As funny as it sounds, one of the most common questions we get at New York Simply is “what does DUMBO stand for?” It’s a fair question, many first time visitors are caught off guard when they hear someone say Dumbo, which is typically followed by … “the elephant from Disney?”
Not quite.
DUMBO is an acronym for one of the most popular neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Home to trendy shops, great restaurants and an easy-going vibe, the area attracts both locals and visitors every season of the year. But look at me already getting ahead of myself. Without further ado, let’s cover everything you need to know about what DUMBO stands for and what you can do in the area.
What Does DUMBO Stand For?
DUMBO is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Aptly named, this neighborhood is sandwiched between two iconic NYC bridges: the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. Don’t you just love it when the answer is uncomplicated? Me too.
Did you know? The Brooklyn Bridge is older than London’s Tower Bridge, it’s true. Here’s 20+ Thought-Provoking Facts About New York City You Should Know.
Where is DUMBO?
Located in Brooklyn, DUMBO sits along the East River, bordered by the Manhattan Bridge to the north and the Brooklyn Bridge to the south. This area is known for stunning waterfront views, charming cobblestone streets, and a mix of converted warehouses and upscale residential lofts.
One of the most popular activities for first time visitors is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge and explore DUMBO afterwards. The scenic one-mile walk usually takes 30 minutes and offers some of the best views of New York City.
Local’s Tip: When you’re done crossing the bridge, head to the rooftop of the Time Out Market for cocktails and epic views.
How Did DUMBO in NYC Get Its Name?
The answer to this question has puzzled me for a while, so I finally did some proper research. At first glance it would be easy to assume that the meaning of DUMBO in New York City was coined by an avid Disney fan, but that’s not the case.
DUMBO was named by the area’s residents from the 1970s. They were keen to keep the neighborhood under wraps from thirsty investors and developers, so they came up with (what they assumed at the time) would be an unmarketable name.
The problem? It didn’t work. It was pretty clear that a silly nickname wouldn’t be enough to keep this great neighborhood a secret for long.
The History of DUMBO in Brooklyn
Like much of New York City, DUMBO was once a neglected area that was most attractive to poor artists. Landlords were having a hard time renting out vacant office spaces on the top floors. Potential renters found it too difficult to schlep stuff upstairs, which resulted in vacant lofts.
To address the issue of these expensive vacancies, landlords started allowing up to three artists to dwell in the empty units. It was a win-win for all because the landlords got the units filled and artists got cheap rent. But as with all good things, it didn’t take long for landlords to realize they could charge higher rent prices — and so they did.
Little by little, artists started to move out, which made way for developers. Some disgruntled residents came together and made an interesting decision — if the neighborhood was going to slip through their fingers, the least they could do was name it.
A committee was established and four men, brews in hand, narrowed it down to two options:
- DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)
- DANYA: District Around the Name Yard Annex
The two options were brought forward to the neighbors at a loft party and DUMBO won out by a landslide. DUMBO truly is a story of gentrification, like most of NYC. (If you’d like the actual play-by-play, check out this piece.)
What’s So Cool About DUMBO?
As mentioned, DUMBO wasn’t always the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood we know today. It used to be an industrial mecca full of monolithic warehouses. Indeed, this is where many notable inventions occurred, such as the cardboard box (admittedly this was an accidental invention), the first grocery chain, Brillo pads and tin cans.
Best Things to Do in Dumbo, Brooklyn
Visit the Time Out Market
Visiting the Time Out Market is one of the best things to do in Dumbo, Brooklyn. I always make an effort to take out of town guests here and it never fails to impress. The market is filled to the brim with delicious food stalls run by some of the best restaurants in NYC. Grab a bite and head to the rooftop to take in some of the best views of NYC.
Take a stroll by the water
Dare I say, is there a more romantic thing to do in Dumbo than strolling by the water? It’s as lovely as you can imagine, especially with your special someone in hand.
Order a pie from Juliana’s
Juliana’s Pizza serves some of the best pizza in New York City. Considering how steep the competition is, it’s no easy feat. I’m partial to the delicious white pie (garlic and gooey mozzarella) and never miss an opportunity to order the egg cream.
Ride the East River Ferry
Riding the NYC Ferry is absolutely one of the best things to do in New York City (no hyperbole!). The East River Ferry departs from the dock at DUMBO and can take you directly to Wall Street. When you’ve had your fill of the fun things to in Dumbo, Brooklyn pop on the ferry towards Wall Street and explore some more.
Read: 20 Top-Notch Things to Do in DUMBO (+Local’s Tips)
What Does DUMBO Mean, Again?
Don’t worry, we got you. Even some locals forget what DUMBO is an acronym for in NYC. Overpass? Overlook? So to recap, DUMBO stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.
Cheers!
Great report I went there for the 1st time in March 2022. Will be back. I only wish I had gone when I lived in NYC 42 yes ago.
Seeing this area 42 years ago would have been wild! It’s such a beautiful place, glad you enjoyed your visit!