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The 32 Absolute Best Brooklyn Attractions

What to do in brooklyn we've got you covered.

Are you looking for the best Brooklyn attractions? But what are the most important sights in Brooklyn? In my more than 20 visits to New York, I’ve been to Brooklyn every time – what you absolutely have to see in Brooklyn, I’ll tell you right here!

You'll also love this:

• Things to Do in Brooklyn
• The 33 Absolute best Attractions in New York
• Budget Tip ▷ New York Pass Comparison

You’ll notice it right away: The atmosphere in Brooklyn is completely different than in Manhattan. It’s much more relaxed – yet the attractions in Brooklyn are worth seeing: from world-famous spots to addresses where many New Yorkers like to go themselves, it’s all there. To see which of Brooklyn’s highlights are closest to you, you can also view them on a full-screen map further down: 👉 The Best Brooklyn Attractions on a Map .

The Top Brooklyn attractions on a map

Our tips for visiting the best Brooklyn attractions on a budget!

If you are on a family holiday, or visiting the city with a group of friends and need to book 4 tickets for each attraction, or are alone but just have a tight budget set for your trip, we have something really special for you. New York City sells discount attraction passes which allow you to visit all of the must-see NYC attractions for less while giving you the flexibility of deciding what you want to see once you get there!

Offering discounts of up to 60% on many sights, tours, and attractions  New York City sightseeing passes  are the ultimate way to save money. Find out which one will save you the most based on the attractions you want to see here:

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Here are my 32 Favorite attractions in Brooklyn

Brooklyn bridge.

The Brooklyn Bridge is used by over 120,000 vehicles across its 6 lanes, 4000 pedestrians, and 3000 bikes, per day. The views of NYC from the Brooklyn Bridge are spectacular and it is an absolute necessity that you walk across the bridge during your trip to NYC. Especially at sunrise and sunset this is one of NYC’s most photogenic spots. Just be prepared to be surrounded by a bunch of people.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

You will find the beginning of Brooklyn Bridge Park just below Brooklyn Bridge. With amazing views of the skyline across the water and some great places to sit and enjoy the view, this park is a must-visit! For those of you who like running, this is an amazing place to do so, especially with the amazing Manhattan skyline view. There are also tons of green spaces, basketball, volleyball courts, and soccer fields.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

From here you can enjoy the fantastic view over Lower Manhattan and the One World Trade Center.

Washington Street in Dumbo

Don’t forget to capture the most famous photo on Washington Street in Dumbo: With the Manhattan Bridge and the tiny Empire State Building in the background, the street is popular with all tourists to take the perfect photo. Manhattan Bridge is the second famous bridge in Dumbo. If you like, you can also cross it on foot and enjoy the great view of the skyline as well as the Brooklyn Bridge from there.

Pilot Brooklyn

As you know, we love the two-master “Grand Banks” at Piers 25 in Manhattan. The same operators now have a counterpart, the Pilot Brooklyn, at Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Enjoy a sensational view of Manhattan with a drink in hand – or enjoy smaller (but delicious) seafood dishes!

Domino Park

This beautiful park opened up in Williamsburg in 2018. It’s called Domino park because the former Domino Sugar factory was located at that very spot. Now, it’s filled with greenery, food vendors and a playground for kids. It is located directly on the East River and you have a great view of the city from here. The park invites you to play volleyball or have a picnic.

Jane's Carousel

In the middle of the Brooklyn Bridge Park there is a beautiful carousel for young and old all year round. From there you can also enjoy the great view of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.

Time Out Market

The “Food Market” concept proves to be a great success in New York City. In May 2019, the Time Out Market opened in Dumbo: and offers around 20 different vendors, 2 bars, a rooftop with an additional 4 restaurants. The food market in Dumbo on 55 Water Street is expected to be just as successful as its other chains such as the one in Lisbon. The absolute best thing about the location is the view from the balcony. It provides unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline as well as the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge.

Smorgasburg Food Market

Smorgasburg Food Market is one of the hottest open-air food markets in New York City. People come here to meet, eat, drink and enjoy the view of the Manhattan skyline on the East River Waterfront during the warmer months. Smorgasburg means “a mixture of food” and offers a huge selection of small stalls. The main spot for Smorgasburg is in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and is very popular among the locals. It’s more of an experience and it’s always a great time with friends.

Coney Island Boardwalk

A day trip to Coney Island is definitely worthwhile and while you are there, make sure to stay until sunset. At the beach it is just beautiful and very idyllic.

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Rooftop Reds

The only problem with this beautiful view of the NYC skyline? It just happens to be interrupted by NYC’s only rooftop vineyard!

Located in Brooklyn, Rooftop Reds is actually the world’s first commercially viable urban rooftop vineyard. That means in addition to getting a wide-open view of the NYC skyline, you’re also supporting one of the most innovative wine projects in NYC.

And what would a glass of wine be without a great pairing? Rooftop Reds has this covered with a wide selection of gourmet cheeses to start the meal, then a partnership with nearby pizzeria Il Porto. If you’ve got a bold wine, pair it with Al Diavolo Pizza for a spice-forward blend.

Brooklyn Flea

For almost 10 years, tourists and locals alike have been making the pilgrimage to Brooklyn to visit one of the most famous flea markets in New York. Antique household goods, vintage furniture and clothing, jewelry and all sorts of other knick-knacks are sold by the 60 vendors of the Brooklyn Flea market. Of course, Brooklyn Flea also has food! From Hong Kong Pork Buns to waffles, you’ll find everything here. Here is a little tip from us. Take a few minutes and just chat with the sellers. They often tell their own personal stories, how they put their ideas into practice or why they love New York. You meet a lot of great and creative people at the flea markets in New York!

DeKalb Market Hall

DeKalb Market Hall is the biggest food hall in Brooklyn. This food market houses about 40 food vendors including classic names such as Katz and newer, up-and-coming names. They serve everything you can possibly imagine. You can find pastries, pizzas and even ramen. It’s a good example of how diverse NYC is.

Street art fans will fall in love with Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood. Thanks to the Bushwick Collective, there are works by over 800 street artists from around the world to see, including legends like Adam Cost and Dan WitzBushwick. Around the Bushwick Collective area, there are nearly 100 blocks of street art! So you can spend all day exploring the area.

If you just want to see the highlights , the most famous works can be found on Troutman Street and St. Nicholas Avenue . The street art in Bushwick is constantly changing, so you can always discover something new every time you visit. Most of the works are on display for no longer than a year.

Address: Around Troutman Street at St. Nicholas Avenue, Brooklyn

Prospect Park

The park is the counterpart of Central Park. Both parks were designed by the same architect. The 2.4 km² large park has a lot to offer. Just like Central Park, Prospect Park has numerous green spaces, a lake, the Litchfield Villa, a zoo, courts for sports, entertainment possibilities and even a botanical garden. Prospect Park is a great alternative if you would like to escape the busy lifestyle in Manhattan.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the natural wonder of New York City and is especially popular during the cherry blossom season. Many people come to the botanic garden in Brooklyn just to see this natural spectacle. This place always has a special aura to it, as there is something wonderful blossoming here in any season. It’s located right inside Prospect Park in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum opened its doors to the public in 1897. Measuring around 560,000 square feet, the Brooklyn Museum, located in Park Slope is the second-largest art museum in the United States. You’ll have plenty of space to explore during your visit and the museum features a massive collection of over 1.5 million objects displayed throughout the five floors. 

Many events are held at the Brooklyn Museum as well such as fashion shows.

Green-Wood Cemetery

The cemetery is located about 10 minutes walking distance from Prospect Park. On an area of 1.9 km² there are about 600,000 graves and on the hill Battle Hill you can enjoy a great view of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

Governors Island

When the weather is beautiful in New York City and you want to escape for a moment from the noise, the hustle and bustle, then a trip to Governors Island is something to consider. The Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River for $4.

Since 2021 Governors Island is open all year round!

New York Transit Museum

The New York Transit museum focuses on the history and the development of public transportation in NYC. The museum covers and explores everything from the construction of the subway lines to the history of the bus systems in the city. It’s one of the oldest public transportation systems in the world. Here, visitors will get to explore the different train models that the city used and is a great experience for families with kids. Of course, there are great photo opportunities as well.

Harriet's Rooftop Bar

Be sure to check out the 1 Hotel Rooftop and Garden Bar, even if you don’t decide to stay there. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge. The bar serves great drinks and finger food.

Williamsburg Bridge

The Williamsburg Bridge spans from the Lower East Side in Manhattan to Williamsburg in Brooklyn. Perfect for pedestrians and cyclists, crossing the bridge gives you enjoyable views of Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge as well as Domino Park in Williamsburg.

Barclays Center

Barclays Center is Brooklyn’s very own sporting and entertainment venue. When the former New Jersey Nets decided to move over to Brooklyn, the city and borough decided to build a brand new venue. It is now home to the Brooklyn Nets, The New York Islanders, Brooklyn Boxing, and concerts.

Brooklyn Children's Museum

The Brooklyn Children’s museum was founded in 1899 and was the first museum developed only for kids. With many permanent exhibitions and attractions, there is always something to see or do here. Overall, it’s a great place for family outings with the young ones.

Children are encouraged to play and experience numerous activities and exhibitions.

The famous roller coaster at Coney Island is one of the city’s landmarks. In countless movies it has been the scenery and had to withstand many forces of nature. The ride should not be underestimated – it is also a great memory of the original Coney Island.

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park

A remnant from old times is Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. Here you will find many rides, some of which are almost 100 years old.

The theme park in Coney Island is a must for young and old. Opening hours vary depending on the weather. Inform yourself before you plan a trip there. Characteristic for Coney Island is the nostalgic charm of the amusement park, which attracts thousands of people – especially New Yorkers – when the weather is good.

New York Aquarium

The sea creatures in the aquarium offer a nice alternative if the weather is not suitable for a visit to the beach. Here you can learn everything about the underwater world of the oceans.

Westlight NYC

The Westlight in Brooklyn is considered one of the most beautiful rooftop bars in New York – and rightly so! It belongs to The William Vale Hotel and has a rooftop bar, a lounge area, a bar and a restaurant. What distinguishes the Westlight from many other spots is the unspoilt panoramic view of Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan.

All Brooklyn Attractions on a map

A map with all MUST SEE in Brooklyn can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each spot on the map to find out everything you need to know!

Things to do in Brooklyn

The 43 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

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I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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The 16 best attractions in Brooklyn

Branch out from Manhattan to enjoy these Brooklyn attractions that are well worth the trip

While Manhattan gets the most attention from tourists, namely due to its lurid billboards and light displays making it appear as the place to be (we will give it credit for its world-class  restaurants ,  bars  and   museums , though), the more understated Brooklyn isn't far behind. 

Williamsburg , the hub of indie music and vintage shopping, is an attraction in itself, but you’ll find tonnes to do in neighborhoods like Park Slope, DUMBO, Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn Heights, and more. These Brooklyn attractions include beautiful parks, iconic architectural gems, underrated museums, and other only-in-NY activities. So be sure not to let the razzle dazzle of Manhattan distract you from best attractions in Brooklyn.

RECOMMENDED: 📍 Full guide to the best New York attractions 🏨 The best  hotels in Brooklyn 🏨   The best  hotels in New York

This article was written by Dan Q Dao , a Commercial Editor at Time Out New York. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Brooklyn attractions

1.  brooklyn bridge.

• Historic buildings and sites

Although the Brooklyn Bridge is no longer the largest suspension bridge in the world (as it was when it opened in 1883), it’s still an iconic New York City landmark. More than 100,000 cars pass between the Gothic towers every day, while the pedestrians and sightseers on the upper walkway number in the thousands. Whether you’re traveling by car, bike, or foot, you’ll get spectacular views of lower Manhattan and Brooklyn Heights.

2.  Brooklyn Street Art Tour

This walking tour will highlight a part of Brooklyn that's hidden in plain sight: the street art. It's easy for busy tourists to rush past the colorful murals and sentimental signage on their way to other attractions, but now you'll get to take in the talent from local and international contemporary urban artists as a guide leads you round Bushwick, the hub of NYC's street art scene. Learn how the culture has evolved witness some of the best graffiti in the game. You can pair this activity with a graffiti workshop if you're keen to show off your artistic flair. 

3.  Coney Island Cyclone

• Arcades and amusements
• Coney Island
• price 1 of 4

This historic wooden coaster dates back to 1927, during Coney Island’s glory days. Now a national historic landmark and part of the new Luna Park, the Cyclone still thrills riders every spring and summer. After you’ve gotten your fill of the amusement park, don’t forget to grab a beer and hot dog from the original Nathan’s Famous.

4.  New York Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums

At New York's one and only aquarium, see a living re-creation of the Pacific coastline, and catch sight of various East River species, plus some truly awesome sharks and sea jellies. Fantasize about extending your summer as you visit Glover's Reef, a 150,000-gallon tank stocked with 35 species of marine life from the coast of Belize, including jawfish and moray eels.

5.  Time Out Market New York

We've packed all our favorite restaurants under one roof at the Time Out Market in DUMBO. Located in Empire Stores, Time Out Market has fried chicken from Jacob’s Pickles, pizza from Fornino, inventive ice cream flavors from Sugar Hill Creamery, and  more amazing eateries –  all cherry-picked by us. Chow down over two floors with views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline.

6.  Prospect Park

• Things to do

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux—the visionary designers behind Central Park—Prospect Park offers Brooklynites a chance to get back in touch with nature. Soak up the sunshine in the sprawling Long Meadow, take a guided hike to forage for wild herbs, or explore the Ravine, one of the few remaining indigenous forests in the city.

7.  Brooklyn Children’s Museum

• Crown Heights

When it was founded in 1899, the BCM was the country’s first museum specifically made for children. Today it’s one of the most comprehensive, with a permanent collection of 30,000 objects, including musical instruments, masks, dolls, and fossils. Kids have fun while learning (sneaky!) at interactive exhibits like “World Brooklyn,” a pint-size cityscape lined by faux stores where young’uns can weigh ingredients and knead pretend dough at the Mexican Bakery, or shop for cans of Indian ghee and Turkish candy at the International Grocery.

8.  Brooklyn Museum

• Natural history
• Prospect Park

One of Kings County’s preeminent cultural institutions, this 560,000-square-foot venue made history as the first American museum to exhibit African objects as artwork. In addition to the more than 4,000 items in the Egyptian holdings, museumgoers can scope pieces by masters such as Cézanne, Monet, and Degas, plus an entire center devoted to feminist art. The venue is the permanent home of Judy Chicago’s massive installation The Dinner Party.

9.  Brooklyn Heights and Brooklyn Promenade

• Parks and gardens
• Brooklyn Heights

In order to mollify the residents of Brooklyn Heights, city planner Robert Moses built this park atop the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway to muffle the street noise when it opened in 1950. Today, you might forget that traffic is moving along beneath you while strolling the esplanade. The picture-perfect views of Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty are admittedly distracting.

10.  Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

• Boerum Hill

BAM, which showcases local and out-of-town companies, is one of New York’s most prominent cultural institutions. The Howard Gilman Opera House, with its Federal-style columns and carved marble, is a beautiful dance venue. Each fall, BAM’s Next Wave Festival highlights established and experimental dance groups; in the spring, there’s an assortment of African and modern dance and ballet.

11.  Brooklyn Bridge Park

Unlike the sprawling meadows of Prospect Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park wasn’t built to replicate the area’s serene natural environment. Instead, the park transformed a defunct shipping and storage complex into an urban playground complete with terraces, picnic areas, and athletic fields. Don’t leave without a ride on Jane’s Carousel, the park’s beautifully restored 1920s merry-go-round.

12.  Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Those searching for a little peace and quiet would do well to spend a few hours at this verdant oasis. The garden, which abuts two other neighborhood gems – The Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park – was founded in 1910 and features hundreds of types of flora, laid out over 52 acres. Each spring, crowds descend on the space when hundreds of cherry blossoms bloom along the Cherry Esplanade.

13.  Brooklyn Flea

• Markets and fairs

This market has elevated the vintage-shopping experience, setting a new standard for both goods and food vendors, and emphasizing local purveyors where possible. Its mini-empire now includes markets in DUMBO and Chelsea, as well as two food-focused Smorgasburg outposts. It’s as good a people-watching spot as you’ll find – plenty of established and wanna-be designers mill about – and the eats alone are worth the trip. 

14.  Prospect Park Zoo

At this interactive wildlife center, kids can walk along the Discovery Trail and come face to face with Oggie and his new pal Dixie, two North American river otters. Keep hopping down the path to find the Australian Walkabout's kangaroo and the new rock wallabies, whose grooved hind paws easily grip the boulders in their steep habitat. A pair of native South African owls – recognizable by their bright white faces – roost in the aviary along the trail. On spring days, you might also find a commotion at the sea lion court: the graceful swimmers like to entertain onlookers by diving, high-fiving their keepers, and chowing down on fishy food.

15.  Green-Wood Cemetery

• Walks and tours

Founded in 1838 as a rural cemetery in Greenwood Heights, this site was inspired by the Pére Lachaise Cemetery in Paris and Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Having vied with Niagara Falls as New York State’s greatest tourist attraction, it gained landmark status in 1966. Filled with Victorian mausoleums, cherubs, and gargoyles, Green-Wood is the resting place of some half-million New Yorkers, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Leonard Bernstein, and Boss Tweed. But there’s more to do here than grave-spot: Check out the massive Gothic arch at the main entrance or climb to the top of Battle Hill, a pivotal spot during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776.

16.  Building 92

• Special interest
• Fort Greene

Located in a former military residence on the grounds of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, this small museum chronicles the mighty history of the former shipbuilding center – which, at its peak during World War II, employed close to 70,000 people. Take a deep dive into the area’s history from Native American origins to the Industrial Revolution at the museum’s permanent exhibit or board a weekend bus tour of the 300-acre yard.

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20 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Brooklyn, NY

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger was born in Brooklyn and spent nearly 20 years living in New York City.

If Brooklyn was a separate city, it would be the fourth largest city in America. With a population of approximately 2.5 million, Brooklyn is one of the most populous areas in the country. But with that comes massive diversity, rich history, and a plethora of things to do.

From iconic Coney Island to the brand new Barclays Center , and distinct neighborhoods like Williamsburg, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope, you will have your choice of activities and places to visit throughout the year.

A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or a subway ride from Manhattan will bring you to happening neighborhoods and attractions like museums, gardens, parks, food markets, and more. For something a little more interesting, try seeing the sights on the NYC Ferry System by hopping on the East River Ferry.

On your day trip or a weekend getaway to Brooklyn, don't miss a chance to see the Brooklyn Cyclones play at MCU Park, have a picnic in Prospect Park , wander the gardens at Brooklyn Botanic Garden , and admire masterpieces at the Brooklyn Museum. Top it all off with a stop at an outdoor food market to taste diverse foods and mingle with New Yorkers.

For more ideas on places to visit in one of New York City's coolest boroughs, see our list of the top things to do in Brooklyn.

Brooklyn Bridge

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One of my favorite landmarks in New York City is the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Nothing says I've arrived home more than seeing the beautiful brick engineering masterpiece.

Drive, bike, or saunter across the bridge, which connects Lower Manhattan with Brooklyn Heights. Appreciate the massive towers built from limestone, granite, and cement and the incredible views of the world-famous skyline from various vantage points on the pedestrian walkway.

Brooklyn Bridge was the first bridge built across the East River; it took 24 years and opened in 1883. It once held the title of the longest suspension bridge in the world, until Japan's Akashi-Kaikyo bridge came along.

Since this is one of the top attractions in New York City , when you visit during high season, you may be rubbing shoulders with other tourists; go early in the morning or at night for a more relaxing experience.

Once you reach the Brooklyn side, it's a popular stop for tourists to visit Grimaldi's Pizza for a legendary brick-oven pie. Keep in mind the line does get long, but it will be worth the wait. You can also explore Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Nestled on the shores of the East River lies the 85-acre Brooklyn Bridge Park, an appealing place to relax and enjoy views of the bustling New York harbor, Statue of Liberty, and both the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges.

The park features a 1920s restored carousel, playgrounds, piers, and lawns for picnicking. Visitors can enjoy events like outdoor movies, concerts, fitness classes, rowing, kayaking, and more. Other amenities include basketball courts, an in-line skating rink, and a small beach for non-motorized boat launch. A seasonal ferry brings folks from the park to Governors Island.

The park is a buzzing hot spot, especially in the warmer months thanks to its slew of outdoor cafes and restaurants, plus its high-end and boutique shopping. Grab a coffee at Kaigo Coffee Room or a delectable ice cream cone at Oddfellows Ice Cream Co and sit on one of the grassy knolls overlooking the Manhattan skyline.

Speaking of the Manhattan skyline, some of the very best views of Manhattan can be spotted from Brooklyn Heights along its beautifully manicured promenade.

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is an outdoor walkway that overlooks Downtown Manhattan , the East River, and the Brooklyn Bridge. You'll also find some of the oldest mansions and architecture along the promenade in one of the most historic neighborhoods of Brooklyn.

The pedestrian walkway is lined with benches and lovely flowerbeds, making it a popular spot to sit and people-watch. But it's also one of Brooklyn Heights' favorite places for exercise. Runners, rollerbladers, and cyclists love to pound the pavement here.

Not far from the promenade are some of Brooklyn's best restaurants and boutiques. Near Brooklyn Bridge Park are a wide variety of dining options, as well as rooftop terraces from which to drink in the views.

Get lost in nature as you wander through carefully tended gardens at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden , situated next to Prospect Park on 52 acres. You'll find peaceful gardens like the Cherry Esplanade, Fragrance Garden, Herb Garden, Magnolia Plaza, Cranford Rose Garden, Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, Shakespeare Garden, and the new Woodland Garden, among others.

Even during winter, take comfort in the warmth of the greenhouses with lush tropical flora and desert cacti. Don't miss the Sakura Matsuri Festival in the spring, which attracts thousands of locals and visitors to the blooming Cherry Esplanade.

Address: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, New York

Admire masterpieces by Cézanne, Monet, Bierstadt, Rothko, and other renowned artists in this gorgeous space near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Prospect Park. The prestigious Brooklyn Museum houses a massive collection of Egyptian antiquities, along with African, European, Japanese, Oceanic, and American art, with the goal of helping people understand the world better. It's especially known for presenting the feminist piece by Judy Chicago, The Dinner Party.

The Brooklyn Museum houses nearly 1.5 million works in a 560,000-square-foot space. Even though it's the third largest museum in the city, it sees a lot fewer visitors than Manhattan's world-famous art museums, giving you a chance to take in famous pieces without many others around.

For over 21 years, the museum has hosted a First Saturday program, with free programming for visitors each month. Programming includes art classes, music and dance performances, art workshops, and gallery talks, as well as musical performances and film screenings.

Address: 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, New York

In the late 19th century, Green-Wood Cemetery competed with Niagara Falls in terms of visitor numbers. With dramatic Gothic arches at the entrance, and bucolic, rolling landscape spread across 478 acres, New York City's first rural burial ground was the preferred final resting place for many wealthy New Yorkers.

Today, the site still attracts those drawn to the countryside setting and the secrets it holds. Green-Wood is on the Civil War Discovery Trail, where you will see monuments to the fallen soldiers, from both sides.

The cemetery is also a bird-lover's paradise. A colony of blue-green monk parakeets nests in the spires of the arches, and the ponds within are teeming with herons, egrets, sandpipers, geese, and ducks. The cemetery is part of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System and offers birding walks.

Pay homage to one of the oldest public transit systems in the country at the New York Transit Museum in Downtown Brooklyn. Housed in a decommissioned train station, the museum showcases vintage subway cars and buses from the early 1900s.

Learn about the history of mass transit in the metropolis since 1976 through memorabilia, reconstructed subway platforms, and long-term and rotating exhibits. Attend an educational program with kids and stop by the gift shop for a souvenir to remember your experience.

During the holidays, the Holiday Nostalgia Rides give you a chance to ride in a 1930s R1-9 train car on Sundays between Thanksgiving and New Year's.

Address: 99 Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn, New York

Beginning at the Grand Army Plaza's Triumphal Arch and encircled by the neighborhoods of Park Slope, Crown Heights, and Windsor Terrace, 526-acre Prospect Park is a happening gathering place for local residents. You can see them using the paths for running, biking, dog-walking, exploring the Ravine forest, and picnicking on the Long Meadow and Nethermead.

The bucolic park, with its intricate man-made wetlands and trees, is designed by the same architects behind New York's Central Park : Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. It includes similar attractions such as a boathouse, zoo, lake, sporting fields, ice rink, carousel, band shell, and an array of playing fields and recreational activities.

Prospect Park also boasts the first urban Audubon Center, run in partnership between Audubon New York and the Prospect Park Alliance. On Sundays near the Breeze Hill entrance, a Smorgasburg Prospect Park food festival serves a range of cuisines from local restaurants from April to October.

One of the hottest neighborhoods in the country continues to be Brooklyn's own Williamsburg. Once a neighborhood marked only by warehouses and factories, today it is one of the hottest real estate markets in the world.

Development over the past decade has brought glitzy high-rise condos, incredible restaurants, museums, concert venues, a sleek waterfront promenade, art galleries, festivals , and amazing hotels. Today Williamsburg may even be considered a standalone destination within the city of New York.

Hop on the ferry or ride the L train to Bedford Avenue to begin exploring one of the most vibrant and dynamic neighborhoods in the world.

Holiday time in New York City is one of the most special times to be in the five boroughs. While Manhattan's Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center get the lion's share of the holiday cheer tourism, Brooklyn's Dyker Heights neighborhood is legendary for its vibrant festive spirit .

The neighborhood in Brooklyn comes alive during the month of December with historic houses and mansions that are dripping head-to-toe in Christmas lights, Santa displays, sleighs, and snowmen. Some homes even set up speakers to fill the streets with holiday music.

The best times to see the Christmas lights are between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, between sunset and 9pm. The area best known for the lights is between 11th and 13th Avenues and 83rd to 86th streets.

You can get to Dyker Heights by taking the D train to 79th Street and New Utrecht Avenue. You can also tour the lights via a bus tour like this New York Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour.

Coney Island is a popular summer destination at the southern tip of Brooklyn. Known for its carnival rides and great eats from Totonno's and Nathan's Famous, this sandy playground is just a subway ride away from Manhattan.

Allocate an entire day to make the most of your time at this buzzing attraction, which features minor league baseball at MCU Park, an aquarium, an amphitheater, and thrilling roller coasters at Luna Park amusement park.

Of course, don't forget to enjoy the beach, that is if you can find yourself a spot. Coney Island in recent years has been the location for the annual Mermaid Parade, attracting costumed fans from all boroughs to take part in a lively celebration of the water nymphs.

Glimpse into the future of America's pastime at MCU Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones. This Class A Short Season Mets Affiliate is sure to delight fans of all ages. Bring your friends and family for a fun minor-league baseball game.

Enjoy special promotions like Kids Eat Free Monday, Everyone Runs the Bases, and the hilarious Tribute to Seinfeld Night. Savor top-notch refreshments, including Nathan's Famous from the comfort of your box seats or luxury suite.

MCU Park is conveniently located adjacent to the Boardwalk and Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue Station.

Home to the Brooklyn Nets of the NBA, the Barclays Center takes center stage in downtown Brooklyn. Opened in 2012, this multi-purpose indoor arena is also used for New York Islanders hockey games and a number of concerts and comedy shows.

The venue can accommodate up to 19,000 attendees and is conveniently located close to the Long Island Railroad and multiple subway lines at the Atlantic Terminal transportation hub. As you take the stairs up from the underground railroad, you can't help but admire the venue's standout exterior, made up of 12,000 weathered steel panels, representative of the brownstone blocks that surround it.

Address: 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, New York

If you are into antiques, vintage clothing, furniture, and people-watching, the Brooklyn Flea is a must-visit. This seasonal market, taking place on the second-level patio of the Williamsburg Hotel on Saturdays and under the Manhattan Bridge at Pearl Plaza in Dumbo on Sundays, brims with vendors selling wares, collectibles, jewelry, clothing, food, and more.

Even if you can't bring anything on the plane back with you, the sheer joy of browsing through hundreds of interesting items at one of the greatest markets on the planet makes the trip to the Brooklyn Flea worth it.

The trendy hipster neighborhood of Williamsburg and the shopping and dining on Bedford Avenue, are big draws, but the Smorgasburg Food Market in East River State Park is something one has to check out on a visit to Brooklyn, especially if you are already spending your day at the nearby flea market at the Williamsburg Hotel.

The open-air market, organized in collaboration with the Brooklyn Flea Market and the New York Greenmarket, is the largest weekly food market in the country, attracting 20,000 to 30,000 people each weekend, most of them local to the area.

If you find yourself in Brooklyn on a Saturday between April and November, head to the Williamsburg Smorgasburg to savor delicious (and cheap) food from a wide selection of vendors, mingle with New Yorkers, and enjoy views of the city skyline.

A recent addition to the food market scene in Brooklyn is catching up to the others with a year-round, indoor venue boasting diverse food vendors, like A Taste of Katz's deli, Arepa Lady, Paella Shack, Chicks Isan, Ample Hills ice creamery, Cuzin's Dozen (selling mouth-watering mini donuts), and more.

Also within the DeKalb Market Hall that opened in 2017, you'll find a Trader Joe's and Han Dynasty restaurant, and a never-boring scene of residents and tourists mingling over delicious food. The market is located in the lower level of City Point, near Fort Greene Park and several subway lines at the Atlantic Terminal.

BAM Harvey Theater , is a cultural space putting on films, plays, and opera. Built in 1904 as the Majestic Theater, the impressive stage hosted musicals, vaudeville, and plays that went on to Broadway.

In the 40s, the building served as an elegant European-style movie house, until the advent of television, and closed in the 60s. It resurrected again as a prominent cultural center in the late 80s, as part of the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), while still maintaining its original architectural elements. Visitors can choose from multiple shows daily.

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) is a not-for-profit corporation, inhabiting three mixed-used venues, including the Peter Jay Sharp Beaux Arts-style building (housing Howard Gilman Opera House and BAM Rose Cinemas), the BAM Harvey Theater, and the BAM Fisher. Those looking for dinner and a show can visit the BAMCafé, a restaurant hosting live music and readings, in the Peter Jay Sharp building.

All these buildings, situated near Downtown Brooklyn and Barclay's Center, make up the cultural mecca of Brooklyn, putting on the annual world-renowned Next Wave Festival , featuring avant-garde cultural shows in the fall.

It may come as a surprise to many, but New York City has the largest rooftop soil farm in the world, growing more than 50,000 pounds of organic produce each year. Brooklyn Grange , located at the historic Brooklyn Navy Yard, is a 5.6-acre farm serving local restaurants and markets.

