If you are looking for a new way to explore the Big Apple, consider a walk across one of its\u00a0iconic bridges. Traversing\u00a0a span on foot can offer unparalleled views, a sense of adventure and a connection to the city\u2019s history. <\/p>\n
Several bridges in the metro area are open to pedestrians, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge, and most take about a half-hour to cross. <\/p>\n
Over the past decade, Dottie Weremeychik, 72, of Wantagh, has made her way over numerous city bridges \u2014 sometimes with a walking group or as part of a fundraiser \u2014 including the Brooklyn, Manhattan, Pulaski and Kosciuszko bridges. <\/p>\n
\u201cMy all-time favorite is the Brooklyn Bridge,\u201d Weremeychik said. \u201cI don\u2019t remember the number of times I walked over it. When family or friends visit, I usually take them on a tour and it includes walking over the Brooklyn Bridge. I also find the Pulaski Bridge (from Long Island City to Greenpoint) offers great views of Manhattan.\u201d <\/p>\n
The one-mile-long Brooklyn Bridge, built in 1883, was the world\u2019s first steel-wire suspension bridge. It has a wooden, central pedestrian walkway and offers a stunning perspective of the city\u00a0skyline. <\/p>\n
Weremeychik said she typically rides the Long Island Rail Road into the city and then uses the subway to get to her next stop. <\/p>\n
\u201cIf the starting point of my walk is in close proximity to either Penn Station or Grand Central [Terminal], I may walk to the starting point from the railroad,\u201d she said. \u201cI usually research public transportation options prior to leaving for my walks so I am prepared.\u201d <\/p>\n
Tim Cody, 54, of Manorville, led a group of hikers from Long Island\u2019s East End Hiking Group across the Brooklyn Bridge in October. The outing included a ferry ride from Astoria to the city and a luncheon after the excursion. <\/p>\n
\u201cThere were at least 40 or 50 of us, and it was a beautiful day. Very exciting,\u201d he recalled. \u201cIt always surprises me to hear how many people have never walked across the Brooklyn Bridge. If you haven\u2019t done it, it\u2019s definitely worth checking out.\u201d <\/p>\n
STARTING POINTS<\/p>\n
BROOKLYN BRIDGE <\/p>\n
Manhattan side: Near City Hall Park\/Civic Center. <\/p>\n
Brooklyn side: The intersection of Tillary Street and Adams Street. <\/p>\n
MANHATTAN BRIDGE <\/p>\n
Manhattan side: Starts in Chinatown at the intersection of Bowery and Canal Street. <\/p>\n
Brooklyn side: Near Jay Street and Sands Street. <\/p>\n
WILLIAMSBURG BRIDGE <\/p>\n
Manhattan side: Intersection of Clinton and Delancey streets on the Lower East Side. <\/p>\n
Brooklyn side: South Sixth Street and Berry Street.<\/p>\n
Cost\u00a0<\/p>\n
FREE<\/p>\n
Words of Wisdom<\/p>\n
Start early to beat the crowds (especially the Brooklyn Bridge)<\/p>\n
Plot out restaurants and activities in the surrounding area to make a day of it<\/p>\n
Be sure to have your camera\/phone camera charged and ready \u2014\u00a0you\u2019ll want to capture the views<\/p>\n
Wear comfortable walking shoes and have a beverage in tow<\/p>\n
OTHER WALKABLE BRIDGES IN THE METRO AREA<\/p>\n
Kosciuszko Bridge (Carries Brooklyn-Queens Expressway over Newtown Creek)<\/p>\n
Wards Island Bridge<\/a> (connects Manhattan and Wards island)<\/p>\n Roosevelt Island Bridge<\/a> (connects Queens and Roosevelt Island)<\/p>\n George Washington Bridge<\/a> (connects Fort Lee, New Jersey and Manhattan)<\/p>\n