It is fun to cross the Brooklyn Bridge, but for many people, once is enough! Where in New York City can you rent a bike and cross the Brooklyn Bridge, explore a bit of Brooklyn, and get back to Manhattan without adding the extra mileage?
About bicycles
- You can rent a bike at many bike shops in Brooklyn. Or go the DIY route, which is cheaper and easy too. Just rent a Citi bike, ride as you please, and then simply return the bike and hop on the New York ferry. The only risk is that you will not be able to find or return the bikes exactly where or when you want. So if you have a plane or a Broadway show to do, allow plenty of time.
- Find out where you can pick up or drop off Citi bikes near the Brooklyn Bridge.
- A day pass for Citi Bike costs twelve dollars. Just to keep in mind, you can only have access to the bike for thirty minutes at a time. After thirty minutes, you must return the bike to a Citi Bike station. If you travel for more than thirty minutes, it is four dollars for every additional fifteen minutes.
- If you prefer to take a bike tour, contact Bike and Roll, which also offers a Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tour. They also have a bike rental office in lower Manhattan, if you want to rent them a bike for the day.
Pros and cons of biking across the Brooklyn Bridge
Pros:
- It’s fun
- Green ways to get around
- Nice way to see the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO
- NYC Ferry or Water Taxi back to Manhattan is a quick but beautiful ride
Cons:
- Riding a bike on the street in New York requires care and sometimes dexterity
- Brooklyn Bridge bike and pedestrian lanes are often very crowded
- Expensive for a family of four
If you rent a bike or travel with a bike, you should take time to tour Brooklyn Bridge Park. If you want to use a Citi bike, you can find a list of stations here. There are numerous bike paths in the park and a place to take a break after a refreshing scenic cycle. The park is a great place to bike for those who want to exercise, but don’t want the stress of trying to bike the streets of New York City.
The ferry
Taking the ferry to and from Brooklyn is an impressive way to get in or out of the area. Feel the breeze as you take in the sights on a ferry ride. The New York Ferry has a route from South Brooklyn to Pier 11 on Wall Street. A trip on the New York ferry costs $ 2.75, which is the same as a subway ride. If you bring a bike (unless you have a folding bike) there is a $ 1 surcharge. You must select the bike option when purchasing a ticket.
Another option is the New York Water Taxi, where you can purchase an all-day access pass for $ 37 for adults and $ 31 for children, and take this sightseeing cruise to various stops around the city, such as Battery Park, 42nd Street and Dumbo.
Edited by Alison Lowenstein
