The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic locations in New York City and is in fact one of the oldest bridges in the United States. Constructed in 1869 the suspension bridge is nearly 150 years old and took 14 years to build, connecting Brooklyn with Manhatten. Being a focal point of so many films over the years it’s difficult to think that you could head to New York City and not tourist your way over to it and take a look.
On my visit to New York I did absolutely that! I spent the afternoon walking around the Brooklyn waterside, approaching the bridge from quite some way off. This route offered a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline with the Brooklyn Bridge in the background in all its glory.
Approaching the base of the bridge it’s actually surprisingly difficult to get on to it. On the Brooklyn side you need to walk quite far up the hill, away from the hustle and bustle that exists around the upright towers that support the cables. Once you find the stairs up on to the bridge however the bridge offers a great experience.
Like the movies, walking across the bridge presents all of the views that you are already strangely familiar with. It gives you a real sense of deja vu.
The classic poster shot of the cars driving underneath you…
The shot looking up at the bridge supports…
The view of Manhatten…
When I visited, the bridge wasn’t too busy so I had no issues with overcrowding or anything like that which can usually happen at these tourist traps.
Although some might say it’s just a bridge, to me it was more than that. It was a chance to visit an iconic part of America and see a great piece of engineering; certainly something that I’ve now ticked off my bucket list and absolutely a location I would recommend you go visit on your next trip to NYC. 8/10.
