tourist attraction brooklyn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Brooklyn Bridge

2. brooklyn bridge park, 3. brooklyn heights promenade, 4. brooklyn botanic garden, 5. brooklyn museum, 6. green-wood cemetery, 7. new york transit museum, 8. prospect park, 9. williamsburg, 10. christmas lights in dyker heights, 11. coney island, 12. mcu park, 13. barclays center, 14. brooklyn flea, 15. williamsburg smorgasburg, 16. dekalb market hall, 17. bam harvey theater, 18. brooklyn grange, 19. bushwick collective, 20. brighton beach, where to stay in brooklyn for sightseeing, brooklyn, ny - climate chart.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, New York

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

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

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

Address: 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 99 Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn, New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels :

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

Budget Hotels :

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

More on New York

The 32 Absolute Best Brooklyn Attractions

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

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

You'll also love this:

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

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

The Top Brooklyn attractions on a map

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

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

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

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Here are my 32 Favorite attractions in Brooklyn

Brooklyn bridge.

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

Brooklyn Bridge Park

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

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

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

Washington Street in Dumbo

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

Pilot Brooklyn

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

Domino Park

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

Jane's Carousel

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

Time Out Market

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

Smorgasburg Food Market

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

Coney Island Boardwalk

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

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Rooftop Reds

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

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

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

Brooklyn Flea

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

DeKalb Market Hall

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

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

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

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

Prospect Park

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

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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

Brooklyn Museum

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

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

Green-Wood Cemetery

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

Governors Island

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

Since 2021 Governors Island is open all year round!

New York Transit Museum

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

Harriet's Rooftop Bar

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

Williamsburg Bridge

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

Barclays Center

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

Brooklyn Children's Museum

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

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

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

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park

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

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

New York Aquarium

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

Westlight NYC

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

All Brooklyn Attractions on a map

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

Things to do in Brooklyn

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21 Top Things to Do in Brooklyn

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

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

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

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

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

Coney Island

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

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

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

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

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

Prospect Park

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

Stroll the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

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

Bushwick Collective

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

Domino Park

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

Ride Jane's Carousel

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

Wander the historic neighborhoods of BoCoCa

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

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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

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

Carb-load with bagels and pizza

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

The Brooklyn Academy of Music and BAMcafé Live

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

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

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

The Brooklyn Museum

Jonathan Dorado | Courtesy of Brooklyn Museum

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

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

Play shuffleboard at the Royal Palms

Courtesy of Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

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

Green-Wood Cemetery

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

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

Industry City

Courtesy of Industry City

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

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

New York Transit Museum

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

House of Yes

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

Brooklyn Children's Museum

Winston Williams | Courtesy of Brooklyn Children's Museum

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

Rummage through the Brooklyn Flea

Courtesy of Brooklyn Flea

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

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

Take a hip-hop bus tour

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

Witness the lights of Dyker Heights

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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

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The best things to do in Brooklyn

Our best things to do in Brooklyn list includes wonderful Brooklyn attractions, bars and restaurants in Kings County.

Looking for the best things to do in Brooklyn? There's no shortage. Kings County is chock-full of stellar Brooklyn attractions , fantastic  restaurants and bars , there are plenty of spots to entertain yourself in various neighborhoods. Some examples like the ever-beautiful and lush Prospect Park or Brooklyn Botanic Garden , definitely earn the right to be included here. But we made sure to highlight a few hidden gems amid the well-known haunts. From Williamsburg to Red Hook and Dumbo to Crown Heights, here are the best things to do the next time you cross the bridge.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Brooklyn, NY RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Brooklyn   RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in Brooklyn

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Top 20 things to do in Brooklyn, NY

1.  Have a day of whimsy at Coney Island

From the turn of the century to the Second World War, Coney Island, NY was considered the city's playground. Years of neglect followed, but the arrival of the Luna Park amusement park restored the area’s lively nature. Today, hundreds of thousands of people visit what has become one of the top New York beaches that offers a range of excellent things to do in summer. From movie nights to concerts and the wild Mermaid Parade, there’s something for everyone.

2.  Peep the petals at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

• Parks and gardens
• Prospect Park
• price 1 of 4

Those searching for a little peace and quiet would do well to spend a few hours at this verdant oasis. The garden—which abuts two other neighborhood gems: the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park—was founded in 1910 and features thousands of types of flora, laid out over 52 acres. Each spring, crowds descend on the space for the Sakura Matsuri Festival, during which more than 70 trees bloom along the Cherry Esplanade. But equally impressive are serene spots like the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the first Japanese-inspired garden built in the U.S., and the Shakespeare Garden, brimming with plants (such as primrose and crocuses) mentioned in the Bard’s works.

3.  Have a picnic in Prospect Park

Urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who most famously designed Central Park, also put their stamp on bucolic, 526-acre Prospect Park. Amenities like the Long Meadow and Nethermead offer plenty of space to pull up on a patch of grass and indulge in some people-watching while having a picnic, and the woodland expanse of the Ravine is a towering forest within bustling Brooklyn. But we also have to give props to Robert Moses: The controversial city planner was behind some of the park’s kid-friendly offerings, including the zoo and LeFrak Center at Lakeside, where roller skating and ice skating goes down.

Bike through Brooklyn.

4.  Eat like a New Yorker at Time Out Market New York

• Restaurants

We really like eating around the city, and we're guessing you do, too. So lucky for all of us, we've packed all our favorite restaurants under one roof at the Time Out Market New York. The DUMBO location in Empire Stores has fluffy pancakes from the venerable Clinton Street Baking Co., pizza from Fornino, seasonal ice cream flavors from Sugar Hill Creamery, fried chicken from Jacob’s Pickles and more amazing eateries—all cherry-picked by us. Chow down over two floors with views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. 

5.  Hunt for treasures at Brooklyn Flea

• Things to do
• Markets and fairs

Attending an outdoor bazaar is certainly a must here in New York, and Brooklyn Flea is hands-down one of the top flea markets to hit. The market has everything, including an impressive selection of throwback wares and records, which you certainly wouldn’t find in any vintage clothing store or record store in the city. There are two locations: Dumbo as well as Williamsburg where the nearby food selection is nothing to sneeze at—the creators also operate one of the city’s best food festivals: Smorgasburg.

6.  Walk, shop and eat at Industry City

This waterfront complex, housed in the former Bush Terminal is home to artist spaces and artisan workshops as well as local shops and eateries (Sahadi's, Li-lac Chocolates, Powerhouse, St. Mark's Comics and Japan Village). It also hosts concerts, art events and parties and seasonal fun like outdoor ice skating, roller skating, Oktoberfest events and more.

7.  Go ham at Smorgasburg

Speaking of Smorgasburg! New Yorkers love eating outside, whether it’s at one of the city’s best waterfront restaurants, elevated rooftop bars or open-air food flea markets like Brooklyn’s famed food market. A favorite amongst locals and tourists alike, Smorg features nearly 100 vendors selling seriously delicious and graciously cheap snacks.

8.  Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

• Historic buildings and sites

Sure, the Brooklyn Bridge serves a practical purpose as the means for millions of commuters to travel from lower Manhattan to Brooklyn, but it is also one of the most iconic structures in the city. You can walk and bike over it, but beware, the crowds are serious! Go early in the morning or late at night to avoid the hustle and bustle.

9.  Get sporty at Brooklyn Bridge Park

• Brooklyn Heights

Some city parks—Central and Prospect, most obviously—were built to replicate rustic fields and preserve serene woodland. Brooklyn Bridge Park, however, was not—and that’s precisely why it has become so popular. The project has transformed a chunk of the Brooklyn waterfront into an 85-acre expanse; several sections house unique attractions such as Jane’s Carousel, a restored 1920s merry-go-round, and riverside esplanades with gorgeous Manhattan views. 

10.  Sip some suds at Spritzenhaus

• price 2 of 4

One hundred taps dispense craft brews at this massive Greenpoint gastropub, from owner Robert Shamlian (Spitzer's Corner, Fat Baby). The 6,000-square-foot beer hall features a wood-burning oven and a marble bar. Hopped up drinkers can line their bellies with salty snacks, like sausages and pretzels, from a German-focused menu.

11.  Thrift at L Train Vintage

• Thrift stores

This thrift-store chain goes by different names throughout the city—No Relation Vintage, Village Style and Vice Versa Vintage to name a few—but each carries affordable pre-loved goods for both sexes. Don't go looking for high-end brands—think Gap denim jackets for just $5.

12.  Carb up on pasta at Lilia

• Williamsburg

If a restaurant is lucky, it’ll have one destination dish that piques food-geek interest and draws New York’s increasingly discerning eaters across bridges and through tunnels for a mere taste. Lilia—the airy Williamsburg pasta parlor that simultaneously serves as the kitchen comeback and solo debut from acclaimed A Voce vet Missy Robbins—has an entire menu of destination dishes; the biggest problem you’ll have here, other than scoring a free table, is picking a favorite.

13.  Dance until dawn at House of Yes

This wild Bushwick spot opened in 2016 and quickly established itself as a reliable way for Brooklyn revelers to wear insane costumes and lose their inhibitions just about every weekend. With exhibitionist parties like “House of Love” and the immersive “Little Cinema” film tributes, along with a panoply of aerialists, magicians and dancers on retainer, House of Yes is constantly inventing new ways to make a night out more than just drinks at the bar.

14.  Play shuffleboard at The Royal Palms

• Sports Bars

It’s the Sunshine State by way of Gowanus at this pastel-streaked Floridian playground, where shuffleboard revivalists Jonathan Schnapp and Ashley Albert have retooled lido-deck kitsch for beer-fisted millennials. At the 17,000-square-foot game hall, neck-tattooed skaters and fly girls dressed like Miley Cyrus gather over $75-an-hour rounds of biscuit and tang (shufflespeak for pucks and poles), forming a scene that’s as flamboyantly Boca as it is staunchly Brooklyn.

