Summary
Urban jungle notwithstanding, New York sunsets are stunning. Moreover, there’s nothing quite as wonderful as watching the sunset over a body of water. Therefore, taking time to experience a sunset in Brooklyn is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Visit one of these locations for a photo opportunity, a romantic moment, and to embrace an exhilarating experience with Mother Nature right in the heart of the Big Apple. A few of these sites offer activities after sundown, including film series and vibrant nightlife.
Brooklyn Bridge
Time your walk over the Brooklyn Bridge for sunset; it’s absolutely spectacular. There are excellent spots to capture photos on the bridge. However, it can get crowded on summer evenings, so please be mindful of cyclists while posing against the breathtaking sunset backdrop.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thank you to the Brooklyn Bridge Park designers for creating a grassy, breezy, dog-free hilltop that faces the Statue of Liberty. It’s hard to believe you’re in the city here; it’s the perfect viewing spot for a magnificent NYC sunset. In the warmer months, on Mondays, the park hosts Movies With a View, a free waterfront film series.
Bay Ridge
You can see the Statue of Liberty from sections of Shore Road Park. It’s so airy that you’d never know you were in a city of eight million residents. Additionally, stunning views of the Verrazano Bridge can be enjoyed here. This waterfront Shore Road Park is truly a gem and also a popular spot for runners, should you want to partake in a pre-sunset jog.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Perched atop New York Harbor, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers splendid views of the setting sun. After witnessing the sunset, stroll down Montague Street, lined with restaurants and shops. Alternatively, dine at the charming River Deli restaurant, which overlooks a picturesque cobblestone street just blocks from the promenade.
DUMBO
It would be hard to surpass the views of lower Manhattan, New York Harbor, and the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, plus the Statue of Liberty available at Brooklyn Bridge Park and the nearby ferry landing at Fulton Street. After enjoying the sunset, it’s time to explore the area’s vibrant nightlife.
Red Hook
The park behind IKEA or the Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier, also known as Coffey Park, is located right by the water so you can feel the breeze and hear seagulls. Both locations offer wonderful views for sunset lovers. In the summer, on Tuesdays, stay after sundown for Red Hook Flicks, a free film series on the pier.
Sunset Park
It’s called “Sunset Park” for a reason! This park is one of the highest points in Brooklyn. While it’s wise to use caution at night in NYC parks, during summer, when families are around, it’s delightful to watch the sunset over New York Harbor. You can choose to enjoy a fantastic sunset in the park or venture to Industry City for a waterfront view.
A Ferry Boat
Lastly, the most spectacular spot to watch the sunset from Brooklyn is undoubtedly aboard a ferry boat. Although they operate seasonally, at least two ferries are available for your enjoyment. One is the dedicated IKEA ferry that runs from lower Manhattan to IKEA in Red Hook, while the other is the Watertaxi.
Additionally, head to the Brooklyn Museum on Eastern Parkway for a quirky photo opportunity with Brooklyn’s unique, historic Statue of Liberty replica located in the parking lot. The museum stays open late on Thursday nights until 10 PM and usually hosts a variety of entertaining events.
Edited by Alison Lowenstein
