5 Things to Do in Dumbo, Brooklyn

The Dumbo neighborhood in Brooklyn is a vibrant, albeit crowded and touristy, spot to take in views of Manhattan, explore the waterfront, and enjoy some delicious food.

While weekends can be hectic, it’s a worthwhile spot to see on your trip to New York City.

Here are 5 of the best things to do in Dumbo:

1. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
2. Timeout Market
3. Evil Twin Brewing
4. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
5. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Let’s look at each one below. 👇

Note: This article was written by a real human who lives in NYC, not artificial intelligence. 🥸

5 Fun Things to Do in Dumbo Brooklyn Podcast Episode

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Brief Overview of Dumbo Brooklyn

Dumbo is a phenomenal neighborhood for getting a taste of Brooklyn, a full view of Manhattan’s downtown skyline, and a plethora of great activities, restaurants, and bars.

Where is Dumbo?

Dumbo encompasses two main sections: one between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, which connect Brooklyn to Manhattan across the East River, and another extending eastward from the Manhattan Bridge to the Vinegar Hill area.

Why Is It Called Dumbo?

Dumbo stands for “Down under Manhattan Bridge overpass,” and the term ‘Dumbo’ was said to be coined in the ’90s by locals to make the neighborhood sound less desirable to developers.

And now, 5 fun things to do in Dumbo. 👇

1- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, and if you walk across from the Manhattan side, you’ll end up in Dumbo!

The bridge is often crowded but worth it. Try to go at off-times, and avoid weekends if you can.

Beware of the absurd number of street vendors and tourist traps along the bridge, but if you push through the first quarter mile or so, you’ll get past them.

It’s 1.3 miles to walk across the whole bridge, but it’s worth doing to experience all the best views. And, of course, so you end up in Dumbo!

The entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge from the Manhattan side is near here, and from the Brooklyn side is near here.

2- Timeout Market

Once you’re in Dumbo, and especially if you walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll be hungry.

One of our favorite spots, particularly with a group, is the Timeout Market.

Spread across 24,000 square feet, the curated dining destination packs multiple eateries, three bars, a fifth-floor rooftop, and art installations into one space that encompasses the best food, drinks, and culture that New York has to offer.

We love going to markets and food hall spots in New York because everyone in your group can choose from various food options. Timeout Market focuses on local New York City restaurants packed into a bustling food hall.

Our recommendations are Jacob’s Pickles, Pat LaFrieda, or Okiboru. Once you have your food, head to either the rooftop or outdoor seating to enjoy your meal with a beautiful view!

Check out Timeout Market in Dumbo here.

3- Evil Twin Brewing

Evil Twin Brewing is a local New York brewery serving delicious and unique beers.

Their flagship brewery is in Ridgewood in Brooklyn, but their Dumbo location boasts almost 20 local beers on tap.

The interior of Evil Twin Brewing in Dumbo is spacious, clean, and has plenty of space for seating, both indoor and outdoor.

We can’t pick a favorite, but we have loved all their sour beer options. It all comes down to your preference!

But whatever type of beer you enjoy, Evil Twin has it!

Check out Evil Twin Brewing in Dumbo here.

This Episode’s You’ll Have to Check It Out Segment – Bargemusic

My sister recommended this spot to us on her recent visit, and we’re so glad she did!

We were able to attend Bargemusic on a beautiful summer afternoon and had a phenomenal experience! While the outside of the venue is nothing spectacular, the quality of music is world-renowned.

Since 1977, Bargemusic has presented chamber music in an unlikely and startlingly beautiful venue—a floating barge at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge. Established and emerging musicians perform at Bargemusic on a small stage with the dramatic backdrop of the East River and lower Manhattan skyline.

Mark Peskanov, Bargemusic’s Artistic Director, has performed for decades with the likes of Yo-Yo Ma, Isaac Stern, and many other world-famous artists.

Learn more about Bargemusic here!

4- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

If someone says “pizza” and “Dumbo,” odds are they’re gonna talk about Grimaldi’s Pizzeria!

Grimaldi’s is a multi-level Brooklyn staple that has been serving delicious pies for over 100 years.

On weekends and evenings, the wait can be long. Our recommendation is to head here first thing and then explore other parts of Dumbo if there’s a long wait to be seated. They can put you on a list and text you when you can be seated.

You can’t choose wrong, but we loved the pepperoni with hot honey and the margherita!

Check out Grimaldi’s Pizzeria here.

5- Brooklyn Bridge Park – Views, Free Events, Near the Water

Near the water in Dumbo is the Brooklyn Bridge Park. The park boasts phenomenal views of downtown Manhattan!

It’s a great spot to take in the ambiance of New York City, be near the water, read a book, or walk with a friend.

The Brooklyn Bridge Park also has a full schedule of free activities and events.

If you go to brooklynbridgepark.org, there’s a full calendar of free activities, including workout classes, live music, movie showings, and other fun activities.

Check out Brooklyn Bridge Park here.

Best Things to Do in Dumbo Brooklyn Recap

Exploring Dumbo in Brooklyn should be on your list of things to do on a trip to New York City!

It is easily accessible via the subway, but the best way to experience Dumbo is to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan.

As a recap, here are 5 fun spots in Dumbo:

1. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
2. Timeout Market
3. Evil Twin Brewing
4. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
5. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Click here to see each of these spots on a handy Google Maps list – we’ll add more spots to the list periodically.

What spot do you most want to see in Dumbo? Let us know in the comments!