15.  Have a fish feast at Brooklyn Crab

Channeling Maine's minigolf clam shacks, this hulking 250-seat eatery brings putt-putt facilities and seaside tastes to Red Hook's waterfront. Elevated on stilts, the three-story stand-alone restaurant is done up with wharf-themed flourishes: lobster traps, fishing rods, Christmas lights and a mounted shark's head. Gather friends for a round of minigolf, bocce or cornhole (beanbag toss) outdoors. After hitting the greens, grab a picnic table and dig into simple coastal fare, such as fried whole-belly clams with homemade tartar sauce, peel-and-eat shrimp, and steam pots brimming with lobster, Jonah crab and mussels, along with potatoes and corn. Drinkers can sip frozen daiquiris or split a bucket of beer (Corona, Bud) with pals on the open-air roof deck, which boasts clear views of New York's Upper Bay.

16.  See at show at Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

• Boerum Hill

BAM, which showcases local and out-of-town companies, is one of New York’s most prominent cultural institutions. The Howard Gilman Opera House, with its Federal-style columns and carved marble, is a beautiful dance venue. The 1904 Harvey Theater (651 Fulton St between Ashland and Rockwell Pls), formerly called the Majestic, has hosted the work of John Jasperse, Wally Cardona and Matthew Bourne. 

17.  Get cultured at the Brooklyn Museum

• Natural history

Brooklyn’s premier institution is a less-crowded alternative to Manhattan’s bigger-name spaces, though the innovative and impactful items found inside are just as important as anything you'll find in the city. The museum, found on the edge of the sprawling Prospect Park, has a large holding of Egyptian art as well as the famous feminist piece, The Dinner Party, by Judy Chicago. Works by such Impressionists masters as Cézanne, Monet and Degas are also included in the collection along with with prime examples of Early American Art, period rooms and so much more.

Book top New York attractions.

18.  Bask in the greenery at Green-Wood Cemetery

• Walks and tours

A century ago, this site vied with Niagara Falls as New York State’s greatest tourist attraction. Filled with Victorian mausoleums, cherubs and gargoyles, Green-Wood is the resting place of some half-million New Yorkers, among them Jean-Michel Basquiat, Leonard Bernstein and Boss Tweed. But there’s more to do here than grave-spot: Check out the massive Gothic arch at the main entrance or climb to the top of Battle Hill, one of the highest points in Kings County and a pivotal spot during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776.

19.  Take a stroll down the Brooklyn Promenade

Looking for a great place to enjoy a panoramic view of everything the city has to offer? The Brooklyn Promenade—a one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River—is a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here.

20.  Brunch it up at Sunday in Brooklyn

• price 3 of 4

Contrary to what the name might suggest, Sunday in Brooklyn is open for brunch (and dinner) every day of the week. The rustic three-story space boasts an outdoor patio, marketplace, private dining room and rooftop garden. The brunch menu includes both lighter bites, like red leaf lettuce wedge with toasted almonds or avocado toast with cilantro tahini, and heartier fare, like an egg-sausage sandwich with potatoes, cheddar and gojuchang aioli, and malted pancakes like hazelnut-maple praline.

Looking for a place to eat in Brooklyn?

The best restaurants in Brooklyn

Has Brooklyn’s dining scene finally surpassed Manhattan restaurants? 

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Brooklyn

Things to do in brooklyn.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Williamsburg
• Brooklyn Heights
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

3. Brooklyn Bridge Park

4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

5. Coney Island

6. New York Transit Museum

7. Brooklyn Museum

8. Green-Wood cemetery

9. Brooklyn Brewery

10. Dyker Heights

11. Brooklyn Tabernacle

12. Williamsburg

13. Prospect Park

14. Brooklyn Heights

15. Barclays Center

16. Kings County Distillery

17. Brooklyn Public Library Central Branch

18. Park Slope

19. Williamsburg Smorgasburg

20. East River Ferry

21. Brighton Beach

22. Luna Park in Coney Island

23. Bushwick Collective Street Art

24. The Cyclone

25. Verrazano Narrows Bridge

26. Bury the Hatchet Brooklyn - Axe Throwing

27. Carroll Gardens

28. Montague Street

29. Grand Army Plaza

30. Brooklyn Academy of Music

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10 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn, New York

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 10 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn, New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Enjoy the views from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Brooklyn

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

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

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

Map of Brooklyn, NY

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

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

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 2, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Brooklyn Botanic Gardens

R.A.R. de Bruijn Holding BV / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The gardens’ hours vary based on time of year.

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

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

2. Luna Park, Coney Island

Kamira / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The park’s hours depend on the season.

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

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

3. Prospect Park

Elzbieta Sekowska / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Brooklyn Bridge Park

pisaphotography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

The land is great for athletic adventures.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. The Brooklyn Museum

Stuart Monk / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Brooklyn Flea

littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Brooklyn Bridge

TTstudio / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Brooklyn Historical Society

Life In Pixels / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Brooklyn Brewery

stock_photo_world / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

However, you can definitely check out the Tasting Room.

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

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

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

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

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

10. The Ford Amphitheater

Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s open on a seasonal basis.

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

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

12. Brooklyn Navy Yard Center

Dave Pinter / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admission is free.

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

13. The William Vale

Chris Goldberg / flickr

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

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

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

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

You can also cherish exploring the beautiful Vale Park area.

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

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

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

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

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

14. The Muse Gowanus

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

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

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

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

There are courses for children of different ages and families.

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

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

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

The classes vary depending on the day.

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

15. Bedford Avenue

jumis / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Toy Museum of NY

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

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

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

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

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

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

School groups are regularly delighted by these performances.

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

There are also workshops that you can look into booking.

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

17. Beacon’s Closet

Hoowy / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

The clothes are stylish but also available at reasonable rates.

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

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

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

There’s also a Manhattan location.

18. BRIC Arts Media

quiggyt4 / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prices for events vary.

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

19. Washington Street

Erik Nuenighoff / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Free Tours by Foot

Mikhail Leonov / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. New York Transit Museum

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Buttermilk Channel

Buttermilk Channel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buttermilk Channel is open at the following hours.

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

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

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

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

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

23. Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower

Robert / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. Smorgasburg

Allen.G / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Kimoto Rooftop Garden Lounge

Kimoto Rooftop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Kings County Distillery

Kris Arnold / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Barclays Center

T photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is an awesome venue that hosts awesome events.

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

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

28. Colson Patisserie

Colson Patisserie

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

Instead, you need to get down to Colson Patisserie .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Cadman Plaza Park

Sarah Kim / flickr

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

For example, there’s Cadman Plaza Park .

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

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

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

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

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

30. Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Lennox Wright / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

General admission costs $12 for anyone over 12 months.

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

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

31. Crawl Brooklyn

Syda Productions / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Brooklyn Academy of Music

Osugi / Shutterstock

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

Many creative geniuses and influential figures have appeared here.

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

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

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Brooklyn

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

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

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

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

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25 Best Things to do in Brooklyn, New York

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Brooklyn, New York

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

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

1. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

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

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

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

2. Take a Stroll in Brooklyn Bridge Park

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

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

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

3. Empire Fulton Ferry Park

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

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

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

4. Walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

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

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

5. Spend a day on Coney Island

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

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

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

6. Take the Slice of Brooklyn tour

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

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

7. Visit New York Transit Museum

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

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

8. Tour Brooklyn Brewery

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

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

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

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

9. Visit the Brooklyn Navy Yard Center

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

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

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

10. Visit Brooklyn Museum

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

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

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

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

11. Take the East River ferry

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

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

12. Stop by Brooklyn Children’s Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Spend a morning in the Williamsburg neighborhood

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

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

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

15. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Display

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

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

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

16. Watch a play at BAM Harvey Theater

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

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

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

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

17. Spend a day on Brighton Beach

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

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

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

18. Visit Green-Wood Cemetery

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

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

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

19. Watch a basketball game at Barclays Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Visit Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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

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

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

22. Escape to Marine Park

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

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

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

23. Spend a day at Prospect Park

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

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

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

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

24. Visit Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

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

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

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

25. Shop at Dekalb Market Hall

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

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

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

Where to stay in Brooklyn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is there to do in Brooklyn at night?

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Brooklyn, NY

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

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

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

Getting Around Brooklyn, NY

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

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

The Best Time to Visit Brooklyn, NY

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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

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

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

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

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

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• State of New York
• New York City
• United States

78 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn

• 18 Pinterest

Sitting in the shadows of the concrete jungle that is the skyscraper-lined island of Manhattan, its often-overlooked, hipper and trendier cousin of Brooklyn has morphed itself into a hotbed of art, culture, festivities, and exquisite dining.

Easily accessible, more residential, and with more open green spaces to explore, the charming and diverse borough east of the East River acts as a beloved reprieve for any New Yorker or visitor alike wanting to escape the hectic life of Manhattan and uncover the real, gritty, authentic NYC.

Hunt down epic street art in Bushwick, or stop by insta-worthy cafes, high-end restaurants, microbreweries and independently-owned boutiques around the Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (locally known as DUMBO). These are just two of the fashionable neighborhoods to discover in Brooklyn.

If you’re after things to do in Brooklyn — whether you’re an art-lover, beer-drinker, nature enthusiast, diehard foodie, or history buff — here’s 60+ of the best activities Brooklyn has to offer to suit any traveler, so you can have a perfect weekend (or longer) in The Big Apple!

1 – Bike over the Brooklyn Bridge

Arguably the most iconic suspension bridge in America, the Brooklyn Bridge towers 276 feet above New York’s East River and connects the irrepressible borough of Brooklyn with mighty Manhattan island.

