Empire Fulton Ferry State Park
Nestled directly between the iconic Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges on the East River waterfront, Empire Fulton Ferry State Park offers 4.5 acres of arguably the most spectacular views of the Lower Manhattan skyline available anywhere in New York City.
Though officially incorporated into the broader, world-class Brooklyn Bridge Park in 2010, this specific section retains its rich, independent history as a crucial post-colonial transportation hub and 19th-century shipping center.
A Historic River Crossing
Long before it was a picturesque lawn for tourists and locals to picnic on, the land comprising Empire Fulton Ferry was a bustling center of commerce.
The very first ferry service at this location opened in 1642. By 1776, it played a vital role in the American Revolution, serving as the escape route for George Washington’s Continental Army following the devastating Battle of Long Island. In 1814, Robert Fulton launched his steam-powered ferry service here, effectively turning Brooklyn into America’s first “commuter suburb.”
As ferry traffic died down following the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883, the area pivoted strictly to industrial shipping, a legacy preserved today by the park’s most prominent architectural features.
Key Features and Attractions
Despite passing into the jurisdiction of Brooklyn Bridge Park, the footprint of Empire Fulton Ferry remains a distinct, heavily visited destination.
| Attraction | Details & Visitor Tips |
|---|---|
| Empire Stores & Tobacco Warehouse | Two massive, Civil War-era brick warehouses dominate the park. The Empire Stores have been masterfully renovated into a modern complex with a food market and rooftop access, while the roofless Tobacco Warehouse now houses the acclaimed St. Ann’s Warehouse theater. |
| Jane’s Carousel | Housed in a stunning, Jean Nouvel-designed acrylic pavilion right on the water’s edge, this exquisitely restored 1922 carousel is the park’s crown jewel. |
| The Max Family Garden | Tucked next to St. Ann’s Warehouse, this triangular, walled garden offers quiet paths and shaded seating, providing a brief respite from the crowds entirely constructed from salvaged brick. |
| Picnic Lawns & Boardwalks | The sweeping lawns offer unobstructed sunset views of the Manhattan skyline, making this one of the most photographed locations in New York City. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the park free to enter?
Yes, access to the park, the lawns, and the boardwalks is completely free to the public. However, rides on Jane’s Carousel require a small ticket fee (typically $3).
What are the closest subway stations?
The park is highly accessible via public transit. The closest stations are York St (F train) and High St (A and C trains), both requiring a short, scenic walk down the hill toward the water.
Are dogs allowed on the lawns?
Dogs are generally not allowed on the main lawns of Empire Fulton Ferry to preserve the grass for picnicking, but they are welcome on leash along the paved paths and the park’s promenade areas.
Can you grill in the park?
No, grilling and open flames are strictly prohibited within the Empire Fulton Ferry section of the park. However, designated grilling areas exist further south in other sections of Brooklyn Bridge Park.
