Manhattan is a destination that needs no introduction.
What many people don’t even know is that it’s connected with the rest of the world with some bridges.
Read on to uncover all of Manhattan’s 21 bridges and 15 tunnels.
How Many Bridges Connect to Manhattan?
If you’re asking “How many bridges are there in Manhattan?“, here’s the answer: Manhattan has 21 bridges connecting it to other boroughs and neighborhoods in New York City.
All in all, the bridges are vital transportation links. They help people and goods move within the city.
Manhattan bridges vary in complexity. They range from the simpler Harlem River swing bridges to the grand Brooklyn Bridge.
Manhattan bridges range in complexity from the comparatively simple Harlem River swing bridges to the grandeur of the Brooklyn Bridge.
All 21 Manhattan Bridges in 1 Table
First of all, let’s see the list of all the bridges connecting Manhattan neighborhoods with the rest of the world in a table, for your convenience:
| N | Bridge Name | Boroughs/ Neighborhoods |
| 1 | Alexander Hamilton Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 2 | Broadway Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 3 | Brooklyn Bridge | Manhattan and Brooklyn |
| 4 | Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge (59th Street Bridge) | Manhattan and Queens |
| 5 | George Washington Bridge | Manhattan and New Jersey |
| 6 | Harlem River Drive Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 7 | Henry Hudson Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 8 | High Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 9 | Macombs Dam Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 10 | Madison Avenue Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 11 | Manhattan Bridge | Manhattan and Brooklyn |
| 12 | Park Avenue Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 13 | Queens-Midtown Tunnel | Long Island City and Murray Hill |
| 14 | Robert F. Kennedy Bridge (Triborough Bridge) | Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens |
| 15 | Roosevelt Island Bridge | Manhattan and Roosevelt Island |
| 16 | Third Avenue Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 17 | University Heights Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 18 | Washington Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 19 | Wards Island Bridge | Manhattan and Wards Island |
| 20 | Willis Avenue Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
| 21 | 145th Street Bridge | Manhattan and the Bronx |
Now, let’s talk about each of the bridges a bit more.
1. Alexander Hamilton Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Alexander Hamilton Bridge is one of the Bridges of Manhattan that was completed in 1963.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
They built this bridge to cut traffic in Washington Heights. It links Manhattan with the Bronx and improves transport between the two boroughs.
Also, the Bridge is a vital transportation link carrying both vehicular and subway traffic.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
It was named after Alexander Hamilton, one of the United States Founding Fathers. The bridge has become vital to New York City’s transportation.
2. Broadway Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Broadway Bridge is one of the top bridges in Manhattan. It was completed in 1962 and is one of the oldest Manhattan Bridges.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It aimed to improve access between Manhattan and the Bronx. It aimed to help vehicles on Broadway.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge is vital for commuters. It also offers scenic views of the Harlem River and adds to the local transportation network.
3. Brooklyn Bridge: One of the Iconic Bridges of Manhattan
When was the bridge built?
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the top bridges in Manhattan (the construction of this bridge was completed in 1883).
Overall, the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge was a daunting task. John A. Roebling designed it. He died early in the project. His son Washington Roebling completed it. The bridge introduced new construction techniques. It used caissons, which are gigantic wooden boxes that workers descended into, and steel wire cables.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
The bridge was built to connect the busy boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It addressed the challenge of crossing the East River. Before, people had to use ferries.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The Brooklyn Bridge is a historic masterpiece. John A. Roebling designed it and his son, Washington Roebling, completed it. It has since become an iconic symbol of New York City.
The bridge’s towers have stunning neo-Gothic arches and intricate details. They are impossible to ignore. It’s not just a bridge; it’s a work of art.
Did you know that P.T. Barnum led 21 elephants across the bridge to prove its safety? Or that it was once used as a shooting location for blockbuster movies?
4. Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge (59th Street Bridge)
When was the bridge built?
The Queensboro Bridge, later named after Mayor Ed Koch, was completed in 1909.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
This bridge aimed to improve travel between Manhattan and Queens. It would provide a key route across the East River.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge has a rich history, featured in various films, and has been a vital link in New York City’s infrastructure for over a century. This iconic bridge has appeared in films and TV shows. It has been a key part of New York City’s transportation network for over a century.
The Queensboro Bridge has its role in the evolution of jazz music and its appearance in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.”