Instead of walking across it, why not hop aboard a bicycle and traverse the entire 1.1 miles of this famous neo-Gothic structure in the shadows of a knowledgable local? Along the way, you’ll be blessed with exhilarating views of the city skyline in one direction and the tranquil Brooklyn Bridge Park in the other. This is a family-friendly tour you’d be crazy to pass up!

• bike tours in Brooklyn

Read more: 9 Best Bike Tours in New York City

2 – Escape the hustle and bustle at Brooklyn Bridge Park

If you need a break from taxis and pavement, take a soothing stroll through the 85-acre, world-class waterfront Brooklyn Bridge Park .

Far more than just a traditional inner-city park, this beloved locale’s amenities include green gardens, playgrounds, picnic areas, concessions, art exhibits, and a gorgeous glass pavilion housing its postcard-worthy, restored, century-old carousel.

After enjoying a picnic and soaking in the view, on those sizzling summer days, grabbing ice cream at Oddfellows is never a bad idea.

3 – Witness thousands of fascinating underwater species at the family-friendly New York Aquarium

Entertaining animal lovers from all over the world for more than a century, the mighty New York Aquarium is fourteen acres chock-full of aquatic wonder and friendly creatures — located right in the middle of world-famous Coney Island.

All up, the Aquarium boasts over 500 species of marine life including not just schools of fish, but sea otters, sea lions, penguins, turtles, rays, and an 800,000-gallon shark tank! Speaking of the apex predators, the newly-opened Ocean Wonders: Sharks exhibit is a deep-dive into 18 different species of the menacing, oft-misunderstood ocean giants (zebra sharks, sandbar sharks, and nurse sharks to name a few). With its walk-through tunnel and educational twist, it’s one spot that can’t be missed.

Hot tip: make sure to check the daily schedule for the live feedings and trainer shows!

• New York Aquarium tickets

4 – Find Your wild side at Prospect Park Zoo

Looking for things to do in Brooklyn ideal for families? Then take note!

Located in the middle of Prospect Park, this adored zoo offers a unique urban animal experience for children and adults alike, regularly amazing its millions of annual visitors with nearly 900 animals that call this zoo home; from baboons and marmosets to foxes and dingos, red pandas, poison dart frogs, giant emus, and more!

There’s also an interactive animal feeding area where kids can get up close and personal with their furry friends, as well as regular sea lion training sessions!

5 – Photograph the Coney Art Walls

Thanks to countless movies featuring Coney Island, it’s become somewhat of an iconic destination for travelers visiting NYC and located closer to Brooklyn, it’s a no-brainer to visit. If street art photography is your thing, the trip alone just to see the outdoor museum of street art is totally worth it, so make sure to pit stop at the Coney Art Walls .

Curated by Joseph J. Sitt and Jeffrey Deitch between 2015 and 2018, the walls at Stillwell Avenue (right by the Coney Island beach and boardwalk) pop with color and art thanks to the murals by a mixture of local and international artists.

Boasting a diverse paintbox of subject matters and personal art styles, there’s a street mural for everyone. Hunt down the mermaid piece ‘Mr. Skull and the Mermaids Tale’ by Aiko, ‘11 Instagram Posts’ is a trippy 3D piece on social media by Gaia, or become mesmerized by Futura’s block colors at ‘Colonel Mustard.’

Other epic artists who have illustrated the spaces include Miss Van, Icy & Sot, Shantell Martin, Thrive Collective x Daze, Marie Roberts, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh and plenty more!

6 – Ride the world-famous Cyclone at Luna Park in Coney Island

Thrillseekers, take note:  Luna Park is just the latest in a long line of Coney Island amusement parks dating back to 1903.

With high-octane roller coasters, gentle kiddie rides, a myriad of nostalgic midway games, plenty of souvenir shops, and all kinds of classic, teeth-rotting carnival snacks, Luna Park is New York City’s premier amusement park.

You’ll definitely want to check out the signature thrill rides like the Thunderbolt coaster, and the one and only world-famous Cyclone, which has been thrilling Brooklynites and visitors since 1927.

• Luna Park tickets

7 – Go green at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Nature lovers will find it difficult not to relish all fifty-two sprawling acres of horticultural heaven at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden .

Here, outdoor enthusiasts will find over 12,000 species of diverse flora scattered across a range of specialty gardens: the Cherry Tree Grove, the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, and Walter V. Cranford Rose Garden are a few of the more popular, just to give you a little taste.

For an extra special treat and a unique souvenir, visit the garden shop and take a healthy houseplant home with you!

Read more: Best Places to Visit in New York City

8 – Conquer challenges at The Escape Game Brooklyn

Located in bustling City Point, The Escape Game Brooklyn is your go-to destination for an adrenaline-packed adventure.

Choose from six unique escape rooms, such as the challenging Prison Break, the cosmic adventure of Cosmic Crisis or the mysterious abandoned laboratory at The Depths.

Open daily from 8:00 am to midnight, these rooms are perfect for families and groups of friends, designed for up to 8 players. Or team events, accommodating up to 52 people at the same time.

• escape games in Brooklyn

9 – Get cultured at the Brooklyn Museum

One of the oldest and largest museums in New York City , the underrated (in comparison to its Manhattan counterparts) Brooklyn museum is housed in a colossal, Beaux-Arts-style building erected way back in 1895.

An incredible cultural experience, the museum’s collections aim to celebrate the city’s diversity through art — and with roughly 1.5 million works spread out over 560,000 square feet, there isn’t an artistic taste that can’t be found here.

10 – Get the good times rolling at the Roller Wave

Roller skating is making a comeback, and you can join the movement with The Roller Wave in Brooklyn!

This pop-up skating arena is empowering novice and veteran skaters to hit the rink with confidence.

With open skate sessions, lessons for adults and kids, and adult-only evenings available, anyone and everyone can get the good times rolling here.

11 – Stroll Along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

A favorite destination for pedestrians, joggers, rollerbladers, and hoverboarders, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade in the borough’s northeast, straddling the banks of the East River, offers spectacular waterfront, tree-lined views of than iconic Manhattan skyline, and the Brooklyn Bridge to boot.

Not to be forgotten, however, are the beautiful townhouses and mansions of Brooklyn’s Historic Preservation District.

Read more: Free and cheap things to do in New York City

Directions in Google Maps

12 – Savor the Sweetness of Domino Park

Named after the famous former sugar refinery that acts at its quirky background, Dominio Park serves as a tribute to the many generations of Domino workers as well as a popular slice of greenery for locals and tourists alike.

Five acres of riverfront property contain green lawns, elevated walkways, ornamental fountains, volleyball and bocce ball courts, a dog run, and plenty of concessions to satisfy your hunger or quench your thirst.

If you’re looking for things to do in Brooklyn for children, there’s even a sugar refinery-themed playground!

13 – Take the Kids to a Children’s Museum

Founded way back in 1899, the world’s first children’s museum serves as the largest cultural institution in the city and is one of the most fun family things to do in New York City .

A distinctive, interactive attraction that aims to inspire and educate youth through exhibits and programs grounded in visual arts, music and performance, natural science, and world cultures; The Brooklyn Children’s Museum sells itself as a wonderful spot where youngsters can play, experiment, create art, learn crafts, and so much more.

Do you have a curious George on your hands who loves learning new things? Extremely visual and interactive, the Jewish Children’s Museum is engrossing, insightful and fun!

Welcoming all ages and faiths, the museum is divided into varying exhibits that highlight Jewish culture, history, traditions and customs, and the different spaces are themed accordingly.

‘Exploring Jewish Life’ and ‘Voyage Through Jewish History’ are two examples, and within each discover individual immersive exhibitions. Other activities to join are Six Holes of Life – Mini Golf; the Gallery of Games (on the fifth floor); a rock climbing wall; the Toybary, Game Show Studio and the theater.

14 – Admire the Grand Army Plaza

The iconic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch makes the Grand Army Plaza one of the most photographed parts of Brooklyn. That said, the sprawling attraction has plenty more to boast about: the plaza has over 14 acres for exploring, walking, jogging, cycling, or simply hanging out and reading a good page-turner.

You’ll find Grand Plaza at the northern side of the much larger Prospect Park, where there’s plenty more to see and do.

15 – Grab lunch at the Smorgasburg open-air food market

In Prospect Park every Sunday and Williamsburg every Saturday (both from roughly 11 am to 6 pm), the Smorgasburg open-air food market is a Brooklyn institution.

Offering a wide selection of both local and international cuisine across some 35 different food tents, Smorgasburg plays host to everything from gourmet burgers and fried chicken sandwiches to bagels with lox and cream cheese, and Jamaican jerk pork — all of which are lip-smackingly delicious!

16 – Learn all about the borough at the Center for Brooklyn History

Part of the Brooklyn Public Library, the Center for Brooklyn History started as a way of preserving the once rural roots of this now bustling urban borough.

These days, it’s evolved into a treasure trove of objects, books and photographs that depict Brooklyn’s history – both good and bad, but always fascinating; from Brooklyn’s Dutch beginnings (originally called Breuckelen) to its hipster, diverse present.

With hundreds of thousands of items in their collection –things like maps, photos, paintings and books on every topic from art to urban planning – the Center dives into everything from music and art to food, architecture and cultural diversity. Make no mistake, there’s plenty to see and learn during your visit – not just about the borough itself, but how its traditions and culture have shaped New York City and America as a whole.

17 – Check out the exhibits at the City Reliquary

Considering that it’s now a hot tourist attraction, it’s hard to believe that the City Reliquary is a museum that started as a personal collection in a residential window front.

Fast forward to today and it’s morphed into a vast collection of characteristically New York artifacts.

With rotating community collections and temporary exhibits, and a permanent collection that boasts wacky and wonderful artifacts like subway tokens, landmark building fragments, and vintage postcards, the Reliquary is a fascinating way to hear unique, vital, and often overlooked stories about New York City.