The Grange company has two other rooftop urban farms in Brooklyn and Long Island City, Queens. Visitors can learn about organic farming, beekeeping, floral design, and mushroom cultivation, among other farm-centric activities. Or go on a tour of the farm and enjoy views of the green space overlooking the city skyline.

Address: 63 Flushing Ave., Building 3, Roof, Brooklyn, New York

New York is famous for its street art, graffiti, and murals. The building walls across the five boroughs are often used as blank canvases for local and rising artists to express themselves in bold designs. In Brooklyn's Bushwick neighborhood, the Bushwick Collective represents some of the very best street art in the city, and visitors can make either a DIY walking tour, or sign up for a local one, to see what's on display.

The open-air gallery is curated by Bushwick native Joe Ficalora, and brings artists from all around the world. What started in 2012 has quickly evolved to become one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

To find it, take the L train to Jefferson Street. Most of the murals are along Troutman Street between Irving and Cyprus Avenues.

South Brooklyn is full of deep pockets of untapped Brooklyn secrets. Brighton Beach is one of them. Once home to mostly Russian immigrants, the beachfront neighborhood has blossomed into an international community, as well as a destination for locals and visitors to hit the beautiful beach.

Yes, a beach! Brighton Beach is named for the lovely, wide beach on which it sits. Today the beach has hotels and restaurants – the majority of which are Georgian, Uzbek, and Turkish, earning the neighborhood the nickname, "Little Odessa." Brighton Beach was named for the English seaside resort town. During the summer months, the boardwalk is always bustling with activity, and the sand is usually packed with sunbathers who come down from their apartment buildings to enjoy the biggest asset of their neighborhood.

Luxury Hotels:

• The Williamsburg Hotel in the hip neighborhood by the same name is a stylish luxury boutique property with a retro-modern ambience throughout. The rooms have amenities like white noise machines, pillow menus, and Bluetooth speakers. Many also have balconies with Manhattan skyline views. The property is pet-friendly and has an all day restaurant that also serves high tea on the weekends. Also don't miss the rooftop pool with fabulous views.
• Another modern luxe option in Williamsburg is The William Vale . This trendy, pet-friendly hotel boasts elevated green spaces for guests and a rooftop swimming pool with city skyline views. There are also three distinct restaurants, including one serving burgers out of a 1974 Airstream trailer. The rooms and suites come with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies.
• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is located right on the East River waterfront on Brooklyn Bridge Park near the bridge itself. The 10-story building has almost 200 rooms and suites that are done up in modern design with lots of wood accents. Amenities at this family- and dog-friendly property include a swimming pool, a lounge serving light bites and awesome NYC skyline views, and a 24-hour fitness center.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• One of the best mid-range choices is Franklin Guesthouse . It features well-appointed rooms and suites with lots of light, and modern art on the walls. Some of the suites come with full kitchens and sitting areas. Amenities include an on-site sauna, workout room, and self service laundry facilities. Bike rentals are also available.
• At the corner of North Henry Street and Norman Avenue, the Henry Norman Hotel is a boutique 3-star option in a converted 19th-century warehouse. The 52 rooms and suites have a trendy vibe with modern art on the walls and hardwood floors. Guests can hang out on the rooftop terrace, work out in the fitness center, or sweat in the on-site sauna.
• Hotel Le Jolie is another good-value choice. The boutique property in the Williamsburg neighborhood features modern rooms with dark wood accents, blackout curtains, and work desks. A free breakfast is offered, and there is free parking and a 24-hour front desk.

Budget Hotels :

• If you just need a bed and a bathroom in a tiny but tidy space, then check out the budget-friendly Pod Brooklyn . In a central Williamsburg location with easy access to everything, the rooms have just enough space for sleeping, but they do have private bathrooms and are soundproofed. Amenities include bike rental, a workout room, and 24-hour check in.
• For a more traditional sized hotel room that is still affordable, check out La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Brooklyn Downtown . Located about five blocks from a subway station with access to Manhattan, the hotel is pet friendly and also offers a free breakfast.

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21 Top Things to Do in Brooklyn

Walk across the iconic bridge to explore one of New York City's most famous boroughs.

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Stroll along an iconic bridge, ride a famous carousel, enjoy a delicious slice of pizza and more in the vibrant city of Brooklyn, New York.

Once an independent city and now the most populous of the five boroughs of New York City , Brooklyn boasts enough exciting things to see and do to last a lifetime, let alone a short visit. This epicenter of groundbreaking music, art and cultural centers is overflowing with history and creativity on every block. Immigrants have called Brooklyn home for generations, and the borough remains a multicultural utopia – 1 in 4 Brooklyn residents identify as Jewish, for example. With so much diversity here, Brooklyn has near-endless options for dining, drinking and shopping; its business owners represent nations across the globe. Particularly ingrained in the local culture and a must-try for visitors are Brooklyn's bagels and pizza, brought over by European immigrants.

Brooklyn contains distinct neighborhoods, tons of public parks and strong environmental programs alongside its flea markets and cozy coffee shops. Visitors to the borough can also find plenty of free things to do, including live concerts, unexpected nights out and distractions for kids such as Coney Island. Though residents may keep relatively tight-lipped about their favorite haunts (lest they become too popular), you'll find your own "secret" spot in no time. Use this list of top things to do in Brooklyn as a framework for exploration but don't be afraid to read – and sightsee – between the lines.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Coney Island

If you start on Manhattan's Upper East Side and ride the Q train to the end, you'll arrive in the peninsular neighborhood of Coney Island . This entertainment area is historic, just like the century-old subway line you can take to get there. At the turn of the 20th century, Coney Island saw its heyday as an amusement park destination , dazzling visitors with electric lights, roller coasters and sideshow peculiarities. Following years of economic troubles spurred by the Great Depression, Coney Island is once again an iconic Brooklyn attraction, teeming with eateries and entertainment year-round.

Its annual Mermaid Parade in June is a head-turning event celebrating art and maritime whimsy, while the world-famous hot dog-eating contest – a tradition hosted by Nathan's that is now more than a century old – takes place each Fourth of July. But most well-known is Luna Park, home of iconic boardwalk arcade games, the fan-favorite Cyclone coaster and the Wonder Wheel, a Ferris wheel so famous there's even a film of the same name starring Kate Winslet. During the summer months, catch a Brooklyn Cyclones (Minor League Baseball High-A affiliate of the New York Mets) game at Maomonides Park, or in the offseason, check out Coney Island for its ice skating.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Putting foot to pavement and traversing the borough's most famous bridge is a journey for anyone who wants to say they've truly seen Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Bridge, built in 1883, connects Brooklyn to Manhattan across the East River and is one of the country's oldest suspension bridges; its upper level is for pedestrians only. Beginning your jaunt in Brooklyn affords incredible views of Manhattan's skyline; you can find the Brooklyn Bridge Walkway starting point by heading to the intersection of Tillary Street and Boerum Place downtown.

Join the millions who have completed the crossing, including presidents, celebrities, dignitaries and even 21 elephants (P.T. Barnum used the stunt in 1884 to prove the safety of the bridge). Expect to spend up to an hour heading one direction, with time built in for breaks and photo stops along the walk. The bridge runs about a mile each way, but including pedestrian entrances, it's more like 1.6 miles. You'll want to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable walking shoes and know it will be windy with very little sun cover.

Prospect Park

Bordering the moneyed Park Slope neighborhood is Prospect Park, Brooklyn's version of Central Park – it was designed by the architects behind that iconic Manhattan park. Within its more than 500 acres you'll find the Prospect Park Zoo, a carousel, an ice rink and an open-air band shell that hosts the popular – and often free – Celebrate Brooklyn! summer concert series. Human-made wetlands and a chunk of indigenous forest make a fitting place for the nation's first urban Audubon Center, which offers environmental educational resources to the public. The Boathouse, built in 1905, is a romantic venue in Prospect Park and one of the first buildings in the city to be declared a historical landmark. The park is dog-friendly, with select off-leash hours and locations, so your four-legged companion can accompany you. Rent a pedal boat, go for a bike ride – visitors can even ride a horse here, so there's no shortage of things to do in Prospect Park.

Stroll the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Part of Brooklyn's first Historic Preservation District, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade runs along the East River past some of the borough's historic town houses and mansions, boasting stunning views of Manhattan. Also known as the Esplanade, this pedestrian walkway is about a third of a mile in length and cantilevered over the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood. Visitors call it a green oasis with a relaxed atmosphere, and some applaud restrictions on bicycles that make it truly a pedestrian haven. People-watch on a bench or simply view the sun sinking behind lower Manhattan. You can stand where Cher stood in the film "Moonstruck," or find the plaque along the promenade that supposedly marks where George Washington met with his generals during the 1776 Battle of Brooklyn (also called the Battle of Long Island), the Revolutionary War's biggest battle. The promenade is one of the many free things to do around Brooklyn.

Bushwick Collective

Museums are fantastic places to find art, but sometimes the best gallery is on the street. The Bushwick Collective is a mecca for street art and graffiti, located in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn off Flushing Avenue. There are nearly 100 blocks featuring art by local and international artists, so it's possible to spend a full day here; you'll find some of the best art on Troutman Street and St. Nicholas Avenue. A pay-what-you-wish tour of the outdoor art space is hosted by Free Tours on Foot. Travelers who explore the Bushwick Collective say it's a quirky and immersive experience that is well worth the detour. The Bushwick area features plenty of chic bars and restaurants, so stick around after your experience at the Collective to sample its culinary offerings, such as the beloved pizza at Roberta's.

Domino Park

This waterfront park just north of the Williamsburg Bridge gets its name from the Domino Sugar Refinery development it's located within – the site of a once-operational sugar refinery. The 6-acre green space opened in 2018 and there are nods to its industrial past throughout, including the turquoise shipping cranes that once helped unload the sugar from cargo ships and the elevated Artifact Walk, which runs five city blocks with great views of the Manhattan skyline. A factory-inspired playground offers entertainment for youngsters in the park, and water features will help kids cool down on hot summer days in the city. You'll also find bocce and volleyball courts, along with a dog run and a gourmet taco stand.

Ride Jane's Carousel

Jane's Carousel, a wooden structure built in 1922 and originally installed in Ohio, now resides in the Empire Fulton Ferry section of Brooklyn Bridge Park, located in the popular neighborhood of Dumbo (an acronym that stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge). The 48 horses and both chariots were carved by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Riders note that Jane's Carousel has been beautifully restored and is a nostalgic way to take a spin with riverfront views. Enjoy this low-cost, antique carousel in its glass pavilion before checking out the rest of what Empire Fulton Ferry has to offer: You can pack a picnic, explore a Civil War-era building that's now a mall or catch a show at St. Ann's Warehouse.

Wander the historic neighborhoods of BoCoCa

The portmanteau "BoCoCa" never really caught on among New Yorkers, but the area around Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens that the term describes is well worth a visit no matter what you call it. These three tree-lined neighborhoods are an ideal way to spend a morning with a coffee in hand, strolling their enchanting streets and exploring local shops and eateries. Warren Place Mews, a block in Cobble Hill, is an especially historic and unexpected development: Built as affordable housing for local workers in the 19th century, Warren Place now comprises multimillion-dollar homes with Gothic-style architecture. With many less than 12 feet across, these cottages are narrow but highly coveted real estate. They are private property, so respect the privacy of the homeowners, but a peek at this preserved Brooklyn history is worth a trip.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The massive botanical gardens of Brooklyn have three public entrances and an herbarium with 300,000 specimens of preserved plants for research. The major draw, of course, is the living flora; no matter the season there are always plenty of plants to discover in the gardens. Spring draws crowds when the Brooklyn Botanic Garden's cherry blossom trees are in bloom, but there is much more to discover year-round, from the sweetly scented Fragrance Garden to the serene Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. The grounds also house art collections, conservatories and interactive family-friendly programming. Gardengoers advise putting aside a few hours to explore the spacious grounds, though guided tours may be available with the price of admission on select days.

Each year the Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts featured exhibitions such as "For the Birds," a program series that explores the avian connection to plants. Inspired by the birds of Brooklyn, artists created site-specific birdhouses that you can visit around the gardens among other programming.

Carb-load with bagels and pizza

New Yorkers take their carbs very seriously – pizza and bagels above all. When in Brooklyn, you'll likely want to sample both to see what all the fuss is about. Try out Bagel Pub or drop by La Bagel Delight (both shops have various beloved Brooklyn locations) for a fresh and delicious ring of dough. Pizza, meanwhile, is the holy grail of NYC cuisine. If you're visiting Brooklyn you may consider braving the line outside to snag a table at Grimaldi's, a chain whose flagship restaurant sits under the Brooklyn Bridge. A true Brooklyn classic since 1939 is L&B Spumoni Gardens, specializing in Sicilian-style pies; its original location is in the Bensonhurst neighborhood. Diners say it might be slightly off the beaten path, but the square slices can't be beat, and even if the lines look long, they move quickly. For something a bit more modern, go for the namesake slice at Artichoke Basille's Pizza, with three franchises in Brooklyn (and some at the JFK and LaGuardia airports too, for that last-ditch craving).

The Brooklyn Academy of Music and BAMcafé Live

Home to emerging artists and masters for 150 years and counting, the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) is a multi-arts institution for creators and audiences. The center hosts a variety of events including theater, opera, dance and music performances.

In the spring and fall, BAM hosts an energetic lineup of free live music acts under the moniker "BAMcafé Live." The series is hosted in the Adam Space, a bar and lounge within the Peter Jay Sharp building, which has been a venue for diverse and emerging artists since 1999. Discover new artists performing genres from jazz and world to R&B, in addition to established performers like TV on the Radio's Kyp Malone. After a two-year hiatus, the concert series welcomed the 2022 season from February to June. Its next season is set to begin in fall 2022.

Look for announcements and updates about upcoming seasons, and sign up for the email newsletter to stay informed about these well-attended shows. Beyond BAMcafé Live, be on the lookout for indie movie festivals, opera or dance performances and other emergent art at BAM.

The Brooklyn Museum

Jonathan Dorado | Courtesy of Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum features no shortage of variety in its collections and exhibitions. Its displays represent an array of cultures across the globe; the museum's American offerings include feminist art, African American works that tackle abolitionism and racial identity, and Lenape pieces that center Brooklyn's Indigenous inhabitants. As one of the largest art museums in the United States, the Brooklyn Museum has five floors filled with myriad types of medium – from textiles and wooden masks to modern photography and found objects. If what's on display isn't enough to sate your visual hunger, the permanent Visible Storage installation is perhaps one of the most intriguing features here, as it gives a glimpse into the inner workings of the museum: On the fifth floor, patrons can see about 2,000 "stored" works of American art – a fraction of the thousands in storage – including Tiffany glass and Native American objects.

Museumgoers appreciate both the permanent and special exhibits, saying they're worth the cost of admission. Tickets are currently on a timed entry and advance purchase is highly recommended. If you plan your visit just right, the museum hosts free evening programming called First Saturdays once each month (but you must register beforehand). If you're hoping to visit the Brooklyn Museum and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden on your trip, these two attractions offer Museum & Garden combo tickets that grant access to both.

Play shuffleboard at the Royal Palms

Courtesy of Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

Rethink shuffleboard as a game for Floridian retirees and consider it for one of the best nights out in Brooklyn, according to those who have played at The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in the Gowanus area. Flanked by cocktails (don't miss the pina colada) and a rotating lineup of food trucks that might offer Moroccan cuisine or Italian sandwiches, the 10 shuffleboard courts stand at the ready. Pucks and poles – known as "biscuits" and "tangs" in the lingo – are rented out by the hour, and players recommend only starting once you have your drinks in hand as the time goes quickly. The 17,000-square-foot game hall accommodates shuffle regulars and newbies alike, with a staff on hand to give tips as needed. The shuffleboard court welcomes anyone 21 and older on a walk-in basis; reservations are not required.

Green-Wood Cemetery

Cemeteries are peaceful places full of history; from France to New Orleans, living visitors walk among the dead as a pastime. Green-Wood Cemetery, adjacent to the Greenwood Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn, has served as a tourist attraction since the mid-1800s. Today the cemetery welcomes respectful visitors to its nearly 500 acres, which apart from graves also feature art installations (even an artist in residence), an arboretum and opportunities for birding in the middle of the city. Founded in 1838 as one of the country's first rural cemeteries, Green-Wood is now the final resting place of more than half a million individuals.

Download a map for a self-guided walk, or use an app intended to help visitors explore the art, nature and history of Green-Wood. You may be able locate the graves of some of the more famous permanent residents here, such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Louis Comfort Tiffany and Leonard Bernstein. Tours of Green-Wood Cemetery aren't limited to walking; informative trolley tours cover a lot of ground and can be booked with expert guides who are on hand to answer all of your questions.

Industry City

Courtesy of Industry City

A makers' paradise has taken shape at Brooklyn's Sunset Park near the Barclays Center. Industry City, a massive complex spread across 16 buildings and plenty of green space, houses a community of collaborators in its studio space, office space and kitchens – walk-ins certainly reap the rewards. A visit to Industry City can provide groceries, artisanal drinks and plates, and some of the most authentic souvenirs you'll find throughout the boroughs. There's even a Morbid Anatomy Library and Gift Shop with hundreds of unique books and artifacts.

A couple dozen culinary vendors specialize in everything from avocados to Korean comfort food and a Mediterranean grocer. Beverages are equally exalted with a courtyard devoted to brewing and distilling, which includes New York's first sake brewery. Shopping takes you across the globe to examine fine Moroccan textiles or Japanese toys. The Makers Guild means you might be able to meet the maker behind the item you're purchasing, from soaps to shirts. Those who have wandered in remark that it's a one-stop destination to spend a fun night with friends or the family.

New York Transit Museum

Housed in a former subway station, the New York Transit Museum sits about a mile from Fort Greene Park. Recent patrons call it a must for anyone interested in the history of New York's subways and labyrinthine transportation system. As the largest museum in the country devoted to urban public transportation history, the museum includes artifacts like restored former train cars and photographs from the inception of the city's rail system. If you're visiting in the summer, the seasonal "Nostalgia Rides" give the public access to the trains New Yorkers rode on a century ago. Be on the lookout for other events and programming that may coincide with your museum visit. The museum is located down two flights of stairs, but an accessible entrance is located at the corner of Schermerhorn and Court streets.

House of Yes

The House of Yes has been open for several years in its current iteration and has firmly established its place on the scene as one of Brooklyn's top nightclubs and performance spaces for New York's underground arts community. The House of Yes was born in Brooklyn in 2007 as a creative live-work space; followers may find pop-ups throughout the country – or even in London – but its home base is still in Brooklyn. The venue today is situated in the Bushwick neighborhood. Check out burlesque-style shows, themed dance parties, drag competitions and more on the club's events calendar. The House of Yes is an inclusive space that features LGBTQ artists and dancers and regularly hosts queer nights. Clubgoers say the space is eclectic and ideal for those looking to put their inhibitions aside – but be prepared for pricy drinks and even pricier bottle service.

Brooklyn Children's Museum

Winston Williams | Courtesy of Brooklyn Children's Museum

Much of Brooklyn may feel like it's designed for young adults and an older crowd, but there are spaces in the city dedicated to children, and one of the best is the Brooklyn Children's Museum. Sensory stimulation and tactile play are all part of the experience here. Littles can play and climb on a rooftop structure called The NEST (made from local reclaimed water tower cedar), or play make-believe at pint-sized versions of real businesses called World Brooklyn. The ColorLab studio lets artists of all ages explore their creativity through workshops on print-making, collage, sculpture and more; its programming is inspired by Black artists, with a different muse chosen each month. Recent visitors appreciate the diversity on display in this museum and note that it's geared toward younger kids. The museum recommends purchasing tickets in advance, particularly since it's a cashless facility.

Rummage through the Brooklyn Flea

Courtesy of Brooklyn Flea

New York City has some of the best thrift shops and record shops in the world. Go on your own treasure hunt at the Brooklyn Flea, held on weekends between April and December at Pearl Plaza in Dumbo. More than 40 vendors sell everything from tchotchkes to period furniture to the aforementioned records and vintage clothes. Since rummaging works up an appetite, this flea market began an affiliated food market called Smorgasburg, which features the best of Brooklyn's food scene with about 100 vendors; find it Saturdays in Williamsburg and Sundays in Prospect Park's Breeze Hill from April through October.

Another player in Brooklyn's long history of upcycling is Big Reuse, a facility that sells, repurposes and even composts. Its store, located on 12th Street in Gowanus (about 3 miles south of the Brooklyn Flea), offers true hidden gems that could include signed artwork, collectibles and antique furniture at a bargain.

Take a hip-hop bus tour

Brooklyn's in the house – and it would be nearly impossible to appreciate the borough fully without acknowledging its role in hip-hop history. Brooklyn has produced the likes of Jay-Z, the Notorious B.I.G., Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Lil' Kim – the list goes on. Hush Tours offers cultural hip-hop tours of Brooklyn as well as Harlem and Queens. Take a bus tour or walking tour of Brooklyn with some of the local legends who have contributed to the genre from this state-certified Minority and/or Women-owned Business Enterprise. Reviews rave about the passionate, energetic and engaging tour guides, saying you don't have to be a fan of rap music to appreciate hip-hop culture and the place that helped shape it. See the murals, landmarks and venues that have influenced generations of hip-hop artists; you might even land on Biggie Smalls' former doorstep.

Witness the lights of Dyker Heights

Everyone has their favorite season in New York – and you should really experience them all – but East Coast winter blues are expelled annually by citywide holiday cheer. In Brooklyn, that cheer is concentrated into the blinding beacon of the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. Amid the rich diversity in this borough you'll find holiday displays ranging from a house lit up in blue for Hanukkah to one that spells out "Merry Christmas" in Greek. What started in the 1980s as a friendly competition among neighbors has become a tradition for many families – the ones who decorate and the ones who simply visit. Decorating budgets grow with each year, with some professional installations estimated to cost $20,000 or more. Some websites have organized maps of each year's must-see lights displays; repeat visitors advise keeping to 11th through 13th avenues (also called Dyker Heights Boulevard) between 83rd and 86th streets. Out-of-towners say it's one of the most festive displays they've ever seen. Wait until mid-December to get the most out of your stroll, and be sure to go before 9 p.m. when some homeowners head to bed and unplug to save on their electric bills. Take care, though, not to trespass on any private property or disrupt the displays.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top New York City Tours
• The Top Observation Decks in New York City
• The Top Things to Do in Long Island
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New York
• The Top Weekend Getaways from New York City

Tags: Travel , New York Vacations , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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26 Amazing Things To Do in Brooklyn (+ Map)

Author --> March 6, 2024

Whether you like art, music, nature, sports, or something else, there are a lot of incredible things to do in Brooklyn .

If you’re going on a trip to New York City, you shouldn’t miss out on Brooklyn. With its great museums, theaters, music venues, and more, there’s always something to do. From learning about transportation to having a drink with a view to seeing art, there’s something for everyone’s liking.

I made this guide to help you decide what to do in Brooklyn. In this guide, I included a large variety of fun activities, including must-see sights, tours, museums, and more.

Best Things To Do in Brooklyn

See art from around the world at the brooklyn museum.

The Brooklyn Museum is Brooklyn’s largest museum and one of the best museums in New York City . The museum was founded in 1898 and has a large collection of more than 500,000 objects.

The collection of the museum includes lots of different works of art from all across the world and from a period of more than 3,000 years. Whether you want to see modern American art, art from ancient Egypt, Japanese art, or other types of art, you can find it at this museum.

In addition to seeing the museum’s permanent collection, you can also attend a temporary exhibition at the museum.

You can also attend all kinds of events at the museum. For example, there are film screenings, workshops, and lots of other types of events.

Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Do a Tour of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a beautiful botanical garden with an area of 52 acres that is home to thousands of species of plants that can be found in various specialty gardens.

Each garden at the botanic garden focuses on a specific type of plant. For example, there is a garden with plants that are native to the New York metropolitan area.

You can find the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Prospect Park, next to the Brooklyn Museum.

Besides seeing the nature of the garden, you can also attend an event at the garden. Lots of different events take place here, including workshops during which you can learn about nature, tours during which you can see the highlights of the garden, events for families, and many other types of events.

When visiting the garden, a great tour to do is the “Seasonal Highlights Tour”. During this tour, which takes place many times throughout the year, a guide can show you what’s in bloom during the current season and provide you with interesting information. These tours are free with admission to the garden.

Because the Seasonal Highlights Tour focuses on the highlights of the current season, each tour during the year is different.

Go to a Concert at the Brooklyn Academy of Music

The Brooklyn Academy of Music , which was founded in 1859, is an arts center with several venues. At the different venues, you can see opera shows, listen to live music, enjoy theater performances, see film screenings, and attend a variety of other types of shows. This is great if you’re looking for things to do at night in Brooklyn .

One of the buildings that is part of BAM is the Peter Jay Sharp Building, which is a building in the Renaissance revival style that was built at the start of the 20th century. Here, you can see opera shows and movies.

The BAM Strong is another building that is part of the Brooklyn Academy of Music. It houses the BAM Harvey Theater.

Another building is the BAM Fisher Building.

Address: 30 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Visit the New York Aquarium

Founded in 1896, the New York Aquarium is the oldest aquarium in America that is still operating. You can find the aquarium in Brooklyn’s Coney Island and going there to see and learn about marine animals is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn.

The aquarium houses close to 300 different species of wildlife.

Some of the animals that you can find at the aquarium are sharks, sea turtles, rays, harbor seals, and penguins.

The animals are spread over various exhibits. For example, there is one exhibit where you can find “spineless” animals, such as the Pacific octopus.

You can also do various experiences at the New York Aquarium. For example, you can go to the 4-D Theater to see a 3D film with sensory effects, and you can also see various interactive shows.

Address: 602 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

See a Movie at Nitehawk Cinema

Nitehawk is a dine-in movie theater with two locations in Brooklyn. There is one location in Williamsburg and one in Prospect Park.

At this place, you can see the latest blockbusters, classics, shorts, and other types of movies.

You can enjoy great food and drinks while seeing a movie here. This is also fun if you’re looking for date ideas in New York City . You can order from your seat, and enjoy the food during the movie. The food menu of Nitehawk Cinema includes lots of different options, including burgers, salads, and much more.

On Saturdays and Sundays, you can also get great food from the brunch menu.

The drink menu of Nitehawk Cinema includes lots of different options, including a list of different craft beers.

Also, there are special menu items that pair with the movies that play here.

Address: 188 Prospect Park W, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Learn About Transportation at the New York Transit Museum

At the New York Transit Museum , which you can find at 99 Schermerhorn Street inside a former subway station, you can learn about the diverse ways of transportation in the New York City area.

You can find lots of memorability and other objects related to the city’s trains, buses, tunnels, roads, and more.

Some of the objects at the museum are very large. For example, there are old subway cars that you can enter and see from the inside.

Sometimes, it is also possible to do “nostalgia rides” at the New York Transit Museum. During these, you can ride one of the vintage railcars to a special location in New York City.

In addition to that, there are temporary exhibitions at the museum as well that focus on a very specific part of the city’s transportation.

Going to the New York Transit Museum is also one of the best things to do with kids in Brooklyn .

Address: 99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Have a Picnic at Domino Park

Domino Park is a beautiful park that is located in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg. You can find the park next to the Williamsburg Bridge, next to the East River.

It’s one of the best picnic spots in New York City and having a picnic there is a fun activity in Brooklyn. The park has large lawns where you can have a picnic or where you can go for a walk while enjoying a view of the East River, the Williamsburg Bridge, and the skyline of Manhattan.

You can also sit on one of the benches at the park and relax.

Domino Park is situated at the site of the former Domino Sugar Refinery, and you can still see structures of the refinery that was founded in 1856.

Tour the Brooklyn Brewery

The Brooklyn Brewery is a brewery that produces many types of craft beer, including pilsners, lagers, hazy IPAs, and other styles. You can find this place at 79 North 11 Street in the Williamsburg neighborhood, so this is great if you’re looking for things to do in Williamsburg .

At the brewery, you can do two types of tours. There’s one that takes place on weekdays, called the “small-batch tour”, and there’s a free tour that you can do on Sunday.

During both tours, you can learn about the history of beer and the production of beer. You can also taste Brooklyn Brewery’s beer during this tour.

Instead of doing a tour of the brewery, you can also visit the taproom and try one of the brews. There are year-round styles of beer as well as seasonally available styles.

Address: 79 N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Listen to Music and Bowl at Brooklyn Bowl

Brooklyn Bowl is a unique place that you can find in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg. Brooklyn Bowl is a live music venue, bowling alley, and restaurant.

There is a large stage where you can attend concerts of a large variety of genres, including rock music.

In the same space as where you can find the stage, there are modern bowling lanes where you can bowl. Because these lanes are located in the same space, you can enjoy the concert that takes place here while you are bowling.

In addition to that, you can get all kinds of dishes by Blue Ribbon at Brooklyn Bowl. Whether you want a burger, sandwich, salad, wings, or something else, there are many options to choose from, and there’s delicious food for everyone’s liking.

Brooklyn Bowl is also amazing if you’re looking for fun date ideas in Williamsburg .

Address: 61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

See a Game of the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center

The Barclays Center is a modern indoor arena that you can find at 620 Atlantic Avenue, close to the Brooklyn Museum. It’s in Prospect Heights, so this is also great if you are looking for things to do in Prospect Heights . The venue has a capacity of close to 19,000, but this depends on the type of event that takes place here.

The arena opened in 2012 and is a place where you can attend all kinds of events.

The Barclays Center is the home of the Brooklyn Nets, which is a team that competes in the NBA, and the New York Liberty, which is a team that competes in the Women’s National Basketball Association.

In addition to sports events, you can also attend concerts and lots of other events at the venue.

Address: 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Attend a Concert at the Music Hall of Williamsburg

The Music Hall of Williamsburg is one of the best music venues in New York City . It is operated by The Bowery Presents, which is an organization that also operates other live music venues in the city, such as Terminal 5 in Manhattan.

The Music Hall of Williamsburg used to be the Northsix rock club, which was renovated in the year 2007.

The music hall is a standing-room-only venue and has a capacity of 650. Lots of concerts take place at the venue and going to a concert here is a very fun thing to do in Brooklyn. You can listen to many types of genres of live music, such as rock music. Lots of up-and-coming artists perform at the venue.

You can go here on most days of the week to attend a concert.

Address: 66 N 6th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Explore Time Out Market New York

Time Out Market New York is a food hall that you can find in Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighborhood.

You can go here to have lunch or dinner, and there’s a lot of food to choose from, as you can find many different types of eateries at Time Out Market. There are 21 different food concepts in one space.

From tacos to burgers to ramen, you can choose from many different types of dishes.

You can enjoy the food at the tables in the eateries’ shared space, which means that you can go to Time Out Market NYC with others who like other food more and have food at the same time. Going to Time Out Market is also one of the best date ideas in Brooklyn .