5. George Washington Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The George Washington Bridge was completed in 1931.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
The George Washington Bridge was built to connect Manhattan with New Jersey. It addressed the need for a strong crossing of the Hudson River for vehicles and pedestrians.
This Manhattan Bridge plays a vital role in connecting the Big Apple with its neighboring state. It’s a gateway to the Garden State.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The George Washington Bridge stands as an iconic structure with its towering steel arches, serving as a major gateway to New York City.
6. Harlem River Drive Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Harlem River Drive Bridge is part of the Harlem River Drive, constructed over several phases in the mid-20th century.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was built to improve transportation links between Manhattan and the Bronx, providing a critical route for local traffic.
7. Henry Hudson Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Henry Hudson Bridge was completed in 1936.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It aimed to connect Manhattan and the Bronx, providing a vital route for traffic along the Henry Hudson Parkway.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
Known for its elegant design, the bridge has served as a key transportation link for decades.
8. High Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The High Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in Manhattan. It was originally constructed in 1848, with major renovations completed in 2015.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was built to carry the Croton Aqueduct, providing clean water to Manhattan from upstate New York.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The High Bridge is one of the oldest standing bridges in New York City. It has historical significance as a pedestrian bridge with panoramic views.
9. Macombs Dam Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Macombs Dam Bridge was completed in 1895, with a major reconstruction project in 2012.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was constructed to improve transportation between Harlem in Manhattan and the South Bronx.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge has undergone significant renovations to meet modern transportation needs while preserving its historical character.
10. Madison Avenue Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Madison Avenue Bridge, originally built in 1884, underwent reconstruction in 1910.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was constructed to facilitate maritime traffic on the Harlem River, connecting Manhattan and the Bronx.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
This Manhattan Bridge has played a crucial role in maintaining transportation and commerce along the Harlem River.
These descriptions cover the first ten of the 21 mentioned Manhattan bridges.
If you would like to continue with the remaining bridges, please let me know.
11. Manhattan Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Manhattan Bridge was completed in 1909.
Unlike other bridges, the Manhattan Bridge features an unconventional “suspended” design, which adds to its originality.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was built to enhance transportation between Manhattan and Brooklyn, easing the burden on the nearby Brooklyn Bridge.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The Manhattan Bridge boasts a distinctive Greek Revival triumphal arch and columned entrance and remains a significant part of New York City’s skyline.
12. Park Avenue Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Park Avenue Bridge, a drawbridge, was completed in 1954.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was constructed to allow maritime traffic on the Harlem River, connecting Manhattan and the Bronx.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
This Manhattan Bridge serves as a vital part of the waterway transportation system.
13. Queens-Midtown Tunnel
When was the bridge built?
The Tunnel Authority approved plans for the Queens-Midtown Tunnel in August 1936. The Authority started building the tunnel that same year. The tunnel was opened to the public on November 15, 1940, after 20 years of lobbying, design, and planning, and four years of hard labor.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
The Queens-Midtown Tunnel was built to relieve traffic congestion on the city’s East River bridges.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The Queens-Midtown Tunnel was first proposed in 1921 by Manhattan’s borough president, Julius Miller. The plan resurfaced in 1926 under the names Triborough Tunnel and alternatively 38th Street Tunnel.
Miller, in conjunction with Queens’ borough president, Maurice E. Connolly, proposed the $58 million tunnel as a connector from Midtown Manhattan to Long Island City in Queens, and to Greenpoint in Brooklyn.
14. Robert F. Kennedy Bridge (Triborough Bridge)
When was the bridge built?
The Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, initially the Triborough Bridge, was completed in phases between 1936 and 1937.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was constructed to connect Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens, streamlining regional transportation.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
This complex of three bridges has become a critical transportation hub, facilitating the movement of people and goods across different boroughs.
15. Roosevelt Island Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Roosevelt Island Bridge, a lift bridge, was completed in 1955.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
This Manhattan Bridge was constructed to provide access to Roosevelt Island, connecting it to Manhattan.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge offers a unique means of reaching Roosevelt Island and has played a significant role in the island’s development.
16. Third Avenue Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Third Avenue Bridge, a swing bridge, was completed in 1898.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was built to facilitate maritime traffic on the Harlem River, connecting Manhattan and the Bronx.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
This historic bridge has served as a crucial link in maintaining transportation and commerce along the Harlem River.
17. University Heights Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The University Heights Bridge was completed in 1908.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It aimed to enhance transportation between Manhattan and the Bronx, particularly for the University Heights neighborhood.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge has been a vital artery for the University Heights community and surrounding areas for over a century.
