Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Luxury Travelers in DUMBO
Top Things to Do in New York City for Luxury Travelers in DUMBO
1. Time Out Market New York
A curated collection of top NYC chefs and artisans set inside the landmark Empire Stores, with a glass-walled rooftop that frames the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. It’s a one-stop, upscale tasting tour with sweeping skyline views and craft cocktails.
✓ Why Go:
Sample multiple celebrated kitchens in a single, design-forward space and savor sunset views from the terrace without leaving DUMBO.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon to sunset for golden-hour views; weekdays for lighter crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head straight to the rooftop bar for a table along the railing, then order from multiple vendors via mobile to avoid lines.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise the variety and views, calling it an effortless, high-energy way to taste the city with a luxury backdrop.
2. Empire Stores
A beautifully restored 19th-century warehouse complex reimagined with upscale retail, dining, art installations, and a public rooftop garden. The brick-and-steel architecture and cobblestone setting epitomize DUMBO’s industrial-chic aesthetic.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the neighborhood’s style anchor—shop, dine, and photograph the skyline from an elegant historic perch.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on weekdays for relaxed browsing; sunset on clear days for rooftop vistas.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ride the elevator to the rooftop park for some of DUMBO’s most photogenic angles—few visitors realize it’s open to the public.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests rave about the adaptive reuse and say it feels both authentically Brooklyn and unmistakably luxurious.
3. St. Ann's Warehouse
An internationally acclaimed performing arts venue housed in a dramatic tobacco warehouse near the waterfront. Expect daring theater, cutting-edge music, and innovative staging that attracts a sophisticated crowd.
✓ Why Go:
For culture-forward luxury travelers, this is DUMBO’s marquee arts experience—intimate, world-class, and architecturally striking.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings during performance runs; arrive 30 minutes early for a pre-show drink.
✓ Insider Tip:
Premium seats sell out quickly—book as soon as the season is announced and ask about post-show talks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe productions as mesmerizing and the venue as a jewel box of New York’s avant-garde scene.
4. Jane's Carousel
A lovingly restored 1922 carousel encased in a minimalist glass pavilion right on the East River. The juxtaposition of vintage craftsmanship and modern design makes it a whimsical, photogenic stop—especially for couples and families.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a timeless New York moment with postcard views of the bridges and Manhattan skyline.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays at golden hour for soft light and fewer lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve a private session for special occasions; photographers love reflections off the pavilion’s glass at dusk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests call it enchanting and unexpectedly elegant—classic fun elevated by a spectacular setting.
5. Cecconi's Dumbo
A Venetian-accented, marble-and-brass waterfront restaurant with handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a terrace that practically floats above the East River. Service is polished, the wine list deep, and the views unforgettable.
✓ Why Go:
For a languid, upscale lunch or a candlelit dinner with cinematic bridge views.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset into evening; brunch on weekends for a lively scene.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a terrace or window table when booking and ask the sommelier for Northern Italian pairings.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners praise the ambiance and service, calling it a quintessential DUMBO splurge.
6. Dumbo House
Soho House’s members-only club occupies the top floors of Empire Stores, with a chic pool deck, lounges, and wraparound views that feel made for magazine spreads. Inside, it’s all low-slung sofas, curated art, and craft cocktails.
✓ Why Go:
It’s DUMBO’s most exclusive perch—ideal for relaxing between explorations or meeting creatives over a martini.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon on sunny days for poolside lounging; evenings for a social vibe.
✓ Insider Tip:
Members should book terrace seating in advance; non-members can enjoy similar views at neighboring venues in Empire Stores.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Members describe it as effortlessly cool and worth planning a DUMBO day around.
7. The River Café
A New York fine-dining classic tucked beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, known for white-tablecloth service, a serious cellar, and a romantic garden path entry. The dining room frames Lower Manhattan like a living painting.
✓ Why Go:
For celebratory meals that feel timeless—this is a bucket-list address for waterfront gastronomy.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dinnertime for twinkling skyline lights; weekend lunch for a serene, sunlit experience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book well ahead and note the dress code; request a bridge-view table when reserving.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests call it iconic, with special-occasion service and views that define NYC romance.
8. Klompching Gallery
A respected photography gallery championing contemporary image-makers, set on Water Street amid DUMBO’s cobblestones. Exhibitions are tightly curated and collector-friendly, making it a rewarding stop for art lovers.
✓ Why Go:
To discover collectible works in an intimate space and get expert guidance from gallerists.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons, Wednesday–Saturday, when staff can devote time to inquiries.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about artist receptions or print viewing appointments if you’re considering a purchase.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate the thoughtful curation and say it’s a gem for serious art browsing.
9. Powerhouse Arena
An architecturally striking bookstore and gallery hybrid hosting author talks, photo shows, and design-forward displays. The edit leans literary and artistic, perfect for picking up a handsome coffee-table book or signed edition.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a cultural touchstone where shopping meets art—ideal for refined souvenirs.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on event nights; weekday mornings for quiet browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the calendar for signings and ask about limited editions kept behind the counter.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Patrons love the creative energy and say it embodies DUMBO’s design sensibility.
10. Almondine Bakery
A beloved French patisserie known for buttery croissants, elegant tarts, and refined coffee service—ideal for a slow morning along the cobblestones. The glass cases and aroma alone feel like Paris-by-the-river.
✓ Why Go:
Start a luxe DUMBO day with artisanal pastries in a charming, neighborhood institution.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning to snag fresh bakes and a window seat.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a box of macarons to take on a waterfront stroll; ask about seasonal specialties.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests call it a must for pastry lovers and a delicious prelude to exploring the waterfront.
