DUMBO

DUMBO is the cobblestoned pocket of Brooklyn wedged between the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges — home of THAT Instagram shot on Washington Street, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane's Carousel, and the Time Out Market food hall. Gorgeous and genuinely fun for a half day, but know it's polished and crowded, not gritty Brooklyn.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is Time Out Market DUMBO still open?

Yes — the food hall at 55 Water Street is open daily, roughly 8am-10pm (until 11pm Friday and Saturday), with a free rooftop terrace facing the bridges. It's a solid rainy-day or picky-group option, though you pay a view premium.

Where is the famous DUMBO photo spot?

The corner of Washington Street and Water Street, where the Manhattan Bridge frames the Empire State Building between brick warehouses. Go before 9am or expect to queue behind dozens of people for the same shot.

What's Jane's Carousel?

A restored 1922 carousel in a glass pavilion right on the waterfront in Brooklyn Bridge Park — rides are a few dollars and it's genuinely magical at dusk. Check its seasonal schedule; it closes some weekdays in the off-season.

How long do I need in DUMBO?

Two to four hours covers the photo spots, a loop through Brooklyn Bridge Park, and a meal. Add an hour if you're walking the Brooklyn Bridge, which you should.

Is DUMBO expensive?

The best of it is free: the park, the bridges, the views. Food and shopping skew pricey — it's one of Brooklyn's wealthiest zip codes — so budget accordingly or picnic in the park.

How do I get to DUMBO?

F train to York Street or A/C to High Street, each a short walk in. The nicest arrival is the NYC Ferry to the DUMBO/Fulton Ferry landing, or simply walking over the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan.

Should I walk the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO or from it?

Walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn — the skyline unfolds in front of you the whole way, and you land near the park ready for food and views. Exit at the first Brooklyn off-ramp toward Washington Street.

What does DUMBO stand for?

Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass — a 1970s coinage by artists who wanted the name unglamorous enough to keep developers away. It did not work.

Nearby in Ask New York City

• The River CaféRestaurant0.57 km · 7 min walk
• Brooklyn Bridge ParkPark0.66 km · 8 min walk
• Brooklyn BridgeAttraction0.8 km · 10 min walk
• Lower East SideNeighborhood1.34 km · 17 min walk
• The Long Island BarBar1.57 km · 20 min walk