Brooklyn, the heart and soul of hipster culture, is a borough buzzing with artistic energy, historic charm, and a fiercely independent spirit. But scratch beneath the surface of Williamsburg’s trendy cafes and Bushwick’s vibrant street art scene, and you’ll discover a rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and architectural wonders.
Embrace the Best of Brooklyn
Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan with One World Tower
This guide will be your Brooklyn bible, navigating you through must-see sights, hidden gems, delectable eats, and unique experiences – ensuring you experience Brooklyn’s multifaceted soul.
Planning Your Brooklyn Adventure
A woman travels on a vintage scooter around Brooklyn.
Getting There: Manhattan and Brooklyn are easily connected by subway, with numerous lines offering quick and affordable access. Consider purchasing a MetroCard for unlimited rides on the MTA subway system. Water taxis are another scenic option, offering stunning views of the city skyline.
Getting Around: Brooklyn is a walkable borough, but the subway is your best bet for longer distances. Citi Bike, a bike-sharing program, allows you to explore at your own pace while hopping on a vintage trolley in Brooklyn Heights adds a touch of historical charm.
Where to Stay: Accommodation options in Brooklyn range from trendy boutique hotels in Williamsburg to family-friendly options in Park Slope. Consider staying in a specific neighborhood to immerse yourself in its unique vibe.
Must-See Brooklyn Sights
Bikes riding across Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge: A majestic landmark and pedestrian walkway, the Brooklyn Bridge offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Walk or bike across the bridge for a historical and scenic experience.
Brooklyn Museum: Housing an impressive collection spanning centuries and cultures, the Brooklyn Museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. Explore Egyptian mummies, explore European masterpieces, or explore contemporary art exhibits.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Escape the urban jungle and find serenity amidst the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s 52 acres of vibrant gardens. Explore themed gardens, attend seasonal events, or relax amidst the lush greenery.
Prospect Park: The crown jewel of Brooklyn, Prospect Park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Rent a boat on the lake, bike along scenic paths, or visit the Prospect Park Zoo. Catch a free concert at the bandshell or relax on the Great Lawn and soak up the atmosphere.
Coney Island: Step back in time and experience the nostalgic charm of Coney Island. Ride the iconic Cyclone roller coaster, test your luck at the boardwalk games, or relax on the beach and people-watch.
Unveiling Brooklyn’s Neighborhood Gems
Art, art, and art all around Bushwick, Brooklyn
Williamsburg: A haven for hipsters and creatives, Williamsburg boasts trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and vibrant street art. Explore vintage shops on Bedford Avenue, catch live music at a local venue, or sample craft beers at a trendy brewery.
Dumbo: Once an industrial sector, Dumbo is now a trendy neighborhood with stunning waterfront views. Amble along the Brooklyn Bridge Park esplanade, visit the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory or take in the contemporary art scene.
Bushwick: A haven for street art enthusiasts, Bushwick’s walls are adorned with colorful murals by renowned artists. Take a street art walking tour, visit a local gallery, or wander the streets and discover hidden artistic gems.
Park Slope: This charming neighborhood offers a slice of Brooklyn family life. Browse the shops along Fifth Avenue, explore the Prospect Park Zoo, or relax with a picnic there.
Brooklyn Heights: Steeped in history and boasting breathtaking brownstones, Brooklyn Heights exudes a timeless elegance. Promenade along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for stunning Manhattan views, visit the Brooklyn Historical Society, or wander the quaint streets.
Explore More of the Neighborhoods that Make up Brooklyn in our comprehensive guide.
Beyond the Tourist Trail: Unforgettable Brooklyn Experiences
Wide view of MCU stadium with Coney Island parachute in the background
Smorgasburg: Foodies rejoice! Smorgasburg is a massive open-air market featuring hundreds of vendors selling everything from artisanal cheeses and gourmet tacos to international cuisine and decadent desserts. Held weekends in Williamsburg and Brooklyn Bridge Park, it’s a must-visit for a unique and delicious culinary adventure.
Brooklyn Flea: Hunt for treasures at the Brooklyn Flea, a haven for vintage enthusiasts and antique collectors. Held weekends at various locations across Brooklyn, browse furniture, clothing, jewelry, records, and more, with the chance to snag a unique find.
Catch a minor league baseball game: Immerse yourself in Brooklyn’s love for baseball with a Brooklyn Cyclones game at MCU Park in Coney Island. Enjoy a hot dog and a beer while cheering on the home team, and experience the electric atmosphere of minor league baseball.
Kayak on the Brooklyn Bridge Park boathouse: Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of the East River from the Brooklyn Bridge Park boathouse. Paddle under the iconic bridge, enjoy stunning Manhattan skyline views, and experience Brooklyn from a unique vantage point.
Take a walking tour: Delve deeper into Brooklyn’s rich history and hidden gems with a walking tour. Explore neighborhoods like Williamsburg or Green-Wood Cemetery, or take a food tour to savor the borough’s diverse culinary scene.
Discover More of Brooklyn’s Hidden Gems in our guide to the Borough’s Best Kept Secrets.
Brooklyn’s Delectable Eats
Food hall at Time Out Market in Dumbo, Brooklyn
Brunch: Brooklyn takes brunch seriously, offering everything from classic eggs Benedict to creative avocado toast variations and decadent pancakes. Head to a trendy cafe in Williamsburg or Park Slope for a leisurely weekend brunch experience.
Pizza: New York City is synonymous with pizza, and Brooklyn boasts its unique style. Thin-crust pizzas with fresh, local ingredients are the norm, with countless pizzerias offering their take on this beloved New York classic.
International Eats: Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods offer a world of culinary exploration. Sample succulent jerk chicken in Flatbush, savor authentic dim sum in Sunset Park or indulge in a traditional Egyptian meal in Bay Ridge.
Rooftop Dining: Enjoy breathtaking Brooklyn views while indulging in a delicious meal at a rooftop restaurant. Perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion, rooftop dining offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Food Halls: Brooklyn boasts several trendy food halls, housing an array of vendors under one roof. From artisanal cheeses and gourmet chocolates to international cuisine and craft cocktails, food halls offer a convenient and delicious way to explore Brooklyn’s diverse culinary scene.
Budget-Friendly Brooklyn
Tourists enjoy the sunset at Brooklyn Bridge Park, overlooking the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in NYC.
Free Activities: Brooklyn offers a surprising number of free activities. Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park, visit museums with free admission days (like the Brooklyn Museum on Thursdays from 5-7 pm), catch a free outdoor movie screening in DUMBO during the summer, or relax on the beach at Coney Island.
Picnics in the Park: Pack a picnic basket and head to one of Brooklyn’s many parks. Prospect Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and Fort Greene Park all offer ample green space for a relaxing picnic lunch or dinner.
Street Food: Brooklyn’s street food scene is vibrant and delicious. From classic hot dogs and halal carts to empanadas and tacos, you can find a quick and affordable meal on almost every corner.
Happy Hour Deals: Many Brooklyn bars and restaurants offer happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers. This is a great way to sample local cuisine and drinks at a discounted price.
Second-Hand Stores: For the fashion-savvy on a budget, Brooklyn boasts a wealth of thrift stores and vintage shops. Hunt for unique clothing finds furniture pieces, and homeware treasures at a fraction of the retail price.
Brooklyn Awaits You
By following these tips and using this comprehensive guide, you can craft the perfect Brooklyn itinerary, whether you’re a foodie fanatic, a history buff, or an art enthusiast. So, ditch the Manhattan crowds, embrace the unique spirit of Brooklyn, and discover a borough brimming with character, charm, and endless possibilities!
