Scenic Drive on the FDR Along the East River

The FDR isn't pretty in the parkway sense — but at the right hour it offers some of the best moving views in the city.

New York City · Drive · about 20 min · 9 miles · Pleasantness: High

Why this route is pleasant

• Continuous East River views the entire way
• Brooklyn, Manhattan, Williamsburg and Queensboro bridges from below
• No commercial billboards along the route
• At night, the bridge lights and skyline are the show

What you'll see

• Brooklyn Bridge from underneath
• South Street Seaport and the East River piers
• United Nations headquarters
• Roosevelt Island and the Queensboro Bridge

Best time to go

Sunday morning before 9am, or any weeknight after 9pm for the lit skyline.

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