New York City · Walking Route
NYC Walking Route
New York City is best experienced on foot. The density of landmarks, neighborhoods, and hidden details packed into Manhattan, and the short walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into DUMBO, makes walking the single best way to discover the city. This self-guided route takes you from the tip of Lower Manhattan across the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park, then up to the High Line in Chelsea.
Route at a Glance
Distance
6 to 8 km
Walking time
3 to 4 hours
Difficulty
Easy to moderate
The Walking Route
Stop 1: Battery Park & the Staten Island Ferry
Start your walk at the southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park. The free Staten Island Ferry departs from here every 30 minutes and passes directly in front of the Statue of Liberty, the best free view in the city. Take the 25-minute crossing and return, then continue your walk.
Tip: Go early morning before the tourist crowds arrive. The light on the water is also best in the morning.
Stop 2: 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Walk north from Battery Park into the World Trade Center complex. The twin reflecting pools occupy the footprints of the original towers and are one of the most powerful memorials in the world. Even if you don't enter the museum, spending time at the pools is worthwhile.
The museum is worth visiting if you have time, allow 90 minutes to two hours.
Stop 3: Financial District & Stone Street
Walk east through the Financial District, Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall. Stone Street is NYC's oldest cobbled street, narrow and atmospheric, and a good place to stop for coffee or an early lunch. The contrast between the old street and the surrounding skyscrapers is striking.
Stop 4: Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
One of the most iconic walks in the world. The pedestrian path runs along the upper level of the bridge, elevated above the traffic below. The view of the Manhattan skyline from the midpoint of the bridge is one of the most spectacular urban views anywhere. Allow 45 minutes for the crossing at a relaxed pace.
Tip: Walk from the Manhattan side to DUMBO, not the other way around, the skyline view improves as you go.
Stop 5: DUMBO & Washington Street
Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass is one of New York's most photogenic neighborhoods. The view of the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed through Washington Street is the most photographed spot in Brooklyn. Walk along the cobbled streets and take your time.
The view from Washington Street toward the Manhattan Bridge is unmissable.
Stop 6: Brooklyn Bridge Park
Follow the waterfront south through Brooklyn Bridge Park for uninterrupted views of the Manhattan skyline. The park runs along the East River and offers some of the best views of Lower Manhattan available anywhere. There are food vendors and grassy areas ideal for a rest.
Stop 7: The High Line (via subway from DUMBO)
Take the A/C subway from High Street station in Brooklyn to 14th Street and walk to the High Line entrance at Gansevoort Street. This free elevated park runs 1.5 miles through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea on a former freight railway. End the walk at Hudson Yards and take in the views over the Hudson River.
Tip: The High Line is free and best walked from south to north. Allow 60 to 90 minutes to enjoy it properly.
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