Empire Fulton Ferry

A Glimpse of Waterfront Paradise

Sandwiched between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, Empire Fulton Ferry offers what might be one of the most jaw-dropping urban park experiences in New York. This section of Brooklyn Bridge Park puts you front-row to the Lower Manhattan skyline in all its architectural glory, and it has become one of the most photographed views in the entire city.

The park's generous lawns invite you to spread out a blanket, unpack a sandwich, and simply exist in the moment. When the weather's nice, these green spaces fill with New Yorkers and visitors alike, all soaking up sunshine with the iconic skyline as their backdrop. There's something wonderfully calming about lounging here, the city's hustle feeling miles away despite being right across the water.

The 48 carved wooden horses of Jane's Carousel inside Jean Nouvel's glass pavilion

Photo: PunkToad (CC BY 2.0)

Must-See Park Treasures

You can't miss the charming Jane's Carousel, a beautifully restored 1922 wooden merry-go-round that now spins inside a striking glass pavilion designed by architect Jean Nouvel. The carousel operates year-round, and there's something magical about taking a ride while watching the river flow by through the transparent walls.

If you're feeling more active, follow the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway that cuts through the park. Whether walking, jogging, or cycling, this path keeps you close to the shoreline where you can watch ferries and boats crisscross the East River. The waterfront promenade makes for an easy stroll with continuous views that somehow never get old, no matter how many times you visit.

Vehicles and pedestrians cross the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset

Photo: Shiva Shenoy (CC BY 2.0)

A Photographer's Dream

Bring your camera - seriously. Empire Fulton Ferry ranks among Brooklyn's top photography spots, especially for capturing that perfect shot of the Brooklyn Bridge framed against Manhattan's skyscrapers. The light here does amazing things at sunset, and after dark, the scene transforms as the bridges and buildings illuminate the night.

You'll often spot professional photographers with tripods, tourists with selfie sticks, and yes, plenty of surprise proposals happening against this cinematic backdrop. The vista includes not just both bridges but also signature buildings like the sleek One World Trade Center rising above the southern tip of Manhattan.

The Brooklyn Bridge spans the East River with Manhattan's skyline in the background

Photo: Charles (CC BY 2.0)

Community Vibes and Everyday Life

All year long, the park comes alive with events that bring neighbors together - outdoor movies projected with the skyline as a backdrop, concerts that feel intimate despite the grand setting, and rotating art installations that complement the natural beauty.

Dog walkers, families with strollers, and solo visitors all find their place here. The park maintains a clean, well-kept feel that makes spending time outdoors in the city a true pleasure rather than a compromise. Whether you're a local looking for a lunch break escape or a visitor wanting to experience Brooklyn at its best, Empire Fulton Ferry offers a wonderful combination of breathtaking views and genuine relaxation space.