a statue of a man standing on top of a bridge

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Brooklyn has the largest population of the five districts of New York City, so spending time exploring some of the top neighborhoods in Brooklyn is worthwhile.

This borough contains charming locales where visitors can appreciate artwork, parks, and landmarks or indulge a vibrant nightlife, surrounded by natural beauty. Activities abound in Brooklyn, ensuring each traveler discovers an area of Brooklyn matching their interests.

In this guide, I will share the best parts of Brooklyn to help you determine where to go and what to see. No matter who you are traveling with, I have no doubt that one or two neighborhoods in Brooklyn can be explored during your trip!

1. DUMBO, the most scenic Brooklyn neighborhood

You are able to visit the Los Volcanes Natural Park at no cost, however signing up for one of the Lanzarote volcano tours is worthwhile. If exploring independently, there are two options. The first is doing the volcano route via public transportation which departs from the Visitor Center every half hour. This 8 mile route allows admiring the scenic landscape, and is a popular activity at the park.

DUMBO allows for easy walking, so take a stroll along the cobbled streets and check out the boutiques, cafes, and old industrial warehouses from the era. If you’re visiting between April and December, I suggest stopping by for hidden treasures at one of the best outdoor markets in NYC: the acclaimed Brooklyn Flea on Pearl Street.

a city at night with a bridge over it

Also, do not forget to stop by Washington Street between Front and Water Streets for an iconic photo opportunity of the Manhattan Bridge. You should also check out the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the top things to see in NYC. Walk across the bridge or head to the waterfront and explore Brooklyn Bridge Park,Jane’s Carousel, and Pebble Beach.

DUMBO is one of the finest neighborhoods in Brooklyn, New York, so if you want to ensure you see all the highlights, I recommend this walking tour.

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2. Brooklyn Heights, an upscale neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn Heights is a residential neighborhood in Brooklyn that’s known for its upscale stone homes and local bars and eateries. That said, its tree-lined roads give it a cozy charm, and it’s worth walking through and checking out the sights.

This pleasant Brooklyn neighborhood is right next to DUMBO beside the East River, so one can enjoy lovely views here. Take a walk along the scenic Brooklyn Heights Promenade and admire the viewpoint, which offers a picturesque vista of Manhattan. Then, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park, one of NYC’s finest parks with stunning vistas.

a large body of water with a city skyline

The recreation area is a great place to visit with youngsters, although if the conditions aren’t good, you can go to the renovated New York Transit Museum and check out the displays, including an authentic 1936 subway station. Brooklyn Heights is home to other museums and institutes like the Center for Brooklyn History and the Brooklyn Historical Society.

3. Williamsburg, the most vibrant neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York

Williamsburg has a lively vibe with clubs, bars, and live music venues that attract a fashionable crowd. So, if you’re looking for a trendsetting neighborhood in New York City where you can enjoy nightlife, Williamsburg won’t disappoint.

There are plenty of things to do in Williamsburg. The BKLYN Comedy Club and Brooklyn Bowl are two great places to hang out with friends after dark, while the Black Flamingo, one of the best nightclubs in NYC, will keep you entertained into the wee hours of the morning. For something more low-key, head to the Brooklyn Brewery for drinks in a laid-back atmosphere.

a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

During daylight hours, Williamsburg features vintage shopping opportunities, outdoor spaces, and culture, like the City Reliquary. In the southern region of Williamsburg, you’ll discover the temples of the Hasidic Jewish community, which primarily originates from Romania and Hungary. Williamsburg was at first an Orthodox Jewish community, and the neighborhood still has one of the highest Jewish populations in NYC. You may even see store signs written in Yiddish as you explore the area.

For those seeking fresh air, I propose exploring Domino Park along the East River, offering a playground, volleyball and bocce courts, a food stall, and scenic fountain steps. McCarren Park also provides a pleasant atmosphere and features a Saturday farmers market.

Of course, you must also view the iconic Williamsburg Bridge, one of the most pivotal bridges in NYC. While you’re there, indulge in a delectable meal at Peter Luger Steakhouse, one of the premier restaurants in NYC.

4. Park Slope, a beautiful Brooklyn neighborhood to visit

Understated and welcoming, Park Slope is one of the most scenic neighborhoods in Brooklyn. It’s full of independent boutiques, record stores, coffee shops, and bookstores, so it’s popular with artists and literary types. If that sounds like you, check it out!

