour before sunset) delivers DUMBO’s most beautiful light, perfect for photography throughout the neighborhood. Expect company at prime viewing locations.
Evenings offer different charms as Manhattan’s lights begin twinkling across the water. Summer evenings extend outdoor dining and park enjoyment, while fall and winter create cozy bar and restaurant atmospheres.
Seasonally, spring and fall provide ideal temperatures for outdoor activities without summer’s heat or winter’s cold. Spring brings blooming gardens throughout Brooklyn Bridge Park, while autumn foliage creates stunning backdrops.
Summer offers the fullest activity calendar with outdoor movies, concerts, festivals, and Brooklyn Flea. However, humidity and crowds peak during these months.
Winter reveals DUMBO’s quieter side. Fewer tourists mean easier navigation and more intimate experiences, though cold temperatures limit outdoor time. Harriet’s winter ice bar and cozy cafes make winter visits worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
DUMBO represents Brooklyn at its finest, successfully honoring industrial heritage while embracing creative futures. The neighborhood rewards various visiting styles, whether you’re seeking photography adventures, culinary exploration, family fun, or cultural enrichment.
The best approach mixes planned activities with spontaneous discovery. Yes, capture that famous Washington Street photo and ride Jane’s Carousel, but also wander narrow streets, peek into unexpected galleries, and let the neighborhood reveal its secrets organically.
DUMBO’s relatively compact size makes it manageable for half-day visits, yet the density of attractions and experiences easily fills entire days. Consider multiple visits if staying in New York for extended periods, as the neighborhood reveals new dimensions with repeat exploration.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise from Pebble Beach, comparing legendary pizzas in Brooklyn Bridge Park, or sipping cocktails while Manhattan’s lights dance across the East River, things to do in DUMBO create memories that define great travel experiences.
This waterfront neighborhood proves that the best things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn aren’t just activities or sights but moments of connection with place, history, art, food, and the eternal energy that makes New York City endlessly fascinating.
FAQs
1. What does DUMBO stand for?
DUMBO stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” referring to the neighborhood’s location between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges.
2. What are the best things to do in DUMBO Brooklyn?
Top attractions include walking the Brooklyn Bridge, exploring Brooklyn Bridge Park, riding Jane’s Carousel, and visiting Time Out Market for food and skyline views.
3. Where is the best photo spot in DUMBO?
The intersection of Washington and Front Streets offers the iconic shot of the Manhattan Bridge framed by red-brick buildings with the Empire State Building in view.
4. How do I get to DUMBO from Manhattan?
You can walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, take the F train to York Street, or ride the NYC Ferry to Fulton Ferry Landing for scenic waterfront views.
5. What’s the best time to visit DUMBO?
Visit early morning or during golden hour for great photos and fewer crowds. Spring and fall offer ideal weather for exploring the waterfront and outdoor attractions.
