Even if you’ve not yet managed to visit New York, you’ll probably know what the Brooklyn Bridge looks like. In a city full of iconic structures, it’s probably one of the most memorable sites. When I’m touring New York City with Gray Line New York, it’s undoubtedly one of the sights that our guests can’t wait to see. Here’s my top 5 on why the Brooklyn Bridge is so well known:
The Eighth Wonder of the World
It opened to the public on the 24 May 1883, 13 years after work began. It is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the USA, if not the world. It was also the first bridge constructed using steel wire, which was spun on sight. Spanning the East River and connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan, it was also the longest suspension bridge in the world until 1903, and was designed to last 200 years. The wooden footings on which the granite towers rest have never shifted. It was built to last, and it has. It is one of the most resilient bridges ever built. These are just a few of the reasons it was and is often referred to as ‘the eighth wonder of the world.’
It is very photogenic
The Brooklyn Bridge is very recognisable thanks to its location, size and its granite towers and thick steel cables. It is perhaps one of New York City’s most popular attractions because it is so photogenic. No matter when you see it – day or night, winter, summer, autumn or spring, during a clear, wet or foggy day – the Brooklyn Bridge is beautiful and majestic.
The stories about its creation help commit it to memory.
The Brooklyn Bridge is also so well known because it was no easy feat to build. 20 people died during its construction. The bridge’s designer died after his foot was crushed as he worked on site taking measurements, prior to construction. He later died from complications. Others died during construction – falling from the towering heights of the bridge, or from ‘the bends’.
It has become a muse.
Photographers and artists have used it in their work since its earliest days. Perhaps one of the most famous works is Andy Worhol’s. It’s appeared in literature – Henry Miller’s writings for example as well as having numerous appearances on the silver screen. So much so, it is one of those structures that just says ‘New York’ and people recognise it instantly.
The view from the bridge.
The bridge itself is beautiful but so are the views from it. All day long tourists cross the bridge, either by bus or on foot, taking memorable pictures of the Manhattan skyline from the bridge.
Planning to visit New York City?
If you are planning to visit New York City, you’ll have your heart set on a list of iconic sites you want to see – including the Brooklyn Bridge. One of the best ways to see the city is via the Gray Line New York Hop On Hop off bus tours, or ferry tours. They cover the whole city, all the major sites and are very flexible and cost effective – giving you up to 72 hours of travel around the city.
Check out our 72 hour or 48 hour hop on, hop off tours or our freestyle pass of New York which includes 72 hour access to our tour buses, a free night tour, and admission to 3,5 or 7 of the city’s most popular attractions.
In the meantime, check us out at our website or at our Instagram, Facebook or TripAdvisor pages.
The Gray Line NYC team hope to see you soon!
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