brooklyn travel guide

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Book Now

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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. Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 Website

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 iOs | Android

OpenTable : Restaurant reservations iOs | Android

Ask Brooklyn Museum : Start a conversation with art historians and experts or find information about works on view iOs

48 Hours in Brooklyn: The Perfect Itinerary

Michael Marquand / Getty Images

In the past couple of decades, Brooklyn has transformed into a must-visit destination. Known for its notable restaurants, arty neighborhoods, eclectic shops, and a literary scene, Brooklyn has emerged as a cutting-edge cultural haven. This section of New York City is easily accessible from Manhattan via subway or a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or Manhattan Bridge. Although many people add a day in Brooklyn to their Big Apple itinerary, it’s definitely worthy of its own trip. The setting for numerous TV shows and inspiration for a plethora of famous novels , you should come ​for a visit and experience your own Brooklyn story.

If you’re coming for a summer visit, you should definitely add a trip to Coney Island  or Brighton Beach to your itinerary. Those two neighboring beach towns are also fun to explore during the offseason . However, visiting in the summer, when the beaches are lively, the boardwalk is packed and all of the shops are open, is a perpetually festive experience.

Although you might need more than a couple of days to see all of the sites, here’s a glimpse at the highlights.

Watch Now: Essential Things to Do in Brooklyn

Day 1: morning.

There is a hotel boom happening in Brooklyn. If you're staying in Downtown Brooklyn or Williamsburg, where most of the new hotels are opening, you can take the subway or bus to Eastern Parkway and Grand Army Plaza . Start your day marveling at the beauty of the historic arch at the start of this majestic Brooklyn roadway.  

8 a.m.:  Get an early morning sugar rush as you sip a Cherry Lime Ricky at Tom's Restaurant, a family-owned authentic 1930s era diner that has been a local favorite for over seventy years. The breakfast menu has an extensive list of pancakes including cinnamon pancakes served with apples or bananas, lemon ricotta pancakes, and many other breakfast foods that will delight even the finickiest of eaters and can turn anyone into a morning person. 

9 a.m. - 12 noon:  After you've gotten your fill of coffee and pancakes, walk off your breakfast with a stroll through the lush Brooklyn Botanic Garden . Since 1911, Brooklyn folks have been flocking to these verdant gardens. Enjoy perusing the Cranford Rose Garden or take in the beauty of the Cherry Esplanade. For complete serenity, visit the peaceful Japanese Hill and Pond Garden with its pond and Shinto shrine. There are various tours and activities at the garden, so be sure to check their website for information about the day's events. If you have kids in tow, you should definitely stop by the interactive children's garden. 

Day 1: Afternoon

12 noon - 3 p.m.:  Once you exit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, you'll be a ten-minute walk to Franklin Avenue, a bustling restaurant row in Crown Heights. The stretch starts across Eastern Parkway on Franklin Avenue. For a casual lunch head to Franklin Park, a garage-turned-beer-garden, which also houses Dutch Boy Burger, where you can have a burger (it has veggie burgers), hot dogs, and other comfort food. If a casual lunch isn't what you had in mind, a walk down Franklin Avenue is a foodie dream. You'll have a pick from artisanal brick oven pizza to overstuffed tortas on this avenue filled with quaint cafes and vibrant restaurants. 

3:30 - 6 p.m. : Once you're done with lunch and window shopping at the boutiques along Franklin Avenue, it's time to get arty at the Brooklyn Museum . Before you enter the museum, you must pause in front to stare at the mesmerizing fountain. In addition to a fun fountain, this prestigious art museum has a large collection of Egyptian art in its permanent collection, as well as contemporary art. The rotating exhibits have included Basquiat, Georgia O'Keefe, and many others. The museum is open until 6 p.m., except Thursday when it closes at 10 p.m., and the first Saturday of the month when the evening is free to the public from 5-11 p.m. through First Saturdays . Tours are available.

Day 1: Evening

6 p.m.:  After a few hours at the Brooklyn Museum, you've probably worked up an appetite and are in search of some good grub. Walk down Eastern Parkway, past the large main branch of the Public Library and by the swank Richard Meier glass apartment building, toward the leafy brownstone-lined streets of Park Slope . Enjoy a nice walk through this historic section of Brooklyn with its charming blocks. 