18. Washington Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Washington Bridge is one of the Bridges of Manhattan that was completed in 1888.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was constructed to facilitate transportation across the Harlem River, connecting Manhattan and the Bronx.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge has served as a key route for traffic and has historical significance due to its age and design.
19. Wards Island Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Wards Island Bridge, a pedestrian bridge, was completed in 1951.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was built to provide access between Manhattan and Wards Island, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge has allowed residents and visitors to enjoy the tranquility of Wards Island.
20. Willis Avenue Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The Willis Avenue Bridge, initially built in 1901, underwent reconstruction in 2010.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
It was constructed to improve transportation between Manhattan and the Bronx, spanning the Harlem River.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
The bridge has undergone significant renovations to meet modern transportation needs while preserving its historical character.
21. 145th Street Bridge
When was the bridge built?
The 145th Street Bridge, a swing bridge, was completed in 1901.
Why was it decided to build the bridge?
This Manhattan bridge was built to facilitate maritime traffic on the Harlem River, connecting Manhattan and the Bronx.
What’s the history behind the bridge?
This historic swing bridge has played a crucial role in maintaining transportation and commerce along the Harlem River.
If you’d like to see some details of the bridges of Manhattan, watch this video below:
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What are the 15 Tunnels in Manhattan?
Manhattan has a labyrinth of tunnels. They connect the island to its neighboring boroughs and are crucial for transportation.
Let’s explore all 15 tunnels in Manhattan in one table:
| N | Tunnel Name | Connected Boroughs/Neighborhoods |
| 1 | Lincoln Tunnel | Manhattan and Weehawken, NJ |
| 2 | Holland Tunnel | Manhattan and Jersey City, NJ |
| 3 | Queens-Midtown Tunnel | Manhattan and Long Island City, Queens |
| 4 | Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel (Hugh L. Carey Tunnel) | Manhattan and Brooklyn |
| 5 | Cranberry Street Tunnel | Brooklyn Heights and Downtown Brooklyn |
| 6 | Park Avenue Tunnel | Manhattan (Within Manhattan) |
| 7 | Second Avenue Subway Tunnels | Manhattan (Within Manhattan) |
| 8 | East River Tunnels | Manhattan (Within Manhattan) |
| 9 | Steinway Tunnel | Manhattan and Queens |
| 10 | 63rd Street Tunnel | Manhattan and Roosevelt Island |
| 11 | Joralemon Street Tunnel | Manhattan and Brooklyn |
| 12 | 53rd Street Tunnel | Manhattan and Queens |
| 13 | 125th Street Tunnel | Harlem and East Harlem, Manhattan |
| 14 | 3rd Avenue Tunnel | Murray Hill and Upper East Side, Manhattan |
| 15 | Rutgers Tunnel | Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn |
1. Lincoln Tunnel
The Lincoln Tunnel is a critical vehicular passage connecting Manhattan and Weehawken, New Jersey. It is crucial in the daily commute of thousands. It reduces traffic on surface roads and helps interstate travel.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel connects Manhattan’s Midtown neighborhood with Weehawken in New Jersey, fostering economic ties and efficient transportation between these regions.
2. Holland Tunnel
The Holland Tunnel is another vital underwater tunnel. It connects Manhattan and Jersey City, New Jersey. This is crucial for commuters and commercial transportation. It enables convenient access between the two states.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
This tunnel links Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood with Jersey City, improving transportation and trade between these areas.
3. Queens-Midtown Tunnel
The Queens-Midtown Tunnel is an important underwater passage. It connects Manhattan and Long Island City in Queens.
Also, it eases traffic on roads. It makes travel easier for commuters and businesses.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel links Manhattan’s Midtown East neighborhood with Long Island City in Queens, enhancing connectivity and economic activity between these boroughs.
4. Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel (Hugh L. Carey Tunnel)
The Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel (Hugh L. Carey Tunnel) is a crucial underwater tunnel connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. It serves as a crucial link for commuters, freight transportation, and emergency services, reducing traffic on surface streets.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
This tunnel connects Manhattan’s Financial District with Red Hook in Brooklyn, facilitating travel and trade between these vibrant neighborhoods.
