Self-Guided Audio Tour

East River Ferry: From the Upper East Side to Wall Street, Passing Four Bridges

Self-guided audio tour · New York

Duration

1h 7min

Distance

40.8 km

Stops

Accessibility

Accessible

Best time

Morning, Afternoon, Sunset

Languages

English, Español, Italiano, Português

Listen in the Tuggi app View the map

New York's most unique route: the NYC Ferry departs from the East 90th Street (Upper East Side) pier and heads down the East River, passing under four of the city's most iconic bridges. For just $2.75 (it was $4 a few years ago), you get one of New York's most cinematic experiences: the East River with the Manhattan skyline on one side, Brooklyn and Queens on the other, and the grand bridges arching overhead. After Pier 11, walk over to DUMBO for the city's most famous photo op and then stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge. This is a 100% ferry and walking route, no cars involved.

What you'll see and hear

The stops on this route, in order — with audio previews where available.

Asphalt Green Aquacenter
Asphalt Green Aquacenter. This amazing place started in 1984. It was founded by Dr. George E. Murphy and his wife Annette. They wanted to create a great sports and fitness center for everyone. The Aquacenter itself opened in 1993. It features an Olympic-size swimming pool. This pool is one of Manhattan's only indoor Olympic-sized pools. It has served millions of people over the years. It's pretty cool that this center is located in a building that used to be an asphalt plant!
Audio preview
Queensboro Bridge
Queensboro Bridge. Construction on this amazing bridge began in 1901. It officially opened to traffic in June 1909. It was the first bridge to connect Queens with Manhattan. Designed by engineer Gustav Lindenthal and architect Henry Hornbostel, it was the longest cantilever bridge in the United States when it opened. A worker once planned to blow up the bridge with dynamite before it opened, but he changed his mind.
Audio preview
Joseph Slifka Park
Joseph Slifka Park is a place dedicated to fostering Jewish life and exploration at Yale University. It was established in 1995, bringing together Hillel, the Kosher Kitchen, and Young Israel House under one roof. The center was envisioned by Rabbi James Ponet and Professor Donald J. Cohen, with significant philanthropic support from individuals like Alan Slifka and Sylvia Slifka. The Joseph Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale is designed as a hub for students to engage with Jewish traditions, values, and leadership opportunities. It offers a wide range of programs, from religious services to cultural and social events, aiming to develop future Jewish leaders. A unique aspect is its role as a "laboratory of Jewish exploration," encouraging students to discover and shape their own Jewish future.
Audio preview
Northside Community Garden
Lounge Screw Conveyor
The Screw Conveyor Corporation, located in New York, has a rich history dating back to 1932. It was founded by Clarence F. Abraham, and the company is now led by his descendants. This family-owned business has been a key player in the bulk material handling industry for decades. A fascinating aspect of screw conveyors is their ancient origin; the basic concept was developed by Archimedes in ancient Greece around 250 B.C. to move water.
Audio preview
Brooklyn Bridge Viewpoint
Brooklyn Flea
Brooklyn Flea is a vibrant marketplace that began in April 2008. It was founded by Jonathan Butler, who created Brownstoner Magazine, and Eric Demby, who previously worked for a Brooklyn Borough President. This popular spot features hundreds of vendors offering everything from vintage clothing and antique furniture to handmade crafts and delicious food. It's a place where local artisans and designers showcase their unique creations. A fascinating detail is that the name "Brooklyn" itself has roots in a Dutch town established in 1646, connecting the market to the area's rich history.
Audio preview
Turning Stone
Turning Stone Resort Casino opened its doors on July 20, 1993. It is owned and operated by the Oneida Indian Nation of New York. The resort was built to create economic opportunities for the Oneida community. It has since grown into a major tourist destination. In 2023, the parent company's name changed from Oneida Nation Enterprises to Turning Stone Enterprises. This was to recognize the flagship brand's pivotal role. The resort has received numerous awards for its dining and entertainment. It was the first land-based casino in New York State. This changed when Seneca Niagara Casino opened in 2002. The Oneida Nation was the first American Indian Nation to sponsor a float in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Audio preview
Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge. Construction on this iconic landmark began in 1870 and it officially opened on May 24, 1883. It was designed by John Augustus Roebling, and after his death, his son Washington Roebling took over, with his wife Emily Roebling playing a crucial role in its completion. This engineering marvel was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened. A surprising fact is that Emily Roebling was the first person to cross the completed bridge, and she carried a rooster with her as a symbol of victory.
Audio preview
Fraunces Tavern