7 Best Things To Do in Brooklyn

Who hasn’t dreamt of walking the Brooklyn Bridge from start to finish, or eating a slice of pizza on the banks of the East River with the New York skyline in the background? Brooklyn is the most populous borough in the city that never sleeps. This borough boasts countless industrial buildings, street art, and a cosmopolitan hipster vibe. From DUMBO to Bushwick to Williamsburg, at Civitatis, we’re bringing you a list of the 7 best Things To Do in Brooklyn.

DUMBO

Our list of what to see in Brooklyn couldn’t start anywhere else but DUMBO, the gateway to this borough. Fun fact: the acronym stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Touring this neighbourhood next to the most famous bridges in New York is the best way to get to know NYC!

And, of course, you can’t leave without taking the obligatory photo on Washington Street! The backdrop of the Manhattan Bridge is a must-see! DUMBO is also the perfect area for a bite to eat, as there’s a lot of variety. If you want to explore the streets, we recommend this tour of DUMBO & the Brooklyn Bridge – you won’t regret it!

Brooklyn Bridge

Another top spot on our list of what to see in Brooklyn is, of course, the Brooklyn Bridge. This world-famous construction is recognised all over the world, with appearances in countless series, movies, documentaries, and even on posters and magnets.

How long did it take to build this bridge? Where is its mysterious secret door? Is it true that it was the longest suspension bridge in the world? You’ll be able to answer all these questions on this tour of the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you want the full experience on your trip to New York, cross the bridge during the day and at night! The views of Manhattan are unbeatable at all times of the day. Might we suggest a night tour of New York?

Williamsburg

Next up? Williamsburg, considered the second-largest Orthodox Jewish community in the world. This is one of the city’s most striking neighbourhoods, which you can get to know on this New York Contrasts Tour.

Williamsburg is a place clearly marked by religion. You’ll notice the change in culture, language, religion, customs, and lifestyle from the moment you set foot on its streets. It’ll feel like you’re in a totally different city! Curiously enough, it’s also one of the most trendy neighborhoods in the city. It’s full of surprises!

Downtown Brooklyn

Did you know that Brooklyn was originally a city of its own? Today, its original downtown is known as Downtown Brooklyn and is one of the most characteristic areas of the borough – a must-see!

As you walk through the streets of this area, it’s curious to see how government buildings are intermingled with new constructions, universities, and educational centers. This area of Brooklyn is also perfect for shopping. In Fulton Mall and along Fulton Street, you can find all kinds of stores and outlets to indulge your inner shopaholic. If outlets are your thing, you’ll love the Woodbury Common Shopping Outlets, where you can take advantage of the big discounts! Be sure to check out Brooklyn Borough Hall, a building designed by architects Calvin Pollard and Gamaliel King in a typical neo-Greek style.

Bushwick

Art lovers, this is the place for you! Bushwick is one of the most famous neighbourhoods in the city in terms of street art. Little by little, its walls have become filled with colour with the arrival of many artists fleeing from the high prices of other areas of New York.

Nowadays this neighbourhood is one of the most prominent places to see in Brooklyn, with graffiti that’s made its way around the world. One of the streets where you can see the most murals is Troutman Street and the area around it. Besides being known for its street art, Bushwick is also one of the cheapest neighbourhoods in Brooklyn for brunch. Can you resist?

Dyker Heights

Of course, as the holidays draw nearer, we can’t forget about an obligatory Christmas stop! The holiday decorations in Dyker Heights are second to none, with houses decorated to the brim. Did you know that the residents of this neighbourhood compete to see who has the city’s best-decorated house?

Don’t miss the houses known for the most ostentatious decorations along 83rd to 86th streets and between 11th and 13th avenues. The perfect spot for a unique Christmas card photo! The best way to enjoy the season in Dyker Heights is to join a New York City Christmas lights tour.

Brooklyn Heights

Finally, we’ll check out Brooklyn Heights, one of the district’s most elegant neighbourhoods. At sunset, we recommend strolling around Squibb Park to enjoy the views of the New York City skyline.

In this area, it’s also nice to stroll among the typical brownstones, the iconic single-family homes that you’ve probably seen in hundreds of movies and series. As a finishing touch and to end your day in true New York fashion, there’s nothing quite like a good slice of pepperoni pizza with incredible views of the Brooklyn Bridge!

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, be sure to take a glance at our New York page!