Things to do in Brooklyn

Must-see Brooklyn sights

There’s much more to New York City than the bright lights of Manhattan. Brooklyn is home to some fantastic attractions, from appealing neighbourhoods to peaceful parks. Discover these hidden gems and more on your holidays to New York, where every borough offers a unique experience.

Visit City Hall
Walk over the incredible Brooklyn Bridge
Explore Brooklyn Heights
Head to Newtown Precinct
Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park
Visit the BLDG 92
Head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn has lots of appeal. From impressive buildings such as City Hall to monumental structures like Brooklyn Bridge, this city might just be the alternative American destination you’ve always been looking for.

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1. Visit City Hall

If you head to City Hall Park, you’ll find City Hall. Finished in 1982, the building is the oldest of its kind to retain its original function in the whole country. You can wander through the insides of the building on a prearranged tour with the Art Commission. Alternatively sign up for a public tour opposite the Woolworth Building. An insightful tour of the building is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn.

Best for: Brooklyn buildings

While you’re there: Don’t miss the Brooklyn Museum. The third largest museum in NYC, it holds around 1.5 million pieces of artwork.

2. Walk over the incredible Brooklyn Bridge

The magnificent Brooklyn Bridge was completed in 1883. It was the first to connect the previously separate cities of Brooklyn and New York. For decades after, it stood as the longest suspension bridge on the planet. The bridge’s melange of function and art, along with Gothic and practicality elements, became a form of inspiration for skyscrapers in the city. You can see the Financial District’s buildings sit side by side through the spidery cables on the bridge as you walk along the bridge. This is one of the most unique things to do in Brooklyn for sure. Searching for New York holidays? We suggest booking in at Hotel RL Brooklyn for a comfortable stay.

Best for: Unique Brooklyn attractions

While you’re there: Kids will enjoy having a view of Jane’s Carousel from the bridge.

3. Explore Brooklyn Heights

Leave Manhattan and stroll over the Brooklyn Bridge to find one of New York City’s most gorgeous and historical quarters, Brooklyn Heights. The tree-lined area is utterly peaceful. Be sure to check out the Promenade. This is a terrace with fantastic views sprawling over lower Manhattan.

Best for: Cute neighbourhood

While you’re there: Note that the area has had many famous residents such as the literary legends Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams.

4. Head to Newtown Precinct

DUMBO, Manhattan Bridge’s Overpass, can be found after a stroll from Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The area overlooks the East River. The whole place changed somewhat over the years, after Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883. But now it has turned into a place for trendy art galleries and luxurious condo conversions, adding a burst of energy into the area once again.

Best for: Trendy part of town

While you’re there: Make sure to peruse the shops on Main, Water, Washington and Front streets.

5. Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park

What to do in Brooklyn if you’re looking for green spaces? Head to the waterfront Brooklyn Bridge Park . You can find the park around Fulton Ferry Landing and it runs next to Brooklyn Heights all the way down to Atlantic Avenue. There are many stand-out features here. Find Jane’s Carousel, picnicking areas and fantastic views over the bridges and of lower Manhattan. Kids will be happy here with the slides, sandpit and child-friendly water park on offer. What’s more, you can hop aboard a ferry to Governors Island, watch an outdoor film, and even go kayaking.

Best for: Parks

While you’re there: You can also head to St Ann’s Warehouse to see a theatrical event while you’re there.

6. Visit the BLDG 92

Head to the waterfront for a triumph in redevelopment in Brooklyn. The park of the previously derelict Brooklyn Navy Yard is a huge attraction in the city. Explore BLDG 92 to learn about the history of the yard. The centre of the structure is made of energy-efficient glass and is home to a museum consisting of three floors of interesting exhibitions.

Best for: Waterfront feature

While you’re there: Note that you will be greeted by an 11-tonne anchor hanging down as you enter!

7. Head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the most relaxing places to retreat in the whole city. There are around 12,000 plants from all over the globe spread over 52 acres of pristine terrain. Highlights include the pretty Rose Garden, the splendid Japanese Garden and the bold Cherry Esplanade. Celebrity Path honours the well-known residents of Brooklyn. Coming here is one of the most relaxing things to do in Brooklyn to get away from it all.

Best for: Green-fingered travellers

While you’re there: Marine Park is also a lovely place to have a wander in Brooklyn.

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