This residential part of Brooklyn houses two main streets. Seventh Avenue has many chain shops and a few restaurants. For good eats, it's best to head straight to Fifth Avenue, where you can find many fantastic dining options, from vegan eats to al di la Trattoria and Stone Park Cafe, which are two of Brooklyn's most beloved restaurants. Or you can head to Flatbush Avenue, where you can choose from restaurants near the Barclays Center .  

After dinner, you can check out what's playing at the  Barclays Center , a large arena in downtown Brooklyn, or you can stop in one of the many bars along Fifth Avenue, which vary from hipster haunt to sports bar. Another option is heading to the venues The Bell House or Littlefield in the Gowanus section of Brooklyn. Both of these venues have music, comedy, DJs, and other performances, as well as dancing and drinks. The Gowanus area is easily walkable from Park Slope and is home to hip bars and restaurants. Stop in at the Lavender Lake for a beer on the patio or if you're looking for a more wholesome night, order an ice cream cone (chocolate lovers must order "It Came From the Gowanus") at Ample Hills Creamery's rooftop terrace. If you're still up for more nightlife, walk down to Smith Street. This street runs from Carroll Gardens to Cobble Hill and is packed with restaurants and bars.

Day 2: Morning

Stella Levantesi / TripSavvy

9 a.m.:  Start your morning with a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, which stretches for more than a mile and offers some of the most stunning views of lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. Be mindful of the cyclists as you stop to take pictures of the skyline. Allow at least an hour to do a roundtrip walk. This will leave you time to read the plaques that are stationed throughout the bridge and tell you the history of this historic and significant bridge. 

9 a.m. - 12 noon:  Once back in Brooklyn, it's time to stroll through Dumbo, which is right next to the Brooklyn Bridge exit. Walk down Front Street and into the heart of this waterfront neighborhood whose name stands for "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass". It was once an industrial neighborhood but has since become home to galleries, shops, restaurants, and high-end condos. There is much to see on the cobblestone streets of Dumbo, including the scenic Brooklyn Bridge Park . At the entrance to the park is Jane's Carousel , a beautifully restored 1922 historic carousel. The scenic waterfront park stretches all the way to Brooklyn Heights and has a pop-up pool, a roller skating rink, soccer fields, and grills for a BBQ. You can easily spend a day relaxing in the park, but we suggest walking toward the historic Fulton Ferry landing and hopping aboard the NYC Ferry .​

Day 2: Afternoon

 Stella Levantesi / TripSavvy 

12 noon - 3 p.m.:  Purchase tickets for the NYC Ferry at the Fulton Ferry Landing and take the boat to North 6th Street in Williamsburg, which will drop you at the East River State Park. If it's a Saturday, you're in luck! Head to the famous weekly weekend food market, Smorgasburg . On Sundays, Smorgasburg is held in Prospect Park. At the Smorgasburg in East River Park, you can purchase a variety of sweet and savory food as you indulge in a gluttonous lunch.

You should also find time to squeeze The Brooklyn Flea into your itinerary. If you're in Dumbo on Sunday, the Brooklyn Flea is housed underneath the Brooklyn Bridge. The vendors sell handcrafted and vintage items. In the winter months, both the Brooklyn Flea and the Smorgasburg are housed in indoor locations, previous spots include Industry City and Williamsburg Savings Bank Clocktower building.

If you happen to be traveling to Williamsburg when Smorgasburg isn't in session, you should grab an ice cream cone at the Fulton Ferry Landing. The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, housed in a former fireboat house serves some of the best homemade ice cream in Brooklyn. Once you've devoured your scoop, hop aboard the ferry and head to Williamsburg.

You can either have your lunch at the Smorgasburg or head to Cafe Mogador, which is a short walk from the ferry stop for an incredibly tasty Moroccan brunch or lunch. Smorasburg is so renowned it spread to LA , so you know you won't be dissapointed.

3 p.m. - 5 p.m.:  Digest your food as you shop in Williamsburg . Be sure to stop in Rough Trade NYC. The Brooklyn outpost of this London based record store has an intimate concert venue at the back of the shop. The atmosphere of the spacious store filled with books and vinyl is similar to many places like Tower Records and HMV, which have unfortunately disappeared from the current cultural landscape. After you peruse the shop, walk down to Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg's noted shopping street with shops like Catbird, Spoonbill & Sugartown Booksellers, and many others. If you aren't much of a shopper, hop on the subway or head east and walk toward Bushwick to check out the street art.