18 – Get Inspired by the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts

The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts , or more-easily-referenced MoCADA, sells itself as an alluring way to immerse yourself in the African experience of this melting pot of a city.

The museum aims to make themes of African Diaspora accessible through visual arts and performance, highlighting many important social and political issues in the process.

With such a diverse and moving collection, creatives are sure to feel empowered by the artistry and the message.

19 – Hit the green at some of Brooklyn’s best golf courses (where killer skyline views await)

What comes to mind when you think of Brooklyn? Probably a built-up urban landscape with Brownstones back-to-back and skyscrapers looming overhead. But roll back the curtain and you’ll find that this beloved borough is also home to a slew of peaceful green spaces.

And we’re not just talking about the parks either; the golf courses in this part of the world are stunning too.

Case in point: the Dyker Beach Golf Course and the Marine Park Golf Course .

Situated in Brooklyn’s southwest end below the Verrazano Bridge, Dyker is as historic as it is lush, welcoming golfers since way back in 1897! A couple redesigns later and it has become a modern local favorite with 18 holes (Par 72) set among an evergreen garden (you have the option of playing a nine-hole stint instead).

Not to be outdone, the Marine Park Golf Course is another go-to of local golfers with its 18-hole Championship Course open year round. Dating back to 1963 (at the hands of Robert Trent Jones Sr.), this 6,866-yard, par-72 boasts a more challenging experience for serious players, all while keeping it beautiful thanks to its top-notch views.

20 – Admire Urban Bushwick Street Art

Walk around any corner — particularly in Bushwick — and you’ll see why Brooklyn is renowned for its dauntless, flashy street art.

And while there’s plenty to see in alleyways all over the area, you might wander around for hours and still miss some of the more revered creative works. The solution? A guided street tour will help you spot all of the best urban murals in the Bushwick neighborhood and beyond.

Your tour guide not only points out all of the concrete canvases but provides insight and knowledge on the artists themselves!

• street art tours

21 – Visit Building 92 and the Brooklyn Navy Yard

With a coveted history, the famous Brooklyn Navy Yard was once a storied shipbuilding facility — these days, the area serves as an industrial park hailed as a monument to the impact of modern, urban industrial development.

Sprawled out over 300 acres, the yard houses more than 450 businesses, many of which are dedicated to hiring military veterans.

While you could wander around the shops for hours, make sure to stop into Building 92, a museum dedicated to the area’s rich history and promoting its future as a hub of industry and job creation.

22 – Have a blast at Adventurers Amusement Park

Hey moms and dads, bring the little ones for some good ol’ classic family fun at the Adventurers Amusement Park — where the kids will have a blast on the rides and attractions and you’ll get a good dose of nostalgia as they play on the old-school favorites.

Plus, who’s to say the adults can’t join in on the action either? — Which you can do for most rides.

Tots will love riding the Fire Engine/Race Cars or choo-choo train at Central Park, and children have a blast on the Flying Planes, Tea Cups, Wet Boats and Merry-Go-Round.

Adults feel free to hop onto the Roller Coaster, Tilt-A-Whirl, Ferris Wheel Ride and Cyclone Racer rides. Useful to know, the amusement park opens seasonally during the summertime, which is usually from April to October.

23 – Step back in time at the Weeksville Heritage Center

History buffs, listen up.

Weeksville was founded by freed slaves in the early 19th century, before the Civil War. Through information-packed displays and expert staff, the popular Heritage Center preserves the memory of this, as well as a host of other 19th-and early-20th century freed Black communities.

When visiting, it’s not uncommon for guests to feel instilled with a sense of community and inspired to join the ongoing conversation on advancing humanity toward a just and equitable world.

After learning a thing or two about Brooklyn, New York, and America’s decorated and sad past, brighten things up with a casual stroll around the surrounding Crown Heights neighborhood, famous for its soul food restaurants and beautiful park.

24 – Climb aboard the Waterfront Museum

Life preservers at the ready, folks, because the Waterfront Museum is actually a repurposed retired Hudson River Railroad Barge.

In fact, the Lehigh Valley Number 79, as it was originally known, is the only surviving all-wooden example of a railroad barge from what was known as the Lighterage Age — if that doesn’t get the maritime enthusiasts excited, nothing will.

Now dedicated to educating the public on the important role of oft-overlooked maritime commerce, the barge offers insightful free open tours on Thursday and Saturday afternoons.

25 – Embrace your inner straphanger at the New York Transit Museum

Name a more famous subway in the world. Exactly. (okay, maybe the Tube in London falls a close second).

Regardless of how creaky the NYC subway trains can be, transport enthusiasts will absolutely adore this museum dedicated to the history of the subway, bus, and commuter rail systems of the greater New York City metropolitan region.

With an extensive collection featuring artwork, archival photographs, memorabilia, subway tickets, and a fleet of vintage subway cars and busses, you’ll become fully immersed in the history and design of the world-famous commuter system.

Before leaving the New York Transit Museum , be sure to visit the gift shop, which offers popular NYC Subway-themed merchandise and artwork!

26 – Get a little curious at Walt Whitman Park

In Downtown Brooklyn, a stone’s throw from the Brooklyn War Museum, Walt Whitman Park is a lovely little nature sanctuary that’s great for strolling and taking in the local flora.

For anyone who knows his legacy; poet, journalist, and native New Yorker Walt Whitman embodied American self-reliance and encouraged curiosity and free-thinking.

At this park, dedicated to his memory, you can relax on a park bench under a tree, roll out a picnic blanket, or, if visiting in the summertime, cool off in the refreshing sprinkler fountain.

27 – Support Local Business in DUMBO

Brooklyn’s Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (or DUMBO, for short) neighborhood, is a buzzing hotspot for trendy cafes, high-end restaurants, microbreweries, and independently owned boutiques stores.

One of the neighborhood’s biggest draws is St. Ann’s Warehouse , a theater space that hosts plays, concerts, performance art, puppetry, and so much more.

You’ll also be within walking distance from beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Park, where stacks of guided walking tours are available.

Hot tip: for that perfect photo op, make a beeline for Brooklyn’s most Instagram-worthy spot, Washington St.

Directions with Google Maps

• walking tours in Brooklyn

Hot tip: Make sure to read out 35 Best Walking Tours in NYC to Discover Hidden Gems and Iconic Landmarks guide.

28 – See what’s on at the Old Stone House

Boasting a fascinating history, Brooklyn’s Old Stone House in the Park Slope neighborhood is an important American Revolutionary War Landmark; besides being the original structure that played a pivotal role in the 1776 Battle of Brooklyn Heights, it’s also served as a clubhouse for the famed Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team.

These days, the belove Old Stone house is used as a center for art and culture, with a host of live musical performances, art exhibits, and even Revolutionary War reenactments.

29 – Make (Radio) waves at WNYC Transmitter Park

Just a hop, skip and jump away from Green Point beach is WNYC Transmitter Park; perfect for picnics or an afternoon stroll with your favorite pooch (or child, or partner).

Adjacent to the East River shoreline (a fantastic way of experiencing Manhattan’s skyline), you’ll be blessed with a large, open lawn; nature gardens; the original WNYC transmitter building, and the nautical-themed children’s playground and fishing-friendly waterfront esplanade.

Dominating the park is an enormous mural of a girl relaxing in the grass with flowers.

30 – Take home a bargain at the Brooklyn Flea market!

With two equally vibrant Brooklyn locations, Williamsburg on Saturdays and DUMBO on Sundays, you’ll find every quirky collectible and souvenir you can imagine at the Brooklyn Flea Market .

With hundreds of vendors selling everything from furniture to vintage clothing, collectibles, antiques, jewelry, and arts and crafts — not to mention delicious, locally made artisan foods — seldom does any traveler leave empty-handed.

Several travel magazines have listed Brooklyn Flea as one of the best flea markets in the country. Need we say more?

31 – Practice backflips and unleash your inner Ninja Warrior at the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

A serious workout for kids and adults alike, indoor trampolining has quickly become one of the most popular activities in Brooklyn. And when it comes to the ultimate trampolining experience, nothing beats Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park .

This massive complex features wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, climbing walls, a ropes course and a heap of indoor playground elements for the teeniest of tots. But for thrill-seekers, there’s also the Warrior Course, inspired by the American Ninja Warrior TV show. Here, you can test your agility and strength on a series of obstacles, showing off your prowess (or lack thereof) on challenges like monkey bars, balance beams and more. And as if that wasn’t enough to keep you entertained, the Spin Zone Bumper Cars and Virtual Reality zone are the cherries on top.

Keep in mind: While Urban Air is a crowd favorite, don’t overlook the Ferox Ninja Park if you’re staying closer to the Greenpoint or Williamsburg areas.

32 – Ladies and gentlemen, enjoy the show at a live music venue

Brooklyn oozes creativity, whether it’s the visual art scene or the performing kind and it’s a delicious melting pot of talent too. When nothing can quite soothe your soul than listening to live music, check out some of these hot spots around the neighborhood.

A venue overflowing with atmosphere and charm, the Bell House is an enormous former warehouse that now serves as a performance venue for big names and future stars alike.

Party it up at a music show on the large dance floor with a cocktail from the full-service bar, or laugh it up at a comedy show! The calendar of events is long and vast with a different draw every weekend — so check the website to see what’s playing during your visit.

Stir up a crazy mix of bowling and rock n roll and you get the Brooklyn Bowl ! Both old and young can hit the bowling alley (with 16 lanes) during the daytime, however, when evening falls, it’s only the adults that are allowed in. It’s pretty epic watching a live gig whilst bowling!

Anderson Paak, Beirut, LCD Soundsystem, Lizzo and Patti Smith are just a few of the names that have hit the ambient stage at Brooklyn Steel . Built inside a two-story warehouse-like building, the live music venue can fit up to 1,800 people at a time, and most of the audience area is standing.

