Williamsburg Bridge Visitors Guide: Scenic Views, History & Jet Ski Adventures on the NYC Waterfront
The Williamsburg Bridge in New York City is known for its vibrant cultural surroundings and bold steel design. Plus, it provides East River skyline views between Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood and Manhattan’s Lower East Side. As one of the city’s most iconic crossings, it offers an unforgettable perspective of the NYC skyline. Furthermore, the bridge itself has a rich history.
We’ve put this guide together to inform you of the very best ways to experience Williamsburg Bridge in NYC. Whether you want to go walking across Williamsburg Bridge or are looking for things to do near Williamsburg Bridge, this visitors guide can help. You can also go NYC sightseeing by jet ski, which provides the most thrilling way to appreciate the bridge in all its grandeur.
Why Visit the Williamsburg Bridge, New York?
The official Williamsburg Bridge history began when it opened in 1903. When construction first began in 1896, though, Brooklyn wasn’t even part of the City of Greater New York. However, this didn’t stop them from building a bridge to connect Brooklyn with Manhattan.
The steel suspension Williamsburg Bridge architecture is quite distinctive. There are bike and pedestrian paths on the bridge too, which offers sweeping views of East River. As one of NYC’s most photogenic bridges, you can capture images as you take a jet ski ride under Williamsburg Bridge. This is especially noteworthy at sunset.
Things to Do on and Around the Williamsburg Bridge
Speaking of things to do near the bridge, it happens to begin and end in interesting neighborhoods. For example, the Williamsburg neighborhood is filled with boutique shops, trendy cafes, street art, and waterfront parks. Meanwhile, the Lower East Side showcases art galleries, historic delis, and exciting nightlife spots. Other things of interest include:
- Biking or walking across the bridge – There is a lively cycling and pedestrian path, plus you can enjoy panoramic skyline views.
- Take photos of NYC’s iconic bridges – Want to take a truly classic NYC photo? If you set it up correctly, you can capture Williamsburg Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge in just a single snapshot.
- Enjoy skyline views at Domino Park – On the Brooklyn side of the bridge, you can enter a modern waterfront park. Not only is the park merely steps from the bridge but it also features picnic tables and restrooms.
Williamsburg Bridge Attractions with the Best Views
If you’re interested in the best Williamsburg Bridge views, you’ll find them all around the area. For instance, gaze upon East River views of the Downtown and Midtown skylines. Enjoy the Lower East Side’s unique cityscape above the river. The Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge are easily framed in the distance. Perhaps the best area to go to, though, is Domino Park. It offers splendid Williamsburg Bridge views from the waterfront, along with Domino Sugar Refinery.
How to Get to the Williamsburg Bridge
There are many different ways to get to Williamsburg Bridge. Whether you’re on foot or taking the subway, though, it’s easily accessible and should absolutely be seen.
- Subway – Using Manhattan or Brooklyn as your starting destination, take the J, M, or Z train. From Manhattan, enter the subway and head to the Delancey St. station. From Brooklyn, take the subway to Marcy Ave. station.
- Walking/Biking – Great sightseeing opportunities wait for those who walk or bike onto the bridge. Please note that walking and cycling paths are on opposite sides of the bridge. Be sure you take the right path for your activity.
- Car/Taxi/Rideshare – Taking a car, taxi, or rideshare makes it easy to see the Williamsburg Bridge. Simply head to Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood or Manhattan’s Lower East Side.
- Jet Ski Tour – Would you like to see the most unique, rarely seen view of the bridge? Going on a jet ski tour of Williamsburg Bridge enables you to look upward as you pass beneath it. You’ll gain stunning views of the suspension bridge. Plus, this is by far the most exciting way to see the bridge, and taking photos is virtually compulsory.
How Long is the Williamsburg Bridge?
The Williamsburg Bridge spans an impressive 7,308 feet (approximately 1.4 miles). Walking across the bridge at a leisurely pace takes about 30 to 45 minutes. It’s important to budget extra time, though, to make stops and snap photos. After all, a visit to Williamsburg Bridge offers awe-inspiring views of the water and city skyline. Keep in mind that the path is narrow but definitely worth it. Be sure to bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
See the Williamsburg Bridge from the Water – On a Jet Ski Tour
The typical way of crossing the bridge is by bike, foot, or subway. Why not leave the typical behind, though, and have a truly iconic experience? The ultimate way to experience Williamsburg Bridge is actually from the water! In fact, you can take an entire bridges of New York tour from this unique vantage point by renting a jet ski.
Sea the City Jet Ski Tours
Sea the City’s jet ski tours depart from Jersey City and ride up the East River. You’ll have the opportunity to pass directly beneath Williamsburg Bridge, which provides completely unbeatable photos and angles. Whether you take a vacation to NYC or you’re a local, your friends will be stunned once you show them what your camera captured.
Even better, riding a jet ski makes it possible to pass beneath the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges too. You’ll get to experience three iconic NYC bridges without dealing with crowds, which is the greatest trick of all. Plus, you can take in the skyline of Downtown and Midtown as you cruise up the East River. Extend your ride to approximately 2.5 hours to ride on the Hudson and Harlem Rivers as well.
Why Jet Skiing is the Best Way to See the Williamsburg Bridge
This exciting and adventurous alternative to traditional walking tours will make memories to last a lifetime. Anyone can see the Williamsburg Bridge, but how many people get to see it from underneath? Other perks include:
- Take in up-close views from directly beneath the bridge
- Capture unique perspectives of the Brooklyn and Manhattan skylines
- Perfect opportunity for photographers and thrill-seekers
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Who Should Visit the Williamsburg Bridge (and Try a Jet Ski Tour)?
Anyone who is interested in getting up-close and personal with some of NYC’s best-known landmarks will enjoy a jet ski tour to Williamsburg Bridge. It’s especially perfect for:
- NYC tourists who want the most iconic bridge experiences available
- Couples seeking a thrill-seeking, adventurous outing with plenty of scenic views
- Families with teens who are open to unique activities and lots of speed
- Anyone who identifies as a street art, history, or architecture enthusiast
- Photographers who want fresh perspectives of NYC’s frequently photographed landmarks
Want the best Williamsburg Bridge view?
Avoid the crowds with a thrilling jet ski adventure! See the bridge from the water and capture unique photos of this one-of-a-kind city.
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Join Sea the City to See Iconic Landmarks from a New Perspective
Williamsburg Bridge offers unforgettable skyline views. Aside from creating a crossing between Manhattan and Brooklyn, it’s also an engineering marvel and culture landmark. Whether you choose to see it from a pedestrian path or while gliding beneath it on a jet ski, Williamsburg Bridge provides an essential part of your NYC adventure.
Sea the City’s popular jet ski tours provide the single most exciting way to see this landmark. In fact, we offer front-row access to many waterfront sights and New York bridges. No wonder we’ve earned a 4.8-star Google average from more than 1,900 reviews! Schedule your tour of NYC landmarks right now.
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FAQs
Can you walk across the Williamsburg Bridge?
Yes! You can gain access to incredible skyline views by walking or cycling across your specific path. Even better, these views are available to you year-round.
How long does it take to cross the Williamsburg Bridge?
Most people can traverse the bridge in approximately 30-45 minutes. Your pace will depend on photo stops and crowds, though.
What is the Williamsburg Bridge famous for?
The iconic architecture of what was once the world’s longest suspension bridge has historic and cultural significance. It provides an essential transportation link between Manhattan and Brooklyn too. Furthermore, it was one of the earliest suspension bridges to feature massive stiffening trusses and steel towers.
Can you see the Williamsburg Bridge on a jet ski tour?
Absolutely! Sea the City takes you directly underneath Williamsburg Bridge. You’ll have a spectacular angle to capture photographs. Also, you’ll gain impressive views of several other landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge.