Looking to explore New York City’s heart from one of its most iconic landmarks? Whether you’re a tourist standing atop the Brooklyn Bridge marveling at the skyline, or a local seeking a direct route, this guide explains exactly how to get to Times Square from Brooklyn Bridge in 2025. This blog post, crafted from real-world city travel experience, includes subway directions, walking routes, travel times, and tips for a smooth journey.
🚇 By Subway – Fastest & Most Efficient
Taking the subway is the quickest and most budget-friendly way to get to Times Square from the Brooklyn Bridge. You can access the subway either at the Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall Station (Manhattan side) or the High Street–Brooklyn Bridge Station (Brooklyn side).
From Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall Station (Manhattan Side)
- Take the 4 or 5 train uptown from Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall
- Get off at Grand Central–42nd Street, then transfer to the S shuttle train or walk west (10 mins) to Times Square
- OR Stay on the 4/5, transfer at 42nd Street–Bryant Park to B/D/F/M (walk 5 minutes)
From High Street–Brooklyn Bridge Station (Brooklyn Side)
- Take the A or C train toward Manhattan
- Exit at 42nd Street–Port Authority/Times Square
🕒 Travel Time: 20–25 minutes
💰 Cost: $2.90 per ride with OMNY or MetroCard
📍 Tip: Use the MTA Trip Planner to check train arrivals
🚶 By Walking – A Scenic Urban Experience
Walking from the Brooklyn Bridge to Times Square is a rewarding urban adventure that passes through some of Manhattan’s most historic and lively neighborhoods.
Suggested Walking Route:
- Cross the Brooklyn Bridge heading west (into Manhattan)
- Walk north via Centre Street → Lafayette Street → Broadway
- Continue through SoHo, Union Square, Flatiron, Herald Square
- Arrive at Times Square (7th Ave & 42nd St)
🕒 Walking Time: 60–75 minutes (3.5–4 miles depending on the path)
👟 Pro Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and consider stopping at cafes or landmarks along the way
🚖 By Taxi or Uber – Direct but Affected by Traffic
For comfort and convenience, you can take a yellow taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft directly from near the Brooklyn Bridge to Times Square.
- From Manhattan side: Pick up on Centre Street or Park Row
- From Brooklyn side: Walk to Tillary Street or Cadman Plaza
💰 Fare: $25–$45 depending on traffic
🕒 Travel Time: 20–45 minutes
🚦 Avoid: Peak traffic hours (8–10 AM, 4–7 PM)
🚲 By Bike – Fast & Flexible
NYC’s Citi Bike program is perfect if you’re up for a fast ride with skyline views.
Suggested Citi Bike Route:
- Pick up at docking stations near Brooklyn Bridge (Tillary St or Park Row)
- Ride north via Centre St → 6th Ave using protected bike lanes
- Dock near Times Square (7th Ave & 42nd Street)
🕒 Ride Time: 25–35 minutes
💰 Citi Bike Day Pass: ~$12.99/day in 2025
🚲 Tip: Use the Citi Bike NYC app for real-time dock availability
🚌 By Bus – Slowest But Scenic
There’s no direct MTA bus route from Brooklyn Bridge to Times Square, but it’s possible with transfers:
- Take M15 or M55 bus north through Lower Manhattan
- Transfer to a crosstown bus (M42 or M50) at Midtown
🕒 Travel Time: 60–75 minutes
💰 Cost: $2.90 per ride with free transfers
🧑🦽 Accessibility Tips
Most subway routes near the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square are ADA accessible, especially High Street Station (A/C) and Times Square–42nd Street Station.
🦽 Access-A-Ride and wheelchair-accessible Uber or Lyft rides are also available. Learn more at MTA Accessibility
🗓️ When to Travel
- Midday (11 AM – 2 PM): Best for walking and least crowded
- Early morning or late night: Best for photography and fewer crowds
- Holiday Tips: On 25th December (Christmas) and 31st December (New Year’s Eve), Times Square experiences restricted access. Plan to arrive several hours in advance.
✅ Final Tips for Visitors
- If you’re new to NYC, riding the subway is part of the experience
- Always check Google Maps or MTA Live before departing
- Download apps like CityMapper, MTA TrainTime, and Citi Bike NYC
🧠 FAQs
How far is Times Square from Brooklyn Bridge?
Times Square is about 3.5 to 4 miles from Brooklyn Bridge. Walking takes about 1 hour, while subway rides take around 20–25 minutes.
What is the best way to get from Brooklyn Bridge to Times Square in 2025?
The fastest and most affordable way in 2025 is the subway—taking the A/C or 4/5 trains from nearby stations directly to Times Square.
Can I walk from Brooklyn Bridge to Times Square?
Yes, walking is absolutely possible and scenic. It takes approximately 60–75 minutes, depending on your pace and stops along the way.
Is the subway from Brooklyn Bridge to Times Square accessible?
Yes, both High Street–Brooklyn Bridge Station and Times Square–42nd Street Station are ADA accessible with elevators and ramps.
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