33 – Wander around the stunning Green-Wood Cemetery

Home to some 560,000 graves and more than 600 species of trees and flowers (not to mention the final resting places of notable figures such as Leonard Bernstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Louis Comfort Tiffany, and Samuel Morse), Green-Wood Cemetery is a bizarre combination of beauty and history — bizarre in the sense that it’s still a cemetery, after all.

Far more than just a burial ground, the famous cemetery has everything from rolling hills to a Victorian chapel, ornate mausoleums, and even a section of Civil War veterans.

Fun fact: it’s also a favorite hotspot for birdwatchers — you might just spot some feral monk parakeets nesting nearby.

34 – Lace on the roller skates in summer or the ice skates in winter for a fun-filled afternoon at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside

When it comes to skating in the Big Apple, it’s impossible to look past the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink – with Bryant Park coming in a close second. But those Manhattan tourist magnets can get seriously crowded, and that’s where the LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park comes into its own.

This year-round rink – ice skating in summer, roller skating in winter – is just as scenic (if not more so) than its counterparts in Manhattan. But it’s not just about the skates here; in addition to the Bluestone Cafe, the Center boasts bumper cars and the weekly summer event, Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Disco, always a hit with millennial travelers.

While you’re there: Thanks to its location in the middle of Prospect Park, there’s plenty to explore after you’re done skating. From the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to the Prospect Park Zoo and the beautiful Boathouse overlooking the lake, it’s well worth spending a whole day meandering around this iconic green space if you’ve got the time..

35 – Sit front row for a BAM Strong theatre performance

A wonderful date night idea, why not spend an evening immersing yourself in the arts at one of four BAM Strong theatres along Fulton Street?

Created by the Brooklyn Academy of Music, BAM Strong aims to increase personal growth through an eclectic, rotating calendar of interactive art, music, and theatre experiences.

Their commitment to excellence in arts and performance, both new and old, makes BAM an essential part of any good NYC cultural crawl!

If you’ve checked out the calendars, and none of the theater, dance, film, opera or music performances tickles your fancy at BAM, there’s another option in town: Kings Theatre .

Throwing open its ornate doors in 1929 to the masses, originally the showhouse was used to screen films and live performances. Today, its renovated and restored stage hosts comedy, dance, live music and family events.

The kids will love seeing Sesame Street or Winnie the Pooh live, for example, or other fan-fave artists and bands like Alt-J and Pattie Labelle. Events and concerts change every week/month and so there’s always someone, or something new gracing the stage.

• BAM Strong tickets & shows

36 – Watch a Brooklyn Nets game at the Barclays Center

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you have to miss your regularly scheduled sports!

Venture over to the Barclays Center to catch a Brooklyn Nets game — the crowd in this intimate, closed-roof venue is regularly roaring, and the on-court action is non-stop (well, metaphorically speaking, because basketball games do technically have time outs…).

• Brooklyn Nets tickets

With over a dozen unique spaces to eat and drink, this sports arena is also one of NYC’s most exciting nightlife destinations — so even when there aren’t any games going on, stop by for an excellent time at an award show or big-name concert!

• Barclays Center tickets

37 – Escape the crowds at Brighton Beach

If sun, sand, and surf sounds like a day of fun, add Brighton Beach to the top of your things to do in Brooklyn!

Commonly known as “Little Odessa” for its mix of Russian and Jewish heritage, Brighton Beach is a neighborhood filled with pumping nightclubs, drool-worthy restaurants, and boutique shops that are sure to spark everyone’s interest.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, the underrated area also features a boardwalk that boasts far less foot traffic than nearby Coney Island, so you can enjoy a bit more elbow room.

38 – Tackle the ropes course and challenging climbing walls (and paintball) at the Area53 Adventure Park

Selling itself as the perfect summer and fall adventure center, Area 53 has plenty to keep everyone in the family entertained. The adrenaline-fueled adventure park has two world-class locations (DUMBO and Williamsburg) that collectively dish up everything from ropes courses to rock climbing, roller skating, ninja courses, slides, laser mazes, and the more low-key classics like pool, foosball and air hockey – as you can see, it’s somewhat of an entertainment Mecca.

A crowd favorite is the Williamsburg paintball zone, where the dual-level arena adds an extra level (quite literally) of complexity to the beloved game.

Keep an eye out for the weekly events as well, from Adult Night to 21+ Laser Tag and a dedicated Family Night, you can be sure you’ll find something to appeal to all ages.

39 – Soak in the greenery at Brooklyn Grange

Central Park and Prospect Park aside, New York may be lacking greenery, but you can’t accuse the city of not getting creative.

With that in mind, a rooftop farm is a curious concept, but the Brooklyn Grange manages to make it work! The company operates the world’s largest rooftop soil farms, three of which are in NYC.

Here, you can explore the urban green spaces and rooftop meadows, and learn all about how plant life can flourish in concrete jungles.

40 – Take a ride on Jane’s Carousel

A quick way to put a smile on any younger’s face, Jane’s Carousel is a classic 3-row machine with 48 carved horses and two chariots that’s as historic as any ride in the city.

The Carousel was originally built in 1922 in Youngstown, Ohio. Over the years, it was restored, moved around, went in and out of fashion, and now resides happily in Brooklyn.

A delight for all ages, this Brooklyn Bridge Park attraction is a wonder you don’t want to miss!

41 – Venture into Williamsburg

To feel like a true Brooklyn hipster, the Williamsburg neighborhood is one of the best places to spend a day aimlessly walking around, bumping into surprises around every corner.

There are indie music performances practically every night, eccentric art galleries to explore, distilleries and wineries to give your taste buds a trip, and food vendors in every nook and cranny.

Trust us, carve out a day to give this neighborhood the time it deserves.

42 – Appreciate the true grandeur of New York City (Brooklyn and beyond) with a sightseeing helicopter tour

From street level, Brooklyn is an energetic, dynamic and bustling borough. However, it’s a whole different experience – one that gives you an eye-opening insight on the city’s enormous size – when you see it from above.

With a sightseeing helicopter tour, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan, Staten Island, and even the Statue of Liberty. Take your pick of dedicated multi-borough flights that make it a point to fly over Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island; or ride any of the Manhattan highlights choppers to still get a killer angle of Brooklyn from afar.

While a bit on the expensive side, you won’t find a skyline as impressive as New York’s — ask any traveler who’s taken flight over the city and they’ll yell it from the rooftops.

• helicopter tours in Brooklyn

43 – Let the kids loose at Twinkle Playspace

Traveling with kids under six in tow? Then, to burn off some of that non-stop energy, let your little ones explore Twinkle Playspace , a 4,500-square-foot adventure land that features innovative, custom-made exhibits like tunnels, slides, climbing nets, and trampolines that are sure to keep any child entertained for at least an hour or two

While the little ones play, there’s an on-site cafe for the adults to grab a latté and dive into a good book.

44 – Party it up at the high-energy tropical-themed Bembe nightclub in Williamsburg

After sipping a few cocktails at Brooklyn’s top rooftop bars, the next logical step is to head to one of the borough’s top nightclubs. And while the House of Yes, Basquiat’s Bottle and the Black Flamingo all have their loyal followings, there’s arguably no better place to dance the night away than at Bembe , a lively 6th Street nightclub in always-happening Williamsburg.

With an unusual yet charming decor of found and recycled objects from all over NYC, Bembe is known for its upbeat atmosphere and diverse music selection, throwing down everything from salsa and reggae to hip-hop, Afrobeats and EDM, depending on the evening. The tiny, cash-only bar-club features a slew of tropical drinks that transport you to the Latin roots of Miami; compared to many Brooklyn watering holes, the drinks are also surprisingly affordable too.

Just make sure to check the event theme before visiting, since you’ll likely be paying a cover charge on busy nights.

45 – Admire the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

The Verrazzano-Narrows bridge, standing at 693 feet tall, connects Brooklyn to Staten Island — and while, in any other city, the bridge would be an icon, with the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge stealing the limelight, V-N often falls under the radar.

Still, the massive New York landmark gives visitors a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of city life, so be sure to take an afternoon to appreciate the view of this colossal structure from either Coney Island Beach; Shore Park, on the southernmost point of Brooklyn; John Paul Jones Park; or the South Beach Boardwalk on Staten Island.

Take note: unfortunately, there’s no pedestrian walkway along the bridge itself, but you could always drive across it!

46 – Behold the glorious Brooklyn Tabernacle

Known for its internationally renowned choir, the Brooklyn Tabernacle is a historic, evangelical, non-denominational megachurch in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn whose ornate interior absolutely steals the show.

Nearly 10,000 people attend church services here on a weekly basis. Besides the typical services, it’s worth checking the calendar of events on the church’s website to see when any other events are taking place.

47 – Turn a few pages at the treasure trove of knowledge that is the Brooklyn Public Library

For a calm and quiet break from the typical city life, why not stop by the Central Branch of Brooklyn Public Library and get stuck into a good book for an hour or two?

Not only can you choose from thousands of books to read and borrow, but the library also hosts events for the community — check out their schedule to see what’s on the calendar during your vacation.

While you’re there: you’ll find the Brooklyn Public Library on the eastern side of the Grand Army Plaza, a location that brings with it a stack of other things to do and see.

So make sure you leave time to explore the nearby Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Prospect Park (and the Prospect Park Zoo) before or after you’ve soaked up a few tidbits at the library.

48 – Skate, shoot, or play any sport under the sun at the Aviator Sports & Events Center

Built into a handful of repurposed aircraft hangars, Aviator Sports & Events Center is a sprawling complex that welcomes you to play just about any athletic activity you can think of. It’s the largest sports and events center in NYC, which means it has everything from (a pair of) ice skating rinks to soccer fields, batting cages, driving ranges, basketball courts, boxing rings, volleyball courts – you name it, it’s got it.

Rent a field for some casual fun, or sign up to one of the myriad classes – simply check their schedule and register for the activity you’re interested in. If you have little ones with you, they might enjoy one of the many gymnastics or soccer day camps (which gives you a few hours to do your own thing!), or if you’re not into sports and prefer the aviation side of things, the occasional air show is definitely one to mark in the calendar.

• Aviator Sports & Events Center tickets

49 – Bowl a strike at one of Brooklyn’s classic (and totally out-there) bowling alleys

A beloved American pastime that’s always a good idea on those rainy days, bowling is always a fun and easy activity for the whole gang.

If you’re traveling with kids in tow, look no further than the Funfest Mill Basin Bowl or Melody Lanes . Both sitting more toward the classic end of the bowling spectrum, these family-friendly spots sport dozens of lanes, arcades, and snack bars for when you get peckish.

More suited to the adults (date night, perhaps?), the affordable Bowl 360 Brooklyn has 32 lanes with an on-site bar, and stays open til 2am.

If you’re hunting for something completely off-the-wall, Brooklyn Bowl is always worth checking out. Not only does it serve up tasty comfort food and live music (with A-list concerts aplenty) while you bowl, but its location in Williamsburg means you’re only a stone’s throw from the neighborhood’s hottest bars and clubs if you fancy carrying on into the late hours.

50 – Satisfy your inner sweet tooth with a multi-stop chocolate-themed bus tour!

Calling all chocolate lovers – a little-known fact that surprises many a sweet-toothed traveler, Brooklyn is home to some of the most mouthwatering chocolate makers in the world!

If you’re hopping around on your own, make sure to pop by Jacques Torres Chocolates in DUMBO, The Chocolate Room on Cobble Hill, Raaka Chocolate in Red Hook or LI-Lac Chocolates in Sunset Park, all of which serve up a smorgasbord of homemade confectionaries that melt in your mouth.

Of course, if you don’t feel like dealing with any of the logistics, you can also hop on a chocolate-themed bus tour that stops at the best chocolate shops and factories in Brooklyn. Not only will you get to sample a slew of treats (usually 2 per stop), but you’ll also learn all about the history of chocolate-making in Brooklyn; passing by a handful of the borough’s most iconic landmarks along the way.

• chocolate bus tours in Brooklyn

51 – Admire the Brownstones in Bedford-Stuyvesant

For an authentic Brooklyn experience and an insight into local architecture, you’ve got to see at least one Brownstone up close.

Most of the Brownstones were built between 1870-1900 and boast beautiful, hand-crafted architectural accents — and the historic neighborhood of Bedford-Stuyvesant has plenty of them on display.

Bed-Stuy, as the locals call it, also has amazing community gardens, shops, and delicious restaurants (Peaches HotHouse is a must) worth checking out.

52 – Appreciate the arts at the Brooklyn Academy of Music

Film, theater, dance, music, opera, performance art, visual art, galas, events, and more — you name it and it’s on the events calendar at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)!

Whichever medium you choose to enjoy (or even take part in), there are loads of opportunities to satisfy your creative craving, with a smorgasbord of top-tier performances from world-class talent at one of the most prestigious institutions in the nation.

Important to note, there are multiple venues and buildings that comprise the Brooklyn Academy of Music, located at different spots around Brooklyn. These are the Peter Jay Sharp Building (Lafayette Avenue), BAM Fisher (Ashland Place) and BAM Strong (Fulton Street). At each locale, find more than one theater or performance space.

Built in 1908 and used as the main BAM performance venue, the decadently decorated Beaux Arts-style Howard Gilman Opera House is located at the Peter Jay Sharp Building. Some of the most iconic names in entertainment have closed the curtains here, like Adele and funny lady Sarah Silverman.

Established four years prior and nearly 120 years old, since 1904 the Harvey Theatre (at BAM Strong) has hosted vaudevilles, musicals, operas and plays, and has since seen renovations and restorations to the building.

Boasting a truly unique setup, and a much smaller seating capacity of 250 guests, the Fishman Space at the BAM Fisher venue is reserved for art exhibitions and the likes. The center of the room is enclosed with glass, and the seats are set up in a box around it.

53 – Play at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park

For a trip down memory lane, head to the iconic Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park at Coney Island for some good old-fashioned fun!

This family-owned park is a Brooklyn staple, with 22 rides that will leave both kids and adults grinning ear to ear.

Admission to the park is free (hooray!), but rides and attractions are pay-as-you-go, so bring some loose change.

54 – Eat your way through Brooklyn on a tasting tour

Foodies, this one is for you.

As a cultural melting pot, New York is famous worldwide for its wacky, delicious, and downright odd cuisines, so it makes sense to take a tour through one of its boroughs and taste for yourself what makes New York’s menu so darn lip-smacking.

Depending on which method and tour you prefer, follow an in-the-know local as you bus, bike, or walk your way through areas like Williamsburg and DUMBO, and taste your way through some of Brookyln’s best restaurants and street vendors!

Of course, if you don’t want to go the guided tour route, that’s cool too — just pick up a map and go exploring for yourself.

For the thirstier travelers, an array of beer-tasting, wine-tasting, and full-of-food pub crawls are around the corner in Manhattan too.

• food tours in Brooklyn

Hot tip: if you are a foodie, don’t miss our selection of the best food tours in New York City .

55 – Experience virtual snowboarding, horse riding, rock climbing and countless more fully immersive rides at the eVRest VR Amusement Park

A great spot to while away a couple of hours on a rainy day, eVRest VR Amusement Park in Greenpoint is one of the most innovative virtual reality experiences in all of NYC.

With over 200 different rides and experiences to choose from, you can step into all sorts of new realities. Strap on a headset and virtually snowboard down a mountain, race cars on an F1 track, ride horses through the countryside, or even take part in a zombie apocalypse.

It’s all thanks to the state-of-the-art technology that creates incredibly realistic simulations, making it feel like you’re actually there without ever having to leave Brooklyn. And with both single and multilayer games on the menu, it’s the perfect spot for a group outing as well as a solo adventure.

Hot tip: Make sure to try one of the games that use the VR Adventure Machine, which is able to imitate different weather conditions!

56 – Cheer on the mighty Brooklyn Cyclones at a baseball game

A perfect day out for sports fanatics, why not grab an oversized hot dog and spend a day at the ballpark for a Brooklyn Cyclones game?

• Brooklyn Cyclones tickets

This Minor League Baseball team — which still draws loud crowds — is based at Maimonides Park , just off from the beloved Coney Island Boardwalk.

So grab a soda, some peanuts, and enjoy the classic American pastime in America’s most famous city!

Of course, there’s a lot to take part in before and after the game, too. You’ll find a smorgasbord of other attractions around Coney Island (like Luna Park and the New York Aquarium) as well as some fantastic places for food on the boardwalk itself, so why not make a day of it?

• Maimonides Park tickets

57 – Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Hungry? Then step right up for one of the best meals in your life at a Michelin-starred Brooklyn restaurant — with the borough proudly presenting eight Michelin-starred spots (as of 2021), you’re never too far away from a culinary experience of the highest quality.

In Brooklyn alone, you’ll find one Michelin star at Francie , known for its New American fare; two stars at Scandinavian Aska , and another star for Peter Luger Steak House , tucked away in Williamsburg.

Meanwhile, for mouth-watering meals in nearby Manhattan, try The Modern , best known for its banana bread pudding; and for authentic, savory, and delicious French food; or try Per Se , best known for its milk-poached poularde. Whatever you eat, save room for dessert.

58 – See the Brooklyn Bridge, Lady Liberty and the stellar skyline on one of Brooklyn’s boat tours

Dividing Manhattan and Brooklyn, the East River may not be as famous as the Hudson, but what it does boast are some of the best views of New York City. And what better way to see it all than on a boat tour?

With options ranging from architecture-themed excursions to hop-on-hop-off boat tours, ‘harbor lights’ cruises, romantic dinner cruises and Statue of Liberty tours  (hint: consider getting some Statue of Liberty last-minute tickets ), boat tours in NYC welcome every kind of traveler.

Whichever cruise you set your sights on, expect stunning views of landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Freedom Tower, and the iconic Manhattan skyline.

• boat tours in Brooklyn

Read more: 27 Best Boat Tours in NYC – Which One to Choose?

59 – Marvel at the New York skyline from the Empire Fulton Ferry

New York has some of the best skyscrapers and bridges in the world, and there’s arguably no better place to soak in their grandeur in all their glory than from the Empire Fulton Ferry — not a boat as the name would suggest, rather a Riverside park near DUMBO.

So relax on the lawn and admire the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges as busy cars pass by, or take a ride on Jane’s Carousel for a quaint experience that delivers a whimsical photo-op!

60 – Stop into the Coney Island Museum

Coney Island is one of Brooklyn’s most famous neighborhoods; the amusement district has been entertaining visitors for decades, and there’s a rich history behind the dedication that went into creating Coney Island.

Rather than just ride the coasters and laze around on the beach, why not learn a little more about the neighborhood from a historical perspective?

Entertaining for all ages, the Coney Island Museum dives into the amusement parks, and the people who worked tirelessly to make Coney Island the truly special place it’s become.

Better yet, why not take a guided tour of Coney Island and hear all of it first-hand from the locals?

61 – Indulge yourself at the Museum of Food and Drink

For the food-lovers, a trip to Brooklyn is not complete without stopping by MoFAD —as you might expect from a museum that focuses on cuisine, this place has some seriously tasty exhibits!

From exploring how chocolate came into widespread use in America through its history as an Aztec currency; to see how eating insects is actually healthier than sticking with red meat (yes, really!); or even taking a trip through the history of food preservation — all this and more can be found here.

62 – Get your drink on at the Brooklyn Brewery!

Breweries are rapidly growing in popularity, both for the unique beers they produce but also the atmosphere. Brooklyn Brewery is one of NYC’s most famous breweries, and it’s easy to see why once you’ve visited!