A variety of events take place at Time Out Market. For example, there are events with live music and game nights.

When you go here, you can also check out the Roof Top Bar where you can get cocktails and enjoy a panoramic view of the skyline of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Play an Escape Game at Beat The Bomb Brooklyn

Beat The Bomb Brooklyn is a place where you can have a lot of fun with multiple people.

At this place, you can two different types of immersive and challenging games within 1 hour that are very similar to an escape game.

You can choose between two “missions” during which you have to advance through 5 rooms with video games.

Each of these rooms tests a skill and in the final room, you have to disarm a bomb to avoid getting paint or foam on you.

You can choose whether you want to play the “Paint Bomb” or “Foam Bomb” mission.

As playing an escape game here is very fun, this is also amazing if you’re looking for things to do for your birthday in NYC . You can find Beat The Bomb Brooklyn in the Dumbo neighborhood at 255 Water Street.

Address: 255 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park and See Jane’s Carousel

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a large park with a size of 85 acres that is situated next to the East River and on both sides of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Because of the location of the park, when walking here, you can enjoy a great view of the Brooklyn Bridge, the East River, and Manhattan’s skyline.

The park has a lot of walking paths and you can relax on one of the benches or lawns.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is also home to Jane’s Carousel, which is a historic carousel that dates back to the year 1922. It features wooden horses and two wooden carriages, and children can ride the carousel. You can find the carousel inside a glass pavilion to protect it.

Have a Drink With a View at The Water Tower Bar

The Water Tower Bar is a rooftop bar in the Williamsburg neighborhood. The rooftop bar is part of Arlo Williamsburg, which previously was The Williamsburg Hotel. You can find this place at 96 Wythe Avenue.

At the rooftop bar, you can enjoy all kinds of cocktails, other beverages, and food, while getting a view of the East River and the skyline of Manhattan. You can also often listen to live music when you are at the rooftop bar, making it a great thing to do in Brooklyn if you love music.

The rooftop bar has both an indoor and outdoor area. There is an indoor space with large windows where you can enjoy a great view, and there is a large outdoor terrace that is great for when it is sunny outside.

Address: 96 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Enjoy Delicious Food at Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg is an open-air food market that you can go to during the summer months. You can find the open-air market in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood at the Marsha P. Johnson State Park.

At the market, there are more than 75 vendors that serve many types of food, and there is a shared space with picnic tables where you can enjoy the food, making this place similar to a food hall, but outdoors.

Because there are many different types of vendors, there’s much to choose from, and when you go here with multiple people you can all have the food that you want and enjoy it at the same time.

Address: 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Attend a Performance at Kings Theatre

The Kings Theatre is a historic theater that was established in 1929. At that time, it was a Loew’s Theatres movie theater.

The theater closed in 1977 but was renovated in 2015. It is now a venue where a large variety of events takes place, and is one of the best music venues in Brooklyn.

You can go here to enjoy live music during a concert, attend a comedy show, watch a movie, or attend another type of event.

In addition to the great events that take place at Kings Theatre, the design of the theater makes it worth visiting. Kings Theatre has a beautiful interior that features a lot of golden decorations and there are chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

You can also do a tour of the Kings Theatre, during which a guide shows you around the building and tells you about the history and design of Kings Theatre.

Address: 1027 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226

Go to Brooklyn Flea

Brooklyn Flea is the largest flea market in Brooklyn which was founded in 2008. You can find the market in the Dumbo neighborhood, and it is held almost every weekend from April through December.

At the flea market, you can shop for all kinds of items from hundreds of vendors, such as vintage clothing, antiques, and collectibles.

The same company that operates Smorgasburg also operates Brooklyn Flea.

A part of the flea market is located underneath an archway of the Brooklyn Bridge, which is a unique aspect of the marker.

Address: 80 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Visit the Coney Island Museum

The Coney Island Museum is a museum that was established in 1983 and that you can find in Brooklyn’s Coney Island neighborhood.

You can find all kinds of objects related to the former Coney Island amusement park at the museum, and you can see artifacts and art related to the history and culture of the neighborhood at the museum as well.

There is a permanent collection and there are temporary exhibitions that take place at the museum. The latter allows you to learn about a specific part of Coney Island’s history or culture.

Address: 1208 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Go for a Walk at the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a walkway that you can find along the East River. When you go for a walk at this place, you can enjoy a great view of the New York Harbor, Manhattan’s skyline, and the Brooklyn Bridge at the same time.

You can also find a lot of benches at the promenade where you can relax.

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is also home to several monuments and seeing these is one of the best activities in Brooklyn as well. At these monuments, you can see plaques through which you can learn about the monuments.

Check Out the Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Founded in 1899, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum is one of the first children’s museums in the world. You can find this museum at 145 Brooklyn Avenue and it’s one of the best museums for kids in New York City .

At this museum, children can learn about a variety of topics through several fun hands-on exhibits.

For example, one of the exhibits at the museum is the “World Brooklyn” exhibit, where children can play inside kid-sized shops that are based on shops that can actually be found in Brooklyn. Two examples are a grocery store and a bakery.

Another exhibit that you can find at the museum, and that lets children learn about life sciences, is the “Neighborhood Nature” exhibit.

Address: 145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213

Go to an Event of the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! is an annually recurring multi-stage festival that takes place in summer. You can attend the festival for free, making going here great if you are looking for free things to do in Brooklyn .

The festival is held in Prospect Park and the festival dates back to the year 1979. It is the longest-running outdoor performing arts festival that is free in New York City.

Lots of events take place at the festival. For example, you can listen to great live music. From indie to jazz to other types of music, there are concerts of a wide variety of genres.

At the festival, you can also attend dance shows, see film screenings, or attend another type of festival.

Check Out the Brooklyn Public Library

The Brooklyn Public Library is Brooklyn’s public library system. It has several branches that you can find throughout the borough.

If you want to read books, you can go to the library, but you can also go to the library if you want to attend an event.

Lots of events take place at the different branches of the library, including workshops, book discussions, and many other types of events. If you’re wondering what to do in Brooklyn, it can be great to check out the events at the library. There are also many events that are great for children.

In addition to that, some of the library system’s branches are housed inside beautiful buildings. The main branch of the library, the Central Library, is in a building that opened in 1941 and that is a designated New York City Landmark.

The building of the main branch features a grand entrance with several bronze sculptures next to it.

Address: 10 Grand Army Plz, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Explore the Jewish Children’s Museum

The Jewish Children’s Museum is one of the best museums in Brooklyn . It’s a children’s museum that you can find at 792 Eastern Parkway. At this museum, children can learn about Jewish heritage through several permanent exhibits.

These exhibits are educational and hands-on.

For example, there is an exhibit where children can shop for kosher groceries in a replica of a store.

There are also exhibits through which children can learn about Noah’s Ark and other stories.

Address: 792 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11213

See Animals at the Prospect Park Zoo

The Prospect Park Zoo is one of the best zoos in New York City , and you can find this zoo in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.

The zoo’s history dates back to the year 1890 when it was a menagerie.

You can go to the zoo to learn about all kinds of animals, and in total there are close to 1,000 animals at the zoo.

The animals at the zoo can be found in various exhibits at the zoo.

For example, you can see very small animals, such as frogs, at the “Hall of Animals” exhibit.

You can also check out the “Sea Lion Court”, which is an exhibit where you can see the sea lions of the zoo, which is one of the most popular species of animals at Prospect Park Zoo.

Address: 450 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225

Go to the Center for Brooklyn History and Learn About the Borough’s History

The Center for Brooklyn History is a museum that is part of the Brooklyn Public Library where you can learn about the 400 years of history of the borough.

At the center, you can find a collection of all kinds of interesting artifacts. From newspapers to historic maps to pamphlets, there are a lot of different types of historic artifacts on display here. In addition to that, you can see paintings and photographs at the Center for Brooklyn History.

You can also attend various events at the center. For example, sometimes there are live music events and there are temporary exhibitions.

Address: 128 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

More Brooklyn Articles

Music venues in Brooklyn

Things to do alone in Brooklyn

One day in Brooklyn itinerary

Rainy day activities in Brooklyn

What To Do in Brooklyn Tips

There are a lot of great coffee shops in Brooklyn that you can find across the borough and some of these are close to some of the places that I mentioned in this article. If you want to have a more comfortable time, I recommend finding out if there’s a coffee shop near a place that you want to visit before deciding what to do in Brooklyn and going there as well before or after the activity.

For example, Devoción Coffee is located close to Domino Park. So you can get a cup of coffee at Devoción Coffee and go to Domino Park after that.

Brooklyn Things To Do Map

This was my guide to the best things to do in Brooklyn. I hope you liked the activities!

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn

Brooklyn offers so many things to see and do, so if you're feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of options, we've highlighted 20 activities and spots you must visit when you're in town. From a walk across an iconic bridge to an afternoon in a botanic garden, there are many ways to spend the day in the borough. Be sure to include some of these on your Brooklyn itinerary.

Find the Best Views of Manhattan

One of the best parts about visiting Brooklyn is enjoying the views of Manhattan across the East River. All along the waterfront from DUMBO to Williamsburg, you can find plenty of rooftop bars, where you'll find amazing views of the skyline.  1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge  and the  William Vale  are two trendy spots, but you can also enjoy the view from one of the waterfront parks or take the East River Ferry across for more dynamic skyline-watching.

Play a Few Rounds of Shuffleboard

If your trip to Brooklyn inspires you to embrace your inner-hipster, it doesn't get more ironic or fun than a trip to the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in Gowanus. This 17,000 square-foot Florida-themed bar has 10 full-sized shuffleboard courts and an on-site food truck. The sport has become so popular in Brooklyn that the club runs its own league and competitions. It is a bar, so the venue is not family-friendly and does have a strict 21+ only rule. Also, courts fill up fast, so make sure you make a reservation.

Explore the Borough By Bike

TripSavvy / Donghee Eim

If you want to get around like a true Brooklynite, renting a Citi Bike, or going through a traditional bike shop, is a great way to see the borough. You can design your route based on what you want to see, like biking across the Brooklyn Bridge, or opt for a more organized bike tour. Many tour operators like  Brooklyn Bike Tours  have tours themed around graffiti or beer or can even guide you all the way to Coney Island. If you're not sure you're ready to bike alone in New York, a bike tour is a great way to ease into it.

Go Dancing at the House of Yes

If you're looking for a semi-scandalous experience to summarize the heart of Brooklyn's club scene, the House of Yes is it. In Bushwick, right next to the Jefferson Street stop, this nightclub is known for its grand burlesque and circus-themed productions and patrons that put everything and more into their outfits. All guests are encouraged, but not required, to wear costumes, which is a great reason to hit the thrift shops like L Train Vintage earlier in the day. All dance parties are typically 21+, but you can check the online calendar for any upcoming "all ages" shows. You can either buy tickets at the door or online.

Get Pizza and See Art in DUMBO

 Stella Levantesi / TripSavvy

DUMBO, a once-industrial neighborhood turned trendy, artsy hot spot, has spectacular views of Manhattan and New York's beautiful bridges, including the Brooklyn Bridge. It's the first neighborhood in Brooklyn you'll find after walking the Brooklyn Bridge. It combines old warehouses, interesting shops and restaurants, and pricey high-rise apartments. You can find art galleries and occasionally big neighborhood art shows here. And DUMBO is home to the  famous pizzeria Grimaldi's , Jacques Torres chocolate shop ,  St. Ann's Warehouse  (which hosts edgy theatrical performances), and numerous other artsy venues. 

Visit the Brooklyn Navy Yard

Rooftop Reds 

One way or the other, the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see when traveling to Brooklyn. It's not just an enjoyable experience for tourists, many born-and-bred New Yorkers find themselves still charmed by the bridge. The Brooklyn Bridge connects two great New York City boroughs, Manhattan and Brooklyn, and you can walk it, drive it, bike it, or just admire it from afar from multiple vantage points around the city.

There's even a dedicated pedestrian walkway on the Brooklyn Bridge, above the roaring car traffic, so it's a wonderful stroll. If you're rushing, it should only take about half an hour to walk across the bridge, but most people should account for a whole hour, especially if you think you'll need a lot of time to take photos.

Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

TripSavvy / Stella Levantesi 

The Brooklyn Bridge connects two great New York City boroughs, Manhattan and Brooklyn, and you can walk it, drive it, bike it, or just admire it from afar from multiple vantage points around the city.

One way or the other, the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see when traveling to Brooklyn. It's not just an enjoyable experience for tourists; many born-and-bred New Yorkers find themselves still charmed by the bridge.

There's even a dedicated pedestrian walkway on the Brooklyn Bridge, above the roaring car traffic, so it's a beautiful stroll. If you're allotting a specific amount of time for the walk, here's a breakdown of how long it takes to walk across the  Brooklyn Bridge .

Go Retro at the New York Transit Museum

 The New York Transit Museum

This unique museum housed in a decommissioned subway station in downtown Brooklyn has a collection of vintage subway cars. You'll feel as if you stepped into a time machine as you peruse the cars dating back to 1907. The museum tells the stories and history of mass transportation in New York City through its exhibits and collection of memorabilia. 

If you have kids in tow, be sure to attend one of the many public programs for children. They also host tours, art shows, and other events at the museum. Don't forget to allot time for visiting the gift shop, which has some of the best NYC transit-themed souvenirs.

See Art at the Brooklyn Museum

fernandogarciaesteban/Getty Images 

Get artsy at the  Brooklyn Museum . Before entering the museum, you must pause to stare at the mesmerizing fountain that shoots water up from the pavement. In addition to a fun fountain, this prestigious art museum has an extensive collection of Egyptian art in its permanent collection, as well as contemporary art. The rotating exhibits have included David Bowie, Basquiat, Georgia O'Keefe, and many others. On the first Saturday of the month, also known as  Target First Saturdays , the museum is free to the public from 5 to 11 p.m.

Spend the Day in Williamsburg

Robert Mullan/Getty Images

Williamsburg has changed a lot in the last twenty years. In the early '90s, it was a place for artists priced out of Manhattan, and it soon transformed into the epicenter of Brooklyn's hipster culture. However, the edgy hood is in a constant battle with mainstream culture. There was a lot of buzz when Williamsburg got its first Starbucks, and now it's home to Brooklyn's first  Apple Store and Whole Foods , which boasts an incredible food hall. Despite the influx of chains, Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg's main shopping street, is still filled with many local shops and restaurants, and the area works hard to maintain its indie feel. 

See a Movie

Nitehawk Cinema - Williamsburg 

Nitehawk Cinema, Williamsburg's dine-in theater, with a second location in Park Slope near Prospect Park, features a wide range of cinematic treats, from rarely seen 35-millimeter films to new independent features. If you want to check out other movie theaters where you can eat and drink, get a ticket for a show at  Syndicated  in neighboring  Bushwick . This movie theater and restaurant has both first-run and retro movies and often features themed weeks and trivia nights. Downtown Brooklyn is also home to an outpost of the  Alamo Drafthouse , another movie theatre where you can order food while you enjoy the show.

Hop the Waves in Coney Island

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Coney Island is just a train ride away from Manhattan, but it feels worlds apart. Busiest during the summer months, Coney Island feels equal parts beach escape and kitschy carnival. In the summer, you can spend a day on the sand soaking in the rays on the beach, free to the public, or enjoy a stroll on the iconic boardwalk. Home to an aquarium, an amphitheater, a minor league baseball team, and tons of great eats, this scenic stretch of Brooklyn should be on every Brooklyn travel itinerary.

Smell the Flowers at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Driendl Group/Getty Images 

The  Brooklyn Botanic Garden  is not to be missed. Depending on the season, you can walk through beauty in the Cherry Esplanade, Cranford Rose Garden, Fragrance Garden, Magnolia Plaza, Shakespeare Garden, or Herb Garden, among many others. It's a great place to take some brag-worthy photos, too. The idyllic 52 acres of the blooming  Brooklyn Botanic Garden  is not to be missed. Depending on the season, you can walk through beauty in the Cherry Esplanade, Cranford Rose Garden, Fragrance Garden, Magnolia Plaza, Shakespeare Garden, or Herb Garden, among many others. It's a great place to take photographs or enjoy the quieter side of Brooklyn.

Visit the Animals at the Prospect Park Zoo

E. Freudenheim

The Prospect Park Zoo is open year-round and includes a petting zoo and several exhibit areas. If you're traveling with your family, this zoo is the perfect size for little children and has wonderful exhibits for the little ones indoors and outdoors. Check out the quirky ​gophers, wonderful rabbits, and farm animals.

Take in a Show at BAM

Peter Mauss

This theater has quite a history, originally built in 1904 as The Majestic Theater, it was transformed into a movie house in the early 1940s, which shuttered in the 60s. After almost two decades of being closed, the theater was restored and reopened in 1987, and now it is the BAM Harvey Theater. BAM Harvey Theater is a Brooklyn institution and is a must-visit. It currently hosts productions throughout the year, including visits from the Royal Shakespeare Company and classics by famous playwrights like Henrik Ibsen and Oscar Wilde.

See a Show at the Bell House

If you don't have evening plans, head to the Bell House in the Gowanus section of Brooklyn. Check out their calendar for a list of shows and events. The Bell House is a great place to see concerts and comedy. It's also where live game shows from NPR and WNYC,  Ask Me Another , are recorded. You can get tickets to watch the show and apply through the official website if you're interested in being a contestant.

Explore Street Art in Bushwick

Angelita Gonzalez/Contributor/Getty Images 

You can spend the day in the world's best museums in Manhattan, but you should know that the warehouse walls of Bushwick are filled with some of the best art in NYC. You can start your street art tour at the  Bushwick Collective  on Troutman Street at Saint Nicholas Avenue, where colorful murals are painted on the walls of the neighboring blocks. Although this stretch of Bushwick is known for street art, there are also other notable murals on the Bushwick/East Williamsburg border near the Morgan Avenue L stop. You can stop in at  Friends NYC  on Bogart Street for some vintage threads and a great collection of new clothes and jewelry, or, if you need a pick-me-up, try the super-strong Ethiopian coffee at  Bunna Cafe .

Enjoy an Evening in Greenpoint

JayLazarin/Getty Images

​Greenpoint is so cool that there's  a laundromat that doubles as a bar , and an  old Polish banquet hall  was transformed into a bazaar where you can play ping pong, listen to your favorite bands, and enjoy some karaoke. Greenpoint, still a vibrant Polish community, is also home to numerous hipsters. From a lazy afternoon at the scenic  Greenpoint Waterfront  to window shopping on Manhattan Avenue and grabbing a retro breakfast at  Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop , a visit to Greenpoint should be on your list of places to see on your next trip to Brooklyn.  

Soak in the Sun at Brooklyn Bridge Park

TripSavvy / Stella Levantesi

Brooklyn Bridge Park, nestled on the shore of the East River across from lower Manhattan, has spectacular views, with a vast vista of New York Harbor, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, lower Manhattan, boat traffic on the East River, and of course, views of the Statue of Liberty. And there's more: Brooklyn Bridge Park is a cultural and sports venue with a lively calendar of concerts, summer outdoor movies, outdoor exercise classes, chess instruction, kayaking, and more. 

Hear Chamber Music on a Barge

Music fans will enjoy watching a concert on a charming old barge renovated into New York City's only floating concert hall, called  BargeMusic.  Bargemusic has a calendar of chamber music. It was founded in 1977 by a violinist who created a concert hall on a 100-foot steel barge from 1899 that used to be a working vessel. Enjoy hearing music at this unique venue. For those traveling with kids, Bargemusic has a free concert series for families, which typically takes place on weekends and offers a great introduction to classical music for kids.

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32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Brooklyn (New York)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 15, 2023

Trips to New York City don’t have to just about being in Manhattan .

While that famous borough is definitely great for sightseeing and exploring wonderful neighborhoods, you’re missing out on some great opportunities if you’re not also checking out Brooklyn.

These are the 32 best things to do in Brooklyn, New York.

Table of Contents

1. Brooklyn Botanic Gardens

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If you think New York is nothing but over-stimulation, you should come to the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens .

Checking out these amazing gardens is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn if you’re interested in horticulture or just want a moment to relax.

Seeing heavenly plants when they’ve blossomed can be one of the best parts of your sightseeing experience.

At the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, you can see colorful and gorgeous plants like the Japanese Anenome, the Dahlia, the Hardy Hibiscus, and so many more.

There are multiple varieties of roses that will show just how diverse that famed flower type can be.

You can stop and smell the roses and so much more at these gardens.

Going to the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens is one of the absolute best things to do in Brooklyn.

The gardens’ hours vary based on time of year.

Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for seniors and students (age 12 and up), and free for children younger than 12.

Address:  990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, United States

2. Luna Park, Coney Island

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Amusement park historians know about the original Luna Park, which was part of Coney Island before shuttering due to fire in 1944.

Now, one of the most fun things to do in Brooklyn is to go to the new Luna Park, Coney Island .

Opened in 2010, this is one of the best spots in Brooklyn for family fun.

Luna Park, Coney Island does a fantastic job of paying homage to the former park while also being its own thing.

Amusement park visitors of all backgrounds and ride preferences can have fun here.

Whether you love roller coasters or milder experiences like go-karting, you’ll be in good hands at Luna Park.

When you come to Brooklyn, New York for a weekend visit, you definitely need to consider coming to Luna Park, Coney Island.

The park’s hours depend on the season.

An “Any Day Luna Pass” is $40 in advance and $42 at the park for visitors shorter than 48 inches tall, and $65/$69 for those 48 inches and taller.

Address:  1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224, United States

3. Prospect Park

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One of the best things to do in Brooklyn is to spend an afternoon at Prospect Park .

This is one of the best areas in New York for recreation and relaxation.

At this 500-plus acre park, you can have a lot of fun.

Prospect Park is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Brooklyn for how many options it gives visitors seeking activities.

You can shoot some hoops at the basketball courts, go for a bike ride, or even catch some fish.

Don’t be shy about inviting some people into a pick-up game of soccer or another sport of your choice.

If you’re looking for an excellent outdoor space to have your nuptials, Prospect Park should definitely be a prospect.

This is one of the most beautiful Brooklyn attractions and gives visitors and residents something to greatly admire.

Prospect Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Address: 450 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA

4. Brooklyn Bridge Park

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It might be a fraction of the size of places like Prospect Park and Central Park, but Brooklyn Bridge Park is definitely one of the biggest points of interest in Brooklyn, New York.

Located beside the East River, this park has brought new life to a one-time industrial area.

At 85 acres, Brooklyn Bridge Park still very much gives visitors a lot of space for fun activities.

The land is great for athletic adventures.

Plus, with the water, on nice days you have the perfect conditions for taking a boat out.

The view across the river of Manhattan is also utterly stunning.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is one of the best instances of a city making something great out of a pre-existing environment.

If you’re looking for beautiful places to visit , you should come here.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Address:  334 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

Planning to visit other parts of New York? Be sure to check out the things to do in Buffalo, NY  & fun things to do in Rochester, NY !

5. The Brooklyn Museum

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Going to the Brooklyn Museum is one of the most cool things to do in Brooklyn.

It’s home to a delightfully eclectic collection and many fine traveling exhibitions.

If there was ever a museum that spoke so well to what it means to be a human from different angles and cultures, it’s this one.

Exhibitions like “Georgia O’Keeffe: Living Modern” and “The Legacy of Lynching: Confronting Racial Terror in America” can channel serious emotions as well as giving you lots to think about.

In the permanent collection, you can see great pieces such as portraits of luminaries like John Cage and Snoop Dogg.

The Brooklyn Museum is one of the best museums in New York.

It’s open on Wednesday and from Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

On the first Saturday of the month, it’s open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with the exception of January and September.

Admission is $16 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and free for visitors 19 and younger.

Address:  200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238, United States

6. Brooklyn Flea

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When thinking about what to do in Brooklyn, New York, a flea market might not be one of your first choices.

However, coming to Brooklyn Flea can be one of the best shopping experiences you’ve ever had.

It’s got just about everything you’d ever want and even more.

Running from April to November, Brooklyn Flea is a weekend shopping trip like none other.

Brooklyn Flea includes all kinds of sellers with delightful wares, many of which they’ve made themselves.

You could come home with a striking new piece of jewelry that has everyone dying to know where you got it from.

When you go to the Brooklyn Flea, you’ll be amazed by how great the selection is.

If you’re going to be in Brooklyn, New York this weekend and Brooklyn Flea is open, you have to go.

7. Brooklyn Bridge

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This is definitely the most “touristy” thing to do in the borough, but it’s also a site seeing experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The Brooklyn Bridge is more than a bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn.

It’s also a shining example of engineering ingenuity and architectural beauty.

With its neo-Gothic architectural style, this bridge looks as beautiful now as it did upon its completion, more than a century ago.

One of the top activities is walking the full length of the bridge, which is about 1.1 miles for pedestrians.

To make it faster and perhaps more satisfying, you can take a bike.

The Brooklyn Bridge isn’t one of those tourist attractions that is talked about so much that it’s bound to be a disappointment.

For one of the most fun moments of your time in New York, you need to come to the Brooklyn Bridge.

It’s one of the best places to see in the country.

Address:  Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY 10038, United States

8. Brooklyn Historical Society

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With some four centuries to look back on, a place like the Brooklyn Historical Society is absolutely a necessity.

This institution has been around for about 156 years and has kept track of indispensable documents and other items related to Brooklyn, New York.

Visiting the Brooklyn Historical Society is what to do if you really want to comprehend just how much has occurred here.

There are different aspects of the Brooklyn Historical Society that make it one of the coolest places to visit.

In its primary Brooklyn Heights home, you can check out the Othmer Library as well as the museum and educational center.

It’s also worth looking at the calendar for any exciting upcoming public programs.

There’s another location at Empire Stores in the DUMBO neighborhood.

The Brooklyn Historical Society makes the story of Brooklyn, New York even richer.

You can come to the Brooklyn Heights location from Wednesday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults, $6 for seniors, age 62 and up, and teachers, and free for students and children younger than 12.

Address:  128 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

9. Brooklyn Brewery

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Even if you’ve never been to this borough before, there’s a good chance you’ve come across beers from Brooklyn Brewery, especially if you’re a regular beer drinker.

The Brooklyn Brewery headquarters are what to see in Brooklyn if you want to have an enlightening tour about how what might be your favorite beverage is produced.

Any good Brooklyn guide to beer-drinking fun in the borough needs to mention Brooklyn Brewery.

With the exception of children with their parents, everyone who comes to Brooklyn Brewery must be 21 and over and possess valid identification.

There are Small Batch and Technical Tours which are approximately 45 minutes long and include tastings, and public hour tours, which are about 25 minutes long and without tastings.

However, you can definitely check out the Tasting Room.

A visit to the Brooklyn Brewery is one of the most cool things you can do in New York.

Small Batch and Technical tours operate from Monday to Friday at 5 p.m., 5:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 7:15 p.m, cost $18, and require a reservation.

Public hours are typically from Monday to Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

During Summer Thursdays, they’re open from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m., and during Summer Fridays, they’re open from 2 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Address:  79 N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

10. The Ford Amphitheater

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One of the top things to do in Brooklyn is to come to the Ford Amphitheater , which is actually fairly new, having opened in 2016.

Nonetheless, this Coney Island venue has quickly shown itself to be more than up to the task of showing why Brooklyn is one of the top places in the world for live entertainment.

When you come to the Ford Amphitheater, you can enjoy plenty of cultural wonders.

Situated in what was once the home of a Childs Restaurant, the Ford Amphitheater hosts very cool events.

Some of the performers who’ve come here include Bow Wow Wow, Shaggy, and The Beach Boys.

You can also have a nourishing meal at Kitchen 21 nearby.

Going to see a concert in Brooklyn, New York brings out a sort of energy that will have you delighted in all sorts of ways.

After visiting the Ford Amphitheater, you’ll be looking for other ways you can replicate the experience.

It’s also great to know that one of the best parts of Brooklyn is fairly new.

Address:  3052 W 21st St, Brooklyn, NY 11224, United States

Exploring other areas of New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Lake George, NY  & some of the things to do on Long Island ?

Have you ever thought about going around the world via boat?

While this Brooklyn, New York eatery doesn’t give you the chance to be the next Magallan, its location, on a vessel that has been around the globe twice, is quite charming.

For more than half a century, this schooner had the longest tenure of any pilot ship in the country, even proving to be instrumental in World War II.

Today, Pilot might be out of commission as a vessel for transportation, but it’s assumed a more than honorable role as an oyster bar.

Sitting at Pier 6 of Brooklyn Bridge Park, this is one of the most wonderful places to visit in Brooklyn for seafood delights.

Some of the things you can order here include ceviche, caviar, scallops, and of course, oysters.

Pilot is one of the best things to see in Brooklyn if you’re a seafood fanatic.

It’s open on a seasonal basis.

The waterfront setting also helps to make for an even greater atmosphere.

Address:  Pier 6 Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

12. Brooklyn Navy Yard Center

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Anyone who is looking for what to do who’s big on military history should come to Brooklyn Navy Yard Center .

This navy yard has played a major role in the U.S.’s engagement in major conflicts.

As part of Building 92, this is one of the finest Brooklyn attractions for education on the military.

At this museum, you can explore a massive space that once produced incredible vessels.

You can explore the fascinating extent of how much this area meant to the country.

There’s a trio of floors you can explore, with plenty of illuminating exhibitions, like “Brooklyn Navy Yard: Past, Present and Future.”

If you’re coming to New York this weekend, you should visit this museum.

Building 92 is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., with tours on the weekend.

Admission is free.

Address:  63 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205, United States

13. The William Vale

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The William Vale is one of the most must see hotels in New York.

Even if you already have your lodging plans figured out, you can still find much to love about going to this hotel.

Located in Williamsburg, the William Vale is one of the most stunning Brooklyn attractions.

Dining options are fantastic at the William Vale, with some of the best eateries in the borough, Leuca, Mister Dips, and Westlight, being here.

You can also cherish exploring the beautiful Vale Park area.

One of the most fun things to do in Brooklyn in the summer is to see free movies at Vale Park.

Going to the William Vale is what to do if you want a glorious taste of New York luxury.

It’s one of the best Brooklyn attractions, even if you’re not getting a room.

Based on the impression you get, you might decide to stay there next time you’re in New York.

Address:  111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

14. The Muse Gowanus

Being a circus performer might be something you only imagined in your dreams, but at the Muse Gowanus , that dream can come true.

One of the most fun things to do in Brooklyn is to come here and learn the ropes of juggling, trapezing, and more.

This is one of the most fun tourist attractions for the entire family.

At this studio, you and your family can be tickled by learning the basics of the acts that have been enthralling people for generations.

There are courses for children of different ages and families.

One of the most cool parts of the Muse Gowanus is that the various aspects of circus, including therapeutic purposes, are shown.

