When you think of New York City’s skyline, your mind probably goes straight to Manhattan. But over the last two decades, Brooklyn has quietly and confidently grown upward, adding high-rises to its famously brownstone-dominated streets.
Yet here’s the thing: while Brooklyn now boasts several buildings over 500 feet tall, you can’t exactly stroll into one and ride an elevator to a sky-high observation deck.
So if you’re wondering which of Brooklyn’s tallest towers you can actually visit at the top—well, the answer is: none of them (at least not the tallest ones).
But don’t let that stop you. Brooklyn still delivers when it comes to breathtaking skyline views. You just have to know where to look.
Tallest Buildings in Brooklyn (And Why You Can’t Go to the Top)
Brooklyn’s growth has shifted skyward, especially in neighborhoods like Downtown Brooklyn and Fort Greene. Below is a quick look at the five tallest buildings in the borough as of now.
| Building Name | Height | Location | Public Access to Top |
| Brooklyn Tower | 1,066 ft (325 m) | 9 DeKalb Ave, Downtown Brooklyn | No |
| 33 Schermerhorn St | 627 ft (191 m) | Downtown Brooklyn | No |
| The Brooklyner | 514 ft (157 m) | 346 Adelphi St, Fort Greene | No |
| Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower | 512 ft (156 m) | 1 Hanson Pl, Fort Greene | No |
| 340 Flatbush Ave Extension | 495 ft (151 m) | Prospect Heights | No |
Why You Can’t Go Up
Let’s be honest—Brooklyn’s towers weren’t designed with tourists in mind. Most are private residential buildings or mixed-use developments with amenities limited to those who live there.
The Brooklyn Tower, for instance, has an 85th-floor lounge and a 66th-floor pool—but they’re for residents only.
Even the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower, which dates back to 1929 and once housed medical offices, doesn’t offer public access to its iconic clocktower views.
As gorgeous as these buildings are from the street, they’re simply not built for public lookout points like Manhattan’s Empire State or Top of the Rock.
But don’t worry. Brooklyn knows how to share its views—just in a different way.
Where to Actually Go for the Best Views in Brooklyn
Instead of climbing towers, Brooklyn invites you to its parks, promenades, and rooftops for some of the most photogenic—and free—sightlines in the city.
1. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Location: East River waterfront, from Atlantic Ave to Jay Street
Views of: Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty
This 85-acre waterfront park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. It was once just a stretch of industrial wasteland, but now it’s one of the most scenic spots in the entire city.
Top Viewing Spots
- Pier 1: Lawns, benches, and a wide-angle view of downtown Manhattan.
- Pier 6: A more relaxed vibe, with food stalls, playgrounds, and harbor views.
- Jane’s Carousel: A glass-encased antique carousel—ideal for that whimsical photo backdrop.
Why go: Whether you’re picnicking, kayaking, or watching the sunset, there’s always something to take in. It’s a full experience, not just a view.
How to get there: A/C to High Street or 2/3 to Clark Street. Best visited at golden hour.
2. DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)
Location: Between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges
Views of: Manhattan skyline, East River, both bridges
DUMBO is where historic charm meets industrial chic. It’s known for cobblestone streets, warehouse conversions, and that postcard shot of the Manhattan Bridge framed by old brick buildings on Washington Street.
Must-See Spots:
- Washington Street & Water Street: The most Instagrammed spot in Brooklyn.
- Main Street Promenade: Quiet benches and head-on views of both bridges.
- TimeOut Market Rooftop: Grab a bite and enjoy panoramic views from the food hall’s top level at 55 Water Street.
Why go: The mix of gritty-meets-glossy architecture and cinematic views makes it irresistible for photographers, foodies, and romantics.
Insider tip: Come early in the morning for that dreamy light—and to beat the crowds.
3. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Location: Brooklyn Heights, just above the BQE
Views of: Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge
A classic. If you’re looking for elegance, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade has it in spades. The walkway sits above the expressway but feels a world away—lined with cherry blossoms in spring and flanked by million-dollar brownstones.
Why go: It’s timeless. Quiet. Beautiful. A popular wedding photo spot for a reason.
How to get there: 2/3 to Clark Street or R to Court Street.
Pro tip: If you’re staying nearby, a morning walk here is one of the most peaceful things you can do in New York.
4. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge Rooftop
Location: 60 Furman Street
Views of: Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline, East River
If you’re in the mood for something swanky, the rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge offers luxury with a sustainable twist. Beehives, reclaimed wood, and a saltwater plunge pool all play a part in the eco-conscious design.
Access details: You’ll need to be a guest or buy a drink or meal at the bar to gain rooftop access. Want an even higher perspective? A helicopter charter can whisk you above the skyline for panoramic shots no rooftop can match.
Why go: It’s one of the few elevated spots in Brooklyn open to the public—sort of. It’s more of a stylish lounge than an open-air observation deck, but the view is no less jaw-dropping.
Best time to go: Sunset. Hands down.
Other Viewpoints Worth a Stop
Brooklyn doesn’t stop at the obvious. There are lesser-known spots that reward you with equally impressive views—sometimes without the crowds.
Empire Fulton Ferry State Park
- Nestled between the bridges.
- Great for relaxed waterfront lounging and quiet reflection.
Plymouth Church Rooftop (When Open for Events)
- Occasionally hosts public events.
- Unique angle on the skyline and bridges from above.
Why Brooklyn’s Views Feel Different (In a Good Way)
You won’t find ticket booths or 80-story elevators here. Brooklyn’s views feel more… grounded. You’re on a bench. On the grass. At a bar with a cold drink. It’s skyline-gazing without the lines or price tags.
A Few Things Worth Knowing
- No Observation Decks? It’s not an oversight. Brooklyn’s development has focused more on residential and mixed-use buildings, not tourism-driven skyscrapers.
- Crowds? You’ll find people at all the popular spots, but it never feels like Times Square. There’s room to breathe.
- Cost? Most of Brooklyn’s best views are totally free—unlike Manhattan’s observatories, which can run up to $75 per ticket.
- Events? Brooklyn Bridge Park and DUMBO host film nights, art festivals, and concerts during the warmer months. You can pair your view with live music or a street market if you time it right.
When to Go for the Best Experience
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Golden Hour: Whether it’s sunrise over the East River or sunset behind Manhattan, this is prime time for jaw-dropping photos.
Spring & Fall: Comfortable weather, blooming trees (especially along the Promenade), and thinner crowds.
Clear Skies: On a crisp, blue-sky day, you can see as far as New Jersey or even the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in the distance.
Final Thoughts
Brooklyn doesn’t play the same game as Manhattan when it comes to height. But that’s the beauty of it.
You don’t need to go 80 stories up to take in a city. In Brooklyn, the views come to you—in parks, along promenades, or from the rooftop of a hotel with a cocktail in hand.
There may not be an official “top” you can visit in Brooklyn’s tallest buildings, but honestly? The borough’s best vantage points are already open to everyone.
So next time you’re craving that skyline shot, skip the elevator. Head for the river. The view’s better from here.
