10 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is awash with street art, but the eclectic Bushwick Collective is a definite standout. This awe-inspiring collection of murals and artwork spans a quite a few streets and was first established in 2012 by a Bushwick native. It’s since grown to showcase 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 edgy, thought-provoking creations. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the annual Bushwick Collective Block Party, you’re in for a treat. Local and international artists come to showcase their best work, joined by food trucks, live music, and an artisan market.

For museum lovers, there’s no better stop on your to-do list than the Brooklyn Museum. For a modest admission fee, you’ll get access to some of the most diverse and interesting art displays in New York. It’s the second largest museum in New York City and contains an impressive collection of around 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 artists such as Picasso and Claude Monet. Enrich your visit with guided tours or a pop-up talk, or get involved with interactive workshops and markets. The on-site shop is also well-stocked with artbooks and prints should you want a souvenir.

For hours of fun surrounded by stunning vistas, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park, an 85-acre waterfront park along Brooklyn’s East River. The park is made up of 6 piers, each with their own features and Things to See & Do, so you’ll have plenty to explore for the whole day.

There are dozens of sporting activities available if you’re feeling energetic, including pickleball and kayaking. Kids won’t know which playground to dive into first so be prepared to visit all of them and ride the vintage carousel along the way. Finally, when you’re in need of a little scenic rest and relaxation, take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire nature at its finest, along with public art installations.

Entertaining holidaymakers for over 100 years, Coney Island is one of the US’s most popular entertainment areas. People flock here for the vintage seaside vibes made up of retro fairground rides, carnival games, and the waterfront promenade.

There’s so much to do here that it’s impossible to do it all in a day. Soar through the sky on a rollercoaster, spend a few dollars in the gaming arcades, applaud the sealions at the aquarium. If you’ve got time, catch live music at the state-of-the-art amphitheatre or a firework show on the beach. Don’t forget to select a souvenir at one of the many gift shops, and, of course, treat yourself to fresh seafood followed by delicious ice cream.

A prime nature spot for both locals and visitors, Prospect Park is a beautiful 585-acre green space constructed by the same architects behind New York City’s Central Park. The picturesque scenery here is one of its major draws, with many lush lawns for sunbathing and a winding man-made watercourse featuring ponds and a huge, sparkling lake.

You can take part in any of the dozens of sporting activities on offer or spend time birdwatching from the Audubon Centre at the stunning Boathouse. Kids will love the water play on hot summer days, as well as 7 exciting playgrounds. To bring your busy day to a relaxing end, join one of the free, outdoor yoga sessions on the Long Meadow.

Looking upon the vast, granite triumphal arch and accompanying sculptures at the 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 at this public plaza.

Venture further to admire the architectural beauty of the Bailey Fountain, as well as memorials dedicated to US presidents (Ulysses S. Grant, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kennedy) and 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.

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 at their peak for you to marvel at.

You could view Japanese maple 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 explore the wildlife and their habitats in the Discovery Garden, attend a gardening class or a nature walk with them. There are dozens of classes for adults too, from learning to make herbal broths and soups to plant propagation to botanical illustration.

Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (or Dumbo, to me and you) is one of the trendiest and most visited areas in Brooklyn. Be prepared to spend a whole day or more on these cobblestone streets as there’s a plethora of activities here as well as dramatic architecture to view along the way.

If you’re into photography, check out the contemporary pieces on offer at Klompching Gallery. Or perhaps you’d prefer catching a show at St. Ann’s Warehouse, a performing arts centre located in an old tobacco warehouse? There are independent shopping boutiques and chic restaurants around too, just don’t forget to snap a photo of the view across the dazzling river when night falls.

St. Ann & The Holy Trinity Church is a beautiful example of an historic Episcopal church built in the Gothic Revival style. You’ll be blown away by the vibrant detail in the 60 stained glass windows, grand vaulted roof, and truncated steeple, and rightly so, as 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 programmes, book events, and candlelight concerts. Don’t miss hearing the church choir sing alongside the Peabody Memorial Organ and its 4,718 pipes.

Smorgasburg (a portmanteau of smorgasbord and Williamsburg) is a Food Markets wonderland, and a definite pitstop when in Brooklyn. Foodies 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 the Martha P. Johnson State Park, so make sure you arrive with an empty stomach. The selection is ginormous – from Korean BBQ, Southern comfort food, Mexican street food, and much, much more. If you’ve room for dessert, choose from delicious mochi or decadent donuts. Even the pickiest of eaters will be spoiled for choice.