Admiring the splendor of the Brooklyn Bridge

By Kimberly Sullivan | November 28, 2023 |

I’ve been across New York’s Brooklyn Bridge so many times, but each time, it strikes me with its beauty.

Years ago, back in college, I took a course with David McCullough and we read his fabulous The Great Bridge that delves into the engineering feat of John and Washington Roebling in building this bridge 1869-1883. I highly recommend reading this account of this bridge that brings the wonder of this engineering feat to life … even for non-engineers like me.

The danger and lives lost to this project puts into perspective what a daring feat this was – at a time I consider to be one of most fascinating in New York City’s history.

The Brooklyn Bridge was the first bridge to cross the East River and, at its construction, the longest suspension bridge in the world.

Today, there are numerous bridges spanning the river, and metro lines whisking us below. On Roosevelt Island, there is even a gondola to transport visitors across the river, but the Brooklyn Bridge remains a wonder even today.

For those who haven’t been, I highly recommend walking across the pedestrian walkway to fully enjoy the experience.

And yes, it’s so iconic in films and television shows and popular culture, that it’s one of those places yu “feel you know” even before having been there.

And when you’re on the Brooklyn side, enjoy all then bars, restaurants, shopping and the wharves-turned-into-public-parks that have developed over recent years – and those amazing views over Manhattan’s skyline.