The Muse Gowanus is where to go in Brooklyn if you want to experience one of the most fun places in New York.

It’s open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The classes vary depending on the day.

Address:  303 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

15. Bedford Avenue

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Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg is a must see part of the borough if you’re a shopping diehard.

This street includes some of the most cool places to find great new outfits and more in New York.

When you’re looking for places to go that will let you have a shopping spree you can be proud of yourself for going on, Bedford Avenue is where to be.

Some of the top places to go on Bedford Avenue include Catbird, Stone Flower, and Norbu, for jewelry, and Pinkyotto, Babel Fair, and Awoke Vintage.

Even if you’re not really into clothing beyond what fits you, you can have a lot of fun enjoying shopping activities on Bedford Avenue.

Music fans need to check out Earwax Records, the longest-running record shop in the neighborhood.

You should feel cool all over when you come to Bedford Avenue and fill your arms with shopping bags from all these great stores.

If you’re a shopaholic who’s looking for what to do in Brooklyn for a day, much of it can be spent on Bedford Avenue.

Coming here is something you must do if you want to make some excellent purchases.

16. Toy Museum of NY

Toys might look different than they did fifty years ago, but those toys would look absolutely alien to someone from a century ago.

The Toy Museum of NY really lets you appreciate the evolution of child playthings through the ages.

Seeing a performance from this traveling museum is one of the most fun activities you can enjoy with your family.

The Toy Museum of NY’s performances are both educational and delightful.

There’s “The History of Tours” and “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” improv show.

Both of these will have you and your kids laughing and clapping constantly.

School groups are regularly delighted by these performances.

If you’re figuring out how to plan a vacation to New York with your kids, you should see how the Toy Museum of NY can help.

There are also workshops that you can look into booking.

For stuff to do that’s going to remind you of how great imagination is, the Toy Museum of NY is definitely recommended.

17. Beacon’s Closet

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There are three different Beacon’s Closet locations in Brooklyn, a great clothing retailer for showing your well-crafted fashion sense.

This is one of the top places for clothing in New York for both women and men.

At Beacon’s Closet, you can have a lot of fun going through the racks and finding something that really fits you.

There are plenty of vintages pieces to be found at Beacon’s Closet, as well as more contemporary ones.

The clothes are stylish but also available at reasonable rates.

Their website is very well-designed and helps you know what’s in stock.

Going to Beacon’s Closet can be one of the best parts of your trip to New York.

All of the locations are open daily, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the exception of the Park Slope location, which is open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday to Friday and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

There’s also a Manhattan location.

18. BRIC Arts Media

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Should you value creativity, one of the best places to check out is BRIC Arts Media , which has been a part of the work involved with the Downtown Brooklyn Cultural District.

At this non-profit, the great artists of today and tomorrow can let their ambition flourish.

This is what to see if you need any proof that Brooklyn is a one-of-a-kind place for culture.

Some of the best activities at BRIC are checking out the different events that take place here.

There are many great programs that happen at night, including screenings and readings.

You should also visit it for the many cool exhibitions, such as “Beyond Geographies: Contemporary Art and Muslim Experience,” which runs through mid-November, 2019.

BRIC is one of the top places to go in New York for creative folks.

The gallery is open from Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Prices for events vary.

Address:  647 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, United States

19. Washington Street

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How can you see the Empire State Building without going to Manhattan?

The answer is by getting a good position at Washington Street.

One of the top activities for anyone who loves scenic views is coming to this famous New York street.

In order to get a shot of the Empire State Building as seen through the Manhattan Bridge, you’ll need to go to Washington Street and Water Street.

However, you’ll find there are lots of points of interest in the surrounding DUMBO neighborhood.

There are especially great places to seek out at night for a meal, such as Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill and Cecconi’s DUMBO.

Going to Washington Street is an activity you must do if you love getting the best possible view of an area.

Even if you can’t make it to the Empire State Building, seeing it from this perspective is a real treat.

Washington Street will help remind you why New York is considered one of the most beautiful places in the United States .

20. Free Tours by Foot

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“ Free Tours by Foot ” is exactly what it sounds like, and it’s a lot of fun.

As long as you’ve got some good shoes and a decent sense of endurance, you’ll love being a pedestrian with this service.

The borough is best experienced on foot, and these tours help you learn a lot along the way.

With these tours, you can have fun as you learn about the borough and different landmarks.

The most-frequented tour is the Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO Tour, which lasts approximately three hours.

You can also check out things like the Williamsburg Walking Tour and the Brooklyn Heights Walking Tour.

If you’re not sure what to see first during your trip, “Free Tours by Foot” can really help you out.

You need to make reservations for tours, so look into booking your slot tonight or tomorrow.

You can also show your appreciation for all the fun you had by paying any amount you wish too, but payment is not required.

21. New York Transit Museum

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One of the best places to check out in Downtown Brooklyn is the New York Transit Museum .

It’s located underground, in a former subway station.

Visitors are fascinated by the displays of New York transit vehicles from the not-so-recent-past.

Although this station is no longer in use, it’s been given considerable respect that makes it a wonderful museum spot.

You can see discontinued subway cars, trolleys, buses and more.

If it wasn’t for your smartphone, you might forget what time period you’re in.

Transit has made NYC what it is today, and even if the vehicles seen at this museum are no longer in use, their legacy must always be respected.

This museum is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children, ages two to 17, and seniors, ages 62 and up.

Address:  99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

Looking for more thrills around New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Albany & some of the things to do in Syracuse, NY ?

22. Buttermilk Channel

Buttermilk Channel

Buttermilk Channel is one of the best places to check out in the city if you want to have a meal that rings familiar while also giving you something new.

This Carroll Gardens restaurant is impeccably designed and has a menu with just as much care.

In a city with a very competitive restaurant industry, Buttermilk Channel has managed to stick out.

When you come to Buttermilk Channel, your expectations will be raised by the lovely decor and cozy design.

Then, when you see the menu and try the food, you’ll see why your expectations weren’t at all unreasonable.

Among the best items to get at Buttermilk Channel include the duck meatloaf, the mushroom-barley veggie burger, and the warm-lamb salad.

It’s fun to eat in any big city, but Buttermilk Channel really raises the bar for what a bistro can accomplish.

It’s great to come to during the day for lunch or at night for dinner.

Buttermilk Channel is open at the following hours.

Monday to Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 to 10 p.m.

Friday: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 to 11:30 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 to 11:30 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 to 10 p.m.

Address:  524 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States

23. Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower

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If there’s anything that signifies Downtown Brooklyn, it’s the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower .

This skyscraper has around since near the end of the 1920s.

It serves as a great piece of might in this business district.

It’s impossible to avoid the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower should you be anywhere downtown, given how large it looms.

However, it’s not an intrusive presence, as this tower has a very handsome design.

Perhaps it’s most admirable, as well as defining, feature, is its clock tower.

The architecture of New York has helped to make it one of the best places for traveling.

Seeing the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower is wonderful, as you can check out a landmark that might not be as heralded as certain other ones, but which is no less remarkable.

It’s also so much fun to crane your neck and marvel at this 512-foot high behemoth.

Address: 1 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY 11243, USA

24. Smorgasburg

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“ Smorgasburg ” is both a great play on words and also one of the best attractions in New York.

This is a part of Brooklyn Flea which is focused on food.

If you consider yourself to be a culinarian, you’ll be enchanted by Smorgasburg.

There are dozens of businesses set up and ready for you to try their treats.

At Smorgasburg, you can get things that are sweet or savory.

Food from different parts of the world is sold here as well.

New York is all about culture, and there’s hardly a better way to understand a city’s culture than through its food.

Smorgasburg caps off your Brooklyn Flea shopping excursion in a terrific fashion.

Come here if you’re looking to fill your stomach and your heart at the same time.

Address:  90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States

25. Kimoto Rooftop Garden Lounge

Kimoto Rooftop

For an excellent view of Downtown Brooklyn, you need to come to Kimoto Rooftop Garden Lounge .

The sight is rivaled only by the excellent menu, which is rife with a Japanese flair.

When you’re at Kimoto Rooftop Garden Lounge, you can really feel like you’re on top of the world.

Once you’ve gotten accustomed to your exquisite vantage point, you can zero in on how strong the menu is.

Things like the “Yuzu Salmon,” the “Jap Chae Sweet Potato Noodles,” and the “Honey Glazed Half Roasted Duck” will have you salivating even before the plates are brought out.

There’s also a splendid drink menu, including great Asian beers and house cocktails.

Another great part of Kimoto Rooftop Garden Lounge is the decor.

Things like bonsai trees contribute very positively to the calmness of the atmosphere.

Kimoto Rooftop Garden Lounge is open from Sunday to Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Thursday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Address:  216 Duffield St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

26. Kings County Distillery

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While Kings County Distillery is the longest-running and biggest whiskey producer in the city, it may surprise you to learn that this New York business has only been around since 2010.

However, it’s quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the hottest liquor producers around.

Before Kings County Distillery came along, there hadn’t been a whiskey distillery in the city since Prohibition.

Although the locations have changed as the business has grown, their commitment to rich flavors hasn’t wavered.

The flavors can seem heightened when you try the products at the tasting room.

Whiskey production is a truly fascinating process, and Kings County Distillery is a great place to witness it.

Tours are on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., Friday at 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m., on Saturdays every hour, starting at 1 p.m. and ending at 6 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The tasting room is open from Monday to Saturday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Address:  299 Sands St, Brooklyn, NY 11205, United States

27. Barclays Center

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It might not have the same quirky charm as other, smaller Brooklyn sites, but Barclays Center is definitely one of the hottest attractions in the city.

If you’re a sports fan, you’ve likely seen it on television, hosting things like basketball games.

Music fans also know that the Barclays Center is one of the most impressive venues in a city that’s not wanting for performance spaces.

With a capacity of 19,000 for concertgoers, the Barclays Center lets you witness live entertainment surrounded by a massive population of fans.

Some of the artists who’ve performed here include Cher, Lil Wayne, Elton John, and Travis Scott.

Basketball and hockey fans can also come to the Barclays Center to see the Brooklyn Nets and New York Islanders in action.

One word that comes to mind when you’re at the Barclays Center is “awesome.”

This is an awesome venue that hosts awesome events.

The experience of seeing a performance or competition at this space is one you’ll hold onto.

Address:  620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, United States

28. Colson Patisserie

Colson Patisserie

When you want to get some sweets, don’t just stop at the nearby convenience store for a candy bar.

Instead, you need to get down to Colson Patisserie .

This Park Slope business will give you treats that will have you absolutely swooning.

Established in 2006, Colson Patisserie brings the sweet delights of Paris and Belgium to New York.

When seeing the items on display, you’ll practically have to stop yourself from licking your lips.

There are items like tarts and financiers as well as more savory ones like sandwiches and salads.

The story of Colson Patisserie is like the American dream, as it was started by an immigrant who wanted to share his favorite treats with his new home.

Colson Patisserie is open from Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Breakfast is served until 1 p.m., and lunch is served until 2:30 p.m.

Address:  374 9th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

29. Cadman Plaza Park

Sarah Kim / flickr

Even in Downtown Brooklyn, you can find some beauty through nature.

For example, there’s Cadman Plaza Park .

This park is the place to be if you want to stop staring at your phone and just get out of your head.

The arbor-rich Cadman Plaza Park complements the energy of the area while also helping visitors to feel at ease.

This is an especially good place to go to if you ever find yourself feeling stressed out by how hectic the city can feel.

Additionally, the Brooklyn War Memorial, a moving tribute to the heroes of World War II, can be found here.

Address:  Cadman Plaza E, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

30. Brooklyn Children’s Museum

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Introduced at the literal turn of the century in 1899, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum has become a hub for expression and discovery among the youngest museum patrons.

If there’s a children’s museum in your city or area, you can thank this one for serving as a precedent.

At this museum, children can be stimulated by exhibits that make the most out of their minds.

Some of the coolest exhibits here include the “Sensory Room,” “Neighborhood Nature,” and “Collections Central.”

There are also temporary exhibits, such as the animal-rich “Survival of the Slowest” and “Native Voices: New England Tribal Families.”

Going to this museum lets your kids see just how grand the world around them really is.

When you come to this museum, you should pay close attention to how invigorated your child is.

The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

General admission costs $12 for anyone over 12 months.

However, admission is “pay as you wish” on Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Address:  145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213, United States

31. Crawl Brooklyn

Syda Productions / Shutterstock

There are lots of things to do in the borough at night, so much so that you might feel stymied by where to start.

Thankfully, there’s Crawl Brooklyn to help do some of the thinking for you.

When you go on a bar crawl with this company, you can find some of the best watering holes in the area.

Don’t try to find a permanent itinerary of stops, as each crawl stop is a surprise.

This helps to keep you on your toes and enjoy the experience more.

You should also make sure to jot them the names of any bars that really impress you.

32. Brooklyn Academy of Music

Osugi / Shutterstock

The Brooklyn Academy of Music , or “BAM,” is one of the most remarkable artistic establishments in all of New York.

Many creative geniuses and influential figures have appeared here.

Since its opening in 1861, BAM has set a great tone for this borough as an area of serious cultural value.

The performers at BAM is like a “who’s who” of legends, including Isadora Duncan, Sarah Bernhardt, Steve Reich, and even Winston Churchill.

All sorts of creative expression forms are shared here, including opera, circus work, and dramatic performances.

If you want to see a show that will truly leave you stunned, come to BAM.

Address:  30 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Brooklyn

Brooklyn shouldn’t be considered an afterthought when you come to New York.

It’s a fantastic and beautiful world that has great things both indoors and outdoors.

Even if you can only spend a day or two here, the experience will still be very worthwhile.

10 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn, New York

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There are countless things to do in Brooklyn , thanks to its wide array of art, food, and culture. Many people consider Brooklyn to be the best of NYC’s boroughs since it’s not as chaotic as Manhattan but still offers lots of attractions. Also, as it’s located on Long Island , you can even enjoy some cool beaches in the summer.

Brooklyn’s ethnic diversity means you can find all kinds of different cuisines and buildings here, not to mention some of the most interesting shops. There are also beautiful green spaces, so you can enjoy a more leisurely pace and many family-friendly Brooklyn activities .

If you want to visit Brooklyn but you’re not sure where to begin, I can help with this guide to the best places to visit in Brooklyn . There is something for everyone here, whether you want to explore the area with kids, enjoy a day out with your partner, or have fun with friends.

So, keep reading to discover the top 10 things to do in Brooklyn, New York !

1. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, the best thing to do in Brooklyn at night

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Brooklyn , and all of New York, so you can’t miss it. With a span of 6,000 feet, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge until 1903. Today, the Brooklyn Bridge is nearly 140 years old, but it’s completely safe for you to walk, bike, or drive across. It’s one of the most beautiful bridges in NYC .

I recommend going on foot so you can admire the NY skyline views and the different perspectives of the city. The views are gorgeous after dark, and walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the best things to do in NYC at night .

While you’re visiting this massive Brooklyn attraction , it’s also worth checking out Brooklyn Bridge Park , along the East River. In addition to the views of the waterfront, the park offers a variety of outdoor spaces and recreational areas for sports, activities, and leisure. From bocce and shuffleboard to basketball courts and playgrounds, there is something for everyone.

2. Check out DUMBO, a fun thing to do in Brooklyn, NYC

Not far from the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find DUMBO , one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn . Short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, DUMBO is one of the trendiest places in Brooklyn with lots of interesting shopping and dining venues.

For example, you can enjoy hot Brooklyn-style pizza at Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s , then go browsing for trinkets and treasures at the Brooklyn Flea , the most popular flea market in NYC . DUMBO is also home to Jane’s Carousel , a popular Brooklyn tourist attraction between the Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge.

I also recommend trying to get a photo of the Manhattan Bridge viewpoint along Washington Street. This is one of the hottest photography spots in the city, and you’ve probably seen pictures of it online or on postcards. This is a must-do in Brooklyn , especially if you love photography!

Besides, the surrounding area of Washington Street is full of unique stores, cafes, and breweries, so it’s a great sightseeing experience.

3. Visit Williamsburg, an interesting thing to do in Brooklyn

Williamsburg is another vibrant neighborhood in NYC that I recommend checking out. There are all kinds of fun things to do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn , from visiting cultural institutions and green spaces, to enjoying the local nightlife.

One of the coolest places in Brooklyn ’s Williamsburg section is Domino Park . This expansive park is next to the Williamsburg Bridge and faces the East River, providing lovely waterfront views. In addition, it’s the site of an old Domino Sugar Refinery, which somehow blends in with the park’s playgrounds, fountains, volleyball courts, and bocce grounds.

Williamsburg may have a hipster vibe, but it’s also the home of lots of ethnic groups like Italian Americans, Puerto Ricans, and Dominicans. There is a large population of Hasidic Jews here, so you’ll probably run into traditional temples or stores with signs in Yiddish.

When the sun goes down, Williamsburg’s evening entertainment comes to life. Along with a few movie theaters, you’ll find the BKLYN Comedy Club and the Brooklyn Bowl , a bowling alley and live music venue.

Without a doubt, Williamsburg is one of the best places to visit in Brooklyn , so if you’re short on time, make the most of your visit with this culture and history walking tour .

4. Spend the day at Coney Island, the best thing to do in Brooklyn with kids

Coney Island may be a bit out of the way, but it’s worth visiting since it’s one of the best things to do in Brooklyn with family . Located in southwestern Brooklyn, Coney Island has long been a popular day trip for New Yorkers.

As the name suggests, Coney Island is on a small peninsula, so you can enjoy the surf and sand at Coney Island Beach or Brighton Beach. That said, what makes Coney Island an iconic Brooklyn site are the two amusement piers, Luna Park, and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, the best places to visit at Coney Island .

First, Luna Park is a replica of the original Luna Park from 1903 with an arcade, family attractions like the B&B Carousel, and the famous Cyclone rollercoaster. Spending the day at Luna Park is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids , and you can get your ticket here .

Moreover, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park is named after the legendary Wonder Wheel, a 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel with stationary and traveling cabins. The park is full of fun attractions like kiddie coasters, a carousel, bumper cars, and the thrilling Phoenix rollercoaster.

If thrill rides aren’t your thing, you can visit the Coney Island Museum or see a performance at the amphitheater or the Coney Island Circus Sideshow . When you get hungry, you’ll find your favorite boardwalk foods like Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs , funnel cake, French fries, and pizza.

5. Stroll through Brooklyn Botanic Garden, a romantic thing to do in Brooklyn, NY

If you’re looking for things to do in Brooklyn as a couple , I highly recommend visiting Brooklyn Botanic Garden . Here, you can stroll through 52 acres of specialty gardens, so it’s the ideal spot for a romantic, outdoor date.

One of the most notable areas of the garden is the Japanese Hill and Pond Garden , which features cherry blossoms, Japanese maples and irises, and a Shinto shrine. There is even a traditional wooden bridge and torii (gateway), so it’s like having a little piece of Japan in Brooklyn.

The Cranford Rose Garden is gorgeous, as is the Shakespeare Garden , which mimics an English cottage-style garden. There is also an Herb Garden , a Rock Garden , and a Native Flora Garden where you can learn about the plants and flowers that once grew all over the New York City area. The Water Garden has lots of pretty trees, ferns, and aquatic shrubs, so it’s also worth seeing.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is also home to the Steinhardt Conservatory , which contains a bonsai museum, themed plant pavilions, a glass aquatic plant house, and an art gallery. Without a doubt, spending the day here is one of the best things to do in NYC as a couple .

6. Check out Brooklyn Museum, something to do in Brooklyn if it rains

If the weather doesn’t cooperate during your trip, don’t worry because you can find fun things to do in Brooklyn on a rainy day . For example, the Brooklyn Museum is one of the best museums in NYC , with over 500,000 art pieces.

The museum is housed in an impressive Beaux Arts-style building and has an extensive permanent collection of art from around the world. Some of the most notable galleries include those dedicated to Asian, Islamic, Egyptian, and American art. There are also beautiful decorative art examples from the 1880s to now, which you can explore through period rooms.

In addition, the Brooklyn Museum hosts temporary exhibits, and it has a sculpture garden with dozens of ornamental statues, sculptures, and facades. So, if you love art, this is a great Brooklyn attraction for you, whether it’s a rainy day or not.

Moreover, Brooklyn is home to other museums and cultural institutes, so if you want to museum-hop, I also recommend the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and the New York Transit Museum .

7. Relax in Prospect Park, one of the best things to do in Brooklyn

Prospect Park is one of the best New York City parks , and one of those places in Brooklyn you must visit. The park, which encompasses 526 acres, is a New York Scenic Landmark, and it’s not hard to see why.

Here, you’ll find sprawling expanses of green spaces and lawns, historic structures, quiet walking paths, and all kinds of recreational activities. There is something for everyone here, any time of year, which makes it one of the top tourist attractions in Brooklyn .

Year-round, you can peruse the Greenmarket at Grand Army Plaza , located at the park’s northern entrance. During the summer, you can catch live performances at the Bandshell or enjoy a picnic in the Long Meadow.

At the southern end of the park, there is Prospect Park Lake and the Parade Ground , which is now an athletic park with sports fields. The LeFrak Center next to the lake offers indoor and outdoor activities like boating and ice skating.

To the east, you can see the beautiful Prospect Park Waterfall and the Beaux Arts-style Boathouse , as well as take a quiet stroll through the Ravine , the only forest in Brooklyn. I recommend relaxing here as long as you can, although if you don’t have much time, this tour will show you the highlights of the park.

8. See the art at the Bushwick Collective, another cool thing to do in Brooklyn, New York

The Bushwick Collective is a series of outdoor art and murals, and one of the best free things to see in Brooklyn .

The Collective originated in 2011 and has grown to include works from local, national, and international artists. Combining graffiti, street art, and murals, the collection includes pieces on social commentary, lighthearted themes, visual interpretations of emotions and thoughts, and more. For all these reasons, it’s one of the best museums in Brooklyn .

If you want to do a self-tour of the Bushwick Collective, a good starting point is Flushing Avenue, near Jefferson Street Station. However, if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything, I recommend this Brooklyn street art tour .

Also, if you’re visiting in the summer, check out the Collective’s free annual street art showcase with music, food, artists, and local vendors.

9. Enjoy the views from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Also known as the Esplanade, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a pedestrian walkway alongside Brooklyn Bridge Park. It leads to the Brooklyn Bridge so it’s a great place to do some leisurely sightseeing.

The Promenade is lined with trees and has lots of benches, so you can take your time walking along the pathway. Depending on which part of the Promenade you’re on, you can get beautiful views of Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Staten Island, or the Statue of Liberty. You can also see Governor’s Island and Ellis Island.

Best of all, the Promenade is a free Brooklyn attraction and is typically open from dawn to dusk. The entrance is under the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway at Remsen Street, and the walkway ends right before Brooklyn Bridge Park.

10. See the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, something to do in Brooklyn during the holidays

Finally, if you’re visiting New York City at Christmastime , I recommend going to Dyker Heights , a popular spot in Brooklyn during the holiday season.

The Dyker Heights neighborhood is in southwestern Brooklyn and is known for its strong Christmas spirit. Many of the neighbors here decorate their homes with elaborate displays, transforming a few city blocks into a glittery atmosphere of holiday cheer.

You’ll see everything from sparkling lights and lawn ornaments to Christmas-themed setups with garland and wreaths. Some people even go all out and include music and synchronized light shows. So, take a break from the Manhattan festivities and check out Dyker Heights because it’s one of the best things to do in NYC in the winter , especially as a family.

The Christmas lights stretch along Dyker Heights Boulevard from 83 rd Street to 86 th Street, and they’re usually lit until around 9 p.m. If you want to experience everything and mingle with some locals, check out this bus tour through the Dyker Heights displays.

Where to stay in Brooklyn

With all the different areas to visit in Brooklyn , you may decide to spend the night. In that case, these are my top picks for where to stay:

• The Williamsburg Hotel – This luxurious resort is one of Brooklyn’s best hotels and boasts elegant rooms with private balconies. There is also a 24-hour gym, and a gourmet restaurant, and it’s one of the few hotels in Brooklyn with a pool .
• Pod Brooklyn – This is one of the best cheap hotels in Brooklyn and a great option if you’re traveling solo. In addition to the clean, cozy rooms, there are communal spaces like a courtyard and a rooftop bar.
• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – This 5-star, eco-friendly hotel is perfect for families, thanks to its lounge area, pool, spa, and large rooms with city views. It’s one of the best boutique hotels in Brooklyn .

You can find more ideas and recommendations in our guide on where to stay in NYC .

Map of Brooklyn, NY

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit and choose which Brooklyn activities you want to do. I’m also leaving this map with all the Brooklyn attractions and hotels I mentioned.

If you have any other questions or you’d like to share your favorite things to do in Brooklyn , feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d be happy to hear from you! Until then, have a great time exploring Brooklyn, NY!

Ascen Aynat

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25 Best Things to do in Brooklyn, New York

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 2024

There are many amazing things to do in Brooklyn. You can admire art in Brooklyn Museum or street art on Troutman Street. You can dine at a Michelin restaurant or an outdoor food market. Brooklyn has an answer for every tourist request making it perfect for entertaining all types of vacationers.

Sure, you should still visit the  Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and you must make your way to The Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building, but once you’ve seen New York City’s classic attractions , make sure to head over the Brooklyn Bridge and explore all the best things to do in Brooklyn as well.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Brooklyn, New York

Brooklyn may be a borough of New York City , but with a population of 2.6 million, it is the fourth largest city in the United States making it its own destination unto itself. This travel guide will give you plenty of ideas of things to do in Brooklyn.

When visiting New York, we highly recommend The New York Go City Explorer Pass . It includes many attractions around New York and Brooklyn including Brooklyn Bridge Full-Day Bike Rental, Brooklyn Museum and Botanic Garden Combo, Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Walking Tour, Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tour, plus choices include the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry. See details here.

1. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walking along the Brooklyn Bridge is a bucket list item of things to do in New York City and not only that, it lets you see some great views of the NYC skyline. Read: 30 Best New York Views – Where to See the Manhattan Skyline

Take your time to stop and enjoy the views of the East River, and the iconic buildings of New York City: The Empire State Building, Crysler Building, One World Trade Centre, the Statue of Liberty, and the other two famous bridges of New York City – The Williamsburg Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.

The bridge is popular with cyclists and commuters walking into Lower Manhattan, so if you want to avoid the crowds, walk early in the morning or later in the evening. If you to take a guided tour, this highly-rated Brooklyn Tour is a 2-hour walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge and through the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of Dumbo. (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)

2. Take a Stroll in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park is not only a great destination in New York, but it is also one of the best places to see the Manhattan Skyline. The best place to see the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges is also at Brooklyn Bridge Park. The park stretches along New York Harbor, with 85 acres of waterfront green space to explore.

Swim in the pop-up swimming pool, take snapshots from DUMBO or soak up the New York Skyline Lookout views. If you want to relax with bridge and city skyline views, Brooklyn Bridge Park is the best place to go in Brooklyn.

We’d advise walking the full length of the park. It may sound like a lot of walking, but it is well worthwhile as you’ll pass Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge, Empire Fulton Ferry Park and Jane’s Carousel, which are fun stop-offs along the way. For a shopping break, don’t miss Empire Stores either – it is one of Brooklyn’s biggest shopping centers.

3. Empire Fulton Ferry Park

Remember Empire Fulton Ferry Park from Brooklyn Bridge Park? Well, we have a special reason to return for or after sunset.

Sunsets from Empire Fulton are gorgeous, and you can relax in the park while you watch the sun sink over the New York skyline. With a bit of luck, you’ll catch a colorful sunset. Then, Brooklyn Bridge and the skyscrapers light up after dark, giving you a different experience of the cityscape again.

Pack a blanket to keep warm and a hot drink in colder months. You can even bring a picnic to make it an extra memorable experience.

4. Walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

If Brooklyn Bridge Park sounds beautiful but too long a walk, consider the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The promenade is less than 600 meters long and has incredible views of New York City across the water.

It is well paved so it is suitable for wheelchair access. Brooklyn Heights Promenade is also free to enter – providing you with free and impressive views. The esplanade is beautifully lined with trees and can easily be walked in half an hour. To squeeze some scenic views into your itinerary, Brooklyn Heights Promenade is one of Brooklyn’s best things to do.

5. Spend a day on Coney Island

Coney Island is hardly a hidden gem in New York. However, the neighborhood is a perfect day out in Brooklyn, with plenty of things to do. Visitors can relax and soak up the sun on Coney Island Beach, a vintage-style strip of the seaside.

Grab a hot dog at Nathan’s Famous and walk the Coney Island Boardwalk to Brighton Beach. Brighton Beach is located on the east end of the coast, closer to Manhattan Beach and more residential areas.

Luna Park in Coney Island has thrill rides for children and adults alike – so everyone can join in all the fun. This section of Coney Island is also next to Maimonides Park, the home turf of the Brooklyn Cyclones, a minor league baseball team. If you are looking for a bit of non-sporting history, you can stop by at Coney Island Museum.

6. Take the Slice of Brooklyn tour

If you want to get a sense of the Brooklyn pizza scene, some insider stories about movies filmed in Brooklyn, and to indulge in this is a great tour. We hopped on a bus and enjoyed sightseeing through Brooklyn while stopping at iconic pizza shops like Grimaldi’s in DUMBO and L&B Spumoni Gardens in Bensonhurst.   You can book this highly rated tour for a walk through Brooklyn while sampling, different styles of pizzas at 3 pizzerias.

We took the Slice of Brooklyn Tour tour where we sampled Neapolitan and Sicilian-style pizzas. Plus, we saw movie locations from some of the most iconic New York movie settings like Saturday Night Fever and Goodfellas. Tours leave from Manhattan so you can tick off a lot of things to see in Brooklyn in one convenient bus tour. Check it out here.

7. Visit New York Transit Museum

Transportation is an excellent way to measure how New York has changed over the last century, and the New York Transit Museum is a fun place to do so. The museum displays vintage subway cars, buses, and exhibitions on transit workers’ lives in a 1936 subway station. Visitors head downstairs from street level into the decommissioned station, an atmospheric way to enter the museum.

The New York Transit Museum allows you to step back in time and experience the transformation of New York City. Educational and family-friendly, it is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn.

8. Tour Brooklyn Brewery

Are you a fan of American craft beer? If so, the Brooklyn Brewery is for you. The microbrewery ships craft beer to more than thirty countries and five continents, making it a well-established brewery to experience in New York.

From lagers to pilsners to IPAs, you can sample a range of beers on tours and tasting sessions at Brooklyn Brewery. You can contact the brewery directly to enquire about availability and get booked in for an experience before it sells out.

Brooklyn Brewery is right next to East River State Park. We’d recommend stopping by the park after your tour to appreciate the river and cityscape views. The nearby Artists & Flea market is also worth a visit on weekends.