Day 2: Evening

7 p.m.:  If you spent the day shopping in Williamsburg or you chose an afternoon of looking at street art in Bushwick, you might want to have dinner at Roberta's, a popular Bushwick pizzeria. Sit in the garden and dine on a "Nun on the Run" pizza (mozzarella, A lp Blossom, brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, capers, lemon, and chili). Bushwick is filled with great spots for nightlife, but if you want to spend your last night in Williamsburg, you should book a table at Reynard in the Wythe Hotel, and then have a drink at the Ides Rooftop bar at the hotel or walk across the street to The William Vale, where you can have a cocktail at Westlight, a rooftop bar on the 22nd floor, as you toast the evening while soaking in the incredible views. 

Brooklyn: A Visitors Guide

Brooklyn Flea: Planning Your Visit

The 12 Best Slices of Pizza in Brooklyn

How to Get to Brooklyn Bridge Park and DUMBO

12 Top Summer Things to Do in Brooklyn

5 Great Walks to Explore Brooklyn

The 20 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn

10 Things to Do in DUMBO on Front Street

48 Hours in Tokyo: The Perfect Itinerary

Top 10 Things to Do in DUMBO, Brooklyn

Smorgasburg Brooklyn: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Breakfasts in Brooklyn

The Best Shopping Experiences in Brooklyn

Brooklyn Bridge Park, A Visitors Guide

The Best Things to Do in Brooklyn in the Winter

How to Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

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

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?

Enjoyed this ultimate Brooklyn travel guide? Pin it for later!

Protect Your Trip »

21 Top Things to Do in Brooklyn

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

Getty Images

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

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

Welcome to Your Brooklyn Guide! 

Featuring helpful brooklyn guides and new york city guides curated and written by locals, about your brooklyn guide.

Founded by Megan Indoe, a certified and licensed NYC sightseeing guide, who lives in Sunset Park with her two adopted Brooklyn cats and photographer husband/business partner, Scott. She’s been a publisher for over a decade writing about travel and New York City. She loves taking neighborhood walks around the city, a good-themed bar, eating her weight in pizza, and is a proud member of the Coney Island Polar Bear Club!

Explore our guides

Nyc & brooklyn.

Whether you’re visiting New York City and Brooklyn or a local, we share our favorite Brooklyn and New York City tips, places to visit, where to eat + drink, & so much more!

Things to do

Neighborhoods, eat & drink, travel guides, latest posts.

20+ Best Things to do on the Lower East Side

The MOST Legendary Steakhouses in NYC (Plus a Map)

25 Indoor Things to do in NYC – Perfect for a Cold or Rainy Day!

Check out our exclusive newsletter.

Join thousands of happy subscribers to our bi-weekly newsletter featuring exclusive tips, guides, and recommendations be sure to sign up for our newsletter.

 100+ Things To Do in Brooklyn 

Get Our FREE GUIDE  

Your insider guide to Brooklyn beyond baristas and brownstones

Sep 15, 2021 • 5 min read

New York's expansive subway and bus system makes getting around Brooklyn quick and easy © Felix Lipov / Shutterstock

Just a few decades ago, Brooklyn was seen as the poor cousin of glamorous Manhattan – industrial buildings and working-class immigrant communities were the hallmarks of this NYC borough. That all changed when Manhattan real-estate prices skyrocketed and New Yorkers crossed the East River in search of precious space.

Brooklyn has become a hub of creativity for artists, and a byword for anything considered cool, while also retaining the strong community bonds that have thrived here for generations. Who else is better placed to parody the hipsters that descend upon the borough than the witty, wonderful locals? Brooklyn's big and there's a lot to cover so we've distilled the very best here; a handy guide to the artistic and creative hub of NYC.

Where to go for the best music, performing arts and film

The vibe: historic venues, new artists and vibrant creativity

The creative energy that makes Brooklyn pulse is not new – just look at the Brooklyn Academy of Music for proof. With roots that go back to 1861 when it was founded as the home of the Philharmonic Society of Brooklyn, today it’s a major destination with three gorgeous historic performance spaces hosting a dazzling roster of daring or even avant-garde theater and opera companies, musicians and dance troupes from around the planet. There’s also a cinema and bustling café.

With an influx of young artists has come the arrival of many galleries and concert venues. The Music Hall of Williamsburg , Bell House  and Brooklyn Bowl are dependable go-to’s for indie bands, from emerging and buzzed-about to noted national acts, DJs and burlesque performances. Chat to other gig goers and follow the crowd to the after-party – you'll have some of the best nights of your life when you go with the flow in Brooklyn and skip from party to party with new friends.

