If you’re starting your New York City adventure from DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) in Brooklyn and planning to visit Times Square, you’re in for an iconic journey from cobblestone streets and river views to the electric energy of Midtown Manhattan. This 2025 NYC travel guide walks you through all the best options to get from DUMBO to Times Square, including subway, ferry, rideshare, walking, and biking.
🚇 By Subway – Fastest Way to Reach Times Square from DUMBO
The New York City Subway remains the fastest and most efficient way to travel between DUMBO and Times Square.
Step-by-Step Directions (2025):
- Start at York Street Station (F train) in DUMBO
- Take the Uptown F train towards Manhattan
- Transfer at 34th Street–Herald Square Station to walk north (5–6 mins) to Times Square–42nd Street
Alternatively:
- Walk 10 minutes to High Street–Brooklyn Bridge Station (A/C lines)
- Take the A or C train uptown directly to 42nd Street–Port Authority, which connects with Times Square
🕒 Travel Time: 18–25 minutes
💰 Fare: $2.90 via OMNY or MetroCard
📱 Tip: Use the MTA Trip Planner for real-time schedules
🚶 By Walking – Best for Scenic Explorers
Walking from DUMBO to Times Square is a visual treat and a solid city stroll if you’re up for it.
Suggested Scenic Route (2025):
- Cross the Manhattan Bridge pedestrian path
- Continue via Canal Street → Broadway → 7th Avenue
- Arrive at Times Square (42nd Street)
🕒 Walking Time: 70–90 minutes (approx. 4 miles)
👟 Tip: Stop at landmarks like SoHo, Union Square, or Bryant Park for breaks
🚖 By Taxi or Uber – Comfortable, but May Be Slower
For comfort or convenience, especially with luggage, a yellow cab or rideshare is an easy option.
- Pick-up: Anywhere near Washington Street, York Street, or Front Street in DUMBO
- Drop-off: 7th Avenue & West 42nd Street (Times Square)
🕒 Travel Time: 30–60 minutes (traffic dependent)
💰 Fare: $30–$50 during regular hours
🚦 Avoid travel between 8–10 AM & 4–7 PM to skip rush hour congestion
🚲 By Citi Bike – Fast & Flexible for Cyclists
For a more active experience, you can rent a Citi Bike in DUMBO and bike your way to Times Square using protected bike lanes.
Route Overview (2025):
- Pick up a bike at Dock Station near Pearl St or Washington St
- Ride over the Manhattan Bridge bike path
- Continue on Chrystie St → 2nd Ave → 42nd St (bike lanes available)
- Dock at Times Square stations (7th Ave)
🕒 Ride Time: 30–40 minutes
💰 Cost: $4.79 per 30 minutes or $12.99/day
🚲 App: Use Citi Bike NYC for live bike/dock availability
🛥️ By NYC Ferry + Subway – Scenic but Requires Transfer
You can take the NYC East River Ferry for a scenic ride followed by a quick subway trip.
Route Details (2025):
- Board the East River Ferry from DUMBO/Fulton Ferry Terminal
- Get off at Wall Street–Pier 11
- Walk to Fulton Street Station
- Take the 2 or 3 subway train uptown to Times Square–42nd Street
🕒 Travel Time: 40–50 minutes
💰 Ferry Cost: $4.00 + subway fare $2.90
🌊 Tip: Ideal during mild weather or sunset hours
🧑🦽 Accessibility Notes
- High Street Station (A/C) and Times Square–42nd Street Station are ADA accessible
- Use elevators and ramps for a smoother trip
- MTA Accessibility Portal provides elevator updates and trip planning tools
🗓️ Travel Tips for Holiday Seasons
If you’re visiting on December 25 (Christmas) or December 31 (New Year’s Eve), expect street closures, massive crowds, and NYPD security checks around Times Square. Plan to arrive several hours early, especially on New Year’s Eve, when streets close by mid-afternoon.
✅ Best Travel Option for First-Time Visitors
Subway is the best all-around choice. It’s fast, affordable, and safe, and gives you a glimpse into NYC’s fast-paced urban culture. If you’re carrying gear or want privacy, Uber or taxi works well too.
🧠 FAQs
How far is Times Square from DUMBO?
The distance between Times Square and DUMBO is approximately 4 miles (6.4 km), and it takes about 20–25 minutes by subway.
What’s the best way to get from DUMBO to Times Square in 2025?
The best way is via the subway: take the F, A, or C lines directly from DUMBO to Times Square–42nd Street in under 25 minutes.
Can you walk from DUMBO to Times Square?
Yes, you can walk from DUMBO to Times Square. It takes around 75–90 minutes and is a scenic route passing through key NYC neighborhoods.
Are there direct trains from DUMBO to Times Square?
Yes, the A/C trains from High Street Station and F train from York Street offer direct or one-transfer subway options to Times Square.
Is DUMBO in Manhattan or Brooklyn?
DUMBO is located in Brooklyn, just across the East River from Manhattan, underneath the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges.
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