This beer tasting bike tour is the ultimate beer tour through Queens and Brooklyn. You’ll visit the Brooklyn Brewery and other specialty brewpubs to enjoy the best brewing curated by experts. You’ll also visit Williamsburg, Lock Island City, Bushwic and its street art scene. It’s a fun way to explore Brooklyn while enjoying fine brews.

9. Visit the Brooklyn Navy Yard Center

Visiting an industrial site may sound like a strange thing to do in Brooklyn. However, Brooklyn Navy Yard is a trendy addition to your New York itinerary .

Brooklyn Navy Yard is the home of urban manufacturing in Brooklyn. You’ll find a rich selection of creative and industrial businesses in the yard, from LED technology to high-end furniture. The atmosphere is full go mode, with all enterprises creating products to sell. However, the Navy Yard is also open to the public.

You can explore one of the exhibitions, join a program, or take a tour. Visiting the yard is fantastic to learn more about design, innovation, and entrepreneurialism.

10. Visit Brooklyn Museum

Art enthusiasts, this New York attraction is for you. Brooklyn Museum is a dedicated art space showcasing an impressive range of ancient and contemporary art.

You’ll find artwork by the likes of Judy Chicago – a renowned feminist artist. You’ll also find ancient Egyptian, Asian, and Islamic artwork, with sculptures and masks to admire.

Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop. The Brooklyn Museum gift shop is somewhat of an attraction in itself. You can shop for prints, unique home décor, and specialist literature.

Brooklyn Museum is the best cultural thing to do in Brooklyn for anyone interested in art. It is cheap to enter and can easily keep you entertained for an afternoon.

11. Take the East River ferry

So, we’ve covered seeing skyline views from Brooklyn Bridge Park and Brooklyn Heights Promenade. However, the East River ferry is another great way to get incredible skyline views of New York from the water.

Forget an expensive boat tour and hop on the ferry. One-way tickets only cost a few dollars, and you still get to see the downtown Manhattan skyline and some of New York city’s most famous landmarks. You pass under Brooklyn Bridge, past the Statue of Liberty, and get views of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings. If you can combine transport and sightseeing, why not?

12. Stop by Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Are you visiting Brooklyn with small children? Brooklyn Children’s Museum is the first children’s museum in the United States.

The museum aims to inspire and educate little minds, bringing big concepts down to an age-appropriate and engaging level. From kid-sized shops in modeled streets of Brooklyn to animal encounters, there are many activities and exhibitions to keep kids busy.

Founded in 1899, it is quite the beloved attraction amongst locals and tourists alike – so be prepared for your child to befriend lots of other children on a visit. This museum is ideal if you want a laidback, sociable, yet educational thing to do with your children in Brooklyn.

13. Visit the Brooklyn Historical Society (aka Center for Brooklyn History)

If you are interested in history, visiting the Center for Brooklyn History is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn. The red brick building is quite historic itself and was built in 1881. And, inside the center, you’ll find information on everything related to Brooklyn’s history – from social history to artwork.

You can browse regularly updated exhibitions covering trending issues and topics. There are also regular displays, exhibitions, and collections to discover. Whether you want to skim through books, admire artifacts, read old newspapers, or look at old maps, you’ll have a vast amount of history at your fingertips.

Some historical materials are around 160 years old and form precious parts of Brooklyn’s story. The Brooklyn Historical Society continues to collect and preserve historical documents and artifacts, making it an important ongoing preservation project.

14. Spend a morning in the Williamsburg neighborhood

Williamsburg is a great neighborhood to visit any time of the day. The neighborhood is full of bars and clubs where you can let your hair down Brooklyn-style. However, Williamsburg is also the neighborhood to choose from if you want to spend a morning somewhere fun. It has a refreshing and trendy atmosphere associated with artists, college graduates, and hipsters.

Bedford Avenue runs through the neighborhood and is one of the best places in Brooklyn for retail therapy, with vintage clothing on sale at independent stores along the street. You’ll also find many cute cafes to try a ‘real’ New York coffee.

If you visit Williamsburg on a Saturday, you should also shop at the Brooklyn flea market in Williamsburg. From potted succulents to heavily discounted vintage fashion. Another Brooklyn flea market is located in Dumbo and both are fun to browse alone or with some company.

15. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Display

If you are visiting Brooklyn in winter, one of our favorite activities is to take in everything Christmas. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Display has some of the best festive decorations that you’ll see across New York. Who needs to go to the North Pole when you can meet a life-sized Santa on Dyker Heights Boulevard?

The residents of Dyker Heights go all out every December, and you can walk the streets admiring and posing for pictures in front of each house’s illuminated decorations. Read more about Christmas in New York – What to do in NYC for the Holidays

You can visit Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Display for free independently. However, if you want a more informative experience, there are guided tours that you can book. This  tour on GetYourGuide  leaves from Upper Manhattan, which is ideal if you are staying outside of Brooklyn.

16. Watch a play at BAM Harvey Theater

You don’t need to be a live theater enthusiast to enjoy a play at Bam Harvey Theater. The theater was built in 1904 and is a stunning, classy venue to watch a show.

Bam Harvey was originally a playhouse, shifting to a cinema in 1942, then renovated to a theater in 1987. Today, you can watch films, theater, opera, concerts, talks, and dance performances. Just check the  official website  to see what scheduled events coincide with your trip to New York.

The Harvey Theater is a great reason to get dressed up in New York, and you should pack a formal outfit to channel your inner luxury-loving diva. While dress codes aren’t commonly enforced at theaters now, you should still dress to the occasion.

For the full luxury experience, arrive a little early and treat yourself to a glass of champagne at the theater bar beforehand.

17. Spend a day on Brighton Beach

Fancy a beach break? Escape from Brooklyn’s inner suburbs and head down to Brighton Beach.

The beach stretches for approximately three miles and has a fun but more residential atmosphere than its neighboring Luna Park. Brighton Beach also caters more to adults than family-friendly Luna Park, and the beachfront is lined with restaurants and nightclubs. You can easily spend a day on Brighton Beach, then enjoy an evening in the suburb’s pubs and clubs.

The neighborhood has a large population of emigres from soviet countries, so it has lots of tasty food and drinks to sample. We’d recommend stopping by Georgian House to sample the melted cheese in a bread bowl.

18. Visit Green-Wood Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery might sound slightly morbid. However, Green-Wood Cemetery is one of Brooklyn’s best attractions.

The cemetery covers a vast 478 acres. It has been a film set for major productions like The Girl on the Train, The Departed, and A Walk Among the Tombstones. Many celebrities are also buried at Green-Wood, including the late artist Pop Smoke and the renowned politician Robert Roosevelt.

You can take cemetery tours to hear about the lives of those buried there and the graveyard’s history. You can combine Green-Wood with a visit to nearby Sunset Park, which has a pool, playground, and recreation center for some light-hearted entertainment.

19. Watch a basketball game at Barclays Center

The United States is renowned for its basketball, and we’d recommend watching a game if you can. The Barclays Center is the home ground of the Brooklyn Nets, a professional basketball team in the NBA. However, it also hosts college basketball games, which still have a fantastic atmosphere but also slightly cheaper tickets.

It is best to purchase tickets to basketball games as far ahead as possible, as they sell out quickly. There are plenty of other events if you miss out, though. The Barclays Center holds regular boxing matches and concerts by artists like Kendrick Lamar and Justin Bieber.

The center is impressive in its own right too, and took two years and $1 billion to build, formally opening its doors in 2012. If you miss out on a basketball game, you will definitely find another event at Barclays to make up for it.

20. Watch a film or show at the Brooklyn Academy of Music

Speaking of films, the Brooklyn Academy of Music is also part of BAM, the community arts initiative that runs the Harvey Theater. The Academy of Music runs film screenings, plays, and concerts just four minutes down the road, so keep an eye out on both schedules to see which events you prefer.

The Academy has a wide selection of movies screening and is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn on an evening. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the Academy of Music is an excellent Brooklyn attraction.

21. Visit Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a must for any botany enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is easily accessible in Central Brooklyn, located on Washington Street near Crown Heights.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden spans 52 acres, including a Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, Cranford Rose Garden, Cherry Esplanade, Shakespeare Garden, and Lily Pool Terrace. There are diverse themed gardens throughout the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, making it fascinating to wander.

You can learn about the plants on the many informative billboards or join a program or special event. There are also plenty of staff on-site if you want to pick up some helpful gardening tips. Otherwise, relax, breathe deeply, and appreciate the fresh air and pretty views.

22. Escape to Marine Park

Marine Park is another place to escape from Downtown Brooklyn. The 530-acre protected reserve has plenty of outdoor activities.

The neighborhood is home to Salt Marsh Nature Trail, two golf courses, and Gateway National Recreation Area. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors – whether you fish, golf, hike, swim, or kayak.

We’d recommend allowing a whole day to visit Marine Park. You won’t be able to fit all the activities in, but pick your favorites and break up the day with a delicious seafood lunch at Nick’s Lobster House.

23. Spend a day at Prospect Park

Prospect Park is Brooklyn’s answer to Manhattan’s Central Park. As we said, the park covers 526 acres and has Prospect Park Zoo on-site.

There are woodland tracks, lakes, and even a Quaker Cemetery to visit. You should prioritize visiting Grand Army Plaza, Ravine Forest, and LeFrak Center (where you can try ice skating). Ravine Forest is especially famous as it is the only forest in Brooklyn – making it very popular amongst residents.

The best thing about Prospect Park is the diversity and quality of things to do. If you want a green space to keep you entertained for a whole day, Prospect Park is a great option.

The Prospect Park Zoo is a popular attraction centrally located in Prospect Park. The zoo is 12 acres and houses over 125 species of animals. You can spot baboons, dingoes, alpacas, and more. The zoo is a fun attraction in Brooklyn to learn more about conservation and get up close to animals.

24. Visit Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club is a good place to learn the ropes if you haven’t tried playing shuffleboard.

Shuffleboard is a game that dates back to the 15th century and involves strategically pushing disks into a marked scoring area. At Royal Palms, shuffleboard is played on the floor with long sticks to move the disks.

You can grab a drink at the bar, a meal from the food trucks, dance to the DJ’s music, or head to the shuffleboard courts for a game. Visiting Royal Palms is a fun date activity or a group activity before a night out.

25. Shop at Dekalb Market Hall

Dekalb Market Hall is one of the best places to eat in Downtown Brooklyn. The massive indoor market has over thirty vendor stalls, leaving you with lots of food choices.

Stop by Bobbi’s Italian, Dan & John’s Wings, or even Brooklyn Wine Cellar for a glass of vino. Dekalb Market Hall has a variety of international cuisines, all of which are served by specialist vendors. Regardless of your food preferences, you will find at least one meal that takes your fancy. Another bonus is that since Dekalb is covered, it runs all year round.

As lovely as outdoor food markets are, we suggest visiting Dekalb Market Hall for your taste of market dining. You can also stop by the street art in nearby Grove Alley on your way. Grove Alley is only a four-minute walk away, so a worthwhile detour.

Where to stay in Brooklyn

If you are looking for some more affordable hotel options when visiting New York, Brooklyn is a great choice. It’s not a bad commute to Lower Manhattan and with New York’s efficient transit system, you are almost always near a subway so getting around NYC won’t be a problem.

We’ve written a detailed guide on the best hotels in New York that you can read here . But these are some quick top picks for budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation.

• Budget : NY Moore Hostel / Booking.com
• Mid-range: Franklin Guesthouse / Booking.com
• Luxury: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge / Booking.com

We recommend staying in the Williamsburg neighborhood. You are still close enough to the main sights (only a 20-minute subway ride away to Times Square) but it is a more residential neighborhood feel. There are great places to eat, cafes and pubs as well as great accommodations. This can be a nice reprieve, especially if you are not a first-time visitor to NYC.

• Luxury ($300 USD and Up)   The William Vale
• Mid Range ($150-275 USD) :  Hotel Indigo
• Budget ($100-150 USD) :  Pointe Plaza Hotel

What are some free things to do in Brooklyn, New York?

You might believe that New York is very expensive, and it is. But there are plenty of free things in in Brooklyn to help you enjoy yourself on a budget.  Washington Street  is the best place to view  Brooklyn Bridge,  and  Brooklyn Heights Promenade  has incredible cityscape views. While, for free art,  Troutman Street  has the  Bushwick Collective Street Art  display.

What is there to do in Brooklyn at night?

Looking for inspiration for Brooklyn at night? You’ll have lots of options.  Skyline Drive-In  is a good outdoor cinema choice and has views of the New York City skyline. There is also a great nightlife scene, which you can experience at  Park Slope, Bushwick , and  Williamsburg .

What are some cultural things to do in Brooklyn, New York?

Brooklyn is full of culture. Catch a play at  Bam Harvey Theater , admire contemporary art at  Brooklyn Museum , or stop by  Jefferson Street Sound Museum . Whether you want music, art, performance, or history, you’ll be well entertained in Brooklyn.

Now you have an idea of the best things to do in Brooklyn, let’s get started on some quick FAQs. Here’s what you need to know before arriving.

How to Get to Brooklyn, NY

For international or far-traveling domestic visitors, the best way to get to Brooklyn is to fly into JFK Airport. From the airport, it is a quick 20-minute drive to the center of Brooklyn or an hour on public transport.

To reach Brooklyn from Manhattan is half an hour’s drive or half an hour on public transport. Brooklyn is connected to the rest of New York by ferry, bus, subway, and train services.

You can walk to Brooklyn via the Brooklyn Bridget from Lower Manhattan.

Getting Around Brooklyn, NY

The best way to get around Brooklyn is to purchase a MetroCard and use public transport. Taxis can be expensive, and traffic congestion can delay trips, so aim to catch the train or subway if you are in a rush.

There is a subway, bus, train, and ferry system in Brooklyn. Of course, you can also rent a bike or walk if you’d like the extra exercise. Uber, Lyft, and Kid Car are good emergency transport options and alternatives to taxis.

The Best Time to Visit Brooklyn, NY

There are benefits to visiting Brooklyn all through the year. It is typically cheapest to visit Brooklyn between January and March, while June is usually the perfect temperature – warm but not sweltering. In autumn, the Brooklyn parks and cityscape are beautiful, and in winter, you’ll have all of New York City’s Christmas festivities to enjoy.

It is a tough call, but our favorite time to visit Brooklyn is in June. The warm but moderate temperatures make it the best month to spend time outdoors in Brooklyn.

Brooklyn is a versatile and entertaining place to stay in New York City. Whether you love culture, sporting events, history, or wildlife, Brooklyn has an activity to suit you.

Be prepared for a packed itinerary when visiting Brooklyn. In fact, you might even need to book a return trip.

Plan more of your New York City Travels with these guides:

• Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets
• 30 Best New York Views – Where to See the Manhattan Skyline
• 15 Fun Facts about New York City
• New York City Itinerary – 5 Days in New York
• 33 Best Things to Do in New York for First-Timers
• 7 Tips to Make the Most of Your New York City Photography
• Things to do in Lake Placid, New York
• The Truth about New York Vacation Rentals, Yes You Can
• King of Hearts
• Collin Knopp-Schwyn

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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16 Fun Things to do in Downtown Brooklyn (A Local’s Guide)

Check out all the amazing things to do in Downtown Brooklyn, the bustling heart of our borough full of action! From entertainment venues, eateries, bars, and all kinds of incredible things to do – I will showcase the best of Downtown Brooklyn!

This neighborhood is starting to look like Manhattan more and more every day. Over the last few years, the gentrification of this area has skyrocketed. A large portion of this gentrification is credited to the opening of the Barclays Center in 2012, which was highly controversial for longtime residents of the borough and has introduced alot more new development in the area, like the giant dark, ominous looking tower and lone skyscraper that looks like Sauron.

Downtown Brooklyn is now known as a great spot to stay if you’re coming to travel around Brooklyn because of its central location, proximity to popular venues like Barclay’s, Atlantic Terminal, BAM, and universities. Nearby you have Long Island University and New York University flooding the area with students, and all the can’t miss things to do in Downtown Brooklyn!

In this guide, we will cover all the awesome things to do Downtown Brooklyn. This includes all the places for entertainment, amazing eats, shopping needs, parks to visit, where to stay in Downtown Brooklyn, and more!

But first, where is Downtown Brooklyn?

Just like most neighborhoods in Brooklyn, it’s not always clear where the boundaries are. Although technically the delineation of Downtown Brooklyn, New York includes DUMBO and parts of Vinegar Hill, for the purposes of this guide we are going to zero in on Downtown Brooklyn that doesn’t include these waterfront sections of the neighborhood since they are also considered neighborhoods their own.

This area is in the northwestern section of the borough.

When you cross the Brooklyn or Manhattan Bridge, you’ll end up right here in Downtown Brooklyn. This area has easy access to and from Manhattan and in recent years Downtown Brooklyn reminds visitors more of Manhattan than the rest of Brooklyn with large skyscrapers, endless food, and shopping options, and variety of public transportation, one could hardly tell the difference between this neighborhood and Manhattan.

This area is served by many subway stations.

• Dekalb Avenue B, D, N, Q, R, and W lines)
• Atlantic Avenue (2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, and R lines)
• Jay Street—MetroTech A, C, F, N, R, and W lines)
• Nevins Street (2, 3, 4, and 5 lines)

Needless to say, you will not struggle to find a train that will get you where you want to go.

Disclaimer: this post contains commisionable links.

What to do in Downtown Brooklyn

• See a Show at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

The Brooklyn Academy of Music, known as BAM, kind of falls between Downtown Brooklyn and Fort Greene. Since it’s close to the edge, I am throwing it in the mix here.

Brooklyn is widely known for its history of artists and musicians. In 1906 BAM opened its doors right here in Downtown Brooklyn, New York and it’s actually known to be one of America’s oldest performing arts centers. They are famous for their cutting-edge performances.

BAM is an amazing place for those who appreciate culture and art. They present a variety of art forms, such as music, dance, opera, film, and more.

You will want to check out BAM Rose Cinemas for a movie! Seeing the re-screening of Stop Making Sense   featuring The Talking Heads here was unbelievable and it was the perfect place to do so as the annual New Wave Festival is held at BAM each year!

Since the programming here changes frequently and they host an array of events throughout the year, the best way to see what’s happening is by checking the calendar directly on BAM . If you purchase a BAM membership, you will be able to view special screenings or even sit in on rehearsals.

While you’re in the area, check out our guide for things to do in Fort Greene !

See a Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir Performance

Hearing this famous Grammy-Award winning choir is something you’ll want to cross off your bucket list while visiting Downtown Brooklyn, New York.

Based on their outstanding accolades, one would’ve never guessed that the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir actually began with only nine singers in the mid-1970s.

Since then, this choir now consists of 270 angelic voices and has performed at a variety of famous venues, other than their beautiful church of course.

Throughout their time, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has performed at Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, and more. Most notable was when they performed at the 2012 presidential inauguration, which had over 1 billion viewers.

The choir’s incredible commitment to their church has led them to five Dove Awards and six Grammy awards.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle is an evangelical non-denominational Christian church and was founded back in 1847. It wasn’t until 2002 that the church settled into a beautiful theatre in Downtown Brooklyn, New York.

This theatre seats 3,300 churchgoers and they have three two-hour services each week. It’s definitely a must on the list of things to do in Downtown Brooklyn.

• Catch a Flick at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

When thinking of things to do in Downtown Brooklyn, you have several great options for seeing a movie including might Alamo Drafthouse located on the 4th and 5th floors of City Point.

Alamo Drafthouse is a luxurious movie theater with 7 auditoriums, which can serve nearly 800 people. This movie theater has incredible reclining seats as well as full food & drink menus (they even have an all-vegan menu), which you can order from throughout your film. It’s just like a restaurant, a two-for-one kind of deal.

When compared to regular movie theaters, the tickets are about the same price but instead you can sit back and enjoy the show in a comfortable chair and be waited on and enjoy your favorite beer or cocktail as you watch the movie.

Keep in mind seats are chosen and reserved by visitors prior to entering the auditorium. There is also a zero-tolerance policy for talking and texting during any film.

So just sit back, relax, and order some grub! Keep in mind that only the seats in the front row recline! Check out more of the best movie theaters in Brooklyn !

• Eat Your Way Through Dekalb Market

As a downtowner, Dekalb Market holds a special place in my heart.

This iconic food hall has over 40 vendors from local and regional eateries (many of which are their second outpost), which provides a multitude of types of food representing cuisines from all over the world!

Whenever you’re unsure what to eat when visiting Downtown Brooklyn, this is the best place to go because of the variety!

Dekalb Market is most famous for their Taste of Katz’s, which is the only satellite location of the original Katz’s Delicatessen on Houston Street on the Lower East Side. Visit Katz’s in Dekalb to get a taste of some of the world’s most famous pastrami and most iconic places to eat in New York!

They also have some of the best places to eat in Downtown Brooklyn including Han’s Dynasty along with a handful of other vendors with all types of cuisine from around the globe represented in this food hall.

In addition to the amazing food, Dekalb Market has awesome bars and live music! Perfect for a night out with a group of friends since everyone can choose from different vendors and head to the beautiful Sixpoint Brewery bar here for drinks, one of the best breweries in Brooklyn !

Check out Dekalb Market on our guide to the most iconic places to eat in Brooklyn .

Get Creeped Out at The House of Wax

While you’re visiting the Alamo Drafthouse, check out The House of Wax, a macabre bar that’s truly unique. This spot definitely considered one of the hidden gems of Downtown Brooklyn. 

The House of Wax is what is sounds like, a place where you can see a rare wax collection that was called Castan’s Panopticum from the turn of the century in Berlin. The collection is grotesque to say the least, almost all of it are anatomical wax figures, many of which are quite shocking. 

But wait, there’s more.

The House of Wax is also a cocktail bar! They also have an extensive draft menu. It has a dark and intimate ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink before or after catching a flick (or you can just visit without seeing a movie too).

But be warned, this place really isn’t for the faint of heart. Some of the wax figures are pretty graphic.

See A Performance or Sporting Event at Barclays Center

It is currently home to the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and the WNBA’s New York Liberty. NHL’s New York Islanders also used the Barclays Center as their home stadium from 2016-2020.

Getting to the Barclays Center is the easiest part. The Atlantic Avenue subway station right in front of the Barclays connects the 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, R, & W lines as well as the Long Island Railroad (LIRR). This makes it much more quick and efficient when leaving a crowded event.

And plan your pre or post-event by checking out the best places to eat near Barclays Center just a short walk away! There are so many incredible food options, so take a local’s recommendation from our guide.

• Shop Around Fulton Mall

One of my personal favorite things to do in Downtown Brooklyn, New York is stroll and shop around the Fulton Mall.

This is an outdoor shopping center that is a huge attraction for Brooklynites. There are hundreds of small businesses and almost every clothing outlet you could possibly need. Who says you need to go to SoHo for shopping?

A couple of the most popular stores a TJ Maxx, Macy’s, American Eagle, H&M, Aldo, Steve Madden, Adidas, Old Navy, and more. It’s a great way to get outdoors even if you’re not looking to buy anything, I often find myself roaming the Fulton Mall just for window shopping.

If you’ve worked up an appetite while shopping, visit Junior’s or the Dekalb Market just feet away.

There’s usually a large outdoor seating area, which is perfect for a meet up with friends or just as a place to rest the legs after exploring all of Downtown Brooklyn, New York.

Read Next: Amazing Brooklyn Boutiques & Gift Stores in Brooklyn

• See a Hidden Art Installation in the Subway: Masstransiscope

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Hop on the B or Q Manhattan-bound trains from the Dekalb Avenue station (and look out the right-hand side of the window) to see Masstransiscope, an art installation by artist Bill Brand hidden in the depths of the subway.

To prove that you really have to look out for this zoetrope, I’ve had friends who had lived here in Downtown Brooklyn, for years and didn’t even know it existed. Most people are looking down on their phones or distracted while on their commute, so it’s easy to miss!

Wondering what a zoetrope is? A zoetrope is a sequence of drawings and/or photographs to show motion used in pre-film animations.

Masstransiscope has been here since 1980 and it was created by the artist Bill Brand. The zoetrope is 300 feet long and has actually been restored twice! It’s currently in great shape, you just have to hope that you don’t get an annoying delay on the train as that will make it hard to see the zoetrope in full action.

Make sure you board the B or Q Manhattan-bound train and look out the right side window!

• Wander Around the New York Transit Museum

This is without a doubt one of the coolest museums in New York City. Located on the edge of Boerum Hill and Downtown Brooklyn is the New York Transit Museum, which is actually in the decommissioned 1936 Court Street subway station.

This underground museum was founded in 1976 and visitors can view and even board vintage subway cars that date back as early as 1907!

In addition to the awesome trains, visitors can learn about incredible stories and the history stemmed from New York’s amazing mass transit system.

Visitors can learn about the history of New York City transit through exhibits, there are plenty of areas for kids to play too, making it one of the best museums in New York City for kids !

But the best part is being able to walk through all the vintage trains and seeing the different styles, and advertisements fitting of the year they were in service, and wondering what it was like to ride these gorgeous old-school cars.

Pay attention to when they partner with the MTA to do their nostalgic train rides and the Parade of Trains where they bust out their old fleet and let passengers ride on their daily commute all for the cost of a single subway ride! Oh, and people dress for the part too in their best vintage apparel! They have a few throughout the year, but the most famous one is probably the holiday nostalgic train rides. 

Check out more of the amazing museums in Brooklyn too!

The New York Transit Museum is wheelchair accessible at the corner of Schermerhorn and Court Streets.

Pay Homage to a Literary Great at Walt Whitman Park

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A visit to Walt Whitman Park is one of the best things to do in Downtown Brooklyn when you just need a breath of fresh air or some inspiration.

This park is named after a famous Brooklyn resident, Walt Whitman, who is known for his work as a writer, poet, and essayist. He is known to be one of the country’s most influential when it comes to literary work.

Whitman lived and worked in Brooklyn and a lot of his famous work was published here, one of his most famous being, Leaves of Grass . If you’re familiar with his work you may even recognize locations in Brooklyn that are mentioned in his works like the Fulton Ferry Landing.

Although most people don’t visit this park to get active, like some of our other Brooklyn parks , it’s a great space to take a walking break on a bench or bring a book and just enjoy a nice day.

While you’re walking around the park, keep an eye out for some Whitman excerpts from his poems and be sure to check out the rest of the Walt Whitman Brooklyn sites nearby.

• Hang Out at Cadman Plaza Park

This park is right on the border of Downtown Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights. Every time I pass this park on my way to DUMBO, there are plenty of people soaking in the gorgeous day, some walking their dogs, and some using the park for their fitness activities.

This park has a large central lawn that’s a common gathering space for demonstrations, events, and politcal events. When those things aren’t happening, people relax on the lawn and use it as an urban greenspace.

Cadman Plaza Park was named after a minister in the Brooklyn Congregational Church, Reverend Doctor Samuel Parkes Cadman.

Something that makes this park special is the Brooklyn War Memorial, it’s dedicated to the 300,000 Brooklynites that served during World War II.

Once you’ve checked this Brooklyn park off your things to do in Downtown Brooklyn bucket list, check out our guide for things to do in DUMBO ! I mean, since you’ll be in the area.

• Take a Peek at Brooklyn Borough Hall

This building served the original City Hall for nearly 50 years before Brooklyn merged to become part of New York City in 1989. It’s also a National Registered Historic Place, which means the government has deemed the building worthy of preservation because of its historical significance in Downtown Brooklyn.

Brooklyn was once its own city, until 1898 when Brooklyn became included in the New York City Hall on January 1st. Thus Brooklyn’s City Hall changed its name to Brooklyn Borough Hall.

This building is recognized as one of the city’s best Greek Revival buildings. Other notable features include the gorgeous rotunda atop of the building, the checkered marble floors, and the elegant Courtroom.

This area is also usually flooded with some pretty talented skateboarders. If you’re lucky you might just catch a show.

• Dine at the Iconic Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery

If you know anything about Brooklyn, it’s probably that it’s home to the most famous slice of New York cheesecake.

Since 1950, Junior’s has been dedicated to making the best cheesecake New York has to offer and getting a slice of their plain cheesecake is a must when visiting NYC. It’s basically a no-brainer on the list of things to do in Downtown Brooklyn.

Although many people visit the Times Square location, the original Junior’s is right here in Downtown Brooklyn. In addition to cheesecake you can also have a classic diner experience here and a full meal! This is just one of those timeless, old-school dining institutions you don’t want to miss.

If you aren’t able to dine-in, Junior’s will ship the cheesecake to you via Gold Belly!

Have a Cocktail at the Sunken Harbor Club

One of the coolest themed bars in New York City can be found in Downtown Brooklyn. Located above the gorgeous, fine dining establishment Gage & Tollner, this hidden intimate nautical bar is an experience.

The setting is intimate and dimly lit and makes you feel like you’re in the bowels of an old pirate ship with ambient sounds of waves crashing.

On the pricier side, but well worth it as you feel like you’re in an elevated Pirates of the Caribbean Disney-esque club. It might take a minute to page through their extensive list of elevated cocktails and libations along with a few shareable bites, if you’re looking for a full meal you’ll want to go back downstairs. 

Open Wednesdays – Sundays 5 PM – 12 AM, no reservations and on a first come first serve basis.

Pet Some Kitties at the Brooklyn Cat Café (Or Adopt one!)

Calling all cat lovers! The Brooklyn Cat Café is an incredible non-profit that sounds like a cute and quirky place to grab brunch, but it’s actually a great place to visit with cats and kittens.

This cat café is an adoption center that has partnered with animal rescue groups to find these whiskered cuties a fur-ever home.

Walk-ins and reservations are available and you do not have to adopt any of the cats (unless you want to!) while visiting Brooklyn Cat Café.

You can get a 30 minute visit with these feline friends when visiting. Visitors help keep the facility up and running, which ultimately helps more kittens find a loving home.

Although this café is considered apart of Brooklyn Heights, it’s only a short walk from Downtown Brooklyn, New York.

If you aren’t able to make it in, check out their Instagram page for all their furry friends currently at the café. Mentally this is where I am.

Closed Tuesdays

Get a Caffeine Fix at a Cafe

Obviously spending hours on your feet while exploring Downtown Brooklyn can be perfectly paired with a cup of coffee, tea, or treat from one of the many cool cafes in the area.

Luckily one thing Downtown Brooklyn is really good at is having cute cafes perfect for your Instagram aesthetic and a morning or mid-day pick me up.

Although this area has a surplus of Starbucks and Dunkin’, which are always good options, we love to support smaller businesses when we can, plus you’re going to get a better quality cup of coffee.

Here’s a quick rundown of some options in Downtown Brooklyn!