Among the bars and casual eateries here, I recommend the Stone Park Café, which serves an amazing brunch. Then, spend some time exploring the outdoor areas in Brooklyn’s Park Slope, such as the western end of Prospect Park and the Old Stone House, a reconstructed 1699 Dutch homestead.

a city street filled with lots of parked cars

Park Slope is also home to the Brooklyn Museum, one of the premier museums in NYC where visitors can browse Indigenous art, modern pieces, and an impressive array of Egyptian artifacts. Other places you might enjoy include the Brooklyn Public Library, the Brooklyn Conservatory, the BrooklynAcademy of Music, or Nitehawk Cinema.

This Brooklyn neighborhood is situated near other popular destinations like the Barclays Center, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Green-Wood Cemetery, so including it on your itinerary is most definitely worthwhile.

  • Recommended accommodation: Stay at the modern and comfortable Hotel Le Bleu, located between Park Slope and Gowanus neighborhoods. It is one of the few properties in New York City that provides complimentary vehicular parking for guests.

5. Bushwick, an artsy neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY

Bushwick is an artistic district in Brooklyn with a contagious energy. Its edgy, industrial feel combined with its vibrant artwork makes it a must-see during your visit. This is where you can find some of the best street art in the city, specifically at the Bushwick Collective.

The Bushwick Collective is among the top free museums in NYC and features murals, graffiti, and street art along Jefferson and Troutman Streets. Local artists and creators from all over the world have contributed to the Bushwick Collective, and you can learn more about their techniques on this street art guided tour.

a statue of a cartoon character in front of a fire hydrant

In addition to the Bushwick Collective, there are other galleries throughout this urban area of Brooklyn, such as Microscope and the Bushwick Galleries. If you enjoy fashion and personal style, you`ll appreciate browsing the thrift shops spread out across Bushwick. Some of the most frequented stores are L Train Vintage, Collections BK, and GG`s Social Trade & Treasure Club.

After nightfall, Bushwick offers numerous bars, breweries, and international dining establishments. Grab some Italian cuisine at Faro or Roberta’s or indulge in authentic Mexican specialties at Los Hermanos Tortilleria. Then, head out for beverages at the Brooklyn Beer Garden or Kings County Brewers Collective. If you want to party into the late hours, House of Yes is one of the premier nightclubs in the city.

6. Greenpoint, another interesting Brooklyn neighborhood to check out

Greenpoint is one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn and a must-see for everyone. This part of Brooklyn has its own personality and charm thanks to its Polish American community, beautiful views of Midtown Manhattan, and high-profile visitors like Bill Murray and Gwyneth Paltrow.

You can’t visit Greenpoint without popping into one of the Polish bakeries or shops. Karczma and Pierozek are two popular places, and the Polish Community Center often hosts traditional performances, served with delicious pierogies, of course.

You can find other delights and unusual items at the Greenpoint Terminal Market, which includes over 100 vendors every weekend. During the weekdays, there are plenty of other things to do, depending on your interests.

a city at night with lots of tall buildings

For independent films and black-and-white pictures, Film Noir Cinema is highly recommended. If live music is preferred, Tørst Bar or Brooklyn Bowl may satisfy. The Sunshine Laundromat stands out in Greenpoint since it contains a concealed pinball arcade and hidden bar alongside laundromat facilities. I also advise Westlight, regarded as one of the top rooftop bars in NYC.

Among Greenpoint’s exhibition halls, craftsman studios, and overhauled lofts, there are various lovely open spaces. The WNYC Transmitter Park is a peaceful region along the East River, while the Monsignor McGolrick Park and the Greenpoint Landing Esplanade are two other pleasant spots.

7. Prospect Heights, a Brooklyn neighborhood with lots of culture

Prospect Heights is a small and laid-back neighborhood in the borough of Brooklyn, New York, though it offers visitors much. First, all along Vanderbilt Avenue you`ll discover various dining selections. LaLou is one of the top restaurants here with an intimate ambiance and wine bar, while Ample Hills Creamery has some of the finest ice creams.

For something to do during the day, check out Unnameable Books; the Brooklyn Museum, one of the top museums in Brooklyn; or Grand Army Plaza, where you can see the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch. You can make a date of it with a visit to Brooklyn Botanic Garden or a show at the Barclays Center.

a statue of a man on top of a clock tower

You can observe many fascinating things simply by wandering around this pleasant Brooklyn neighborhood. For instance, the mural of Frida and Diego by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra exceptionally depicts Prospect Heights’ Caribbean-American community, and you can find it at 360 Prospect Place. Additionally, try to locate the futuristic train carriage, which usually parks on Park Place.

