10 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn
What is Brooklyn Most Famous For?
Those of you in search of the best things to do in Brooklyn can rejoice because there’s no end of exciting and unique attractions in this thriving New York borough. Spend your time visiting leafy parks and historic museums, or swing by theme parks and theaters before hitting trendy bars and restaurants to eat and drink with the local community.
Budding artists will love taking in the eclectic and vibrant street art in Bushwick, while those with a penchant for gardening will want to visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. If it’s the sweetest cotton candy and fairground rides you’re looking for, then head on down to the Coney Island boardwalk.
What are the best things to do in Brooklyn?
1. Bushwick Street Art Collective
Open-air art gallery with strong community ties
Good for: Photo, Unusual
Brooklyn is awash with street art, but the eclectic Bushwick Collective is a definite standout. This awe-inspiring array of murals and artwork spans a number of streets and was first established in 2012 by a native Bushwick resident. It’s since showcased work by legendary artists from all over the world including Banksy and Blek le Rat.
The murals on display are everchanging so there’s always a new piece to marvel at, whether that’s vibrant pop art or an edgy, thought-provoking statement. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the annual Bushwick Collective Block Party, you’re in for a treat. Local and international artists showcase their best work, joined by food trucks, live music, and an artisan market.
Location: 427 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA
Open: 24-hours (but best viewed in daytime)
Bushwick Street Art Collective
2. Brooklyn Museum
Home to one of the world’s finest Egyptian relics collection
Good for: Families, History, Unusual
For culture lovers, there’s no better stop on your to-do list than the Brooklyn Museum. For a modest admission fee, you’ll gain access to some of the most diverse and interesting art displays in New York. It’s the second largest museum in the Big Apple and contains an impressive collection of approximately 500,000 pieces.
Brooklyn Museum is renowned for its Egyptian antiquities and African artwork, and often hosts exhibits showcasing women’s art, Cubism, and well-known masters such as Picasso and Claude Monet. Enrich your visit with guided tours or a pop-up talk, or get involved with its interactive workshops and markets. The on-site shop is also well-stocked with artbooks and prints, should you want a souvenir.
Location: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA
Open: Wednesday–Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Phone: +1 718-638-5000
Brooklyn Museum
3. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Waterfront greenspace with skyline views
Good for: Families, Photo, Budget
For hours of fun surrounded by stunning vistas, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park, an 85-acre urban oasis besides the expansive East River. The park is made up of six piers, each with their own attractions, so you’ll have plenty to explore.
There are dozens of sporting activities on offer if you’re feeling energetic including pickleball and kayaking. Kids won’t know which playground to head to first, so be prepared to visit them all (the vintage carousel is a massive hit). Finally, when you’re in need of a little rest and relaxation, take a leisurely stroll through the gardens to admire nature at its finest. Don’t forget to stop at the public art installations.
Location: Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
Open: Daily from 6 am to 1 am
Brooklyn Bridge Park
4. Coney Island
Over 100 years of seaside entertainment
Good for: Adventure, Families, Food
Entertaining vacationers for over a century, Coney Island is one of the USA’s most iconic entertainment areas. People flock here to soak up the nostalgic seaside vibes which are boosted by retro fairground rides, carnival games, and a cinematic waterfront promenade.
There’s so much to do here that it’s impossible to enjoy it all in one day. Soar through the sky on a rollercoaster, spend a few dollars in the gaming arcades, or applaud the sealions at the aquarium. If you’ve got time, catch live music at the state-of-the-art amphitheater or a firework show on the beach. Don’t forget to select a souvenir at one of the boardwalk’s many gift shops before treating yourself to fresh seafood and a delicious triple-scoop ice cream.
Location: Brooklyn, NY, USA
Open: 24-hours (vendor and shop times vary)
Coney Island
5. Prospect Park
526-acre sanctuary beloved by New Yorkers
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families
A prime nature spot for both locals and visitors, Prospect Park is a sprawling green space helmed by the same architects behind Manhattan’s Central Park. The picturesque scenery here is one of its major draws with lush lawns for sunbathing and a winding man-made watercourse featuring ponds and a sparkling lake.