White Noise Coffee Co.— Check out this coffee shop located on Smith Street. They have all the coffee drinks you need and an awesome food menu guaranteed to hold you over while you explore Downtown Brooklyn. 

Devoción— This coffee shop located on Livingston Street has an amazing aesthetic. It made for a great Instagram story and a nice place to hang out.

Hungry Ghost— With a few locations in Downtown Brooklyn, Hungry Ghost is a great option if you’re looking for coffee on the go. In addition to coffee and lattes, they serves teas and kombucha here!

Doughnut Plant— Located on Flatbush Ave right by the Barclays Center, Doughnut Plant is a step up from Dunkin’ Donuts. They have a variety of specialty donuts and coffee drinks. A must have!

The Sweet Cafe— An adorable little cafe located on Hoyt Street, serves all your favorite specialty espresso drinks, lattes, teas and more. They also have smoothies, crepes, sandwiches and other options for breakfast and lunch!

Getting Around Downtown Brooklyn, New York

Getting around this area couldn’t be easier. Most of the things you’ll want to see in Downtown Brooklyn are within walking distance.

But if you get tired of walking everywhere or you’re looking to cover more ground at a faster pace, we would recommend downloading the Citi Bike app for bike rentals!

All you have to do is enter your info into the app and find the nearest docking station. You can get the bike for 30 minutes unless you get a day pass or you’re an annual pass holder, then you’ll have to redock after 45 minutes of biking!

Just be mindful of busy roads and look for the bike line when possbile, one of the best places to bike to from Downtown Brooklyn is to Brooklyn Bridge Park , which has a nice bike path to ride along.

And don’t forget about the plenty of subway stations we have right here in Downtown Brooklyn!

• Dekalb Avenue (B, D, N, Q, R, and W lines)
• Jay Street—MetroTech (A, C, F, N, R, and W lines)

Where to Stay in Downtown Brooklyn, New York

Aloft New York Brooklyn

You can find this affordable 4-star hotel in Downtown Brooklyn on Duffield Street. This hotel is centrally located for all the amazing things to do in Downtown Brooklyn.

The rooms are beautifully decorated and the hotel offers a fitness center, an indoor pool, a bar and lounge, coffee shops, and more.

If you’re traveling with your furry friend, this hotel is pet friendly!

Book Now on Booking.com | Compare Prices for Later on Hotels.com | See Rates on Expedia.com

Sheraton Brooklyn New York Hotel

Another great spot to stay when visiting Downtown Brooklyn is the Sheraton. This hotel is also located on Duffield Street, which means you’ll have easy access to subways, fantastic dining, shopping, and more.

This 4-star hotel has everything you’ll need and more for a magical stay in Brooklyn. This hotel is equipped with spa services, fitness centers, an indoor pool, and this is also where Kimoto Rooftop is!

The beautiful rooftop bar and lounge sits on top of this very hotel, making it easy to cross that off your list of things to do in Downtown Brooklyn.

The rooms are perfect for business travelers with plenty of work space. During your stay, customers can upgrade to a suite that has a separate living room and it also comes with special perks like access to the lounge, complimentary breakfast, snacks, and appetizers in the evening!

The Tillary Hotel

The Tillary is a great place to stay in Downtown Brooklyn if you think you’ll be spending some of your visit in DUMBO. This hotel also has amazing views of the Manhattan Bridge, just steps away from the hotel.

The Tillary has a café, a bar, and a beautiful outdoor terrace. This hotel also offers soundproof windows, which can be a game changer when staying in NYC.

The rooms are also beautifully designed with designer toiletries and Italian linens.

If you’re looking to step out of the room, enjoy the incredible views, the lobby lounge and beer garden and so much more when you stay at the Tillary.

There is parking on the property for an added fee.

Ace Hotel Brooklyn

Probably my favorite pick for where to stay in Downtown Brooklyn is the uber cool Ace Hotel Brooklyn . Located within a block of three different subway stations, it’s so easy to navigate around Brooklyn and New York City from here.

As for the block that Ace Hotel is on, they have plenty of great restaurants surrounding it including a few awesome Korean restaurants and their own restaurant on site, As You Are which is one of my favorite date night spots and places to eat in the area.

As with any Ace Hotel property, you’re getting a quality stay. This 4-star hotel features immpecable design and stylish rooms.

Book now on Expedia.com | Check out Rates on Hotels.com

Things to do Nearby Downtown Brooklyn

There are a number of gorgeous neighborhoods to check out during your stay in Downtown Brooklyn.

This neighborhood is one of my personal favorites. This is the best spot in Brooklyn for amazing cityscape views as well as accessing the New York ferry along the East River! There’s also some amazing food options down there. Be sure to check out all the best things to do in DUMBO for more inspiration!

Fort Greene

This gorgeous brownstone filled neighborhood is practically a part of Downtown Brooklyn and absolutely worth checking out during your visit. Relax in the beautiful Fort Greene Park or check out some of the borough’s best restaurants that can be found here. Refer to our full guide for the best things to do in Fort Greene for more!

Prospect Heights

While this neighborhood is on the smallish side, there are plenty of great things to do in Prospect Heights which neighbors Downtown Brooklyn including accesss to Grand Army Plaza and Prospect Park!

If you plan on visiting the Barclays Center, take a few more steps to continue to the beautiful brownstone filled neighborhood of Park Slope. This area is full of plenty of awesome places to shop and eat, and is known for the amazing Prospect Park. Check out our full guide for best things to do in Park Slope !

Cobble Hill

Another quaint neighborhood that’s fun to just mosey around and look at pretty houses, charming pocket-sized parks, dine, or even spot the occassional celebrity. Be sure to pay a visit to the beautiful Cobble Hill Park for a nice walking break on a bench.

Boerum Hill

Another smaller neighborhood around Downtown Brooklyn worth exploring for more food, restaurants, and even galleries!

Brooklyn Heights

This historic neighborhood is the oldest suburb in America and filled with gorgeous architecture, see our guide for the best things to do in Brooklyn Heights to build your own historic walking tour as well as some of the best views in the city from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade!

Best Things to do in Downtown Brooklyn (Post Summary):

• See a Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir Performance 
• Get Creeped Out at the House of Wax
• See a Performance or Sporting Event at Barclays Center
• Pay Homage to A Literary Great at Walt Whitman Park
• Have a cocktail at the Sunken Harbor Club
• Pet some kitties at the Brooklyn Cat Cafe (or adopt one!)
• Get a caffeine fix at a cafe

Liked this post on the best things to do in Downtown Brooklyn or found it helpful? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest.

My name is Katie and I went to college here New York City at LIU in Brooklyn! I love photography and am excited to share some of my favorite Brooklyn and New York City tips and spots on Your Brooklyn Guide.

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The Ultimate Guide to NYC's Coolest Borough, Brooklyn

Best time to go, things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Welcome to Brooklyn, home to everything people miss when they visit New York — the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn Bridge, and the best hot dogs in the city at Coney Island. Whether you're here for the French press-scented Williamsburg or the quieter life in Park Slope, there's something in Brooklyn for everyone — and that thing is Brooklyn pizza.

Historically, Brooklyn has been home to the offbeat and untraditional, from its incredible LGTBQ+ history to the Brooklyn Museum's entire floor dedicated to protest art. It's not built along a grid, inviting travelers to explore as they like through neighborhoods large and small. Brooklyn is also a popular destination for movie and TV buffs, given how frequently it appears in our most beloved media. You can see the police station used in Brooklyn Nine-Nine 's exterior shots as you mosey toward Vanderbilt Street for some of Little Cupcake Bakeshop's Brooklyn Blackout Cake, or walk through idyllic Prospect Park and get a good look at the famous carousel.

Beautiful and less crowded than Manhattan, Brooklyn deserves as many accolades as the most popular tourist areas across the river.

Year-round. Like the rest of New York, Brooklyn is full of things to do, whether it's the height of summer or the cozy comfort of winter. Some things to keep an eye out for include:

The Greenpoint Film Festival , which features four categories of films (documentary, narrative, experimental, and animation) and Q&As with filmmakers, is held every spring (usually May) at the Wythe Hotel on Wythe Avenue. You'll be in the center of all of Greenpoint's best food and fun.

Afropunk Fest , known to its fiercest devotees simply as Afropunk, happens every summer from June through August in Fort Greene's Commodore Barry Park. Years past have featured performances from FKA Twigs, Alicia Keys, D'Angelo, SZA, and more. Afropunk is also a fashion destination for those with an eye for the freshest, most innovative streetwear.

The Brooklyn Book Festival is a fall staple, returning annually for a week in September to thrill book lovers worldwide. It's the largest free literary event in America. Yes, you read that correctly: The entire event is free, talks and signings included. Parties, events, and screenings fill the week leading up to the headline event at Borough Hall in Brooklyn on the final day of the festival. The festival's marketplace is a wonder in and of itself, and well worth a wander to grab special-edition copies of your favorites or snap up brand-new titles.

Don't miss ice skating at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park — this hidden gem boasts two outdoor rinks in the middle of the picturesque park. At $11 for weekend access to the rink and $8 for a skate rental, it's one of the most affordable ways to spend a memorable, classic New York winter day.

Eastern Standard Time

Tourism in Brooklyn isn't as big an industry as it is over the river in Manhattan, so hotel deals are easier to snag. If you have a specific neighborhood in mind, it's a good idea to research that area before you go; many neighborhoods have a central hub for public transportation, but are primarily serviced by one or two specific lines. Save yourself the headache by knowing which ones in advance. Brooklyn sidewalks are often narrower than those in Manhattan. It's important to be mindful of the people around you — in groups, try not to take up the entire sidewalk. Native Brooklynites will thank you for it.

Currency: U.S. Dollar

Language: English

Trains: Trains are accessed by Metrocard in all of New York. Each ride is $2.75, no matter how long you stay on the train. You can purchase Metrocards in most subway stations, and add value (such as $30 flat) or time (such as a week of unlimited rides for a set price). Brooklyn is serviced by almost all of the trains in New York City, but different lines go to different neighborhoods. Central hubs for transfers between lines are at Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center, Jay Street-Metrotech, and Lorimer Street. North Brooklyn is primarily serviced by the L, M, J, and G trains. South Brooklyn is primarily serviced by the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, B, F, D, G, N, Q, and R trains. The G train goes north to south in Brooklyn and does not cross over into Manhattan. It's a good way to move between the two areas.

Buses: Brooklyn has extensive bus lines, and buses can be accessed with a regular Metrocard. Buses cost the same as a subway ride, but in Brooklyn, they are sometimes easier ways to get from place to place instead of transferring between trains. All Brooklyn buses start with B — for instance, the B65 is Brooklyn route 65. Bus stops are clearly marked on the sidewalks with what buses stop there and which directions they go. Consult a map or an app such as MyMTA in advance to see if a bus will get you where you need to go more easily than a train.

Taxis: Taxis are pea-green in Brooklyn! Green taxis are borough taxis, meaning they can bring you into Manhattan, but their purpose is to bring people in and out of the boroughs other than Manhattan. You can find taxis on any main thoroughfare, such as Atlantic Avenue or Flatbush Avenue. You hail them as you would a taxi in Manhattan, by standing near a place the taxi can easily pull over and holding up your hand. A taxi is empty if the number on its roof is lit, and in service with a customer if that number is dim.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are always good options in Brooklyn, particularly if you're not in the mood to find a main highway or are far enough away from one that you don't feel like walking. Rides are plentiful and, as always, you can order a private car or join a carpool.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Address: 60 Furman St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (347) 696-2500

A tourist favorite for its central location and stunning view of the iconic Manhattan skyline, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge boasts luxuriously appointed rooms and waterfall showers. Decorated with warm neutrals and lush plant life, it's a great option for those who want an oasis away from the bustle of the city. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge offers suites as well as connecting rooms for larger groups and families, and their 2,000-square-foot Riverhouse Suite is famous for its stone soaking tub.

Wythe Hotel

Address: 80 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 Phone: (718) 460-8000

Wythe Hotel opened in 2012 in a restored factory building and has maintained the rustic-meets-industrial charm of Williamsburg. With exposed brick, original timbers, and huge windows, the rooms are chic and comfortable and feel like Brooklyn personified. Located along the river in Williamsburg, the Wythe boasts a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline and easy access to all that Brooklyn has to offer.

Address: 85 Smith St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 852-8585

A boutique property situated on cozy Smith Street in Downtown Brooklyn, NU Hotel houses rooms with murals by local artists and other unique touches, like hammocks and bunk beds. The hotel is walking distance to many great Brooklyn neighborhoods, and close to the great dining and dive bars on Atlantic Avenue, as well as the boutique shopping on Smith Street.

Hotel Indigo

Address: 229 Duffield St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 254-7800

Part of the Indigo hotel collection, this Downtown Brooklyn location features local art and a boutique atmosphere. Centrally located to most trains and right next to City Point, this is a great option for anyone who wants to check out all that South Brooklyn has to offer.

Aloft New York Brooklyn

Address: 216 Duffield St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 256-3833

Located near City Point, Aloft is a boutique hotel arm of the Marriott, and as such, it has the comfort and amenities of old pro hotels with some unique touches that offer a different experience. There are several different room sizes available for those traveling in groups or as a family.

The Tillary Hotel

Address: 85 Flatbush Ave. Ext., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 329-9537

Comfortably appointed at the north end of Brooklyn Heights, The Tillary is an upscale urban spot roundly considered one of the best hotels in Brooklyn. With spacious, beautifully decorated rooms, an incredible view, and easy access to four of the main subway lines in Brooklyn, it's easy to see why The Tillary is a top choice for travelers.

Hotel Le Bleu

Address: 370 4th Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11215 Phone: (718) 625-1500

If you're looking for a hotel to explore Prospect Park from, Hotel Le Bleu is ideal. One block over from Park Slope's famous shopping and a 15-minute walk from the park itself, Hotel Le Bleu is a great option for travelers who prefer to stay in quieter neighborhoods for relaxation between days spent on the go.

The Brooklyn

Address: 1199 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11216 Phone: (718) 789-1500

A luxurious mid-century modern hotel, The Brooklyn is the height of sophistication, lushly appointed and beautifully decorated. However, you need not drain your savings — it's also reasonably priced, especially if you book far in advance.

The William Vale

Address: 111 N 12th St., Brooklyn, NY 11249 Phone: (718) 631-8400

Located in Williamsburg near the East River, this is one of Brooklyn's trendiest hotels. It's a great home base for street art aficionados who will find plenty to appreciate about the neighborhood. Each room comes with its own private balcony, a rarity in New York. The hotel's best feature, however, is the epic 60-foot outdoor pool on its roof.

Colonie (Traditional American)

Address: 127 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 855-7500

Chef Jared Braithwaite's menu is full of unexpectedly paired flavors — a delicious and eclectic mix of Italian, Jewish, and American influences. Colonie sources as much of its ingredients from local farms as possible, and the freshness is apparent with every bite. Don't miss the squid ink pasta or any of the desserts.

Five Leaves (New American)

Address: 18 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11222 Phone: (718) 383-5345

A Greenpoint brunch staple, Five Leaves' Instagram-worthy aesthetic is almost as good as its ricotta pancakes. With a range of simple to complex dishes, there's something for everyone at this sweet bistro. Make reservations in advance — tables go quickly.

Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop (Bakery)

Address: 727 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11222 Phone: (718) 389-3676

Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop has been a neighborhood staple for over 60 years, and every weekend, the line is out the door for their crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside cake donuts and fluffy yeast donuts. Their recipe is unchanged, and fresh donuts are added constantly. Try the sour cream cake donut or the s'mores yeast donut — and don't forget a cup of simple, delicious drip coffee to go with it.

Tacombi (Mexican)

Address: 25 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11217 Phone: (347) 294-0647

With authentic Mexican food born in a converted VW bus on the beaches of the Yucatan, Tacombi has six locations and, luckily, one of them is in Brooklyn. Grab a plate of tacos — all of them excellent — and wash it all down with Brooklyn's best horchata.

Roberta's Pizza (Pizzeria)

Address: 261 Moore St., Brooklyn, NY 11206 Phone: (718) 417-1118

Roberta's has expanded to multiple New York locations and one in California, but the original spot can be found in Bushwick — and it's well worth the trek to get there. In addition to its signature wood-fired pizzas, Roberta's is known for its delectable appetizers and highly curated wine selection.

Momo Sushi Shack (Sushi)

Address: 43 Bogart St., Brooklyn, NY 11206 Phone: (718) 418-6666

A Bushwick icon, Momo Sushi Shack is fronted by some of the neighborhood's famous street art. Community seating is more cozy than off-putting here, with an open kitchen that allows you to watch your sushi being made. If you're not a sushi person, Momo Sushi Shack is also known for its exceptional ramen.

Bagel Pub (Bakery)

Address: Multiple Locations

With two convenient locations, there's no excuse (unless you're gluten-free) not to treat yourself to Brooklyn's best bagels. Bagel Pub bagels are dense and chewy and big enough to fill you up for a morning of adventuring. Get one with lox, cream cheese, or butter, or opt for one as an egg sandwich — but definitely get one.

Sottocasa (Italian)

Address: 298 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 852-8758

What would Brooklyn be without pizza? Sottocasa's brick oven ensures you won't ever have to know. If for whatever reason you'd prefer a classic caprese salad or a hot, cheesy calzone, Sottocasa delivers on that, too. Go on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday to enjoy the heavenly burrata pizza, available exclusively on the weekend.

Darna Falafel (Turkish)

Address: 200 Court St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (347) 799-1673

Don't miss this adorable Turkish bistro's incredible falafel, never dry and always flavorful. Their chicken shish kebab has rave reviews, too, and their homemade hummus is good enough to get in a tub and take home with you. Try the Turkish bread — one order gets you a whole fresh loaf, cut in half and great to pair with the hummus.

The Crabby Shack (Seafood)

Address: 613 Franklin Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11238 Phone: (718) 484-1507

Owned and operated by two Crown Heights natives, The Crabby Shack serves simple, delicious fare: crab — perfectly steamed and seasoned — accompanied by your choice of fresh sides and homemade sauces. If someone in your group isn't a shellfish fan, worry not — The Crabby Shack makes a mean mac and cheese, and their vegan crab cakes are just as delicious as the meat-eater's version.

Ample Hills Creamery (Ice Cream Parlor)

Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11238 Phone: (718) 483-8199

Ample Hills Creamery has a few locations outside of New York now, but they started in a parlor shop in Brooklyn, which still boasts the widest array of daily flavor offerings. Famous for their ice cream's texture and creative, delicious flavors, there's something here for everyone, whether you prefer a chock-full of toppings or simple vanilla. Be prepared to wait in line if you visit in the warmer months, but the parlor is open year-round to solve any winter ice cream cravings.

Peter Luger

Address: 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 Phone: (718) 387-7400

This historic Brooklyn establishment is regularly recognized as the best place to order a steak in New York City. Peter Luger has been serving up prime USDA cuts of beef for decades, dry aging only the highest quality steaks in house. The restaurant has earned a coveted Michelin star for its efforts, but whatever you do, don't try to pay with a credit card. This is one restaurant where credit cards aren't accepted, and cash is king.

Paulie Gee's Slice Shop

Address: 110 Franklin St., Brooklyn, NY 11222

You can't come to New York and not grab a slice of pizza. But with so many choices on every corner, where's a hungry traveler to start? Skip the dollar slice joints and head straight to Paulie Gee's in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. This very Brooklyn pizza place is one of the best in the city. It's cheap and far from fancy, but it's authentic, and both the hot honey pepperoni slice and white pizza slice aren't to be skipped.

Brooklyn Museum

Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy., Brooklyn, NY 11238 Phone: (718) 638-5000

The Brooklyn Museum is very Brooklyn in its collections, from a well-preserved section of the Egyptian "Book of the Dead" to a floor dedicated to feminist and protest art. Best known for having Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party" on ongoing display, the Brooklyn Museum has gained recent fame for innovative and thoughtful special exhibitions, such as a history of David Bowie's career and an exhibit about Frida Kahlo's personal expression of self. The main museum is free, with suggested contribution amounts. Special exhibitions are ticketed, usually around $35.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Address: 990 Washington Ave or 455 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (718) 623-7200

With indoor and outdoor plant life, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a lovely place to spend part of your day regardless of the time of year. Many travelers enjoy combining their Botanic Garden visit with a trip to the Brooklyn Museum, and it is possible to buy combination admission tickets. The annual Sakura Festival every spring is worth a visit to Brooklyn all on its own, and the Botanic Garden's various special exhibitions are fascinating and beautiful. $15 for adults, $8 for seniors, students with student ID, and children over 12; free on Fridays before noon and for children under 12.

Brooklyn Bridge

Address: Enter at Cadman Plaza East or where Boerum Pl. meets Tillary St. in Brooklyn

If the weather is nice, a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge is well worth your time. With a view of the Empire State Building, the Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges, and the Manhattan skyline, the walk is as beautiful as it is bracing. The bridge slopes gently upward until the center, and then gently downward into Manhattan. It's an easy, lengthy walk. Be mindful that wheelchairs and strollers can be a bit difficult to navigate at periods of high foot traffic. Free.

Prospect Park

Address: Enter at Grand Army Plaza or off of Flatbush Ave.

The number of things to do in Prospect Park could each get their own entry, from boating to roller or ice skating to the carousel to the Prospect Park Zoo. Smaller than Central Park, Prospect Park is nevertheless still quite sizable, with several possible entrances (though the Grand Army Plaza entrance is the most iconic). The park has well-marked trails and great sledding hills in the winter. Be sure to check the Prospect Park Alliance's website to see if there are any festivities to join in with at the park! Free.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Stretching from Downtown Brooklyn to Cobble Hill, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a pedestrian walkway along the East River with easy access on and off from any intersecting street. Lined with grand mansions and townhouses, the Promenade is part of Brooklyn's first Historic District. The Promenade is a wonderful place to get some good pictures of the Brooklyn Bridge from afar; there's a recreation complex off of Pier 2, including a roller rink with rentable roller skates. Free.

Nitehawk Cinema

Brooklyn's first dinner-and-a-movie theater often hosts screenings of classic movies and out-of-theater favorites alongside themed drinks and snacks. It's a great option for any current blockbuster, but it's also worth checking to see if there's an old favorite screening when you visit. $13 per ticket; senior discount available.

Coney Island Boardwalk and Beach

Take the D, F, N, or Q train to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue

Home to an aquarium, theme park, beach, minor league baseball stadium, and Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs, the Coney Island boardwalk is the epitome of summer fun. Ride the Ferris wheel or roller coaster at Luna Park or get some color on the beach. The New York Aquarium is open year-round, but Coney Island's other attractions are seasonal. Coney Island hosts the Mermaid Parade every summer, as well as other fun annual events and markets. Check ahead to see what's happening when you visit. The beach is free; rides at Luna Park are ticketed per ride.

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

Address: 30 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11217

Brooklyn's very own multi-arts center and performance space is spread over three buildings and includes a movie theater and several live performance venues. Check the schedule for unique performances — ballet, modern dance, theater, and music — and be sure to see if one of BAM's many in-conversation events with authors, actors, musicians, and other artists will be available during your visit.

Books Are Magic

Address: 225 Smith St., Brooklyn, NY 11231 Phone: (718) 246-2665

Owned by celebrated author Emma Straub, Books Are Magic is a store for book lovers. Aesthetically, it looks like the inside of someone's imagination, with high ceilings, a spare pastel color palette, and lots of greenery. Books Are Magic hosts frequent events with established and up-and-coming authors. Enjoy a talk during your visit, and grab a few books (or just hang out in the reading nook) while you're at it.

Smith Street

Address: Start at Atlantic Ave. and head south

Charming Smith Street, and Court Street one block over, are the boutique shopping heart of southwest Brooklyn. Home to locally owned gift shops; book, shoe, and clothing stores; and all the coffee shops and food you could ask for, you could easily spend a day walking up and down Smith Street without getting bored.

Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store

Address: 232 5th Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11215 Phone: (718) 522-9848

An adorable gift shop owned and operated by women, Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store in Park Slope is the perfect place to grab unique souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones. It truly is a general store: Toys, jewelry, art supplies, bags, T-shirts, mugs, bath supplies, and household supplies are all available at Annie's.

The Shops at City Point

Address: 445 Albee Square West, Brooklyn, NY 11201

For a collection of shops both big and small, head to City Point. A few chains, like Target, Century 21, and MAC, are featured in the building, but there are several boutique options as well, in addition to rotating themed marketplaces for local vendors most weekends.

Greenlight Bookstore

Address: 686 Fulton St., Brooklyn, NY 11217 Phone: (718) 246-0200

Another locally owned bookstore, Greenlight is historic and famous for its frequent signings and exclusive events. A must-see for any book lover, Greenlight is small but densely packed with books new and old.

Out of the Closet

Address: 475 Atlantic Ave., 2nd Fl., Brooklyn, NY 11217 Phone: (718) 637-2955

A thrift shop that provides community service in the form of free HIV testing and counseling, Out of the Closet is an LGBTQ+ nonprofit in a bubblegum-pink building with some truly spectacular finds. Shop here knowing your money is going to a great cause.

Brooklyn Women's Exchange, Inc.

Address: 55 Pierrepont St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (718) 624-3435

Founded in 1854, the Brooklyn Women's Exchange is a not-for-profit arts and handcrafts exchange featuring work from women local and beyond. Currently, they stock the work of 250 craftspeople across America, making this a great stop for a one-of-a-kind gift for yourself or a loved one.

Address: 490 Metropolitan Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11211 Phone: (718) 383-3700

New York's premiere plus-size boutique and the first store of its kind in Brooklyn is a must for any plus-size person looking to score some incredible Brooklyn fashion. With a collection curated by plus-size owner Alexis Krase, Plus Bklyn stocks a variety of hard-to-find new styles as well as plus-size vintage clothing.

Bedford Avenue

While you're in Williamsburg, don't forgo shopping on Bedford Avenue — with the kitschy Mini-Mall, iconic jewelry store Catbird, and many other quirky boutiques steps away from each other along Bedford Avenue, you might want to take a second suitcase just for all of your shopping.

Williamsburg: While its hipster reputation may be earned, Williamsburg is host to an avalanche of delicious restaurants across a host of price points, unique shopping, and some truly iconic tourist attractions. With its panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline along the river and its easy access to lower Manhattan and Union Square, it's easy to see why Williamsburg is a favorite Brooklyn destination.

Greenpoint: Nestled between Queens and Williamsburg is Greenpoint, an up-and-coming neighborhood boasting two parks and a Rite Aid that was once a roller rink and still has the disco ball to prove it. Eclectic and fun, Greenpoint is a vibrant mix of young and old, with trendy restaurants popping up next to decades-old neighborhood institutions.

Park Slope: If you're looking for a classic Brooklyn brownstone experience a stone's throw from beautiful Prospect Park, visit Park Slope. Family-oriented and quiet with lush, ivy-covered brownstones, Park Slope has been featured in many movies and TV shows as a gorgeous Brooklyn backdrop.

DUMBO: Just across the Manhattan Bridge is DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass — get it?), home to a historic waterfront and the first stop for anyone looking to explore South Brooklyn. With its combination of towering high-rises and old-Brooklyn charm, DUMBO has a little of everything, and the view can't be beat.

Cobble Hill: Scenic and cute, Cobble Hill is a hidden gem of Brooklyn with great coffee and a relaxing atmosphere. Retire here between more crowded destinations for a rejuvenating break in the small local park. Cobble Hill is also a favorite neighborhood for celebs who are somewhat over SoHo, and it features some of the coziest and most chic bars and restaurants in the city.

Crown Heights: Home to the Brooklyn Children's Museum and an easy walk from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Crown Heights is the neighborhood to be in for incredible Ethiopian, Sudanese, and Indian food, as well as fantastic nightlife.

Brooklyn, like much of the East Coast, is subject to fickle weather in spring and fall and occasional extremes in winter and summer. Rain is common between March and May and September and November, and temperatures often break 90°F in July and August. Winter is a little less predictable — but Brooklyn's handling of snow is different than Manhattan's, and it'd be well worth packing some waterproof boots if you plan to travel to Brooklyn in the winter with snow in the forecast.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by season.

Winter: 27° to 42°F

Spring: 35°F to 70°F

Summer: 64°F to 85°F

Fall: 42°F to 76°

MyMTA : Bus schedules and routes, train schedules and station names, and live updates

OpenTable : Restaurant reservations

Ask Brooklyn Museum : Start a conversation with art historians and experts or find information about works on view

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Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Brooklyn: A Complete Guide

The comfort of a second home. The convenience of a hotel. The reliability of Rove.

Brooklyn Bridge after Sunset

New York’s Brooklyn is an ever-growing, multicultural neighborhood, where families with kids will find lots to see and do. You can also take one of the many tours, leaving from Brooklyn. Downtown Brooklyn hosts family-friendly events for all to enjoy and Central Park in Manhattan with no fewer than 21 children's playgrounds.

We’ve researched the area to compile a list of fun things for the entire family to do in Brooklyn. Plan your vacation before you leave with our guide to Brooklyn vacation adventures.

Prospect Park

Discover the Wonder of Prospect Park

Managed by a non-profit organization, the Prospect Park Alliance, Prospect Park is Brooklyn's answer to Central Park. Located in leafy Park Slope, the park boasts loads of activities to entertain children of all ages. It has a zoo, a carousel, a playground, and ample space for children to play and families to picnic and enjoy the fresh air.

Prospect Park Zoo houses a broad collection of animals from sea lions to alpacas and red pandas to baboons. The kids will love it. They can interact with touch tables and information kiosks and participate in fun and informative activities.

From the zoo, move to the historic Prospect Park Carousel, built in 1912. Pop into the Audubon Center to meet the insects and reptiles that live there and expand your environmental education. Support the Prospect Park Alliance by taking the children roller skating, riding the bumper cars, and hiring bikes for the entire family at the park. It's a great way for the children to burn off energy.

See the Manhattan Bridge from a different perspective. Take the bikes and hop onto the East River ferry. Children under 44 inches in height can travel for free with a paying adult. Tickets are valid for 120 minutes from the start of the trip.

The Brooklyn Children's Museum

Explore the Brooklyn Children's Museum

The Brooklyn Children’s Museum in Crown Heights has the honor of being the world’s first children's museum as it was opened in 1899. Interactive exhibits help children through activities. The exhibitions cover diverse subjects like natural history, culture, and art.

The kids will love ‘‘ World Brooklyn ’’. It consists of scaled models of Brooklyn’s communities. Children can go to a bakery, a grocery store, and shops showcasing products supporting different cultural groups. The museum hosts daily classes and demonstrations.

Coney Island Astroland

Enjoy the Thrills of Coney Island

Coney island amusement park - fun for young and old.

