Things To Do
in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is a vibrant borough of New York City known for its cultural diversity, artistic scenes, and iconic landmarks. It boasts a rich history and is home to many neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, from the historic brownstones of Brooklyn Heights to the trendy boutiques of Williamsburg. Brooklyn is also famous for its picturesque parks, bustling waterfronts, and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

With a thriving food scene, lively arts community, and numerous outdoor activities, Brooklyn offers a delightful urban experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Brooklyn Heights Promenade, enjoying stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Grab breakfast at the famous Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic DUMBO neighborhood, explore local galleries, and take a walk along the Brooklyn Bridge Park. Stop for lunch at Time Out Market, where you can sample a variety of local foods.

evening
:

Head to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for sunset views. For dinner, dine at The River Café, known for its romantic ambiance and fine dining. End your night with a cocktail at one of the rooftop bars in DUMBO.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature in Williamsburg
morning
:

Visit the Brooklyn Museum and explore its vast collection of art and cultural artifacts. Have brunch at a local favorite, Egg, known for its delicious breakfast options.

afternoon
:

Head to Prospect Park for a leisurely afternoon, where you can rent a bike or simply enjoy a walk through the park's scenic paths. Visit the Prospect Park Zoo if you're traveling with kids.

evening
:

Experience Williamsburg's nightlife with dinner at Smorgasburg (if visiting on a weekend) or a trendy restaurant like Lilia. Finish off the night at a local music venue or bar, such as Brooklyn Bowl.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Slice of Pizza$3-5
Coffee$3-5
🍔Burger$10-15
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$20-50
🚕Taxi Fare$10-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse food scene with options for all tastes
  • Rich cultural and artistic experiences
  • Vibrant neighborhoods with unique charm
  • Can be expensive compared to other destinations
  • Some areas can feel crowded, especially on weekends
  • Public transportation can be complex for newcomers

Places to Visit in Brooklyn

Visit one of these nice places.

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic landmark offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, especially at sunrise or sunset.

DUMBO

Known for its cobblestone streets and stunning views of the Manhattan Bridge framed by the surrounding buildings.

Prospect Park

A beautiful urban park with picturesque landscapes, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Brooklyn

Brooklyn's food scene is a culinary melting pot, showcasing flavors from around the world. From artisanal pizza to vibrant street food, there's something for everyone, making it a food lover's paradise.

Brooklyn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

New York-Style Pizza

Thin crust, foldable slices topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella, best enjoyed at places like Di Fara.

Must-Try!

Burgers

Brooklyn is home to several gourmet burger joints, with unique toppings and flavors.

Bagels

A quintessential New York breakfast item; try them with cream cheese and lox.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Smorgasburg

A massive weekly food market featuring a variety of local vendors offering everything from gourmet dishes to desserts.

Brooklyn Flea

A market that combines vintage finds with great street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Brooklyn experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures averaging between 30°F and 40°F, and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time to explore parks. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures often reaching the 80s°F, perfect for outdoor activities. Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

New Yorkers value personal space; be mindful not to stand too close to others.

Queuing

Respect the line in stores or restaurants; it's considered very rude to cut in.

Politeness

A simple 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way in maintaining a polite interaction.

Safety Guide

Safety

Brooklyn is generally safe, especially in well-populated areas and during the day. However, as in any urban setting, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep your belongings secure. It’s advisable to use reputable transportation options and be cautious when using ATMs. Following local advice and staying informed about neighborhood safety can help ensure a pleasant visit.

Tipping in Brooklyn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants, and also to tip bartenders and taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit/debit cards; however, carrying cash is advisable for street food vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers in Prospect Park make spring an ideal time to visit.

Summer

Warm weather invites outdoor festivals, rooftop bars, and beach trips to Coney Island.

Fall

Enjoy vibrant fall foliage in parks and the lively atmosphere of the Brooklyn Book Festival.

Winter

Cold temperatures may keep you indoors, but the holiday lights and markets offer a charming experience.

Nightlife Guide

Brooklyn at Night

Brooklyn's nightlife is eclectic and vibrant, featuring everything from dive bars to upscale lounges and live music venues. Neighborhoods like Williamsburg and Bushwick are particularly known for their lively atmosphere, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues that often host local and international acts. The nightlife scene caters to all tastes, whether you're looking for an intimate cocktail bar, a bustling dance club, or a place to enjoy live performances. Many venues also offer unique themed nights and events, ensuring there's always something exciting happening after dark.

Hiking in Brooklyn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Prospect Park Loop

A scenic 3.35-mile trail that winds through Prospect Park, offering a mix of wooded areas and open spaces.

Marine Park

This park features several nature trails and is ideal for hiking, with views of the salt marsh and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Brooklyn by plane.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

The primary international airport serving the New York City area, located about 15 miles from Brooklyn, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Brooklyn is quite walkable, particularly in neighborhoods like Williamsburg, DUMBO, and Brooklyn Heights, where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy walking distance. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, with good signage and access to public parks. In addition, many areas have bike lanes, making it easy to explore on two wheels. However, some neighborhoods, particularly those further from subway stations, may require longer walks or the use of public transportation to reach popular spots.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals are drawn to Brooklyn's creative scene and diverse job opportunities.

Families

Brooklyn attracts families with its parks, schools, and community events, creating a family-friendly atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Brooklyn is home to the Brooklyn Nets, and basketball culture is prevalent throughout the borough.

Baseball

The Brooklyn Cyclones, a minor league team, play at MCU Park, offering a family-friendly baseball experience.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Brooklyn can be heavy, especially during rush hours, with congestion in popular areas and near major bridges. Public transportation options, including subways and buses, provide efficient alternatives to driving. The subway system is extensive, making it easy to navigate around the borough and into Manhattan. Biking and walking are also popular modes of transport, particularly in neighborhoods with good infrastructure.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Brooklyn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegan menus, particularly in areas like Williamsburg.

Gluten-Free

There are plenty of gluten-free options available at most eateries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Brooklyn has a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics. Major hospitals like NYU Langone Hospital and Mount Sinai Brooklyn provide comprehensive medical services. For travelers, health insurance is recommended, and it's advisable to have a list of nearby clinics or hospitals in case of emergencies. Many pharmacies also offer basic healthcare services, including vaccinations and over-the-counter medications.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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