DUMBO | Brooklyn

DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York City, located between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. Once a gritty industrial zone, DUMBO has been transformed into one of the most desirable and unique neighborhoods in New York, known for its cobblestone streets, artist lofts, tech start-ups, cultural institutions, and striking waterfront views of Manhattan.

1. Geographical Location

DUMBO lies in the northwestern part of Brooklyn and is bordered by:

North: East River

East: Vinegar Hill

South: Brooklyn Heights

West: Manhattan Bridge and East River waterfront

The neighborhood is positioned to give direct access to both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, hence the name "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass." The proximity to Manhattan, reachable in minutes by subway or on foot across the bridge, makes it strategically attractive.

2. Historical Background

19th Century Roots: Originally called Fulton Landing, DUMBO was a major ferry stop and industrial hub, filled with warehouses, factories, and dockyards. The area developed as a manufacturing center with businesses in coffee, paper, and cardboard.

Mid-20th Century Decline: Like many American industrial zones, DUMBO declined after World War II as manufacturing jobs moved elsewhere. The neighborhood became largely abandoned and derelict.

1980s–1990s Revitalization: The area was "discovered" by artists in the 1970s and 1980s who were drawn to the large, affordable loft spaces. In the 1980s, real estate developer David Walentas and his company, Two Trees Management, began acquiring property with a vision to transform DUMBO into a thriving community of art, tech, and business.

2000s to Present: Today, DUMBO is a model of urban renewal—expensive, lively, and creative. It’s a blend of preserved historic architecture and sleek modern construction.

3. Architecture and Aesthetic

Industrial Character: The neighborhood retains its industrial heritage with Belgian block (cobblestone) streets, brick warehouses, and iron railroad tracks embedded in the pavement.

Iconic Views: The view of the Manhattan Bridge framed by brick buildings on Washington Street is one of NYC’s most photographed scenes.

Loft Conversions: Former factories have been transformed into luxury lofts, art galleries, and tech offices.

Modern Development: Recent buildings, like Olympia Dumbo, are high-end condos offering luxury living with panoramic city views.

4. Culture and Arts

Artistic Legacy: DUMBO is a historic haven for artists, and this legacy remains alive with:

Art galleries

Performance venues (like St. Ann’s Warehouse, known for cutting-edge theater)

DUMBO Arts Festival (formerly held annually, bringing large-scale installations and performances)

Creative Economy: The neighborhood supports graphic designers, digital media firms, and filmmakers.

5. Tech and Business Hub

Brooklyn Tech Triangle: DUMBO is a key part of this tech corridor (with Downtown Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Navy Yard), housing over 500 companies in fields like software development, digital marketing, architecture, and design.

Notable Companies:

Etsy: Headquartered in DUMBO.

West Elm: Corporate offices located here.

Numerous startups, co-working spaces, and creative agencies.

6. Parks and Public Spaces

Brooklyn Bridge Park: A stunning 85-acre park runs along the East River waterfront offering:

Picnic lawns and gardens

Soccer fields, basketball courts

Piers with playgrounds and kayak launches

Events, movie nights, food festivals

Empire Fulton Ferry Park: A section of the larger Brooklyn Bridge Park known for hosting Jane’s Carousel, a restored 1922 carousel enclosed in a modern glass pavilion designed by Jean Nouvel.

7. Dining and Shopping

DUMBO offers a mix of casual bites and upscale restaurants:

Juliana’s Pizza: One of NYC’s best pizzerias, opened by the legendary Patsy Grimaldi.

Time Out Market: A food hall with curated local eateries and rooftop views.

Jacques Torres Chocolate: Famous chocolate shop started by a master pastry chef.

One Girl Cookies and Almondine Bakery for artisan pastries and coffee.

Chic boutiques and independent bookstores cater to the affluent local crowd.

8. Real Estate

Luxury Living: DUMBO has some of the most expensive real estate in Brooklyn. Prices regularly exceed $2,000 per square foot.

Historic Lofts and Modern Towers: Buyers can choose between converted 19th-century industrial spaces or brand-new glass high-rises.

Notable Developments: Olympia Dumbo, with penthouses listed for over $20 million, exemplifies the high-end trend.

9. Transportation

Subways: F train to York Street, A/C to High Street

Ferries: NYC Ferry has a stop at Fulton Ferry Landing

Walking: You can walk across the Brooklyn or Manhattan Bridge directly into Manhattan

Biking: Part of the NYC Greenway with bike paths through the park

10. Demographics & Lifestyle

Affluent Residents: DUMBO attracts professionals in tech, finance, and the arts.

Families and Celebrities: Quiet streets, top-tier schools, and parks draw well-off families and even a few celebrities.

Vibrant, Yet Relaxed: Despite its exclusivity, DUMBO has a slower pace than Manhattan—more community feel, fewer cars, lots of green space.

DUMBO is a rare blend of old and new: cobblestone streets and 19th-century warehouses meet sleek condos and cutting-edge businesses. It’s a neighborhood that symbolizes the transformation of New York—from industrial to digital, from manufacturing to creative innovation—while still holding on to its distinctive character and charm.