You can take part in any of the dozens of sporting activities on offer or spend time birdwatching from the Audubon Center at the Boathouse. Kids will love the water play on hot summer days, as well as seven exciting playgrounds. To bring your busy day to a relaxing end, join one of the free outdoor yoga sessions on the Long Meadow.
Location: Brooklyn, NY, USA
Open: Daily from 6 am to 1 am
Prospect Park
6. Grand Army Plaza
Inspiring landmark representing American history
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
Gazing upon the vast granite triumphal arch (known as the Soldiers’ and Sailor’s Arch) at Grand Army Plaza will no doubt impress you. Built to commemorate the American Civil War, it’s not the only historical monument to be found in this public plaza.
Venture further to admire the architectural beauty of the Bailey Fountain, as well as memorials dedicated to US presidents like Ulysses S. Grant, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kennedy, as well as other notable historical figures. If you happen to visit on a Saturday, stop by the Greenmarket for farm-fresh produce, cooking demos, and family-friendly activities.
Location: Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA
Open: Daily from 6 am to 1 am
Phone: +1 718-965-8951
Grand Army Plaza
7. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Where education embraces nature
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
If you’re a nature lover, there isn’t a more spectacular sight than the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in full bloom. No matter the season, there’s an abundance of flora, fauna, and foliage for you to admire.
View Japanese maples among the vermilion-colored torii in the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden or find the Roses of Yesterday statue hidden in the Rose Garden. After you’ve taken the kids to see the wildlife in the Discovery Garden, attend a gardening class or a nature walk with them. There are dozens of workshops for adults too, from learning to make herbal broths and soups to plant propagation to botanical illustration.
Location: Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA
Open: Tuesday-Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Monday)
Phone: +1 718-623-7200
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
8. Dumbo
Thriving cultural scene in Brooklyn’s industrial district
Good for: Couples, Families, Nightlife
Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (or Dumbo, to me and you) is one of the trendiest and most visited neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Be prepared to spend a whole day on these cobblestone streets as there’s a plethora of activities here as well as dramatic architecture to view.
If you’re into photography, check out the contemporary pieces at Klompching Gallery or catch a show at St. Ann’s Warehouse, a performing arts center located in an old tobacco warehouse. There are independent shopping boutiques and chic restaurants too. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the dazzling views across the river.
Location: Dumbo Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
Dumbo
9. St Ann & The Holy Trinity Church
Architectural jewel with community enrichment
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
St. Ann & The Holy Trinity Church is a beautiful example of a historic Episcopal building built in the Gothic Revival style. You’ll be blown away by the vibrant detail in its 60 stained glass windows, grand vaulted roof, and truncated steeple. The church was named a National Historic Landmark in 1987.
The interiors are just as impressive, with ornately carved arches and a vast, intricate nave, all decorated with rich wood tracery. Alongside being used as a place of worship, the church also enriches the local community with education programs, book events, and candlelight concerts. Don’t miss hearing the church choir sing alongside the Peabody Memorial Organ and its 4,718 pipes.
Location: 157 Montague St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
Open: Check the official website for opening and service times
Phone: +1 718-875-6960
St Ann & The Holy Trinity Church
10. Williamsburg Smorgasburg
Dubbed “The Woodstock of Eating” by The New York Times
Good for: Food, Shoppers
Smorgasburg (a portmanteau of smorgasbord and Williamsburg) is a food market wonderland, and a definite pitstop when in Brooklyn. Epicureans from all over the world descend on this seasonal open-air market every Saturday to sample tasty dishes from dozens of local vendors.
The smells will have your mouth watering as soon as you step into Martha P. Johnson State Park, so make sure you arrive with an empty stomach. The selection is ginormous—think Korean BBQ, Southern comfort food, Mexican street food, and plenty more. If you’ve room for dessert, choose from delicious mochi or decadent donuts. Even the pickiest of eaters will be spoiled for choice.
Location: 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA
Open: April–October: Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm
Williamsburg Smorgasburg
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