Brooklyn Bridge Park

Planning a Founder Offsite at Brooklyn Bridge Park

An outdoor offsite works best when the logistics are settled before anyone arrives. Brooklyn Bridge Park stretches along the East River waterfront between the Manhattan Bridge area near DUMBO and Atlantic Avenue, and it is divided into piers and sections that feel quite different from one another. Some areas are open lawns suited to informal discussion circles. Others are built around sports courts, playgrounds or paved promenades. Walk the park once before your event so you can pick a spot that matches the size and mood of your group.

Permits and ground rules

The park is a public space managed by a nonprofit organisation. Larger gatherings, amplified sound, structures such as tents, and commercial activity generally need a permit. Check the park's official website for current rules, application lead times and any fees before you send out invitations. A small team bringing coffee and notebooks to a lawn is usually fine. A branded event with a sound system is a different matter.

Getting there and staying comfortable

• Transit: Several subway lines stop within walking distance in DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights. The NYC Ferry also serves the waterfront, which can be a memorable way to arrive from Manhattan.
• Weather: The riverfront can be noticeably windier and cooler than the streets inland. Shade is limited in some sections, so plan for sun, wind and a rain backup.
• Facilities: Restrooms and food options exist in and around the park, but they can be busy on weekends. Bring water and plan breaks around them.
• Timing: Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than summer weekends, which helps when you want focused conversation.

Structuring the day

Founders who get the most from waterfront retreats tend to mix formats. Hold a strategy session in the morning while energy is high. Add a walking one-on-one along the promenade, with the bridge and skyline in view. Finish with an informal debrief, perhaps at one of the nearby DUMBO cafés or restaurants. Keep the agenda light, because an outdoor setting rewards open-ended thinking more than slide decks.

For examples of how early-stage teams have run retreats and planning days, browse our case studies. Our guides also cover other practical operating topics for small teams.