Coney Island is famous for its amusement parks, beach, and boardwalk. Luna Park has 36 amusement rides for children of almost any age. The Cyclone, a famous roller coaster, is not to be missed. Younger children may prefer tamer rides like carousels and children’s roller coasters.

If you’re done with all the fun rides, go down to the shore, build sandcastles, or swim. Sandy Coney Island Beach is great for building sandcastles, swimming, and sunbathing. The boardwalk hosts various shops, stalls, and kid-friendly restaurants. Fill up on delicious hot dogs, ice cream, or sugary cotton candy.

The New York Aquarium on the boardwalk is also well worth a visit. It’s the oldest aquarium in the city, founded in 1896. It moved to its current location in 1957. The aquarium is home to over 300 species of marine life, including rays, sharks, sharks, and penguins.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Year-Round Indoor & Outdoor Exhibits NYC

Take a Stroll Through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an oasis of tranquility in the bustling Brooklyn area. The many gardens and exhibits offer children insights into the beauty of the natural world. The Discovery Garden offers children interactive displays to learn through touch and feel.

If you’re in Brooklyn in March, look out for the Cherry Blossom Festival at the gardens The botanic gardens also host family programs and workshops, inviting children to participate in planting and other natural crafts.

Domino Park Turns Water Show: New York City's Game-Changing Development

Have Fun at Domino Park

Domino Park in Williamsburg on the East River waterfront is relatively new and particularly suited to a family picnic. Children can splash around and have fun in the park amenities, including playgrounds, a water play area, and several sports fields. The playground once formed part of the Domino Sugar Factory and contains play equipment with an industrial theme.

Domino Park is close to the water so the stunning skyline views. The park offers a full schedule of fun-packed special events, including movie night and fitness classes.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Explore the Magic of Brooklyn Bridge Park

Take a tranquil break away from busy downtown Brooklyn at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Brooklyn Bridge Park on the eastern bank of the East River spans 85 acres and includes a mix of playgrounds and sports fields. The historic Jane’s Carousel in the park was constructed in 1922 and is the oldest carousel in America. It is in the glass pavilion to protect it from the elements.

There are also plenty of outdoor activities to keep you fit, from kayaking to boating and fitness classes. Depending on the season, tourists can also watch movies and concerts in the open-air theater.

Skyline NYC on a rainy day

Rainy Day Fun

It's bound to rain sometime while you're on vacation in Brooklyn . Plan some rainy day fun and keep the kids busy even on the most miserable days. A trip to Industry City should fit the bill. Filled with shops and restaurants, IC offers family-friendly fun to keep the family entertained. The center houses art exhibitions, sports grounds, and small shops and boutiques. Its full schedule of upcoming events includes crafts classes, storytelling, and games for all ages.

The New York Transit Museum is another option for a rainy day. Located in Brooklyn Heights, the museum in a subway station, houses classic subway trains and buses. The exhibits are beautifully restored. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. If you have toddlers, a foldup stroller is your best option as access is via two flights of stairs. Dress warmly on cold days. There is no climate control in the subway station

Fun Activities for the Entire Family

Brooklyn is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities and destinations. From the natural beauty of Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to the excitement of Coney Island and Domino Park, there are so many playgrounds in NYC to captivate your children's interest and keep them busy. Whether you're exploring museums, enjoying outdoor adventures, or engaging in creative activities, Brooklyn offers endless opportunities for family fun.

Pack your bags, grab the kids, and set out on an unforgettable adventure in one of New York City's most dynamic boroughs.

Can’t wait to plan your Family getaway? Look no further than Rove Travel for top-notch accommodation in New York . Browse our range of rentals catering to all budgets and travel preferences. With Rove Travel as your partner, you'll secure a convenient home base to discover New York's hidden treasures.

Discover hidden gems and local favorites with our guides to non-touristy things to do in NYC and Brooklyn . Instead of hitting the usual crowded spots, explore charming neighborhoods, cultural hotspots, and unique dining spots for a true taste of the city. Uncover the best-kept secrets and experience the unique charm of New York City and Brooklyn just like a local.

Brooklyn Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Brooklyn travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Brooklyn is one of the most vibrant and diverse boroughs in New York City.

Located just across the river from Manhattan, it’s easy to get from Brooklyn to Manhattan or vice versa. This makes Brooklyn a great place to stay or visit on your trip to New York City.

There are so many cool places to visit in Brooklyn, from interesting museums to picture-perfect neighborhoods to beaches and amusement parks, and more. Brooklyn is also known for its great dining, shopping, and nightlife.

You should definitely make time to explore Brooklyn while in New York. Whether you’re interested in art, food, culture, activities, or nature, there is something for everyone in Brooklyn.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Brooklyn in NYC, including a local’s guide to Brooklyn and advice on what to do and what to see in Brooklyn.

Note: This ultimate Brooklyn guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Brooklyn Map

Use this Brooklyn tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible destination!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Brookyln Travel Guide

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Downtown Brooklyn

12 Quirky & Fun Things To Do In Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Walking Over The Williamsburg Bridge From Manhattan To Brooklyn (Itinerary Includd!)

8 Delicious Restaurants In Cobble Hill, Brooklyn

Fun Things To Do In Bedstuy, Brooklyn

What To Eat & Drink In Red Hook, Brooklyn

21 Best Things To Do In Bushwick (From A Local)

17 Best Brooklyn Walking Tours (From A Local!)

15 Best Brooklyn Food Tours (From A Local!)

New York City Travel Tips

Best Views In NYC For Free

21 Fun & Cheap Things To Do In NYC

27 Of The Most Instagrammable Cafes In NYC

52 Most Instagrammable Places In NYC

21 Best Views In NYC At Night To Take in The Manhattan Skyline

61 Quirky & Delicious NYC Restaurants

73 Romantic Things To Do In NYC (Beyond The Empire State Building)

My Favorite Streets Of New York (Not Broadway)

31 Uniquely NYC Experiences That Shouldn’t Be Missed

41 Unique Ways To Explore NYC In Spring

5 Places To Go Hiking In Manhattan

A Fun Guide To Walking The Manhattan Bridge (Itinerary Included!)

Best Bottomless Brunch In NYC: 31 Must-Try Boozy Restaurants

41 Fun Things To Do By Yourself In NYC

64 Best Non-Touristy Things To Do in NYC

41+ Best New York Souvenirs & Authentic NYC Gifts

17 Things To Do In NYC After Midnight

Why Is New York So Popular? 15 Reasons To Love NYC!

13 Best Manhattan Skyline Tours For Amazing Views

Ultimate Guide To Living In A Hotel In NYC

15 Best New York Architectural Tours By Walking, Boat & Helicopter

Is There A Walmart In NYC? Ultimate Guide!

59 Best Things To Do In NYC On A Rainy Day

15 Best New York City Limo Tours

Is NYC An Island? New York Geography + Island Hopping Guide

15 Best Night Tours In New York City

25 Best Things To Do In NYC At Night

Best Brooklyn Tours

Explore local culture with a Brooklyn tour guide through these unique NYC excursions :

• Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Food Tour
• A Day In Brooklyn Bike Tour
• Coney Island & Brighton Beach Food Tour
• Brooklyn Street Art Walking Tour
• Pub Crawl In Williamburg, Brooklyn

Click here for a full list of Brooklyn tours !

Hotels In Brooklyn

Click here to browse the best Brooklyn hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use the map below to search for local stays. It’s set to Williamsburg in Brooklyn, but you can easily change the location to your specific destination:

Getting Around Brooklyn

Most of the neighborhoods in Brooklyn typically visited by tourists — like DUMBO, Williamsburg , and Bushwick — are very walkable. This is one of the best ways to get around as it’s free and allows you to feel the beat of the borough!

Love cycling? Citi Bike stations are all over Brooklyn, and offer a budget-friendly way to get around in an eco-friendly way that also allows you to see the sights.

In terms of public transportation, the best way to get around Brooklyn is via subway, which gets you anywhere you may need to go for just $2.75 — no need to wait in traffic.

Additionally, Brooklyn (and the rest of NYC) is connected via other public transportation options like buses and even ferries. While buses are operated by the MTA, just like the subway, you’ll want to download the NYC Ferry app to see schedules and buy tickets for the ferry.

Prefer a private car service? Uber and Lyft are plentiful in Brooklyn, though do note that cabs tend to be much cheaper. You can hail a cab on many main streets, which is the cheapest option, or use an app like Arro or Curb to order one.

Driving? It’s much easier to find parking in Brooklyn than it is in Manhattan, though you can always use the SpotHero website and app to snag super discounted parking spots. This is especially recommended if you end up driving into Manhattan, where finding parking is a nightmare.

Renting A Car In Brooklyn

Need a rental car for your Brooklyn trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Brooklyn Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Brooklyn tour. When visiting Brooklyn — or anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Brooklyn travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Brooklyn Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Brooklyn .

Q: What food is Brooklyn known for?

Like all of New York, Brooklyn is known for its diverse ethnic cuisine.

Some of the most famous foods to try in Brooklyn include a hot dog from Nathan’s Famous at Coney Island or a cheesecake from Junior’s Restaurant in Downtown Brooklyn .

If you’re looking for the best pizza in Brooklyn, many people will suggest the legendary Grimaldi’s, which is popular with tourists because of its convenient location in DUMBO near the Brooklyn Bridge.

For a classic Brooklyn dessert, head to Brooklyn Farmacy, an old-school soda shop in Carroll Gardens, and order an egg cream.

Q: What are the top things to in Brooklyn?

There are so many great things to do in Brooklyn.

One of the most popular activities is walking or biking across the Brooklyn Bridge. This attraction is one of the many reasons why New York is so famous .

If you have limited time in Brooklyn, you can cross the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan, and spend an afternoon or day exploring the DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights neighborhoods.

Note that if you’ve already walked the Brooklyn Bridge and want to try something different, you can walk across the Manhattan Bridge from Chinatown into DUMBO.

If you have more time, some other can’t-miss activities in Brooklyn include visiting the Brooklyn Museum, strolling through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, or hitting the amusement park and beach at Coney Island.

Q: What are some non-touristy things to do in Brooklyn?

If you want to explore Brooklyn like a local, there are many non-touristy things to do in NYC in the borough.

Prospect Park , Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park, is a popular place for locals to relax. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon lounging on the grass while doing some people-watching.

If you love shopping, don’t miss Brooklyn Flea , the famous weekend-only flea market in DUMBO. This is the place to go for vintage clothing, art, home decor, antiques, and collectibles. Bonus: It’s a great spot to find some of the best NYC souvenirs , too!

For street art and graffiti, don’t miss Brooklyn’s trendy and artistic Bushwick neighborhood. Graff Tours  even offers graffiti workshops where you can make your own street art!

Q: What are some must-visit Brooklyn neighborhoods?

Brooklyn is made up of dozens of diverse neighborhoods, each one with something unique to offer.

Two must-visit Brooklyn neighborhoods are Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO . Both are located just beyond the Brooklyn Bridge. Brooklyn Heights is filled with picture-perfect brownstones on tree-lined blocks, while DUMBO is a former industrial area that is now filled with restaurants and shopping.

Williamsburg , once a hipster haven in the early 2000s, is worth visiting for its great selection of restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutique shopping.

Meanwhile, Bushwick is described as what Williamsburg was 15 years ago, and is filled with street art and warehouse art galleries. You’ll also a find a lot of late-night parties and clubs here if you’re looking for things to do after midnight in NYC .

Park Slope is a picturesque, family-friendly neighborhood that is adjacent to Prospect Park. Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill are two more areas with a local neighborhood feel.

Q: What are the best places to visit in Brooklyn?

Looking for the best places to visit in Brooklyn? Here are some of the top places to check out!

The Brooklyn Museum is an incredible art museum that rivals the Met. Another extremely unique museum in Brooklyn to check out is the New York Transit Museum , which is dedicated to the history of the New York City subway and bus system. As these are indoors, they also make for great rainy day NYC activities .

For foodies, DeKalb Market Hall should not be missed. This massive food hall is home to over 40 vendors. In the summer months, the outdoor Smorgasborg food market is another great place to visit in Brooklyn.

If you have kids, be sure to visit the Brooklyn Children’s Museum , which is sure to be a hit. Another one of the best places to visit in Brooklyn with kids is Luna Park at Coney Island.

Q: How far is Brooklyn from New York City?

Brooklyn is actually located within New York City! It’s one of NYC’s five boroughs along with Manhattan , Queens , The Bronx , and Staten Island .

Q: How much spending money do you need for a week in New York?

The average traveler spends about $240 per day in New York City on accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

That being said, there are certainly ways to save money in the city — like staying in hostels, considering Couchsurfing, cooking your own meals, sticking to public transportation, and enjoying some  budget-friendly NYC activities .

Q: Is Brooklyn safe to travel?

Overall, Brooklyn is a safe destination for travelers, especially if you choose a safe neighorbood frequented by tourists like DUMBO or Williamsburg. Of course, as with any destination, it’s important to be vigilant and take basic safety precautions.

For example, avoid isolated areas such as Prospect Park at night. When taking the subway, it’s always best to choose a subway car with more passengers in it rather than an empty one.

Finally, while pickpocketing is not that common in New York, you’ll want to make sure that you keep a close eye on your belongings to  avoid pickpockets , especially in crowded areas around major tourist attractions.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in New York?

Most visitors from abroad who are allowed to enter the United States — the country New York State is located in — can stay for up to six months. Entry requirements and allowances vary depending on where you are from, so definitely check the US government website .

Q: Do I need a travel visa for New York?

Visa requirements vary depending on where you are from. You can visit the US government website to see if you need a visa and what type.

Q: Where is Brooklyn?

Brooklyn is one of the five boroughs of  New York City , which is located in the southeastern part of New York, a state located in  the United States . Along with Queens, it sits on Long Island’s western end.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Brooklyn?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Brooklyn, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Brooklyn?

Yes, the tap water is safe to drink in Brooklyn.

Q: What is the local currency in Brooklyn?

The local currency in Brooklyn is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Brooklyn travel guide?

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Meet the Brooklyn Icons

The brooklyn museum is commemorating its 200th anniversary by spotlighting 200 standout objects in its encyclopedic collection..

By Corinne Segal and Elizabeth Treptow

Revisit this page to discover all the Brooklyn Icons as they’re rolled out during the  200th anniversary year .

Welcome to the Brooklyn Museum. This is the spot where we see art as a vital force for personal transformation and bring the past into conversation with our present.

In 2024, we mark 200 years of doing things the Brooklyn way. To celebrate, we’re recognizing 200 Brooklyn Icons : a set of standout artworks from across our encyclopedic collection. These works are singular for the stories they tell, teaching us about creative innovation, social movements, and our shared humanity.

As you explore the Icons, we invite you to dive into these histories and consider what lessons they hold for the next two centuries of art.

—Anne Pasternak, Shelby White and Leon Levy Director, Brooklyn Museum

Brooklyn Museum building

The largest object in the Brooklyn Museum’s collection is the building itself! In 1891, the Brooklyn Institute, a precursor of the Museum, announced plans for a new building on Eastern Parkway. The iconic New York architecture firm McKim, Mead & White won the bid with a design for what would have then been the largest museum in the world. Construction began in 1895 and was planned in phases; only three phases were completed, about a quarter of the initial plan. 

The building has since undergone numerous renovations, but many elements of the firm’s signature, European-influenced Beaux-Arts style are still visible today. Examples include the classical arches and columns, figurative sculptures in the pediment, and the lightness of building construction and materials.

Inside, the most spectacular gallery space is the Beaux-Arts Court on the third floor. Notice the skylight and the clever use of glass flooring, which allow natural light to pass to the floors below. In other galleries you can find original mosaic borders on the floors, especially on the third and fifth stories.

Outside, the upper levels of the facade are adorned with sculptures meant to personify intellectual traditions, such as Persian Literature, Greek Philosophy, and Chinese Law. A triangular pediment at the center is dedicated to art and science; the peacock at the left represents beauty, and the sphinx at the right represents knowledge.

Meet more Icons

Click the images to learn more about each object, and check out the ever-expanding list of Brooklyn Icons . All 200 will be added throughout our bicentennial celebration.

Judy Chicago, The Dinner Party

Judy Chicago’s The Dinner Party is an icon of 1970s American feminist art, one of the most important artworks of the 20th century, and a visitor favorite. 

Ewer in the Shape of a Lotus

This wine-pouring vessel is a masterwork of Korean celadon, not simply for its color but for the quality of its carving—and for the unusual addition of tiny white dots that highlight elements of the design.

Attributed to Muhammad Hasan, Prince Yahya

Within the Brooklyn Museum’s strong collection of Qajar paintings, this 1830s portrait stands out as exceptional for its quality, royal subject matter, and lessons in art as a tool of power.

Giovanni della Robbia, The Resurrection of Christ

The Resurrection of Christ was one of the Museum’s first major European art acquisitions and the first Italian Renaissance work to enter the collection. The della Robbia family workshop was known throughout Italy for colorfully glazed terra-cotta sculptures and this one, comprising 46 pieces, is a superlative example.

Female Figurine

This dramatic terra-cotta female figurine is one of the Museum’s oldest objects. Its level of preservation is remarkable. Although a few other examples of such figurines exist, this is the only one that is fully intact.

Karl L. H. Müller and Union Porcelain Works, Century Vase Roberto Lugo, Brooklyn Century Vase

The Brooklyn Museum’s two “Century Vases” prompt lively conversations about American history and settler colonialism, as well as a contemporary cultural landscape where people of color thrive and triumph.

Deborah Kass, OY/YO

OY/YO is Deborah Kass’s monumental tribute to Brooklyn’s rich cultural landscape. “Yo,” a familiar greeting, and “oy,” an emphatic exclamation, are both baked into Brooklyn’s shared vocabulary thanks to the influence of local Black, Italian American, and Jewish communities.

Corinne Segal is Senior Digital Producer at the Brooklyn Museum. Elizabeth Treptow is Digital Content Producer at the Brooklyn Museum.

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A New Yorker’s Guide to the Brooklyn Bridge [2024]

Michael Y. Park

27 Published Articles 346 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 60+ U.S. States Visited: 50

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

43 Published Articles 3384 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Brooklyn bridge history, brooklyn bridge facts, getting to the brooklyn bridge, walking across the brooklyn bridge, biking across the brooklyn bridge, driving across the brooklyn bridge, things to do near the brooklyn bridge, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, rivaled only by the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Not only older than both of those landmarks, it’s an engineering marvel that revolutionized how bridges are built and led to the then-independent city of Brooklyn merging with Manhattan to give us modern-day New York City. And it’s probably essentially a supporting character in whatever your favorite movie about the Big Apple is.

So, naturally, you want to get your grubby feet all over it, right?

I’m a New Yorker who’s lived on both sides of the bridge and crossed it by foot, car, or bicycle more times than I can remember. Here’s what you need to know about crossing the Brooklyn Bridge.

John Augustus Roebling, a German immigrant and engineer, first proposed building a suspension bridge to connect the cities of Brooklyn and New York in 1857. The New York and Brooklyn Bridge, as it was known at first, was the tallest and longest suspension bridge ever built up to that point, and was overengineered specifically to accommodate rail cars, roads, and a promenade for millions of people. John Augustus Roebling was arguably the bridge’s first victim , dying in 1869 from an infection he got after an accident that crushed his foot while he was surveying the site.

His son, Washington, took over heading the project, though bridge almost took his life, too, when he got the bends from working on the underwater foundations and suffered lifelong disabilities from it. Though he was officially still the chief engineer, he had to oversee the project from his bedroom window in Brooklyn Heights.

Washington Roebling’s brilliant wife, Emily Warren Roebling, who taught herself the intricacies of bridge engineering, was the de facto chief engineer, project manager, day-to-day foreman, and diplomatic and political face of the bridge project. For over a decade, she helmed it through to its completion in 1883. Amazingly, the bridge didn’t kill or maim her, and she was given the honor of being the first person to officially cross the bridge by carriage at its opening ceremony, which was attended by President Chester A. Arthur and the mayors of New York and Brooklyn.

Though the bridge was instantly popular and much used, there were still public doubts that the bridge was strong enough to support the millions of people who crossed it every year. To assuage these fears, P.T. Barnum led 21 elephants across the bridge in 1884. That year, the bridge logged 8.5 million people crossing it. The New York City Department of Transportation says that, as of 2018, an average of 116,000 vehicles, 30,000 pedestrians, and 3,000 cyclists travel over the Brooklyn Bridge each day. Even assuming that every vehicle only holds 1 person, that’d be about 55 million people a year.

The first person to jump off the bridge was a man named Robert Odlum. He did so in 1885 in an attempt to both gain fame and prove that life nets — those things people in burning buildings were supposed to jump onto — were safe. He died, and life nets were eventually phased out of firefighting because they were not safe.

The Brooklyn Bridge is about 6,000 feet long , depending on what you count as its beginning and end and also the weather (it can shrink or grow by over a foot in cold or hot temperatures). It rises about 130 feet above the East River (again, depending on the load and the tides) and can hold up to 18,700 tons.

Each of the Gothic Revival towers is 278 tall and supports 4 main cables, each 15.75 inches in diameter and containing 5,282 steel wires. The tower on the Brooklyn side descends 48.5 feet to rest on bedrock. The Manhattan tower plunges 78.5 feet below water and sits on sand, which Washington Roebling decided was firm enough to support the bridge.

Though it’s not possible to get statistics on how many people try to jump off it every year, the Brooklyn Bridge is known as a so-called “ suicide bridge .”

“Depressed people will drive 20 miles, bypassing the Manhattan and the Williamsburg, just to get to the Brooklyn Bridge,” Gary Gorman, a former member of the Emergency Services Unit of the New York Police Department, told the New York Times in 2003.

Over the years, the bridge has also been the target of performance artists, terrorist threats, and likely the majority of establishing shots preceding scenes set in New York City in movies and TV.

Need ideas on how to get to New York City on points and miles ? We’ve got a story for that!

From Manhattan, the pedestrian entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge is right across Centre Street from city hall and next to One Police Plaza, the New York Police Department’s main headquarters.

The nearest subway station to the Manhattan entrance is Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall, which serves the 4, 5, and 6 lines.

The stairway entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge in the Dumbo neighborhood of Brooklyn is easy to miss since it’s under a dark overpass. It’s under the span at Washington and Prospect streets and isn’t especially well-marked — if you see an understated “ Welcome to Brooklyn ” sign, the stairs are right around the corner but still under the bridge.

The nearest subway stops to the Dumbo stairway entrance are High Street (the A and C trains) or York Street (the F train).

You can also walk onto the Brooklyn Bridge from Downtown Brooklyn by following Adams Street — the Brooklyn Bridge promenade is essentially the median. The easiest and safest place to get onto the promenade is Adams and Tillary streets. The Adams Street entrance is a gradual ramp, not stairs, so it’s easier for people with mobility issues but also a much longer way to get on or off the bridge.

Signage telling you whether you’re going the right way is nonexistent here, and you can’t see the Brooklyn Bridge’s towers at all from this vantage point. You may, however, be able to see the Manhattan Bridge’s towers (the blue ones) from here, so at least you’ll know you’re headed toward the river.

The nearest subway stations to the Adams and Tillary promenade entrance are High Street (A, and C trains) and Clark Street (the 2 and 3 trains).

On a nice day, walking across the bridge is easily the best way to experience it. It could always be a beautiful walk, but since 2021, when bicyclists were given their own dedicated passageway, and again in January 2024, when the city banned vendors from the bridge, it’s become a real pleasure to make it across the East River this way. It’s something any able person, whether a visitor or a local, should do at least once in their lifetimes.

Here are the essentials to know about walking across the bridge:

• The bridge is open 24 hours a day. It’s completely free to cross the Brooklyn Bridge in either direction. You should, of course, exercise caution and use common sense at all times but especially late at night or when there are fewer people around. There are usually police stationed around the very beginning of the Manhattan-side entrance, but don’t expect to see officers patrolling the bridge.
• Not accounting for stops to rest or take photos, it takes the average person about 30 minutes to walk across the bridge in a single direction.
• You must ride your bike on the separate bike path of the Brooklyn Bridge (see that section below). You can, however, walk your bike across the bridge on the pedestrian path.
• The pedestrian walkway is mostly wooden planks except at the tower platforms, where it’s concrete.
• There are no public toilets on the Brooklyn Bridge, so go before you go.
• Do not climb onto the support structures, beams, or wires of the promenade (or any other part of the bridge, for that matter), even for that killer selfie. If you fall off the beams running along the sides of the walkway, you will likely fall directly into traffic and be hit by a car and seriously hurt or killed.

Once you’re on the bridge, you’ll likely be walking along with thousands of people doing the same in either direction (though most tourists seem to go from Manhattan to Brooklyn). There’ll be a lot of people stopping suddenly to take selfies. On our last trip over, there were at least 3 photoshoots going on. Be patient, watch where you’re walking, and don’t block the way for other people if you do the same.

Back in the day, both pedestrians and cyclists had to share this single promenade all the way across. It was a mess.

The tower platforms to the bridge are large, concrete squares where you can rest in the shade of the towers or just hang out a bit and take in the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. There are metal plaques that ring these observatories and detail a little of the history and construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. These plaques are identical on both the Manhattan and Brooklyn tower platforms — you’re not missing out on anything if you read the plaques on one tower but not the other.

Skylines continuously change, of course, but you’ll get a good look at both Manhattan’s and Brooklyn’s from many points along the bridge, as well as glimpses of East River traffic, possibly including 1 or 2 of the city’s historic sail vessels. On a clear day, you should have good views of One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and the Chrysler Building. You may be able to glimpse the Statue of Liberty in the distance to the south, but don’t expect to be wowed.

Want to see the Statue of Liberty up close and for free? Hop on the Staten Island Ferry .

In 2021, the city finally separated the bike lane from the pedestrian promenade and gave cyclists their own path across the bridge in both directions. This was great because the original way it worked was dangerous and annoying for walkers, annoying and dangerous for cyclists (especially those 90-degree turns at the tower platforms), and made what should have been scenic trips for both into hellish thrill rides that left you hating all New Yorkers, all tourists, all cyclists, all pedestrians, and all humanity in general.

But the bicycle path they replaced the promenade cycling with is not great. It’s a smidge too narrow ( 8 feet wide for both lanes, coming and going ), claustrophobic, and at points dark and choking with fumes. It runs alongside the roadways, separated from the cars by concrete barriers topped by chain-link fencing. It’s still a way better ride than pedaling forward through a morass of situationally clueless tourists blithely ignoring the old bike-lane signs and unapologetically backing into your immediate trajectory, but this is a bike path for commuters, not for visitors wanting a magical New York experience.

If you ride across the bridge, keep your wits about you, don’t take a bulky cargo bike, stay in your lane so you don’t clip anyone, and do not stop for selfies unless you want to get an earful from angry New York cyclists.

You can find the bicycle entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge right next to the pedestrian entrance on the Manhattan side and right next to the Tillary and Adams entrance on the Brooklyn side.

Cars are probably the worst way to get across the Brooklyn Bridge if you want to enjoy it, as you miss much of the views, and even the towers are partially obscured by the endless rows of stay cables. Plus, you spend most of your time trying to concentrate on navigating the often chaotic traffic and getting across the East River in 1 piece or without blowing your top at the guy in the BMW convertible who just cut you off.

You cannot stop or pull over anywhere on the bridge to get out and stretch your legs, take panoramic shots, or relieve yourself. It’s both dangerous and illegal.

In Manhattan, from FDR Drive, you drive onto the Brooklyn Bridge by car by taking exit 2. If you’re taking local roads, you must make the right turn going north on Park Row near city hall or the left turn going south on Centre Street near One Police Plaza before it turns into Park Row. In this direction, you can take the offramp that takes you to Brooklyn Heights or stay left and end up in Downtown Brooklyn at Adams and Tillary streets.

From Brooklyn on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway going eastbound, you can take exit 28B to the Brooklyn Bridge. Westbound, it’s exit 28, marked “Cadman Plaza West – Brooklyn Bridge.” Or you can use local roads to drive onto the Brooklyn Bridge from Adams and Tillary streets via the onramp that starts at Sands and Pearl streets.

Trucks are not allowed on the Brooklyn Bridge , and there is a vehicular weight limit of 6,000 pounds and a height limit of 11 feet. Trucks make this mistake all the time and end up having to back up all the way down single-lane ramps, creating huge traffic jams and earning the ire of 2 boroughs’ worth of New Yorkers. Don’t be that guy.

If you cross over the Brooklyn Bridge going east, you’ll end up in either Dumbo or Downtown Brooklyn. The latter is one of New York City’s bigger commercial districts and the hub of its legal and administrative bureaucracy, but the neighborhood is geared more toward people who live in the city and are looking to buy a pack of running socks or serve jury duty. The most touristy thing you could do might be to go to Junior’s Cheesecake , though, for upscale cuisine, you should instead go to Gage & Tollner .

More tourists head to Dumbo, where they can take that now-cliched photo of the Manhattan Bridge (not the Brooklyn Bridge).

Dumbo’s also home to Brooklyn Bridge Park , which has a beautiful carousel, Pier 1 , Fulton Ferry Landing, and 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge . The Empire Stores food hall and market are right here, too.

If you make the reverse walk from Brooklyn west to Manhattan, the bridge can take you to Lower Manhattan and almost feeds you right into City Hall Park, from where you can walk south to Wall Street, southwest to the World Trade Center, west to Tribeca, or north to the rest of Manhattan. You can also exit to Chinatown (look for the sign and stairs down as you’re near the end of your descent westward).

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most awe-inspiring landmarks of New York City and deserves every ounce of its fame. On your next trip to the Big Apple, you’d be remiss not to take advantage of the fact that one of the most quintessential and wonderful New York experiences is totally free — and if you already live here, you have no excuses to set aside 30 minutes for a bridge walk on a nice day.

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10 Unusual Places You Can Visit In New York City

• Please Don't Tell is a hidden speakeasy accessed through a phone booth in an adjacent hot dog store. The menu is a surprise, and reservations are made by phone. Opened in 2007, offering weird experiences and unique cocktails.
• The New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn showcases vintage cars from 1907 and offers interactive exhibits about the city's transit history. Opened in 1976, it honors the hard work of transit employees. Open Thursdays to Sundays with a $5 admission fee.
• Spyscape in Midtown Manhattan is an interactive museum that tests visitors' spy skills. Guests assume roles like breaking codes and detecting liars. Opened in 2018, it's perfect for adventurous travelers. Open daily with entrance fees starting at $44 for adults and $37 for kids.

New York City, one of the most expensive cities in the world , is brimming with world-famous sights, ranging from the iconic Central Park, one of the most beautiful city parks in the US , to Central Square. Vacationers from different parts of the world visit the Big Apple every year to get a glimpse of its popular destination. However, there is something exhilarating about the unusual places you can visit in New York City. These spots are perfect for more adventurous travelers who’d rather focus on weird attractions and unique experiences. These allow one to enjoy exploring a quirkier side of the city, with a guarantee of creating unforgettable memories. Here are the most unusual places to visit in New York City.

