Is a walking tour New York City in Brooklyn Heights difficult?

No, this is an easy, flat walk. The neighborhood is very pedestrian-friendly, though some older sidewalks may be slightly uneven.

What is the best time for a neighborhood stroll in Brooklyn Heights?

Late afternoon is ideal. This allows you to see the historic brownstones in the daylight and reach the Promenade in time for the sunset over the Manhattan skyline.

Can I see the Brooklyn Bridge on this route?

Yes, you will get excellent views of the Brooklyn Bridge from both the starting point at Brooklyn Bridge Park and the final stop at Jane's Carousel.

Are there literary landmarks in Brooklyn Heights?

Absolutely. Brooklyn Heights has been home to Truman Capote, Walt Whitman, Arthur Miller, and W.H. Auden. Stop 2 on this route features Truman Capote's former residence.

Is Brooklyn Heights worth visiting for photography?

It is one of the best spots in NYC for photography. The Promenade offers iconic skyline shots, and the brownstone-lined 'Fruit Streets' provide perfect historic backdrops.

Where can I find food during the walk?

Montague Street is the main commercial hub and offers dozens of cafes, delis, and restaurants. DUMBO, near the end of the walk, also has many high-end dining options.

Is this walking route family-friendly?

Yes, families will especially enjoy Brooklyn Bridge Park and the ride on Jane's Carousel at the end of the route. The streets are quiet and safe for children.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 30 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step back in time to America's first landmarked neighborhood on this self-guided walk through Brooklyn Heights. This historic district serves as a peaceful sanctuary just across the river from the frantic pace of Lower Manhattan. As you wander through leafy streets lined with impeccably preserved Federal-style and Greek Revival brownstones, you will experience the neighborhood that has inspired countless authors and artists. This walking route New York City offers is unique because it combines high-stakes history with some of the most famous photography spots in the world. From the abolitionist movements centered at Plymouth Church to the literary legacy of Willow Street, every corner tells a story of a changing city. You will explore the architectural evolution of the 19th century while enjoying the rhythmic lap of the East River against the piers. The journey culminates with the breathtaking contrast of the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, where the sweeping skyline of the Financial District rises dramatically across the water. Whether you are interested in the intricate ironwork of historic gates or the cinematic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, this neighborhood stroll provides a masterclass in urban beauty and historical preservation. Exploring independently allows you to linger at the viewpoints that matter most to you, making it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This self-guided adventure captures the essence of Brooklyn’s 'Gold Coast,' offering a sophisticated alternative to the crowded tourist hubs of Midtown.

Highlights

Panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline from the Promenade
The historic home where Truman Capote lived and wrote
Plymouth Church, a key site on the Underground Railroad
Iconic 19th-century brownstone architecture
The beautifully restored 1922 Jane's Carousel
Vibrant atmosphere of Montague Street

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Welcome to the starting point of your neighborhood stroll. Brooklyn Bridge Park is a world-class example of urban revitalization, turning former industrial piers into 85 acres of lush parkland. As you stand here, look up at the Gothic arches of the Brooklyn Bridge, completed in 1883. At the time, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world and was often called the 'eighth wonder of the world.' This area was once a bustling ferry terminal before the bridge rendered the boats obsolete. Today, it serves as a front-row seat to the Manhattan skyline. Take a moment to appreciate how the park’s design incorporates native plants and sustainable materials, creating a green buffer between the East River and the historic heights above.

2

70 Willow St

Walk past the elegant facades of Willow Street to arrive at number 70, a stunning yellow Greek Revival house. This was the home of legendary author Truman Capote for nearly a decade. While living here in the basement apartment, Capote wrote some of his most famous works, including 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' and 'In Cold Blood.' He famously boasted about his 'palazzo' in Brooklyn, helping to cement the neighborhood's reputation as a literary haven. The house itself, built in 1839, features beautiful silver-gray shutters and a classic portico. It remains a private residence, so please be respectful as you admire the architecture that inspired one of America's greatest writers during the mid-20th century.

3

Plymouth Church

This simple brick building holds a monumental place in American history. Known as the 'Grand Central Station' of the Underground Railroad, Plymouth Church was a key site for the abolitionist movement. Its first minister, Henry Ward Beecher, was a charismatic orator who held 'mock slave auctions' here to raise money to buy the freedom of enslaved people. Famous figures like Abraham Lincoln and Mark Twain once walked through these doors. The church's design is intentionally modest, reflecting the Puritan values of its founders. Behind the facade lies a history of courage and social change that shaped the nation. It stands today as a National Historic Landmark, continuing its legacy of social justice in the heart of Brooklyn.

4

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Welcome to what many consider the most beautiful walkway in New York City. The Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers an unobstructed, 180-degree view of the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Interestingly, this scenic overlook was born out of a compromise. In the 1940s, urban planner Robert Moses wanted to build the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway through the heart of the neighborhood. The local community fought back, and the result was this two-level cantilevered structure that buried the highway beneath the park. It is a triumph of community activism and urban design, providing a peaceful escape from the traffic noise while offering views that have been featured in countless films, from 'Annie Hall' to 'Moonstruck.'

5

Montague Street

As you turn away from the water, you enter Montague Street, the commercial spine of Brooklyn Heights. This street has served the neighborhood since the mid-1800s and retains a charming, small-town feel despite being in the middle of a global metropolis. Look at the variety of architectural styles, from the red-brick banks to the historic storefronts. This street was a favorite haunt of Walt Whitman and later, Bob Dylan, who famously wrote 'Tangled Up in Blue' while wandering these blocks. Today, it is a great spot to see the local 'Heights' lifestyle in action. It is the perfect place to grab a coffee or browse a local shop as you transition from the residential quiet to the more industrial vibes of the waterfront.

6

Jane's Carousel

We end our walking route at Jane's Carousel, a jewel of the Brooklyn waterfront. This classic 1922 wood carousel was originally located in Ohio but was meticulously restored over 20 years by local artist Jane Walentas. It features 48 exquisitely carved horses and two grand chariots. The carousel is housed in a stunning transparent acrylic pavilion designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, allowing it to glow like a lantern at night. It bridges the gap between the historic charm of the Heights and the modern energy of DUMBO. As the horses spin, you can see the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge framing the scene, making it a perfect final stop for photography and reflection on your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

A typical self-guided walk takes between 60 and 90 minutes. This allows for plenty of time to take photos on the Promenade and admire the architecture on Willow Street.