Empire Fulton Ferry in Brooklyn Bridge Park

The Basics

Whether stopping by on a walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge, spending an afternoon in Brooklyn Bridge Park, or enjoying lunch at a cafe, you have many ways to enjoy Empire Fulton Ferry Park. For the best views, head to Fulton Ferry Landing, a popular spot for wedding photos. Or, take a ride on historic Jane’s Carousel, attend a concert at St. Ann’s Warehouse, and browse the shops and cafes at the Empire Stores complex.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Don’t forget your camera—the views across to Manhattan and the Financial District are highly photogenic.

• There are restrooms, a picnic area, and cafes at Empire Fulton Ferry.

• The historic Empire Stores complex is also home to the Brooklyn Historical Society museum.

• The park is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

Empire Fulton Ferry is located in Dumbo, a neighborhood at the southern end of the Brooklyn Bridge. It's part of Brooklyn Bridge Park. The closest subway station is F at York Street, about a 10-minute walk.

When to Get There

The park is open 24/7, and it can get busy, especially at lunchtime and on summer weekends. It’s worth visiting at different times of day and night to admire the views—early risers watch the sunrise over the Manhattan skyline before grabbing a coffee and bagel from a waterfront cafe, while others gather at night to watch the sunset. After dark, the cityscape glitters.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Empire Fulton Ferry is part of Brooklyn Bridge Park—an idyllic stretch of parklands, riverside promenades, salt marshes, and flower gardens—which lies along the banks of the East River, south of the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. Visitors can walk or cycle the Brooklyn Greenway route through the park; enjoy activities including kayaking, basketball, and rollerblading at Pier 2; discover the exploratory maze at Pier 3; and relax on sandy beaches at Piers 4 and 6.

Ways to explore

Whether stopping by on a walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge, spending a relaxing afternoon on the grass, or enjoying lunch at one of many area cafés, you have plenty of ways to enjoy Empire Fulton Ferry at Brooklyn Bridge Park.

For some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline, head to Fulton Ferry Landing, a popular spot for wedding photos. Alternatively, take a ride on the historic Jane’s Carousel, attend a concert or theatrical production at St. Ann’s Warehouse, and browse the shops and cafés at the Empire Stores complex.

Accessibility

The whole of Brooklyn Bridge Park, including Empire Fulton Ferry, is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Picnic blanket, sun protection, umbrella, water bottle

What to wear

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing—it can be cooler and breezier near the water.

Not allowed

Drones, dogs on lawns, smoking or drinking, camping gear

Amenities

Public restrooms, Wi-Fi, storage lockers, water fountains

Address

Empire Fulton Ferry is located near the northeastern edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park, between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. To get there, take public transportation, a taxi, or even the local ferry service.

Driving

Owing to traffic congestion and limited (or expensive) parking, driving is generally not recommended in New York City. If you are able to, make use of taxi or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

To get to Empire Fulton Ferry, take the A or C train to High Street Subway station or the F train to York Street. East River and South Brooklyn ferry services also stop at the nearby DUMBO landing.

Best times to visit

The park is open from early morning to late evening year-round, though individual businesses and facilities may have different operating hours. Sunset draws crowds to take in the spectacular views.

Best days to visit

Weekends are a great time to participate in park-hosted events, but they’re also particularly busy. Visit on a weekday if you want a calmer experience.

Best months to visit

Summer is the high season in New York City, though it also brings heat and crowds—try the spring or fall shoulder seasons as an alternative.

Special events

The park can be a great place to catch Fourth of July fireworks (depending on the year) and offers activities from kayaking to family workshops at other times of year.