If you want great access to some of the historical and must -see sights of Manhattan and Brooklyn in one day while enjoying shopping or window shopping (which I do much of) then take the IKEA Express from PIER 11, Wall Street, Manhattan to Red Hook, Brooklyn IKEA pier.
From the beautiful New York harbor enjoy views of the water taxis, helicopters air lifting and popular ferries and tour boats on the water way against the backdrop of Manhattan.
Then hop on the IKEA Express for a-15-20 min sail from Manhattan to Brooklyn where your walk on the authentic Brooklyn docks with historical industrial artifacts salvaged from the original Todd Shipyard – an active ship repair during the Civil War period (supported with information as an outdoor museum along the dock). Included is the site of an eerie crane accident which took many crane workers into the bottom of the river. Maybe that is where the name Erie Basin Park came from?
Views on the Waterway
On your ride over you can enjoy views of: Warehouses in Brooklyn, Red Hook, The iconic New York pride “SNAPPLE” factory with gorgeous mural on their walls, Statue Of Liberty and Governors Island.
With the right shoes, skates, scooter or bikes you can comfortably explore the “Fairway Market Red Hook” in Brooklyn, on the docks nearby IKEA with edibles to choose from or to the “IKEA Restaurant with children friendly meals and prices.
Or visit the “Waterfront Museum”, next to “Fairway Market Red Hook” which seeks to educate you about maritime history & expand waterfront access in the metro area.
New York pride “SNAPPLE” factory
Your final exploration should be “IKEA Brooklyn Home Furnishings” where you can find everything for your entire home or to make personalized with comfort your temporary ‘staycation‘ to New York. If you got kids, toddler age or above you can drop them off at the Play Area as long as they meet the measure and are potty trained. Leave them to socialize and enjoy their 30 minutes play for free while you go shopping or exploring. IKEA has recreated fantastic spaces that make you feel right at home.
When all is done take your free ride back to Manhattan via the ferry guaranteed with a show of your receipts of your purchases of food or store products valued ten dollars per person.
If you ask me, it’s free when you consider, day care services, cheap food, free tours, wonderful views of all above and nature, plus resting areas and great explorations in the food and culture of Red Hook in Brooklyn.
