This list of the best things to do in DUMBO, Brooklyn was written by Yana Zaytseva, Co-Founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps). Glad to have you here!
DUMBO (an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is one of Brooklyn’s most scenic and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. This charming area, known for historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and epic waterfront views of Manhattan is a treasure trove of activities. Blending old-world charm with modern trends, visiting DUMBO is a must-do, so let’s dive right in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
But First: What Does DUMBO Stand For?
Before we chat about the fun things to do in DUMBO you might be wondering, what does DUMBO stand for? Quite simply, DUMBO is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Aptly named, this neighborhood is sandwiched between two iconic bridges, the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. Isn’t it nice when the answer is simple?
You Might Enjoy Learning About: The history of the Brooklyn Bridge & interesting facts.
The Best Things to Do in DUMBO, Brooklyn
(Table of Contents)
- But First: What Does DUMBO Stand For?
- The Best Things to Do in DUMBO, Brooklyn
- Enjoy the Famous Pizza at Juliana’s
- Walk the Brooklyn Promenade
- Enjoy the Rooftop at the Time Out Market
- Ride Jane’s Carousel ($2 Per Person)
- Snap an Iconic Photo with the Manhattan Bridge
- Relax at Arabica Coffee
- Ride the Ferry
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
- Happy Hour at Cecconi’s
- Enjoy a Pint at Evil Twin Brewing
- Grab Drinks at Randolph Beer
- Visiting DUMBO in the Summer? Catch an Outdoor Move
- Enjoy Some Ice Cream While Exploring DUMBO
- Extra Time? More Fun DUMBO Activities to Consider
- List of the Best Things to Do in DUMBO, NYC
- Visiting DUMBO, Fun Activities (Helpful Map)
Enjoy the Famous Pizza at Juliana’s
Let’s kick off our list of the best things to do in DUMBO with a fan favorite, Juliana’s Pizza. This beloved pizza joint opened in 2012, but locals know that the delicious pies at Juliana’s date back 75 years. It was founded by NYC pizza-making legend Pasquale Grimaldi (who’s tied to the most iconic pizzerias in NYC, Patsy’s and Grimaldi’s).
Juliana’s stays true to traditional coal-fired New York pizza (thin crust, delicious tomato sauce, and high-quality ingredients). The top seller is the Classic Margherita pie (San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil), but for me, nothing tops the White Pie (olive oil, fresh mozzarella, and lots of garlic).
Website: Juliana’s Pizza
Address: 19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY
Good to Know: Juliana’s doesn’t accept reservations, first come, first served only. Lines move quickly!
Walk the Brooklyn Promenade
Picture this: a relaxing stroll along the East River with unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline, framed by the impressive Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. Strolling along the Brooklyn Promenade is one of the most romantic things to do in DUMBO. I suggest visiting around sunset because the way the evening light plays off the skyscrapers is unforgettable, pure magic!
Enjoy the Rooftop at the Time Out Market
In repurposing a massive waterfront warehouse, the Time Out Market is a glorious food hall that houses some of the best restaurants in NYC. This is my go-to spot when traveling with a group of friends who never agree on where to eat because there’s something for everyone.
Make an effort to snatch an outdoor table on the rooftop (which has one of the best happy hours in NYC on weekdays from 4 pm-7 pm). You’d normally have to make reservations a month in advance and slip the host a crisp $20 bill for views like this.
Website: Time Out Market
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY
Ride Jane’s Carousel ($2 Per Person)
Built in 1922 (more than 100 years ago!), Jane’s Carousel is a historic wooden carousel that has been meticulously restored to its original splendor in a process that took more than two decades. When the restoration was complete, the carousel was relocated to DUMBO where it opened to the public.
Housed inside of a beautiful glass pavilion, the carousel is open rain or shine and admission is a mere $2 per person (adults allowed, even without children). The breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River coupled with a beloved childhood activity give this experience a nostalgic feel. This is one of the best things to do in DUMBO with kids. But honestly, I’ve hopped aboard the carousel on dates (without kids in tow) and had a blast, too.
Website: Jane’s Carousel
Address: 1 Old, Dock St, Brooklyn, NY
Snap an Iconic Photo with the Manhattan Bridge
Of all the idyllic scenes you’ll find in the neighborhood, there’s one iconic spot you can’t afford to miss — the intersection of Water & Washington Streets. A popular backdrop for Christmas cards, wedding photos, and even proposals, the looming Manhattan Bridge is the star of the show. Make an effort to swing by and take photos while visiting DUMBO.