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8. Coney Island, the best Brooklyn neighborhood to visit with kids

If you’re traveling with children or just want to treat your internal child to a day of enjoyment, Coney Island is the best Brooklyn neighborhood to explore. Located in southern Brooklyn, it’s worth the excursion to see the Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk and all the sites.

This widely renowned Brooklyn neighborhood is well known for its places of interest. Some of the primary sites to check out in Coney Island incorporate Deno’sWonder Wheel Entertainment Area and Luna Park, which you can purchase an entrance ticket for here. Both parks provide all forms of carnival games and rides. Some of the most iconic ones are the B&B Carousell, the Coney Island Cyclone rollercoaster, and Deno’s Wonder Wheel, a 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel with static and swinging cars.

a beach filled with lots of colorful floats and people

After enjoying the activities, grab a popular New York hotdog at Nathan’s Famous, then check out the ConeyIsland Museum or the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, which features live performers, acrobats, fire eaters, and more.

As mentioned, visiting Coney Island is one of the top attractions in NYC to see with children, however adults can have a good time as well. The Coney Island Brewing Company is the perfect spot to grab a drink, while the waterfront Amphitheater arranges open-air concerts and events.

9. Gowanus, a little-known neighborhood in Brooklyn you can’t miss

Gowanus is a former industrial area surrounding the small Gowanus Canal. It’s an emerging Brooklyn neighborhood with some hidden gems, so if you’re in nearby Park Slope or Prospect Heights, it’s worth exploring.

Gowanus has a creative atmosphere that draws artists, hipsters, and young professionals, so there are numerous recreational activities and nightlife options here. For example, Brooklyn Glass provides hands-on glassblowing classes, while the Morbid Anatomy Museum and Secret Science Club feature intriguing exhibits and specimens.

a marina filled with lots of boats and buildings

If you wish to spend time with friends or interact with local residents, consider checking out the highly regarded Lavender Lake Bar, the renowned Bell House, or the entertainment-focused ShapeShifter Lab, which provides live jazz music. The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club is one of the coolest spots in Gowanus featuring a bar, food trucks, shuffleboard courts, and board games. For a sit-down meal, I advise Pig Beach BBQ or Dinosaur BBQ, where you`ll find outstanding cuisine.

Furthermore, keep your eyes open for hidden gems like the mini doors of Dennett Place. The homes on this street have their regular doors, as well as smaller hobbit-like doors, but their purpose stays a mystery. Another curiosity is the Central Power Station of the Brooklyn Rapid Transit Company building. It’s known as the Gowanus Batcave thanks to its run-down appearance and graffitied walls.

  • Recommended lodging: Stay at Hotel Le Bleu in Prospect Heights. Its cleanliness, coziness, and proximity to the Gowanus neighborhood make it a good choice.

10. Sunset Park, another lovely neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York

Lastly, Sunset Park is a multicultural hub, making it one of the best parts of Brooklyn. It’s home to Brooklyn’s Chinatown, where you’ll find delectable noodles, dumplings, dim sum, and more. I recommend grabbing a table at Pacificana for roast duck, fried rice, and noodle soup.

Checking out the thriving Latino community is another must-do in Sunset Park. Tacos el Bronco offers incredible fare, and Maria’s Bistro Mexicano serves outstanding guacamole and margaritas. The Industry City Food Hall features dishes to satisfy every appetite, and the Industry City Distillery is perfect for relaxing drinks after dinner.

a grassy field with trees and shrubs

Additionally, as its name implies, Sunset Park is a pleasant Brooklyn neighborhood with a beautiful park. It offers distant views of the Statue of Liberty, but it makes for a pretty spot for watching sunsets. Another outdoor area is Green-Wood Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark covering 478 hectares of hills, ponds, walking paths, and mausoleums.

Finally, to round out your day in Sunset Park, check out Next Level Arcade or Melody Lanes, a bowling alley/arcade and bar.

Brooklyn neighborhood map

Now that you know where to head, here is a Brooklyn neighborhood map to keep on hand during your trip:

a series of photos showing a variety of different types of food

I hope this guide has helped you organize your visit! Don’t forget to survey our article on the finest hotels in Brooklyn if you want to spend the nighttime. Of course, if you have any inquiries or you’d like to discuss your experience, leave me a comment underneath.

Have a great time exploring Brooklyn’s best neighborhoods!