The number of film legends who have called Brooklyn home (see: Spike Lee, Barbra Streisand, Rita Hayworth, Anne Hathaway and Mel Brooks to name just a few) gives a little insight into why it's still a hotbed for movie production and home-grown talent. If you're a film buff in need of a fix, you can't leave Brooklyn without experiencing one of its independent cinemas.  Nitehawk , a cinema known for serving restaurant-caliber food, local beer and craft cocktails you can enjoy while the movie’s playing, has locations in Williamsburg and Prospect Park. First-run films, thematic series and showings of 35mm movies are on the calendar. For something a bit quirkier, the Spectacle Theater in Williamsburg screens arthouse films, B-movie classics and more in a former bodega.

Where to eat

The vibe: food trucks and halls, high-end dining, all with global cultural influences

Brooklyn wouldn’t be Brooklyn without its vast assortment of food trucks, progressive restaurants, homesteaders and food-centric startups. Of course, Brooklynites always enjoyed good eats, especially immigrant enclaves, so there are plenty of longstanding institutions to explore, too. Among the many, check out the family-run Italian joint Bamonte’s, the famous slices at Di Fara , the filling borscht at Varenichnaya in Brighton Beach and the pierogis at  Karczma , one of the few remaining Polish eateries in Greenpoint . 

But the locals’ entrepreneurial spirit is especially evident in the countless creative businesses that have proliferated the city in the 21st century. Steve’s Key Lime Pie , which has been turning out its indulgent namesake dessert since 2002, sits by the water in Red Hook. Ample Hills Creamery , known for its inspired ice cream flavors and organic ingredients, has 15 shops around the country but its factory store in Red Hook is a must for a supreme scoop. 

Food halls have become a sensation in a number of American cities, and Brooklyn is certainly no exception. After all, they’re an excellent way for new small businesses to grow. Downtown Brooklyn has DeKalb Market , which features stalls by well-known food purveyors, like Katz’s Deli, interspersed among newer operations. Gotham Market at the Ashland is conveniently located near BAM and the Barclays Center . And the food hall at Industry City , six million square feet of renovated warehouse space, features plenty of options for people who gather at the waterside complex here to shop for local goods, stock up on Japanese groceries from Japan Village, watch free outdoor movies or enjoy a concert.

New York City's 8 neighborhoods that are must visits this fall

Only in Brooklyn

The vibe: museums, bars and unique treasures you'll only find in Brooklyn

Brooklyn didn’t become a barometer of cool by following the pack. A large part of its allure is the fact that you find things here that are singular enough to warrant a trip from Manhattan – or from anywhere for that matter. There’s the century-old carousel in Prospect Park, and the stately Victorian-era Weir Greenhouse across from the equally old Green-Wood Cemetery , which is presently being converted into the cemetery’s visitors center. There’s plenty in the nightlife arena likely to turn heads, too, like the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club , a bar where the geriatric pastime is reborn as a hipster sport du jour, no irony required.  

Museums are similarly one in a million here. The Puppet Library, tucked away in a Brooklyn College building, presents over 100 puppets arranged on bleachers in a gymnasium. The City Reliquary , in Williamsburg, is a goldmine of New York City ephemera, memorabilia and vintage treasures of civic life from long ago. Does anyone remember subway tokens?

For a grander, more focused look at New York’s history, check out the New York Transit Museum . Set in a subway station that was decommissioned in 1936, it chronicles the city’s complex public transportation system through artifacts, maps, construction equipment, engineering devices and vintage cars. If there’s anywhere to get a thorough understanding of how NYC is constantly on the move, it’s here. It's a great kid-friendly attraction for vacationing families.

This article was originally published on September 24, 2019.

You may also like: Spending diary: what a long weekend in Brooklyn cost me Why fall is the perfect time for a trip to NYC 16 things you have to do in New York City

This article was first published September 2019 and updated September 2021

Explore related stories

Apr 23, 2024 • 6 min read

From Paris to Buenos Aires, you’ll want to settle in and raise a glass at these famous literary bars, notebook at the ready.

Jun 21, 2022 • 9 min read

Apr 24, 2020 • 7 min read

Feb 13, 2020 • 5 min read

Dec 6, 2019 • 5 min read

Oct 29, 2019 • 1 min read

Aug 8, 2019 • 4 min read

Aug 6, 2019 • 5 min read

Jul 28, 2019 • 6 min read

Jul 6, 2019 • 6 min read