Location: Intersection of Water Street and Washington Street
Relax at Arabica Coffee
If you’re searching for some of the cutest coffee shops in Brooklyn, make sure to pop into Arabica Coffee while visiting DUMBO. The draw? Apart from the velvety-smooth coffee, of course, are the large domed windows that frame the Brooklyn Bridge beautifully.
As for the coffee, it’s roasted in-house! Securing a corner seat and catching up with an old friend over good coffee is one of the most relaxing things to do in DUMBO.
Website: Arabica Coffee
Address: 20 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY
Ride the Ferry
I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve hopped aboard the Ferry from DUMBO. This is one of my favorite things to do in DUMBO with out-of-town guests because everyone raves about it for months after. In fact, most of my visitors consider this the most memorable part of their trip.
The short route between DUMBO and Wall Street is magical. For the price of $4 (per person), you can catch some of the best views of NYC from the water, which is why it’s my preferred mode of public transportation when visiting the area with friends.
Whether you take the ferry to DUMBO or hop on to leave the area, there’s no denying that riding the ferry is one of the best things to do in DUMBO. If you’re not tied to any particular schedule I suggest riding the ferry at sunset — or, even better — at night (it’s a magical experience).
Local’s Tip: To ride the ferry you’ll need to download the NYC Ferry App. You can buy tickets through the app and then scan the QR code to board, it’s very easy!
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Spanning a little more than a mile, the Brooklyn Bridge is an engineering masterpiece. It was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time of completion and has stood as an icon for NYC since. So it should come as no surprise that of the most popular things to do in DUMBO is to take the stroll from Brooklyn to Manhattan (or vice versa).
The trip takes about 30 minutes and is an activity the whole family can enjoy. From the bridge, you can see most of NYC’s iconic buildings, including the Statue of Liberty.
Local’s Tip: I suggest starting on the Manhattan side and crossing the Brooklyn Bridge into DUMBO. When you’re done exploring DUMBO, take the ferry back to Manhattan, you’ll get the best of both worlds!
Happy Hour at Cecconi’s
Cecconi’s is a popular Italian restaurant best known for its epic views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. The restaurant is slightly overpriced for what it is (in my opinion), which is why happy hour is the time to go. Happy hour runs from 4 pm –7 pm on Tuesdays-Fridays at the bar.
Website: Cecconi’s DUMBO
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY
Enjoy a Pint at Evil Twin Brewing
Started by Jeppe Jarnit-Bjergso, an identical twin from Denmark, Evil Twin Brewing seems to have one mission in mind: upset the apple cart. His twin brother launched Mikkeller Brewing Company in 2006, which Jeppe challenged with Evil Twin Brewing in NYC in 2010.
This has quickly become the most popular brewery in Brooklyn. Expect to find exciting, albeit unusual, variations on classics. I’m partial to the IPAs but even I can’t pass up an unusual seasonal delight every now and then. Swing by if you’re looking for relaxing things to do in DUMBO, the beer is delicious!
Website: Evil Twin Brewing
Address: 43 Main St, Brooklyn, NY
Grab Drinks at Randolph Beer
Randolph Beer is known for two things. First, the breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop. And second, an impressive self-serve beer wall that features more than 24 rotating brews. Offering one of the most unique experiences in DUMBO, simply pre-load a card at the “beer ATM” and enjoy the wall of beer (charged per ounce). It’s a fun way to spend an hour (or two) catching up with good friends.
Website: Randolph Beer
Address: 82 Prospect St, Brooklyn, NY
Visiting DUMBO in the Summer? Catch an Outdoor Move
Seasonal but worth mentioning, if you’re visiting DUMBO in the summer, catching an outdoor movie at Brooklyn Bridge Park is a must. Most of the movies are family-friendly, making this one of the best things to do in DUMBO with kids. Food vendors open at 5 pm, and pre-movie DJs are dolling out easy-going summer vibes. I try to show up early (around 6 pm) to get a good spot before the movies start (typically around 8 pm).
Website: DUMBO Movies With a View
Location: Harbor View Lawn, 80 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY
Enjoy Some Ice Cream While Exploring DUMBO
I love visiting DUMBO during hot summer days. Being by the water makes the area feel like an escape from the city. Plus, there’s two charming ice cream shops that elevate the experience up a notch. My favorite spot is the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, which oozes small town ice cream parlor vibes. The outdoor seating is great and the banana splits are even better.
