Pick a side. You can start from the base of the bridge in Brooklyn and walk across while gazing at the Manhattan skyline that is waiting to embrace you. Your other option is to start in Manhattan and walk with the skyline behind you, gazing at Brooklyn’s Watchtower, navy yard and other points of entrance on the borough’s side. For best results, walk both ways.
Get to the base. If you wish to start on the Manhattan side, get to City Hall. Take the N or R subway train to the City Hall stop or the 4, 5 or 6 train to the Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall stop. For the Brooklyn side, take the N or R to Court Street. Of course, you can also walk to the base or hail a cab.
Bring essentials. You must wear comfortable, durable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Remember, there will be no shade, and the wind will whip strongly over the rollicking river. Also take along a camera, a pen and paper (for when you’re inspired to write a poem) and a bottle of water.
Watch for other bridge walkers and bicyclists. The most hazardous aspect of walking the Brooklyn Bridge is not the threat of falling off. It’s the threat of maniacal bicyclists, joggers or other pedestrians ramming into you. The bridge is divided into pedestrian and bike lanes. Please take heed. Clueless pedestrians have caused many a bike crash on the bridge, and negligent bikers have rammed pedestrians.
Stop often. Don’t just run across the bridge as if you are in a marathon. Take the time to savor the experience. Sit for a bit on one of the benches. Gaze lovingly over the river. Read the plaque that gives you a bit of history. Marvel at the bridge’s construction. Watch how dumb the tourists act. Open your arms and be free.