Related: 10 Things To Do In The Season In New York City

Please Don’t Tell, Manhattan

Entering the bar through the phone booth of the adjacent crif dogs, where tourists dial 1 to get access.

Please Don’t Tell is one of the most incredible speakeasies in New York and a must-have experience for travelers who are into weird experiences. To get into this bar, one has to go via Crif Dog , an adjacent hot dog store, to use the phone booth. To make things weirder, travelers are required to dial one so that the receptionist can let them in. Despite being adjacent to Crif Dog, one cannot always know the menu until they are granted access to this hidden speakeasy. Also, the website only has one page, and reservations are only made via a phone number.

• Year opened: 2007
• Opening hours: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am
• Average cost of drinks: $16

New York Transit Museum, Brooklyn

The collection of vintage cars dating back to 1907.

NYC is one of the American cities with the best museums with multiple options to choose from. Opened in 1967, the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn is one of the unusual things to visit in New York City. The museum gives visitors a glimpse of the city’s transit growth and development through its interactive exhibits. During a trip to the museum, vacationers will get a chance to see decommissioned vehicles from 1907 and even interact with the old transportation systems. It also allows travelers to see and appreciate the hard work of the transit employees who helped the system over the years.

• Year opened: 1976
• Opening hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Thursdays through Sundays
• Admission fee: $5

Spyscape, Midtown Manhattan

The museum tests travelers’ abilities to become spies.

Spyscape in Midtown Manhattan offers an incredible blend of museums and experiences, giving travelers a chance to test their spying skills. It is an interactive adventure that will suit all kinds of travelers, including families, couples, and friends. During the experience, visitors will also get an opportunity to learn some interesting tales of spies. Vacationers will assume roles such as breaking codes, conducting surveillance, and detecting liars by looking at their facial expressions. Tired of the usual attractions? There are many things to do in New York City, and this weird and unusual museum is worth trying.

• Year opened: 2018
• Opening hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm, Mondays to Saturdays & until 8:00 pm on Sundays
• Cost of entrance: From $44 for adults and $37 for kids

Buy tickets online to avoid paying a $5 fee onsite.

Graffiti Tunnel At 191 St Subway Station, Washington Heights, Manhattan

This tunnel used to be dark and filthy, but the city hired artists to give it a new look.

There are plenty of hidden gems in New York City, and Graffitithe Tunnel at 191 St isn’t usually in the limelight. The tunnel’s location away from the popular tourist sights means travelers hardly pass by, which makes it a secret jewel only recognized by the locals. The tunnel used to be a very dirty and dark spot, but since the city hired talented artists to redesign it, it has a whole new look and is increasingly becoming popular with artists and photography enthusiasts.

• Year opened: 2011
• Opening hours: 24 hours
• Cost of entrance: Free

Since this tunnel is a portion of the subway system, it remains open 24/7. However, it is best visited in daylight.

The Bone Museum, Brooklyn

This museum houses real human remains, including human skulls, spinal columns, and full skeletons.

The Bone Museum is one of the newest unusual places to visit in New York City, founded by Jon Pichaya Ferry in 2022. His curiosity was sparked when his dad showed him an articulated mouse skeleton that he had put together when he was a kid. He later started collecting human remains, mostly from medical professionals, while still at the Parsons School of Design. Now, as ghoulish as the museum sounds, the founder claims that it is for educational and artistic purposes and aims to make such information accessible to all.

• Year opened: 2022
• Opening hours: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm, Wednesdays to Sundays
• Entrance fee: $15

The Vessel, Hudson Yards

The building has a weird yet beautiful appearance.

The Vessel is an interactive artwork that was conceived by Thomas Heatherwick and Heatherwick Studio and was designed so that people can have unique experiences of New York City from new perspectives. The architectural wonder boasts 154 stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings – and climbing to the top guarantees an unmatched view of the city. From here, travelers can take some of the best shots of New York City, making it well worth exploring.

• Year opened: 2019 (built in 2017)
• Opening hours: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, Mondays to Saturdays; 11:00 am – 7:00 pm, Sundays
• Admission fee: $10; free for the first hour of operation
• Number o f stairs: 154
• Number o f steps: 2,500
• Number of landings: 80

The Vessel is currently not open to the public, but travelers can have access to the ground-level base. No reservation is required to get to this unique masterpiece.

Tenement Museum, Lower East Side, Manhattan

Gives insight enduring happenings that immigrants went through in nyc.

Tenement Museum is found on the Lower East Side, one of New York City’s best neighborhoods for first-timers , and gives an insight into the immigrant families that went through some unusual and enduring moments during their stay in New York. The museum comprises two tenement buildings that housed immigrant families from different parts of the world. These families called this place their home between the 1860s and 1980s. This building comprised 22 apartments and a basement level that was later transformed into shops. One of the weirdest happenings in its history was the landlord evicting all the tenants and later boarding up the windows instead of making repairs and upgrades to enhance the living conditions of the place. On guided tours, visitors can stroll through these previous homes of immigrants and learn tales connected to them. The museum currently has a Visitor Center and a shop.

• Year Opened: 1988
• Opening hours for the shop and Visitor Center: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Mondays to Sundays
• Admission fee: $30 per person per tour

Related: Visiting New York City For The First Time? These Neighborhoods In Manhattan Are Perfect For First Timers

The Museum Of Ice Cream

Tourists can eat unlimited ice cream while learning, connecting with loved ones, and playing at the same time.

The Museum of Ice Cream is definitely among the most unusual places to visit in New York City, allowing vacationers to rediscover the kids in them once again. Here, one gets an opportunity to enjoy delicious ice cream treats in five incredible varieties. The museum boasts 12 multisensory installations where families can engage in various activities as they enjoy the taste of their ice cream. Looking for fun things to do in Brooklyn with kids ? This extraordinary museum is it!

• Year opened: 2016
• Opening hours: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; 10:00 am - 8:30 pm Fridays and Saturdays; 10:00 am – 7:00 pm Sundays
• Admission fee: $25 on weekdays & $33 on weekends. Kids aged 2 and below are allowed to enter for free

The Museum Of Sex, Manhattan

This museum offers tourists an entertaining and educative experience through naughty artifacts and exhibitions.

Visiting the Museum of Sex is definitely unique, and unlike in the traditional museum, guests coming here will enjoy an entertaining yet educative experience. There are various naughty artifacts to explore, as well as a chance to see how human sexuality has evolved over the years. There are more than 20,000 artifacts comprising photography, artwork, costumes, clothing, and even technological inventions to enhance the experience. This might not be a kid-friendly thing to do, but it’s definitely one of the most unusual places to visit in New York City.

• Year Opened: 2002
• Opening hours: 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm Mondays to Fridays; 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm Saturdays & Sundays
• Admission fee: Standard tickets start at $41; premium tickets start at $48

Related: 10 Things To Do In Manhattan: Complete Guide To New York's Busiest Borough

Sleep No More, Chelsea, Manhattan

It’s a unique theatrical experience where the audience and actors both become part of the narrative.

Sleep No More is incredibly unusual, and guests don’t always know what to expect with each journey and visit being different and unique. Instead of an unusual theater with actors and audience on separate sides of the hall, with this one, the members of the audience decide where they want to go and what to see, making everybody part of the narrative. It is part of McKittrick Hotel and guarantees unforgettable experiences.

• Admission fee: $138.50 - $398.44
• Duration: 2-3 hours

Sleep No More will have its final performance on January 28, 2024. So, tourists should enjoy the final weeks.

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Brooklyn Book Festival Unveils Exciting Lineup for Children’s Day 2024

Families in NYC are in for a treat this month as the Brooklyn Book Festival announces its full schedule for Children’s Day! Taking place at Brooklyn Commons in MetroTech on Saturday, September 28, from 10am to 4pm, Children’s Day promises to be full of fun and educational activities for kids and their families, including a special appearance by the crime-biting canine himself, Dog Man !

Designed to inspire a love for reading and creativity, the event offers opportunities for children to engage directly with authors and illustrators. The day will feature workshops, performances, storytelling sessions, literary games, book signings, and a Children’s Book Market. Best of all, the event is free and open to the public.

Picture Book Stage

The Picture Book Stage will feature a lineup of award-winning authors who will bring their stories to life with performances and activities aimed at younger children. Starting at 10:30am, the stage kicks off with comedy writer Bess Kalb, reading from her humorous and heartwarming book Buffalo Fluffalo . Children will learn about self-acceptance and community through the fluffy, huffing Buffalo.

At noon, rapper and author Raj Haldar will perform his book This Book Is Banned . This clever picture book explores the idea of banned books, teaching children about the power of ideas and free expression in a fun and engaging way. Lian Cho’s Oh, Olive! follows at 12:30pm, with a story about embracing creativity and being true to oneself, culminating in a coloring activity for young artists.

Additional performances on the Picture Book Stage include Cesaria Feels the Beat by Denise Rosario Adusei, a joyful story about deafness and friendship set to the rhythms of Carnival, and Animal Albums from A to Z by Cece Bell, a musical journey through the alphabet inspired by classic album covers.

Young Readers Stage

For children ages 6-11, the Young Readers Stage offers interactive events that will captivate young readers and give them an opportunity to have their favorite books signed! Starting at noon, the Adventures Close to Home panel will bring together authors like Hilda Eunice Burgos ( Bodega Cats: Picture Purrfect ), Tracey Baptiste ( Moko Magic: Carnival Chaos ), and Sarvenaz Tash ( The Queen of Ocean Parkway ), who will share stories of adventure and mystery.

At 1:00 pm, get ready for some laughs with the Mad Libs: Graphic Novel Edition! event. Audience members will help authors Booki Vivat and Gale Galligan create live illustrations from their wild and funny suggestions. The fun continues at 2:00 p.m. with Are You Smarter Than an Author? , an interactive quiz show where kids and adults can test their knowledge of science and mythology against a panel of middle-grade authors.

The stage wraps up at 3:00pm with Draw Me A Story , a unique event where illustrators Ruth Chan and Liz Montague will bring audience-inspired stories to life with live illustrations, guided by emcee John Hendrix.

Creative Workshops

In addition to author readings, Children’s Day will feature hands-on workshops and art stations where children can explore their creative talents. The Makers and Creators Area will host several interactive workshops led by illustrators and authors. One such workshop is the Build Your Own Pop-Up Card session with author-illustrator Cat Min at noon, where kids can design dynamic pop-up cards inspired by Min’s book The Little Toymaker .

At 1:00pm, kids can unleash their creativity by designing a miniature mouse book with Margaret McCartney and Jodi Levine, authors of Mousetown , while at 3:00pm, C.G. Esperanza will lead a sneaker-design workshop, where participants can customize their own kicks with colors and stickers, inspired by his book Kicks in the Sky . To see the full line-up schedule, visit the website .

Children’s Book Market

And you won’t want to miss the Children’s Book Market. Featuring over 40 local and international publishers, the marketplace will be a hub for discovering new books and engaging with the world of children’s literature. Families can browse books from independent publishers like Enchanted Lion Books, Caribbean Reads, and Brooklyn-based ¡CHAU, LUNA!, offering a wide selection of books in various languages and genres.

Children’s Day is part of the larger Brooklyn Book Festival , New York City’s largest free literary event, which runs from September 22 through September 30. In addition to Children’s Day, the festival includes Bookend Events throughout all five boroughs. Whether your child is a budding reader, a young artist, or simply loves a good story, this event is sure to inspire and entertain.

Psst …Looking for more educational art activities for kids? Check out Groundswell Mural Project !

About the Author

Marina Dunbar

Marina Dunbar is a Digital Editor at New York Family. She was born and raised in sunny Southern California where she worked as a newspaper reporter and local magazine writer. She attended the University of California, Berkeley where she graduated with a bachelor’s in Rhetoric and the Craig Newmark School of Journalism where she received her master’s in journalism. When she’s not writing she can be found at the beach, listening to jazz, or cooking French cuisine.

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The 10 worst states to retire in the U.S. No. 1 isn't California or New York

While the  best state to retire  in the U.S. is also one of the smallest in the country, the worst state to retire is the largest.

Alaska ranks as the worst state in the U.S. to retire for the  third year in a row , according to Bankrate’s  study of the best states to retire  in 2024.

To compile its list of the best and worst places to retire in the U.S., Bankrate ranked all 50 states across five weighted categories:

• Affordability (40%):  Analyzes factors such as local and state sales taxes, cost of living and average annual property taxes
• Overall wellbeing (25%):  Includes factors such as the number of adults over 62 per 100,000 residents and access to food and health care
• Quality and cost of health care (20%):  Looks at factors such as the cost of health care at the state level and the performance of each state’s health system
• Weather (10%):  Evaluates data on factors such as a state’s average annual temperature and average number of tornado strikes, earthquakes and hurricane landfalls
• Crime (5%):  Examines factors such as the amount of property crimes and violent crimes per 100,000 residents

Bankrate analyzed datasets from a number of sources, including the Council for Community and Economic Research, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Tax Foundation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Here are the 10 worst states to retire, according to Bankrate.

Notably, Alaska ranks last in the weather category. Although temperatures in Alaska can range from 45 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, they can sink  as low as negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit  in the winter.

Alaska can be an expensive place to live, especially for retirees with a fixed income. On average, the cost of living in Alaska is about 30% higher than the rest of the country,   according to RentCafe . Housing costs are about 17% higher than the national average, and utilities and health-care expenses are both nearly 50% higher.

On the upside, Alaska can be a very tax-friendly location for retirees. The state doesn’t have income tax, estate taxes or inheritance taxes and doesn’t tax pension payments or retirement benefits from Social Security.

Lack of affordability appears to be a common thread among the other low-ranking states on the list, which include New York, Washington and California — all known for being relatively pricey.

However, just because a state has a higher cost of living doesn’t necessarily mean you should write it off as a potential retirement destination. You may just need to plan to set aside more money for retirement than you would if you were planning to retire somewhere less expensive.

CNBC Make It’s  retirement calculator  can help you estimate how much you’ll need to save for retirement based on factors like your current age, savings, income and when you’d like to stop working.

And while living costs can be a key determinant in deciding where you may want to retire in the future, it’s also good to keep other non-financial aspects in mind. For example, access to social and community-building activities is an important, but often overlooked, consideration for retirees, according to Bankrate.

“Having that sense of community and human connection is huge to healthy aging,” Kerry Hannon, a retirement expert and Author of “In Control at 50+: How to Succeed in the New World of Work,” says in Bankrate’s study.

“Isolation and loneliness are not something you want to move toward, so look for your community,” she says.

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Cheyenne DeVon is a Money reporter at CNBC Make It. She covers a variety of personal finance topics including managing credit card debt, retirement planning and personal saving. She also reports on tech innovation topics including A.I., cryptocurrency and NFTs.

$400 million boost in federal funds for security at places of worship, Schumer announces

Places like mosques and synagogues can apply to use the money to hire security personnel or install cameras, by associated press • published may 5, 2024 • updated on may 5, 2024 at 10:55 pm.

A $400 million increase in federal funding is available for security in places of worship , Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Sunday.

The boost in money comes as concerns rise over threats against Jewish and Muslim communities, fueled in part by the Israel-Hamas war .

Places like synagogues and mosques could apply to use the money to hire security personnel or install cameras under the new increase in funding to the existing federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program, Schumer, a Democrat, said from New York City.

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“We’re going to keep funding so that no synagogue or other religious institution is going to have to live in the fear that they now live with,” Schumer said.

The program allocated $305 million last year to nonprofits to help protect their facilities from potential attacks.

Three New York City synagogues and the Brooklyn Museum received bomb threats through email on Saturday, a spokesperson for the New York Police Department said. The threats prompted two synagogues to evacuate, though no explosives were found.

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Houses of worship will need to apply by May 21 to tap into the first round of funds.

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7 ways to spend a weekend in charming Old Forge, the ‘Adirondack Base Camp’

• Updated: Sep. 12, 2024, 2:22 p.m.
• | Published: Sep. 12, 2024, 5:00 a.m.

Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York is full of great food, interesting shops and endless, explorable nature. In this photo, an antique boat is docked on Old Forge Pond. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

• Samantha House | [email protected]

Old Forge, N.Y. — Mountain magic is calling in Old Forge , the great gateway to the Adirondacks .

The hearty hamlet, which proudly calls itself the “Adirondacks Base Camp”, is a perfect home base for adventurers hungry to explore New York’s expansive Adirondack Park . Perched on the western edge of the Adirondacks, Old Forge is bursting with great food and unique shops — all just an easy drive from endless, eminently explorable wilderness.

From outdoor excursions to tasty treats, here are seven ways to spend a weekend in Old Forge.

The rocky trail up Bald Mountain, also known as Rondaxe Mountain, in the Adirondacks offers stunning views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes near Old Forge, N.Y. In this photo, New York Upstate | Syracuse.com reporter Samantha House takes in the view with her daughter on Friday, July 12, 2024. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

1. Hike Bald Mountain

Beside the towering Adirondack High Peaks, beautiful Bald Mountain is a bit modest.

The popular hike to the approximately 2,350-foot peak of Bald Mountain – officially named Rondaxe Mountain to differentiate it from New York’s plethora of similarly named peaks — stretches about 1.8 miles roundtrip.

The moderate hike pays out a big reward: photo-worthy, panoramic views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes from the plateau-like summit and the Rondaxe fire tower atop it. While climbing to the peak, hikers are also treated to views of Fourth Lake and the neighboring, rolling mountains.

The rocky trail up Bald Mountain, also known as Rondaxe Mountain, in the Adirondacks offers stunning views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes near Old Forge, N.Y. This view from about halfway up shows Fourth Lake on Friday, July 12, 2024. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

Despite requiring climbers to scrabble up a steep incline of smooth, boulder-sized bedrock close to the start of the journey, the hike is very doable with children. (On our hike in mid-July, we spotted a mom with a sleeping baby strapped to her chest calmly picking her way down Bald Mountain with a man holding hands with two preschool-aged kids.)

Best of all: the parking lot and trailhead for the Bald Mountain/Rondaxe Fire Tower hike is just a 5-minute drive from Old Forge .

Head to Bald Mountain on a clear day and plan to spend a couple of hours conquering the peak. Arm yourself with bug spray, water and trail snacks — particularly for little climbers. Bring a fully charged phone or camera, too: There are plenty of jaw-dropping views worth capturing along the rocky trail.

Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York, is full of great food, interesting shops and endless, explorable nature. In this photo from July 2024, children take a dip Old Forge Pond at the hamlet's public beach. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

2. Take a walk by (and dip in) Old Forge Pond

From Lake George , dubbed the cleanest lake in America, to Lake Placid, steeped in Olympic history, there is no shortage of stunning lakes in the Adirondacks.

But visitors don’t have to travel out of Old Forge to dip their toes in a beautiful waterway.

The hamlet shares a shoreline with Old Forge Pond, a healthy-sized pond that connects to First Lake — the start of the interconnected Fulton Chain of Lakes.

Old Forge Pond, pictured here in July 2024, is part of the hamlet of Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

Fenced in by a thick line of trees, the pond glows like liquid sapphire on sunny days. A boardwalk-style dock runs along the pond’s western shore, providing boaters with a good place to dock and walkers with a nice path for meandering around the pond.

After perusing Old Forge’s shops, head down the pond and walk the boardwalk — where you’re likely to encounter interesting boats and friendly mallard ducks seeking snacks. Finish your walk by digging your toes into the soft sand at the public beach, where you can wade into clear, shallow water or let your kids burn off energy at the adjoining playground made of structures that look like roughly hewn logs.

Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York is full of great food, interesting shops and endless, explorable nature. The Candy Cottage, pictured on Main Street in July 2024, sells homemade fudge and other delicious treats. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

3. Go shopping in Old Forge

Just over 700 people call Old Forge home, U.S. Census Bureau data shows. But the tiny community offers a bustling shopping scene.

Route 28, a two-lane highway that runs east to west through the Adirondacks, is the hamlet’s main street. It is bordered by sidewalks and lined with interesting shops — ranging from a Life is Good store to the Montezuma Winery & Hidden Marsh Distillery.

Old Forge is also home to a movie theater (the Strand Theatre of Old Forge, which boasts an old-fashioned marquee and a sign made up of neon lights) and great eateries, including Billy’s Italian American Market and the Old Mill Restaurant.

Old Forge Hardware, a general store with roots that date back to 1900, is a must-visit shop in Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

On your trip to the Adirondacks hamlet, park your car and go window shopping. But on your stroll, there are two shops you can’t miss:

• The Candy Cottage , a 29-year-old sweet shop that sells melt-in-your-mouth homemade fudge, chocolates, popcorn and gifts. Look for the pink, rideable carousel horse outside front and unleash your sweet tooth at the candy counter.
• Old Forge Hardware , a sprawling general store with roots dating back to 1900. The historic shop stocks an impressive panoply of items — from yarn and spicy pickled quail eggs to camping gear and toys. Stock up on stocking stuffers at Old Forge Hardware and buy yourself a treat, whether that be an Adirondacks sticker for your water bottle or new fishing gear.

Inlet, aptly dubbed the "little town that could," is a hidden gem of a community just 15 minutes northeast of popular Old Forge, N.Y. But don't expect Inlet, pictured here looking out at Fourth Lake in July 2024, to remain an Adirondacks secret for long. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

4. Visit tiny, terrific Inlet

We’ll admit it: We’re a little bit obsessed with Inlet .

Dubbed the “little town that could,” Inlet is a hidden gem of a town that fewer than 400 people call home on the eastern end of gorgeous Fourth Lake. It is brimming with rustic small-town charm and postcard-worthy views. And it is well worth the short and scenic 15-minute drive from the more populous Old Forge.

But don’t expect Inlet to remain hidden for long: The town has been named the Adirondacks’ “best-kept secret” by Travel + Leisure.

Inlet, aptly dubbed the "little town that could," is a hidden gem of a community just 15 minutes northeast of popular Old Forge, N.Y. But don't expect Inlet, pictured in July 2024, to remain an Adirondacks secret for long. This photo shows a delicious cone from Inlet's Northern Lights Creamery. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

Head to Inlet on a warm morning and start your adventure by grabbing a coffee at Blue Line Coffee House , a dream of a coffee shop. Then head into Ace Hardware’s Inlet Dept. Store to snag affordable Adirondacks memorabilia and clothing.

After shopping on Inlet’s small but sturdy main street on Route 28, take a short walk down to the town’s Arrowhead Park — which boasts a roomy playground, picnic benches and a sandy public beach. Walk the boardwalk along Fourth Lake and drink in the sight of not-so-distant mountains on the other side of the lovely lake.

Then, end your visit by grabbing a cone at Northern Lights Creamery .

Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York pictured in July 2024, is full of great food, interesting shops and endless, explorable nature. This photo shows the Sky Bar, a rooftop bar atop Tony Harper's Too Pizza in Old Forge. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

5. Eat at an Old Forge restaurant with a rooftop bar

For hungry travelers, a good slice of pizza always hits right. And in Old Forge, Tony Harper’s Too Pizza & Clam Shack is the place to go for a dependable pie.

Tony Harper’s, a small Adirondacks pizza chain, is hard to miss. The two-story restaurant at the heart of downtown Old Forge is housed in a building with bright-green shingles and stone columns topped by a rooftop bar.

The family-friendly restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating. We opted to sit inside Tony Harper’s Too, which has a pool table and interesting decor — including a mounted deer head and a vintage Utica Club poster.

Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York is full of great food, interesting shops and endless, explorable nature. Tony Harper's Too Pizza & Clam Shack in Old Forge serves up great pizzas, like this City Folk pie enjoyed in July 2024. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

On your dining trip to Tony Harper’s Too, order a local brew (we went with a bottle of Saranac root beer) and a basket of perfectly crispy wings tossed in Tony’s signature whiskey sauce. Then fill up with a unique pie — maybe a City Folk pizza topped with white garlic sauce and spinach, maybe a Tony’s Supreme loaded with meat and vegetables — for your main course.

When dinner is done, head up to the 46 Sky Bar & Cafe, Tony’s seasonal rooftop bar, for a nightcap with good views.

From slides and swimming pools to rides and a storybook forest, Enchanted Forest Water Safari — pictured in July 2024 — offers fun for visitors of all ages in Old Forge, N.Y. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

6. Get wild at Enchanted Forest Water Safari

Enchanted Forest Water Safari , the place where “the fun never stops”, did not start as a water park.

When the attraction opened in 1956, the Enchanted Forest of the Adirondacks let visitors watch wooden products crafted from log to finish, according to the water safari . That’s when the iconic statue of folk hero/ giant lumberjack Paul Bunyan and the explorable Storybook Lane Little Houses that remain in the park today debuted.

After decades of expansion, Enchanted Forest officially became a water park in 1984 when the park built a two-flume water slide. The park has continued to grow, adding new rides, a family fun park and a popular campground.

From slides and swimming pools to rides and a storybook forest, Enchanted Forest Water Safari and its Storybook Lane — pictured in July 2024 — offers fun for visitors of all ages in Old Forge, N.Y. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

During Upstate’s warm months, spend time cooling off in Enchanted Forest’s water rides and attractions. While the lazy river ride and Pygmy Pond are great spots for younger adventurers, the Curse of the Silverback and Killermanjaro’s Revenge offer thrills for older adrenaline seekers.

Leave time to visit Storybook Lane, the tree-shaded trail dotted with life-sized storybook characters and homes dating back to the park’s inception.

In the fall, pay a visit to Calypso’s Cove — a place for “afternoon and evening entertainment” where guests can try a towering zipline, an 18-hole mini golf course, bumper cars and more.

Travelers looking for a place to spend the night in Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York, can pass a relaxing night at Christy's Motel, pictured in July 2024. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

7. Recharge with a night at a poolside motel

After a long day of adventuring, weary travelers can recharge with a relaxing night at Christy’s Motel .

Housed on Route 28 at the western border of Old Forge, the recently remodeled Christy’s is perfectly perched on the edge of the tourist action. The motel boasts an inground pool, a playground and outdoor movie nights for kids.

It is not a luxury hotel and doesn’t offer amenities like meals or a gym. But the rooms are clean and cozy, the price is affordable and the hosts are helpful.

And with 6 million acres of Adirondack wilderness to explore, who needs room service?

Christy's Motel is a great inn to spend a night in Old Forge, the magical gateway to the Adirondacks in Upstate New York, pictured in July 2024. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | shouse@syracuse

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‘It’s Still Overwhelming’: Mourners Across New York City Remember 9/11

Commemorations for those killed in the attacks 23 years ago took place throughout the city, with politicians joining those assembled at ground zero.

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By Lola Fadulu and Alyce McFadden

Mourners gathered in Lower Manhattan and across New York City on Wednesday to commemorate the nearly 3,000 people who died in the Sept. 11 attacks 23 years ago and the many who have died from related illnesses since.

Brandon Remouns, 40, was among those who headed to the World Trade Center memorial for the annual commemoration of the attacks. He said his father, George Remouns, was a detective who responded to ground zero on Sept. 11. He died in 2017 of cancer caused by his rescue work .

The most meaningful part of the ceremony was hearing the names of those killed read aloud, Mr. Remouns said.

“You pay your respects,” he said, adding: “It’s a long day.”

Each passing anniversary gets more difficult, said Terry Sholty Strada, whose husband, Tom Strada, worked at Cantor Fitzgerald, one of the companies with offices in the World Trade Center that lost hundreds of employees on Sept. 11. Her husband died that day, Ms. Strada said, and she was “coming to pay respects for his murder.” Their children were 7, 4 and 4 days old at the time.

“They’re all adults now, doing their own thing and just starting the cycle of life,” said Ms. Strada, 62. “And it just starts to kind of get harder again, because they’re off doing their thing and he’s not here for any of it.”

The families were joined at ground zero by President Biden and a number of other politicians, including Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald J. Trump, who were in New York City after facing off in their first presidential debate in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening.

Leading New York officials, including Gov. Kathy Hochul and Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, were present as well.

Jennifer Holohan, 58, attends the ceremony every year in memory of her brother, Thomas Holohan, a firefighter.

“It’s still overwhelming after many years, always overwhelming,” she said through tears.

While the memorial is sad, “it’s a little bit peaceful at the same time,” she said. “It’s respectful and it still evokes a lot of emotion.”

Farther uptown, a group of dancers dressed in white gathered in the plaza at Lincoln Center to perform a tribute to those who were killed and call for global peace. The performance — the 9/11 Table of Silence Project — was choreographed by the artist and dancer Jacqulyn Buglisi.

Courtney Franklin, 60, of Brooklyn, was among the onlookers. She said a friend died in recent years of lung cancer caused by exposure to toxins during the Sept. 11 attacks.

“I remember walking down West Broadway and seeing the barricades — seeing the debris,” Ms. Franklin said. “We forget so much, and this is a reminder,” she said.

Engine Company 54, Ladder Company 4, Battalion 9, the Midtown Manhattan firehouse that lost the most firefighters on Sept. 11, was bustling with current and retired firefighters and their families. Photos of those who died in the attacks hung on a wall above the dozens of people gathered.

The ties binding them together are “like no other tie,” said Donna Conte, 57, gazing around at those gathered. “It’s unbreakable.”

Ms. Conte’s husband, Peter Conte, a firefighter who has since retired, had the day off on Sept. 11, but when the call came in, he rushed out to do whatever he could to help, arriving on the scene just as the second tower came down.

He survived, unlike so many of his colleagues. The pair has come out to the ceremony at the firehouse every year since.

“It’s something you need to do, to make you feel close to them,” Ms. Conte said. “There’s always so much guilt that you get to be with your families and watch them grow,” she added, gesturing at the other families at the firehouse.

Linda Taccetta, 60, has been attending the memorial ceremony at the firehouse every year since her younger brother, Lenny Ragaglia, died in the attacks. He had been a firefighter at the firehouse for nine years.

“I just feel like you need to be here, because I dread this day up until it comes,” she said. “And then just coming here, I always feel better, I really do.”

The two children her brother left behind have grown up and are now firefighters themselves.

Earlier this week, New York Fire Department officials announced a sad milestone : The department has now lost more than 360 members to illnesses related to Sept. 11, exceeding the 343 members who died in the attacks. At least 11,000 members have illnesses linked to time spent at ground zero, officials estimated, and at least 3,500 have cancer.

Some families are still fighting to receive federal benefits from the World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Many cancers diagnosed before Sept. 11, 2005, cannot be considered linked to the attacks , according to the program’s policy.

Anusha Bayya and Molly Longman contributed reporting.

Lola Fadulu reports on the New York City region for The Times. More about Lola Fadulu

Alyce McFadden is a reporter covering New York City and a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Alyce McFadden