Why you should experience Empire Fulton Ferry in Brooklyn, NY.
Empire Fulton Ferry is a historic waterfront destination where DUMBO's industrial heritage, East River shoreline, and enduring connection to New York Harbor preserve the birthplace of Brooklyn's most important ferry crossing.
Set along Water Street near Old Fulton Street and just steps from Jane's Carousel, this beautifully restored waterfront landscape anchors the western edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park, where cobblestone streets, nineteenth century warehouses, and sweeping skyline views celebrate the neighborhood's remarkable transformation from a bustling commercial port into one of New York City's premier public spaces. The site marks the original Brooklyn landing of the Fulton Ferry, the crossing that connected Brooklyn and Manhattan for nearly three centuries before the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge. Today, lush lawns, historic structures, riverfront promenades, and unforgettable views create one of the city's most iconic places to experience Brooklyn's waterfront.
What you should know about Empire Fulton Ferry.
Empire Fulton Ferry is best known for preserving the historic Brooklyn landing of the Fulton Ferry, which began operating in 1814 under Robert Fulton and remained the primary connection between Brooklyn and Manhattan until the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883, carrying millions of passengers and helping transform Brooklyn from a small village into one of America's largest cities.
The ferry's extraordinary success fueled residential growth, commercial expansion, and industrial development along the East River, establishing the waterfront as the economic heart of nineteenth century Brooklyn. Although ferry operations declined after the bridge opened, the surrounding waterfront retained its historic significance and was eventually incorporated into Brooklyn Bridge Park, where careful preservation efforts protected the neighborhood's maritime legacy while creating vibrant public spaces for future generations. Today, Empire Fulton Ferry remains one of the most historically important places to experience the story of Brooklyn's rise as a global city.
How to fold Empire Fulton Ferry into your trip.
Empire Fulton Ferry fits naturally into a morning or late afternoon exploring Brooklyn Bridge Park before discovering DUMBO's celebrated waterfront and historic streets.
Begin by strolling through Brooklyn Bridge Park, where expansive lawns, waterfront promenades, and panoramic skyline views establish the remarkable setting before visiting Jane's Carousel, whose beautifully restored 1922 carousel offers one of Brooklyn's most beloved waterfront experiences. Afterward, continue toward the Brooklyn Bridge, where a walk across one of the world's most recognizable engineering achievements provides a memorable conclusion to the day. Between destinations, linger along DUMBO's cobblestone streets to discover historic warehouses, public art, neighborhood cafés, and East River overlooks that reveal why Empire Fulton Ferry remains one of Brooklyn's defining waterfront experiences.
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