Empire Fulton Ferry

Nestled gracefully between the iconic Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, Empire Fulton Ferry is a quintessential nine-acre green space within Brooklyn Bridge Park, offering an unparalleled experience of New York City's waterfront splendor. This beloved destination is more than just a park; it's a vibrant hub where history, natural beauty, and contemporary urban life converge, creating a truly unique and engaging atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. It's a place devoted to appreciating its magnificent surroundings, particularly the breathtaking vistas of the Manhattan skyline across the East River.

For many New Yorkers, the quest for the "best" Manhattan view is a never-ending discussion, with contenders ranging from rooftop bars to personal kitchen windows. However, those truly in the know often crown Empire Fulton Ferry as the absolute premier spot in Brooklyn to gaze at the majestic Manhattan skyline. The perspective here, framed by the two historic bridges and with the glittering metropolis beyond, is simply unbeatable, making it a favorite for photographers, romantics, and anyone seeking a moment of awe.

The park's appeal extends beyond its views. It's a dynamic space that caters to various interests. Whether you're looking to lay out on the lush lawns and soak in the sun, take a whimsical spin on Jane's Carousel, or capture that perfect shot as a shutterbug, Empire Fulton Ferry offers an abundance of opportunities. Its historical roots as a bustling ferry landing and industrial zone add another layer of intrigue, now beautifully transformed into a welcoming public space that honors its past while embracing its present as a vibrant community asset. From spontaneous family outings to romantic proposals, this go-to location provides the ideal setting for making unforgettable memories right here in Brooklyn.

Empire Fulton Ferry is wonderfully accessible, located at 1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA. Its prime position within the DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) neighborhood of Brooklyn makes it incredibly convenient for both city residents and tourists. The park is nestled directly between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, creating a natural landmark that is easy to find.

For those traveling by subway, Empire Fulton Ferry is served by several lines, offering excellent public transportation access. You can take the A or C train to High Street, the F train to York Street, or the 2 or 3 train to Clark Street. From these stations, the park is just a short, pleasant walk through the charming streets of DUMBO. The R train to Court Street and the 4 or 5 train to Borough Hall are also viable options, requiring a slightly longer but still manageable walk.

Bus services also provide direct routes to the area. The B25 bus stops right at Fulton Ferry Landing, while the B67 bus serves Jay Street & York Street, both offering close proximity to the park's entrances. These bus routes are particularly useful for Brooklyn locals navigating within the borough.

One of the most scenic ways to arrive is via the NYC Ferry. Ferry landings at Pier 1 and Pier 6 are serviced by the NYC Ferry, New York Water Taxi, and Governors Island Ferry, all of which are wheelchair accessible. This provides a delightful journey across the East River, offering unique perspectives of the skyline before you even set foot in the park.

For cyclists, the park is easily reachable via Brooklyn's extensive bike lane network, and many visitors enjoy biking across the Brooklyn Bridge directly into DUMBO. Pedestrians can also access the park by walking across either the Brooklyn or Manhattan Bridges, a truly iconic New York experience that leads directly to the park's doorstep.

While direct, abundant parking can be a challenge in this popular neighborhood, limited metered spaces are available in the parking lot on Furman Street near Pier 2, and paid parking lots can be found under Squibb Bridge and at Pier 6 (on the south side of 360 Furman Street). All park entrances and pathways are accessible, including accessible entrances at grade for all lawns, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this magnificent waterfront space.

Empire Fulton Ferry, as a key section of Brooklyn Bridge Park, offers a fantastic array of services and amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. These services cater to a wide range of interests, making it a versatile destination for everyone from families to photographers:

• Lush Lawns and Picnic Areas: The park boasts expansive, beautifully maintained green lawns, perfect for lounging, picnicking, or simply enjoying the outdoors. While some lawns may have temporary closures for maintenance, they generally provide ample space for relaxation and informal activities. There are also numerous picnic tables available, particularly in the Picnic Grove, for those looking to enjoy an outdoor meal.
• Jane's Carousel: A truly iconic attraction within the park, Jane's Carousel is a beautifully restored, antique carousel housed in a stunning glass pavilion. This offers a magical experience for children and adults alike, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.
• Waterfront Promenade: A well-maintained boardwalk runs along the East River, offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and New York Harbor. It’s ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, or simply taking in the panoramic vistas.
• Empire Stores: This historic Civil War-era warehouse has been remarkably transformed into a vibrant commercial hub within the park. It features a variety of retail shops, diverse restaurants, and even a popular rooftop beer garden, offering food, drink, and additional viewing opportunities.
• Brooklyn Historical Society Dumbo: Located within Empire Stores, this museum provides an opportunity to delve into Brooklyn's rich history, particularly its waterfront heritage, adding a cultural and educational dimension to your visit.
• St. Ann's Warehouse / Tobacco Warehouse: Next door to Empire Stores, the historic Tobacco Warehouse is now home to St. Ann's Warehouse, a renowned performing arts venue. This offers opportunities to experience live theater and other cultural performances, adding an artistic flair to the park's offerings.
• Max Family Garden: A charming, triangular garden with meandering paths and welcoming seating areas, located near St. Ann's Warehouse. It provides a peaceful interior space for quiet contemplation and framed views of the surrounding area.
• Restrooms: Conveniently located restrooms are available within Empire Stores and at other points throughout Brooklyn Bridge Park, ensuring visitor comfort.
• Photo Opportunities: The park is widely recognized as one of the best locations for photography, particularly for capturing proposals, engagement photos, and general cityscape shots, offering unparalleled backdrops.

Empire Fulton Ferry is renowned for several distinct features and highlights that firmly establish its reputation as a must-visit destination in Brooklyn:

• The Best Manhattan Skyline View: Without a doubt, the standout feature is the unparalleled panoramic view of the Lower Manhattan skyline, including One World Trade Center, framed by the majestic Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. Many locals and photographers consider this the absolute finest vantage point in the city for these iconic vistas.
• Jane's Carousel: This magnificent, meticulously restored 1922 carousel, enclosed in a modern glass pavilion, is a whimsical and beloved highlight. Its unique setting against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and East River creates a truly magical experience, especially at night when it's illuminated.
• Empire Stores: The innovative adaptive reuse of these historic 19th-century warehouses into a vibrant retail and culinary destination is a major draw. The blend of old industrial architecture with modern amenities, including a rooftop beer garden, offers a unique urban experience within the park.
• Strategic Location Between Two Iconic Bridges: The park's position directly between the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge is not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhances its accessibility and offers diverse photographic opportunities from multiple angles.
• Lush Green Lawns: The nine acres of meticulously maintained green space provide ample room for relaxation, picnicking, and informal recreation, offering a much-needed natural escape in a densely populated urban environment.
• Brooklyn Historical Society Dumbo: The presence of a museum focusing on Brooklyn's waterfront history within Empire Stores adds an educational and cultural dimension, allowing visitors to connect with the area's rich past.
• St. Ann's Warehouse (Tobacco Warehouse): The transformation of another historic warehouse into a renowned performing arts venue highlights the area's commitment to cultural enrichment and offers a chance to catch world-class shows.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: As attested by local reviews, the park's stunning backdrop makes it an ideal location for capturing memorable life moments, such as surprise proposals and engagement photos, providing a quintessential NYC setting.

As a part of Brooklyn Bridge Park, a publicly accessible space managed by the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation, Empire Fulton Ferry primarily offers free access to its beautiful grounds and most of its amenities. While there aren't traditional commercial "promotions" in the sense of discounts on park entry (as it's free), there are often special events, public programs, and unique opportunities that can be considered "offers" for the community.

