Just across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan, you’ll find a borough brimming with its own offbeat charm and independent spirit.
A city in its own right until 1898, Brooklyn has maintained its own distinct culture and identity since being integrated into New York. Welcoming people of all cultures and heritages, the area has the highest population density of any of the city’s five boroughs. From the tree-lined avenues of Brooklyn Heights to the quiet shores of Brighton Beach, Brooklyn plays home to an eclectic mix of people and places.
Just by the Bridge, the streets of the renowned Dumbo District are lined with multi-million dollar mansions which served as industrial warehouses in a former life. Just down the road, a glorious cityscape can be seen from the Brooklyn Bridge Park’s waterfront. Art galleries and high-end eateries abound, adding an elegant flourish to this exclusive neighbourhood. Whatever you do, be sure to treat yourself to a sundae, milkshake or more traditional cone from the taste bud-tingling Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory.
Pick up a unique treasure at one of the vintage boutiques in the Williamsburg District. A large community of artists live in the area, with small galleries and independent theatres making this is a hub of alternative culture and hipster chic. For the height of fashionable dining, drop by Five Leaves at Green Point. This cosy café offering beautifully presented plates was designed by none other than cult Hollywood legend Heath Ledger.
In the evenings, Williamsburg becomes one of the city’s hottest spots for night owls. Cocktail bars, beer gardens and drinking spots tucked into the quirkiest of corners come alive with chatter, music and the clink of glasses.
Whatever your interests, you are sure to find something to fall in love with in Brooklyn. The elegant Prospect Park was landscaped by the same architects who designed the celebrated Central Park. Take in the sights, sounds and smells of the ‘other’ Chinatown, located in the Sunset Park Neighbourhood. For those with an interest in culture, the Brooklyn Museum offers artworks by famous artists from around the Globe. If you’d much rather just cool off with a quick dip, you’ll want to head to the public pool at McCarren Park where you can swim for free.
Situated on the westernmost point of Long Island, Brooklyn can easily be reached using the bus or subway system. For an alternative route, why not cross the 1.8-kilometre long Brooklyn Bridge on foot, with free views across the city’s skyline along the way?