This is exactly what we did:) The others have given you good advice. We used Google maps to navigate the subway. Hit the little microphone symbol and then tell it "current location to (wherever you want to go) the Brooklyn bridge". Then select the transit choice (vs car, bike, walking). It will give you step by step instructions starting ]from entering the closest station to you (even which corner to enter) which trains are an option and how many stops there are. Once you get to Brooklyn the bridge is huge. Just walk towards it. We asked a police officer. He gave us a scenic route and a direct route and a great pizza place recommendation...Antonio's. When we walked in May heading towards Manhatten bikes occupied the right or NE side and pedestrians the opposite side . Watch those bikes (especially if you have kids)...they go really fast. Time will depend on how crowded it is and how much you stop to look and take pictures. Once you make it back to 911 memorial area use the new Oculus station to catch a train "uptown" to Times Square. Again use Google maps to pick train etc. We bought a one week Metro pass for 30.00 bucks plus 1.00 fee. Its easy... just go into a station to the machines. Follow the instructions or ask. There were plenty of friendly people willing to help:) It was our first time visiting NYC and the subway was a little intimadating at first but we quickly adapted. People were very willing to help so just ask if you are not sure what to do. Learn downtown means towards the 911 area and Uptown means towards Central Park/Times Square area. Have a nice visit.