• Free Public Events: Brooklyn Bridge Park frequently hosts a variety of free public events, especially during warmer months. These can include outdoor movie screenings, fitness classes (like yoga or Pilates on the lawn), live music performances, and cultural festivals. Specific announcements for these events would be found on the Brooklyn Bridge Park official website and local community calendars. For example, Empire Fulton Ferry is slated to host "The Hill in New York," presented by Wimbledon, from July 11-13, 2025, offering live match screenings and a concert by Rita Ora on Friday, July 11 – admission is free via an online ballot.
• Seasonal Programming: The park often rolls out seasonal programming that enhances the visitor experience. While not a "promotion," these curated activities (e.g., guided tours, educational workshops) offer additional value to park-goers.
• Concessions and Retail in Empire Stores: While these are commercial establishments, the variety of unique shops and restaurants within Empire Stores, including the rooftop beer garden, provides a diverse offering of dining and retail options directly within the park, adding convenience and choice for visitors. Any specific deals from these businesses would be managed independently by them.
• Jane's Carousel Admission: While the park itself is free, Jane's Carousel charges a nominal fee for rides. However, occasionally there might be community days or special events where rides are offered at a reduced price or free for a limited time, which would be advertised by the carousel or the park.

To stay informed about the latest events and any potential special opportunities at Empire Fulton Ferry, locals are encouraged to regularly check the official Brooklyn Bridge Park website and their social media channels, as well as local Brooklyn event listings. These sources will provide the most up-to-date information on what's happening at this vibrant waterfront destination.

For any inquiries regarding Empire Fulton Ferry, which is a key part of Brooklyn Bridge Park, the primary contact information is as follows:

• Address: 1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
• Phone: (718) 222-9939 (This is the general phone number for Brooklyn Bridge Park, which oversees Empire Fulton Ferry. You can use this for broad inquiries about the park, its facilities, or events.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 718-222-9939 (This is the same general park contact number.)
• Website: For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on park hours, specific lawn closures, events, amenities, and details about Jane's Carousel or the businesses within Empire Stores, the official Brooklyn Bridge Park website is the best resource.
• Social Media: Follow Brooklyn Bridge Park's official social media channels (e.g., Facebook, Instagram) for real-time updates, event announcements, and stunning photos of the park.

It's important to note that direct lines to specific attractions within Empire Fulton Ferry (like individual shops or restaurants in Empire Stores) might have their own contact details, which would typically be found on their respective business websites. For general park-related questions, however, the main Brooklyn Bridge Park contact is your best bet.

Empire Fulton Ferry is exceptionally suitable for locals in New York City, particularly those in Brooklyn, offering a myriad of benefits that enhance urban living. Its prime location in DUMBO, nestled perfectly between two iconic bridges, makes it incredibly accessible for daily visits, whether it's a quick break or a planned outing. For residents in the surrounding vibrant neighborhoods, this nine-acre green space serves as an invaluable extension of their living room, a place to decompress, exercise, and connect with nature without having to leave the city.

The park's unique blend of amenities caters to diverse local needs. Families adore Jane's Carousel, which provides a classic, whimsical experience against a backdrop that defines New York. Dog owners find it a perfect spot for walks, with ample green space and well-lit pathways ensuring safety and enjoyment even during evening strolls. For fitness enthusiasts, the promenade offers an ideal setting for jogging or power walks, while the lawns invite impromptu yoga sessions or simply a place to stretch out and soak up the sun. The fact that the park is part of the larger Brooklyn Bridge Park system means locals can also easily explore adjacent piers and their offerings, from playgrounds to sports facilities, all within a short distance.

Beyond recreation, Empire Fulton Ferry is a cultural and social hub. The transformed Empire Stores complex provides convenient access to a variety of local restaurants and shops, making it an excellent spot for a casual meal or a unique shopping experience right by the water. The presence of the Brooklyn Historical Society Dumbo and St. Ann's Warehouse enriches the cultural landscape, offering opportunities for learning and enjoying live performances. This integration of retail, dining, and culture within a scenic park environment creates a dynamic destination that meets multiple local needs.

Perhaps most importantly, Empire Fulton Ferry offers an unparalleled sense of place and perspective. The breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the surrounding bridges instill a profound appreciation for living in New York City. It's a place where locals can bring out-of-town guests to truly showcase the city's grandeur, or simply retreat for a moment of personal reflection amidst stunning beauty. The historical significance of the area, combined with its modern revitalization, imbues the park with a unique character that resonates deeply with New Yorkers. It’s a cherished spot that fosters community, inspires awe, and provides a daily dose of natural beauty and urban excitement.

Empire Fulton Ferry

1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA