The Best Ways to Really Get to Know Brooklyn

Brooklyn is one of the most populous counties in the United States and one of the most well-known cities in the world. But despite its fame and popularity, many people still don’t truly understand what makes this city so special. From the culture and nightlife to the art and architecture, Brooklyn has something for everyone and it’s worth learning about. So, how does one get to know Brooklyn?

Take a Tour

There are a variety of companies offering a range of different tours across Brooklyn. Price, length and the areas covered differ, so it’s worth doing some research to find the right tour. One example is the Brooklyn Williamsburg Pub Crawl by Viator. It’s three hours long and includes stops at five locally-run pubs, some of which are hidden gems that you won’t find on your own. Not only do you get to sample some delicious local drinks, but there will also be stories and insights into local culture. Or, if it’s culture you’re after, you could go for an alternative tour such as the Brooklyn Bridge at Night Tour. This is two and a half hours long, and goes beyond the daytime activities to explore the culture, art and nightlife scenes of Brooklyn. For more details and information on these and other tours, check out their website here: Viator.

Go to Museums

Museums are a great way to learn and experience Brooklyn’s rich history and culture. Located in Downtown Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Museum is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country. It has over 1.5 million pieces in its collection, including works from contemporary artists as well as ancient pieces from regions such as Africa and Egypt. It also has an extensive library with over 600,000 books, manuscripts and records. For those who love science and technology, the New York Transit Museum or Brooklyn Botanic Garden are both worth a visit. If curious kids are in tow, you might want to check out Coney Island USA or the Children’s Museum of Manhattan for something fun and educational for all ages

Experience Local Lifestyle

No visit to any city is complete without experiencing the local lifestyle. Brooklyn has plenty of attractions to explore. Start by visiting Dumbo for picturesque views of Manhattan across the water, or exploring the bustling markets in Smorgasburg for some delicious snacks. Then take a leisurely stroll along either Hudson River Walk or Prospect Park for breathtaking views that can’t be beaten. Take a selfie at Brooklyn Heights Promenade or visit Coney Island Boardwalk for carnival rides and roller coasters. This is also a great place to go people watching or simply soak in some warm summer rays.

Nightlife & Entertainment

When night falls, Brooklyn comes alive. Music lovers should check out Baby’s All Right or Union Pool for amazing live performances. comedy fans can see some top acts at Knitting Factory or Union Hall. If sports are more your crowd then you can attend local games of basketball or football at Barclays Center or Prospect Park respectively. Then afterwards why not explore the numerous bars that Brooklyn has to offer, from dive bars where you can just sit back with an ice-cold beer to rooftop terraces with breathtaking views of the city skyline –perfect for date nights or catching up with friends over a cocktail or two.

Conclusion

Brooklyn offers so much exciting culture, history, entertainment and lifestyle experiences. You could realistically spend days or even weeks exploring what it has to offer without ever getting bored. The best way to really get to know Brooklyn is to try something new each day; whether it’s taking a tour, visiting a museum or exploring the local lifestyle, you’re sure to experience something unique that you won’t forget. Why not consider taking a Brooklyn Williamsburg Pub Crawl by Viator? It’s sure to be a lot of fun! Book your tour today!

The Insider’s Guide to Exploring Brooklyn

Brooklyn is a vibrant, sprawling borough of New York City, with so much to offer beyond its famous landmarks. As a local, I know that there’s no shortage of hidden gems and unique experiences to discover. Here are my top recommendations for truly getting to know Brooklyn:

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Hotspots

While the Brooklyn Bridge and the Brooklyn Museum are must-visit destinations, there are plenty of other places worth exploring. For instance, stroll through Prospect Park, an expansive urban oasis brimming with natural wildlife and scenic trails. Enjoy a picturesque view of Manhattan’s skyline from Brooklyn Heights Promenade, a lesser-known spot with an unbeatable vista. Wander through Red Hook, a formerly industrial section of Brooklyn that’s home to trendy boutiques and artisanal shops.

Dining: Savoring Brooklyn’s Flavorful Culinary Scene

Brooklyn is known for its diverse and flavorful artisanal food scene. A classic dish that every visitor should try is the Brooklyn-style pizza with a crisp, thin crust and a variety of creative toppings – my personal favorites are Di Fara Pizza and Totonno’s. For more contemporary fare, check out Llama Inn, serving up Peruvian-inspired dishes and cocktails. For those with a sweet tooth, head to Ample Hills Creamery, which has some of the quirkiest and tasty ice cream flavors you’ll ever try, like ‘Munchies’ (pretzel-infused ice cream with chocolate-covered pretzels).

Cultural Experiences: Living Like a Local

To truly experience Brooklyn culture, take part in some community events. Get a dose of live music and performance during the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival, an annual summer event at the Prospect Park Bandshell. In the fall, the Brooklyn Book Festival takes over and celebrates literature and the arts with over 300 authors. Also, visit the Brooklyn Flea, which celebrates artisanal makers and indie vendors. It’s a true Brooklyn staple that has been operating since 2008.

Local History: Uncovering Brooklyn’s Fascinating Past

Beyond the Brooklyn Bridge, this city has a rich history dating back to its Dutch colonial beginnings. At the Wyckoff House Museum, explore Brooklyn’s past through the 17th-century home of Pieter Claesen Wyckoff, one of the borough’s earliest settlers. You can also visit the Greenwood Cemetery, where some of Brooklyn’s most notable figures are buried, including Theodore Roosevelt. If you’re intrigued by mob stories, take a Brooklyn Mafia Tour and discover the stories behind the borough’s underworld history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Embrace Brooklyn’s Quirky Charm

To truly embrace Brooklyn’s spirit, go off the beaten path. Visit the neighborhood of Bushwick to see graffiti murals and outdoor art, or explore City Reliquary, a small museum dedicated to the city and showcasing some of New York City’s overlooked history. Venture out to Coney Island, where you can walk the boardwalk, catch a Brooklyn Cyclones game, soak up the sun on the beach, or visit its famed amusement park, Luna Park.

In conclusion, Brooklyn is filled with endless experiences worth your time. These are just a handful of my top recommendations for really getting to know the borough. So, go ride the G train, take the ferry, or walk the bridge to get to know Brooklyn and discover your own favorites!