Oh yes, there’s plenty to see in NYC! It can be a challenge to make the most of your time in the city and see as much of it as possible. One of the best ways to maximize your time is by Hop-On, Hop-Off NYC cruise! The Hudson River gives the BEST view of the Manhattan skyline. Added to this, you have the flexibility to get off the boat and explore different areas more in-depth. One of the most memorable areas I explored was DUMBO.
What’s DUMBO and where is it?
DUMBO is an area of Brooklyn. The acronym stands for ‘down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass’. It’s an incredibly vibrant area of what is already a very vibrant city. You would be sensible to put this area at the top of your New York City sightseeing list! Here are a few reasons as to why:
THE VIEWS
Sightseeing in DUMBO means you’ll get unsurpassable views of the city. From here you can gaze at Manhattan’s bridges – especially the iconic Brooklyn Bridge! You’ll see the Statue of Liberty from the cruise itself, but you can also get sight of it in DUMBO.
EAT!
New York is full of great food and DUMBO is no exception to this rule! In the mornings/afternoons, don’t miss out on going to Almondine Bakery with its delicious baked goods
DUMBO is also the home of the famous Grimaldi’s Pizza. And as if that weren’t enough – Grimaldi’s founder has opened a new pizzeria here too, called Juliana’s.
The Superfine restaurant mixes great food and entertainment and offers a fantastic Sunday Bluegrass Brunch. The Atrium Dumbo, just off Brooklyn Bridge park, also offers superb views of the river along with its fine foods.
CULTURE
There are many things to do to experience the culture in DUMBO.
Bargemusic is a classical music venue that offers fabulous concerts both matinee and night performances! St Ann’s Warehouse is known for its eclectic music and theatrical productions. David Bowie, Lou Reed and Marianne Faithful are just a few of the notable names who’ve performed there.
The Masters Projects’ gallery exhibits unknown and new artists from across the globe as well as those from NYC. Whilst the A.I.R. gallery is dedicated to advocating female artists.
OUTDOOR SPACES
Perhaps my most favorite item in this list of DUMBO attractions in its outdoor spaces – particularly Brooklyn Bridge Park!
I loved wandering the cobbled streets of DUMBO generally, but Brooklyn Bridge Park stands out amongst all Brooklyn tourist attractions. From here you can find a fabulous picnic spot to enjoy your local food and the amazing views of Manhattan. The park’s Pier 1 area has open lawns, a promenade and seating area at the river front.
The park is also home to Jane’s Carousel – a famous and restored antique carousel that dates from 1922. Its 48 horses are housed in a glass box, safe from the elements, allowing you to take advantage of this beautiful attraction the whole year!
For kids and big kids alike, there’s also a fantastic playground at Pier 6 that boasts a slide mountain and huge sandboxes.
SHOPPING
No DUMBO sightseeing trip would be complete without a trip to the shops. DUMBO offers many loft style shops – lovely, spacious areas offering a really great selection of goods from labels to homemade artisan type items.
Zoe is home to the high-end designer brands whilst at Trunk you’ll find local stock made right there in Brooklyn.
The area has a couple of great independent bookstores that I loved visiting – there’s Powerhouse Arena and PS Bookshops.
Obviously, there’s plenty to see in NYC and Brooklyn sightseeing in the DUMBO area is no exception! The Gray Line CitySightseeing New York Hop On, Hop Off NYC cruise gives you the most flexibility to be able to explore and discover this area! Visit here on your next trip!
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