Uncover the fascinating history and future plans of the Brooklyn Navy Yard on this engaging two-hour walking tour. Walk historic grounds, see a century-old dry dock, and learn about NYC’s industrial transformation.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable walking ability required.
Wildlife
History
The Brooklyn Navy Yard was established in 1801 and played a crucial role during World War II, building and repairing ships for the U.S. Navy.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve the historic structures while promoting sustainable industrial development are ongoing, balancing heritage with innovation.
Turnstile Tours
Uncover the fascinating history and future plans of the Brooklyn Navy Yard on this engaging two-hour walking tour. Walk historic grounds, see a century-old dry dock, and learn about NYC’s industrial transformation.
Turnstile Tours provides guided walking and bicycle tours that explore Brooklyn’s history, architecture, ecology, and industrial transformation. The company leads multiple itineraries, including the Prospect Park Walking Tour and a two-hour Prospect Park Tour that examine the park’s landscapes, historic architecture, and conservation efforts.
Turnstile Tours offers several Brooklyn Navy Yard experiences: a World War II Tour, an Urban Ecology Bicycle Tour, a Past, Present & Future Walking Tour, and an Architecture & Infrastructure Tour. The Past, Present & Future and Architecture & Infrastructure tours are described as two-hour walking tours that highlight historic buildings, a working 1851 dry dock, modern LEED‑certified structures, and ongoing development at the Yard.
Additional programming includes a two-hour Brooklyn Army Terminal Tour that covers the terminal’s history, architecture, and contemporary industrial uses, and an SVP Street Heroes Gala listing.
Tours are presented as guided experiences focused on factual storytelling, on-site interpretation, and close observation of architecture and landscape. Routes traverse public spaces, historic structures, and active industrial sites in Brooklyn, using walking and bicycle formats when indicated.
Published trip information specifies tour formats and durations for many itineraries, enabling visitors to select tours by interest—history, architecture, urban ecology, or industrial heritage—and to plan time and mobility needs accordingly.
Several itineraries incorporate personal stories from workers and sailors, connecting visitors to the lived history of industrial sites. Prospect Park itineraries emphasize conservation, recreation, and cultural heritage within Brooklyn’s green space. Tour presentation can include interactive commentary and paused stops to examine notable architectural and natural features.
Tours Offered
8
Guided itineraries listed in offerings
Popular Sites
Prospect Park & Navy Yard
Historic and public spaces in Brooklyn
Tour Types
Walking & Bicycle
Formats specified per itinerary
Duration Options
Multiple 2-hour tours
Several tours described as two-hour
Book a Prospect Park, Brooklyn Navy Yard, or Brooklyn Army Terminal tour and secure a guided walking or bicycle experience.
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and standing for extended periods.
Bring a camera
Capture the historic sights and active workspaces during the tour.
Dress for the weather
Outdoor portions mean you'll want weather-appropriate clothing, whether rain or shine.
Arrive early
Secure your spot and get comfortable before the tour begins.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking on uneven surfaces and standing for the duration of the tour.
Camera or Smartphone
To capture memorable views and details of the historic site.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress according to weather conditions to stay comfortable outdoors.
Hat and sunscreen
Protection from sun during outdoor segments of the tour.
summer