And then there’s Van Leeuwen, which makes an appearance on our list of the best ice cream in New York City. Housed in a repurposed fireboat station, the ice cream hits the spot on a hot summer day (gluten-free and vegan options available). I love the matcha and earl gray flavors the best, but everything on the menu is bound to impress, highly recommend it!
Extra Time? More Fun DUMBO Activities to Consider
Catch a Show at St. Ann’s Warehouse
The Brooklyn Bridge promenade can be a busy place, so where do you go when you need a break? How about to St. Ann’s Warehouse? Sitting right underneath the Brooklyn Bridge, this pre-Civil War building is home to the Max Family Garden.
It’s open to the public, but I think it’s one of the most underrated places in DUMBO because it’s seldom busy. St. Ann’s Warehouse is also home to a multi-use venue that’s popular for hosting off-Broadway theater performances, check out the website to learn more if you’re interested!
Website: St. Ann’s Warehouse
Address: 45 Water St, Brooklyn, NY
Celebrate a Special Occasion at Celestine
If you’re looking for a restaurant that’ll make you feel like you’re on an episode of Sex and the City, make a beeline for Celestine. Located under the towering Manhattan Bridge, enjoying a meal this fine-dining Mediterranean restaurant is one of the most memorable things to do in DUMBO.
The floor-to-ceiling windows make it a prized destination for romantic dates and milestones worth celebrating. As you know, it’s (sadly) not uncommon for restaurants with pretty views to skimp on quality, knowing they’ll attract customers regardless. Thankfully, Celestine doesn’t play games like that. The food is top-notch!
Website: Celestine
Address: 1 John St, Brooklyn, NY
Test Your Luck at the Brooklyn Flea
One of the best flea markets in NYC also happens to be one of the best things to do in DUMBO. Started in 2008, The Brooklyn Flea is open Saturdays and Sundays under the DUMBO Archway from April through December. You can score vintage and handmade goods that support artsy locals and help keep waste out of landfills. Cool totes, hard-to-find records, and vintage cameras are up for grabs.
Website: The Brooklyn Flea
Address: 80 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY
List of the Best Things to Do in DUMBO, NYC
- Enjoy a Cup of Coffee with the Brooklyn Bridge
- Rummage through the Goodies at the Brooklyn Flea
- Walk the Brooklyn Promenade
- Order Something Sweet at Jacques Torres
- Peruse the Empire Stores
- Enjoy a Movie with a View
- Cool Down with some Ice Cream
- Ride Jane’s Carousel
- (Responsibly) Drink Your Fill at Randolphs
- Peruse the Racks at 2nd Street
- Eat Your Fill at The Timeout Market
- Snap “The” Iconic Picture
- Down a Cold One at Evil Twin Brewing
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
- Stretch Your Creativity at Usagi
- Ride the Ferry
- Catch a Show at St. Ann’s Warehouse
- Celebrate at Celestine
- Hang out Under the DUMBO Archway
- Inhale a Pie at Juliana’s
Frequently Asked Questions
Quite simply, DUMBO is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Aptly named, this neighborhood is sandwiched between two iconic bridges, the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge.
Yes, absolutely DUMBO is worth visiting! The charming neighborhood is full of cobblestone streets, amazing skyline views of Manhattan and waterfront shops and restaurants. The best way to explore DUMBO is by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge and exploring the Brooklyn Promenade.
Of all the idyllic scenes you’ll find the neighborhood, there’s one iconic spot you can’t afford to miss — the intersection of Water & Washington Streets. A popular backdrop for Christmas cards, wedding photos and even proposals, the looming Manhattan Bridge is the star of the show.
More on DUMBO, Brooklyn
Best Bakeries in DUMBO: 10 Delicious Bakeries in DUMBO
Great Bars in DUMBO: 5+ Great Bars in DUMBO (Local’s Guide)
Coffee Shops in DUMBO: 10+ Dreamy DUMBO Coffee Shops (You Can’t Help But Love)
Where to Eat in DUMBO: 20 Remarkable Restaurants in DUMBO
Iconic Spots in NYC Everyone Needs to Try
Best Pizza in NYC: 15 Best Pizza Joints in New York City
Iconic Restaurants in NYC: 10 Iconic New York City Restaurants Every Local Needs to Try
Best Bagels in NYC: 15 BEST Bagels in New York City
Best Brunch in NYC: 18 Prime Brunch Spots in New York City Worth the (Inevitable) Wait
Visiting DUMBO, Fun Activities (Helpful Map)
And there you have it, the best things to do in DUMBO according to yours truly. As always, don’t hesitate to let us know if we missed anything. Cheers!
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