5. Cranberry Street Tunnel
Cranberry Street Tunnel is a subway tunnel that is part of the New York City Subway system. The tunnel is used by the A and C subway lines. It connects the area to the rest of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Above all, the tunnel opened for the morning rush on February 1, 1933. The exception is the station at High Street. It opened on June 24, 1933.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel is an important part of the subway system in the area and connects the following neighborhoods and boroughs:
- Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn
- Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn
- Hudson Square, Manhattan
- Lower Manhattan, Manhattan
6. Park Avenue Tunnel
The Park Avenue Tunnel is one of the top 15 tunnels in Manhattan. Though no longer accommodating vehicular traffic, holds historical significance. It is repurposed for cultural and artistic events, preserving its heritage and contributing to the cultural scene of Manhattan.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel is situated within Manhattan’s Midtown neighborhood, primarily serving the local area.
7. Second Avenue Subway Tunnels
The Second Avenue Subway Tunnels are a vital part of New York City’s subway system. They enhance public transportation options for residents and visitors along the Second Avenue corridor in Manhattan.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
These tunnels run beneath the Second Avenue corridor in Manhattan, serving various neighborhoods along their route.
8. East River Tunnels
The East River Tunnels are essential for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Amtrak. They provide efficient rail connections between Manhattan and Long Island.
Also, they play a crucial role in regional transportation.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
These Manhattan tunnels run beneath the East River, connecting Manhattan with Long Island and other areas served by the LIRR and Amtrak.
9. Steinway Tunnel
The Steinway Tunnel is a rail tunnel connecting Manhattan and Queens.
Primarily, it serves the New York City Subway system. It enhances transportation options and connectivity between these boroughs.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel connects Manhattan’s Upper East Side with Astoria in Queens, facilitating subway travel for residents and commuters.
10. 63rd Street Tunnel
The 63rd Street Tunnel is a significant subway tunnel that enhances public transportation in Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. It provides a vital link for residents, students, and commuters.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
This tunnel connects Manhattan’s Upper East Side with Roosevelt Island, offering efficient subway access for these communities.
11. Joralemon Street Tunnel
The Joralemon Street Tunnel is a subway tunnel that connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. It is essential for the New York City Subway system, to provide access to multiple subway lines.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
This tunnel links Manhattan’s Financial District with Brooklyn Heights in Brooklyn, serving as a critical subway route for residents and commuters.
12. 53rd Street Tunnel
The 53rd Street Tunnel is another subway tunnel that enhances transportation within Manhattan and connects it with Queens. It plays a crucial role in the New York City Subway system.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
This tunnel connects Manhattan’s Midtown East neighborhood with Queens, facilitating subway travel for residents in these areas.
13. 125th Street Tunnel
The 125th Street Tunnel is one of the most important 15 tunnels in Manhattan. It’s a subway tunnel that is part of the Second Avenue Subway project in Manhattan.
The tunnel is key to the project. It is expected to improve transportation in the region. It will connect the area to the rest of Manhattan.
Overall, the tunnel is being built using many methods. These include tunnel boring machines and cut-and-cover tunnels.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
All in all, the Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 will extend the existing tunnel by approximately 1.5 miles to 125th Street in East Harlem.
The tunnel will connect the following neighborhoods and boroughs:
- East Harlem, Manhattan
- Hudson Square, Manhattan
- Lower Manhattan, Manhattan
- Weehawken, NJ
14. 3rd Avenue Tunnel
The 3rd Avenue Tunnel is a subway tunnel that is part of the New York City Subway system. The tunnel is an important part of the subway system in the area and connects the area to the rest of Manhattan. The tunnel is a two-track tunnel that was built in the early 20th century.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel connects Murray Hill, Manhattan, and Upper East Side, Manhattan.
15. Rutgers Tunnel
The Rutgers Tunnel is a subway tunnel that is part of the New York City Subway system. The tunnel is an important part of the subway system in the area and connects the area to the rest of Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Neighborhoods and Boroughs Connected
The tunnel is a two-track tunnel that was built in the early 20th century. The tunnel connects Lower Manhattan, Manhattan with Brooklyn, NY.
Main Takeaways
The Manhattan Bridges and tunnels serve as a vital lifeline. They connect Manhattan with the other boroughs and neighborhoods.
The bridges and tunnels have a rich history. They continue to be important in the daily lives of many New Yorkers. They are a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and infrastructure. These things define this iconic city.
I hope the provided info will help you get more insights about NYC and Manhattan.
As a New Yorker, I hope that this helpful information has covered some of the NYC questions you had.
Cheers!!