Not only can visitors sample a wide range of tasty brews (from year-round classics to seasonal favorites), but there’s food on offer too, and the option to take a tour of the brewery and learn what goes into brewing delicious beers from the pros!

If one brewery isn’t enough, consider joining a dedicated beer tour that hops around a handful of Brooklyn’s best local favorite bars and microbreweries.

• beer tastings in Brooklyn

63 – Attend an event at Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk

Open since 2016, the Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk has never failed to provide New Yorkers with impressive outdoor live entertainment.

The venue can seat up to 5,000 people and it hosts a variety of entertainment—concerts, sports, comedy, and family shows, so check the schedule to see what’s on and stop by on your trip for what promises to be a wonderful evening!

• Ford Amphitheater tickets

64 – Delight the tastebuds at the incredibly diverse Dekalb Market Hall

Manhattan may steal the spotlight for its multitude of award-winning restaurants – but that simply allows Brooklyn to fly under the radar. And smack-bang in the heart of Brooklyn, Dekalb Market Hall is a bustling food market that brings together some incredible local vendors.

Offering everything from fresh produce and artisanal cheese to a variety of ready-to-eat treats (not to mention an excellent cocktail bar), Dekalb Market Hall keeps things simple yet diverse.

Make sure to grab a bite from A Taste of Katz’s (sister to the popular Katz’s Deli), famed for its mouth-watering pastrami sandwiches. And if you’re a fan of sweets, the Key Lime Pie at Steve’s and Cookoo Cravings are both must-visits, with the latter serving up dreamy soft serve Donut Cones.

With over 40 vendors to choose from, you’re bound to find something (or, in reality, many things) that will tantalize the tastebuds. And whatever you decide to eat, Craft + Carry has 300 craft beers to help wash it all down.

65 – Pamper yourself with massages, facials and body scrubs at the best spas in Brooklyn

Let’s not beat around the bush – vacation can be fantastic, but it can also be draining. That’s why it’s essential to take some time for yourself and recharge those batteries.

Luckily, Brooklyn boasts a variety of fabulous, thoroughly rejuvenating spas that will leave you feeling refreshed and brand-spanking-new. Whether you’re in the mood for a deep tissue massage, a hydrating facial, or an invigorating body scrub using traditional and new-age techniques, you’re never too far away from a good old-fashioned pampering.

But with hordes of spas around town, which one deserves your attention? For a luxurious experience, check out the Bamford Spa (at the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge), Shen Beauty on Cobble Hill’s Court Street, the Brooklyn Herborium , or Body By Brooklyn .

For something that ties into Brooklyn’s hipster image, the Bathhouse in the middle of Williamsburg – in a converted factory –is hard to beat, likewise City Well , where most of the treatments take place outside.

66 – Discover and explore Industry City

If you’ve only got one day to spend in Brooklyn, you can’t go wrong with the all-embracing amenities of Industry City .

Housed in 35 acres of repurposed waterfront industrial space are over 50 retailers and restaurants, art installations, music venues, and activities.

Start your day by sipping on some locally brewed beer, then work on your putting at the mini-golf course, try your hand at hatchet-throwing, visit a bookstore, or even take a class in blacksmithing — as you can tell, there’s something here for everyone.

67 – Shop till you drop at the Fulton Mall

Although sometimes overlooked, Fulton Mall is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn on a rainy day, especially if you’re a shopaholic.

Credit card in hand, shop till you drop at hundreds of stores—ranging from small businesses to major brands and chains.

As a little bonus, besides the diverse selection of stores, the popular Mall also puts on daily events such as dance classes and ping pong games.

Hot tip: Don’t miss our list of the best indoor activities in New York City when it rains .

68 – Have a crazy night out at the House of Yes

House of Yes is not your average nightlife venue: it’s a full-on circus and entertainment extravaganza!

Located in the historic Bushwick area (featured as one of Brooklyn’s best neighborhoods to live), House Of Yes brings together all things weird and wonderful — from fire breathers and contortionists to marching bands, burlesque dancers, and magicians, no matter what night you visit, you’ll be in for one hell of a show!

• House of Yes tickets

Read more: Things to Do in New York City at Night

69 – Check out the BRIC Arts Media exhibitions

Brooklyn’s BRIC Arts Media is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to the development of Brooklyn as an arts and culture mecca.

With multiple gallery spaces, there are always interesting exhibitions taking place, with exhibits ranging from new media art and photography projects to videos depicting human rights struggles across the world.

Since BRIC tends to focus on emerging and moderately-known artists, instead of the famous names, the crowds are typically smaller, and the tourists are few and far between.

70 – Eat, drink, and appreciate the view from Sunset Park

A true hidden Brooklyn treasure, Sunset Park (an area as well as a park) is a colorful neighborhood on the outskirts of Brooklyn, boasting some epic murals, a great beachfront, plenty of shopping and dining options (including an exciting mix of Latin American cuisine and its own Chinatown), and stellar views of the Downtown Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

While it’s hard to go wrong in terms of places to eat, Bamboo Garden Restaurant is great for Asian fusion, while the Sunset Park Diner offers classic American grub.

71 – Go shopping at the Gateway Center

A decently sized 45-store-and-restaurant complex in the heart of the Spring Creek area, the Gateway Center is a solid choice for anyone on the hunt for a quick bite or some retail therapy.

The mall plays host to big-name brands like Target and Home Depot, smaller specialty stores like Gamestop and The Children’s Place, and also serves up some hefty meals at joints like The Outback Steakhouse or Buffalo Wild Wings.

72 – Admire the historic Brooklyn Borough Hall

In operation since 1848, Brooklyn Borough Hall is the oldest city hall of its kind in New York State and as postcard-worthy a building as they come.

Located near the top of Court Street (one of Brooklyn’s main shopping and dining areas), this iconic Greek Revival-style building is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Plenty of walking tours will stroll past the monument, which typically displays a wonderful Christmas tree in the holiday season.

73 – Get into the holiday spirit with the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Displays!

An absolute must-see if visiting New York for the holidays!

Every year, the residents of Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge turn their homes into a grand display of dazzling Christmas lights and decorations, with countless thousands of lights and seemingly endless Santas, snowmen, elves, and reindeer, this tradition has delighted adults and children alike for many years.

Private walking tours are available to ensure you find your way and see all the best house displays — along the way, you may even get the chance to talk to some of the proud homeowners who participate in what they call an ‘annual friendly competition between neighbors’ (but in reality, has evolved into so much more).

• Christmas lights tours

Hot tip: The best NYC city tours are your gateway to experiencing the city’s diverse attractions

74 – Sip barista-made lattés as you make your way through the best coffee shops in Brooklyn

Forget about the classic black cup of joe – Brooklyn has taken its coffee game to a whole new level, taking influences from Melbourne, Seattle, Paris and all over the world to create some of the most unique coffee concoctions you’ll find.

From artisanal roasters to cozy neighborhood cafes that specialize in barista-crafted pick-me-ups, there’s no shortage of spots to satisfy your caffeine cravings.

Forget the Starbucks and corporate chains for a day; If you’re a true coffee connoisseur, make sure to stop by Sey Coffee in Bushwick, where they source and roast their own beans in-house (named “Best Coffee Shop in America” by Food and Wine magazine, if you don’t mind). Or, head over to Devoción in Williamsburg. Another couple worthy of the bucket list are Little Zelda in Crown Heights, known for its latte art, and the Stumptown Coffee Roasters on Cobble Hill, which is decorated by lovely creations from local and by prolific artists.

75 – Join in the festivities of ‘Celebrate Brooklyn!’

Hosted by BRIC every year for over four decades, the always-free Celebrate Brooklyn! festival dishes up a feast for the senses each summer with a mix of music, dance, and theater performances.

Playing host to world-class musicians and up-and-comers from all over the globe, the festival runs summer long and has hosted all kinds of acts ranging from chart-topping indie bands to legendary jazz performers and everything in between.

• Celebrate Brooklyn tickets

76 – Take a stroll around Marine Park

Image of a concrete jungle aside, you can find some awesome green-filled parks dotted across Brooklyn.

With over 530 acres of grassland and salt marsh, Marine Park is protected as a Forever Wild Preserve, and earns the claim to fame of being the largest park in the area with fun-filled activities to boot: golf, basketball, hiking trails, bike tracks, plenty of flowers and plants to admire, and plenty of picnic areas too!

77 – Soak up the world’s most famous skyline, cocktail in hand, at the best rooftop bars in Brooklyn

Sure, Manhattan rooftops are a dime a dozen. But there’s one problem with the rooftops in Manhattan; you can’t get an unobstructed view of the Manhattan skyline. That’s where Brooklyn comes in.

Brooklyn boasts some of the most breathtaking rooftop bars in all of New York City, with cocktails and ambiance that are as good as the view. From sophisticated and chic to laid-back and relaxed, there’s a rooftop bar in Brooklyn for every occasion.

But with a bounty of choices, where do you start? Undeniably aesthetic on the banks of the East River, and an Instagrammer’s haven, Westlight on the 22nd floor of the trendy William Vale hotel, should be at the top of the list.

Not to be overlooked, the Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co is the go-to for beer lovers hunting for a view – one which is accented by the ultra artsy green stained glass water tower.

Still thirsty? Exuding a more classic vibe, Harriet’s Rooftop on the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge sports panoramas of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan, with the occasional live band to boot.

Rounding out the non-exhaustive list, make sure to check Bar Blondeau (on the 6th floor of the fabulous Wythe Hotel), The Rooftop at the brand new Williamsburg Hotel, and the sporty-themed Berry Park .

78 – Hop around the area’s best bars; from underground speakeasies to luxe cocktail clubs

With such a rich and diverse culture, Brooklyn is home to some seriously awesome bars and pubs — all of which offer something totally unique.

From the top-notch cocktail menu at Clover Club in Cobble Hill (arguably one of New York City’s very best watering holes, period) to the live music and craft beer selection at Sunny’s  in Red Hook, there’s a whole world of libation out there to explore.

For a rooftop vibe in the summer, Night of Joy in Greenpoint dishes up a killer frozen margarita, while Good Judy – a recent 2020 addition to the Brooklyn bar scene – is a wonderful all-welcome hangout. While tailored to queers and allies, the piano bar, themed parties and outdoor patio can be enjoyed by all.

Though it may be tough to narrow down the list further than that, the Alligator Lounge , Rookery Bar , The Long Island Bar, Bunton’s World Famous, and Skinny Dennis , are all worth checking out as well!

Further away from the shoreline in the true heart of Brooklyn, you’ll find The Three Diamond Door on Knickerbocker St, an affordable locale that offers an excellent range of beer selections on tap while also serving up tasty cocktails and great shot specials.

• best bars in Brooklyn

How to get to Brooklyn?

For anyone who didn’t grow up in NYC, getting around the Big Apple can be tricky on a good day — it’s just flat-out enormous, and you need to actually visit to understand the scope of its size. With that in mind, maneuvering the Subway system can be a hassle (and a time-sucker).

So, why not take the hassle out of arrival and departure — no matter which of the three airports you’re arriving into — by locking in a pre-arranged airport transfer . There are many reputable companies to choose from who will take you directly to your hotel door (and make you feel pretty suave in the process).

We hope you’ve gotten some value out of our long (but certainly not exhaustive) list of the best things to do in Brooklyn, NYC! If you have any other must-see suggestions or activities, feel free to let us know in the comments!

Visiting Brooklyn on a budget?

If you’re hoping to score the best bang for your buck and tick off as many of the things to do in Brooklyn and Manhattan as possible (don’t miss our article about the best things to do in Manhattan ), a range of companies has partnered with the best museums and attractions to create several NYC tourist cards .

The New York Explorer Pass, the New York Pass, GoCity, and the New York CityPASS all offer different features — if you plan on spending a few days in Manhattan during your visit, they’re certainly worth considering.

Learn more about NYC passes with our New York city attractions pass comparison guide .

Where to stay in Brooklyn?

If the Williamsburg Hotel (now renamed the Arlo Williamsburg) isn’t quite your kettle of fish, there are stacks of other different accommodation options all over the bustling Brooklyn borough.

From the high-end boutique charms of The Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg to several other great luxury spots scattered across trendy neighborhoods such as The William Vale and 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge — Brooklyn has no shortage of fancy-pants accommodation. Another crowd favorite that dishes up all the bells and whistles is The Rockaway Hotel , but The Box House Penny Williamsburg aren’t to be overlooked either

If you’re looking for somewhere truly special while staying within your budget then you’ll definitely want to check out Booking.com, a site that offers one of the widest selections of Brooklyn hotels on the web today.

And don’t forget there are also many no-frills hostels, like the — NY Moore Hostel most of which offer free breakfast and a free-flowing happy hour — as well as Airbnbs.

• best hotels in Brooklyn

Where to go next?

Once you’ve checked off all of the quintessential things to do in Brooklyn, from Prospect Park to DUMBO, Coney Island and everything in between, that doesn’t spell the end of your vacation.

The next obvious spot to explore is the Concrete Jungle itself, Manhattan, where you’ll come across Wall Street, Broadway and the iconic Empire State Building to name a few. You’ll find the majority of the tourist-focused things to do in NYC on this skinny island, with each of its bustling neighborhoods boasting something special. Of course, save some extra time to check off the things to do in Times Square and the things to do in Central Park — a stark contrast of urban chaos and peaceful oasis.

But don’t let your adventures stop at Manhattan — all of Staten Island, the Bronx and Queens have their own distinct charms. And while technically not one of the boroughs, you’ll find plenty of things to do on Long Island as well — from the fancy beachside Hamptons to the Long Island Wine Country.

Want to venture outside of the city entirely? Leave behind the New York feels and head to Philly (two hours away). When putting together your list of things to do in Philadelphia , make sure to include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall — especially for all of you history buffs. And don’t forget to try a Philly cheesesteak!

Or, head north to Boston (about four hours away) and visit Fenway Park or take a walk on the Freedom Trail. As one of America’s oldest cities, you’ll find so many things to do in Boston no matter your interests; just don’t overlook the seafood. Of course, if you’re planning a trip to Boston, you might also consider stopping in Salem for some spooky history.

Final thoughts

From botanical gardens to biking over iconic bridges, ever-trendy Brooklyn is a melting pot of activities and has a definitively more chilled atmosphere than metropolis Manhattan.

The things to do in Brooklyn deem it ideal for a couple of days’ vacation, a weekend getaway, or, close enough to Manhattan, venture around the borough just for the day.

What do you love most about this trendy, art-filled neighborhood? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

As always, happy travels!

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The Ultimate Guide to NYC's Coolest Borough, Brooklyn

Best time to go, things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Welcome to Brooklyn, home to everything people miss when they visit New York — the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn Bridge, and the best hot dogs in the city at Coney Island. Whether you're here for the French press-scented Williamsburg or the quieter life in Park Slope, there's something in Brooklyn for everyone — and that thing is Brooklyn pizza.

Historically, Brooklyn has been home to the offbeat and untraditional, from its incredible LGTBQ+ history to the Brooklyn Museum's entire floor dedicated to protest art. It's not built along a grid, inviting travelers to explore as they like through neighborhoods large and small. Brooklyn is also a popular destination for movie and TV buffs, given how frequently it appears in our most beloved media. You can see the police station used in Brooklyn Nine-Nine 's exterior shots as you mosey toward Vanderbilt Street for some of Little Cupcake Bakeshop's Brooklyn Blackout Cake, or walk through idyllic Prospect Park and get a good look at the famous carousel.

Beautiful and less crowded than Manhattan, Brooklyn deserves as many accolades as the most popular tourist areas across the river.

Year-round. Like the rest of New York, Brooklyn is full of things to do, whether it's the height of summer or the cozy comfort of winter. Some things to keep an eye out for include:

The Greenpoint Film Festival , which features four categories of films (documentary, narrative, experimental, and animation) and Q&As with filmmakers, is held every spring (usually May) at the Wythe Hotel on Wythe Avenue. You'll be in the center of all of Greenpoint's best food and fun.

Afropunk Fest , known to its fiercest devotees simply as Afropunk, happens every summer from June through August in Fort Greene's Commodore Barry Park. Years past have featured performances from FKA Twigs, Alicia Keys, D'Angelo, SZA, and more. Afropunk is also a fashion destination for those with an eye for the freshest, most innovative streetwear.

The Brooklyn Book Festival is a fall staple, returning annually for a week in September to thrill book lovers worldwide. It's the largest free literary event in America. Yes, you read that correctly: The entire event is free, talks and signings included. Parties, events, and screenings fill the week leading up to the headline event at Borough Hall in Brooklyn on the final day of the festival. The festival's marketplace is a wonder in and of itself, and well worth a wander to grab special-edition copies of your favorites or snap up brand-new titles.

Don't miss ice skating at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park — this hidden gem boasts two outdoor rinks in the middle of the picturesque park. At $11 for weekend access to the rink and $8 for a skate rental, it's one of the most affordable ways to spend a memorable, classic New York winter day.

Eastern Standard Time

Tourism in Brooklyn isn't as big an industry as it is over the river in Manhattan, so hotel deals are easier to snag. If you have a specific neighborhood in mind, it's a good idea to research that area before you go; many neighborhoods have a central hub for public transportation, but are primarily serviced by one or two specific lines. Save yourself the headache by knowing which ones in advance. Brooklyn sidewalks are often narrower than those in Manhattan. It's important to be mindful of the people around you — in groups, try not to take up the entire sidewalk. Native Brooklynites will thank you for it.

Currency: U.S. Dollar

Language: English

Trains: Trains are accessed by Metrocard in all of New York. Each ride is $2.75, no matter how long you stay on the train. You can purchase Metrocards in most subway stations, and add value (such as $30 flat) or time (such as a week of unlimited rides for a set price). Brooklyn is serviced by almost all of the trains in New York City, but different lines go to different neighborhoods. Central hubs for transfers between lines are at Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center, Jay Street-Metrotech, and Lorimer Street. North Brooklyn is primarily serviced by the L, M, J, and G trains. South Brooklyn is primarily serviced by the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, B, F, D, G, N, Q, and R trains. The G train goes north to south in Brooklyn and does not cross over into Manhattan. It's a good way to move between the two areas.

Buses: Brooklyn has extensive bus lines, and buses can be accessed with a regular Metrocard. Buses cost the same as a subway ride, but in Brooklyn, they are sometimes easier ways to get from place to place instead of transferring between trains. All Brooklyn buses start with B — for instance, the B65 is Brooklyn route 65. Bus stops are clearly marked on the sidewalks with what buses stop there and which directions they go. Consult a map or an app such as MyMTA in advance to see if a bus will get you where you need to go more easily than a train.

Taxis: Taxis are pea-green in Brooklyn! Green taxis are borough taxis, meaning they can bring you into Manhattan, but their purpose is to bring people in and out of the boroughs other than Manhattan. You can find taxis on any main thoroughfare, such as Atlantic Avenue or Flatbush Avenue. You hail them as you would a taxi in Manhattan, by standing near a place the taxi can easily pull over and holding up your hand. A taxi is empty if the number on its roof is lit, and in service with a customer if that number is dim.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are always good options in Brooklyn, particularly if you're not in the mood to find a main highway or are far enough away from one that you don't feel like walking. Rides are plentiful and, as always, you can order a private car or join a carpool.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Address: 60 Furman St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: (347) 696-2500 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°

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