Brooklyn in New York City has been a center of maritime activity since the early 17th century and became a major commercial center in the mid-19th century. The Brooklyn Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, opened in 1883. The borough is now home to a diverse population with a rich cultural heritage.
Brooklyn’s rich history dates to the early days of Dutch settlement. Today, Brooklyn is a culturally diverse borough with plenty to see and do. From bustling neighborhoods like Williamsburg and Bushwick to tranquil oases like Prospect Park, there is something for everyone in Brooklyn.
The History of Brooklyn
New York City’s first modern commuter suburb, Brooklyn Heights, was established in the early 19th century. The densest part of Brooklyn was incorporated as a hamlet in 1816 and then as a city in 1834.
In 1855, Williamsburg and Bushwick became part of it. Before Brooklyn became a contiguous municipality with Kings County in 1683, several settlements had been swallowed up.
By the 1880s, Brooklyn was once one of the country’s most important manufacturing areas. Its bustling port handled more tonnage than Manhattan’s. There was a lot of sugar refining going on in the city. But the town of Brooklyn was also home to ironworks, oil refineries, slaughterhouses, and many manufacturing.
Constructed in Greenpoint’s Continental Iron Works was the Civil War-era ironclad Monitor. Brooklyn produced everything from clocks to cigars to beer, insulated wiring, electrical signs, packaged coffee, and teddy bears. Manufacturers began moving to less expensive places until in the 1950s when it started faltering as an industrial powerhouse.
Why Should You Visit Brooklyn?
There are many reasons to visit Brooklyn, one of the best in its eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines. From Turkish delights in Borough Park to Mexican snacks in Bushwick, there’s something for everyone in this diverse borough. Plus, with attractions like Prospect Park and Brooklyn Navy Yard nearby, it’s easy to get entertained no matter what you’re into.
Another hugely popular reason to visit Brooklyn is for its stunning waterfront views. Whether baking in the sun at Governors Island or riding the waves at Coney Island Boardwalk, you’ll never forget your time!
When night falls (or morning arrives), head to Downtown Brooklyn for fantastic shopping experiences – from art galleries to trendy boutiques. Finally, don’t forget that New York City is only a few subways stops away – so taking a day trip couldn’t be easier!
There are many fantastic reasons to make the trip to Brooklyn, and here are just a few:
- One important reason to go to Brooklyn is that you can’t find better views of Manhattan anywhere else. You can see beautiful river views from the Brooklyn Promenade or a rooftop party in Williamsburg.
- Compared to Manhattan, there is a significant increase in the amount of green space.
- This location is home to some of the city’s most remarkable musical talent.
- The most incredible collection of street art can be seen in Brooklyn.
- The streets of Brooklyn are home to a significant amount of the city’s history and culture.
The 8 Best Places to Visit Brooklyn
Brooklyn has it all, from winding streets lined with architecture that dates to the 1800s to waterfront parks and stunning beaches. Here are some of the most suitable sites to visit in Brooklyn:
1. Downtown Brooklyn
Downtown Brooklyn is home to numerous historic churches, Magnet Schools, and a growing arts scene. It’s also an excellent place for food lovers since many local restaurants and cafes are located here.
2. Brooklyn Bridge Park
This expansive park spans over 1,500 acres and contains miles of trails and access to the East River waterfront. The sights from the top observation deck are simply unbeatable!
3. Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum is a world-renowned museum located in the borough of Brooklyn in New York City. It has a staggering collection of artworks from all corners of the world, and it’s always worth visiting if you’re anywhere near the city.
Some of the most iconic pieces displayed at the Brooklyn Museum include ancient Egyptian artifacts, Japanese samurai armor, and Greek vases. Numerous galleries are also dedicated to specific themes, like African art, American art, and Modern and Contemporary art.
4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to visit in Brooklyn, then the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is worth considering. The Garden is home to many plant specimens and is one of the world’s leading botanical gardens. It’s also home to the world’s largest arboretum, which includes thousands of trees and shrubs worldwide.
5. Green-Wood Cemetery
This famous cemetery is home to numerous distinguished residents and celebrities (including Woodrow Wilson), and it’s also one of New York City’s most beautiful gardens.
6. Brewery District
Home to dozens of breweries, from small craft operations to well-known macro brands like Greenpoint Beer & Ale Works and Six Point Brewery. Famed for its wide selection of bottled beers and draft beer options (including on certain days when food trucks park outside), there’s always something new on tap.
7. Prospect Park
Brooklyn is a beautiful borough with a rich history. If you’re looking for a place to visit in Brooklyn, then Prospect Park should be on your list.
Prospect Park is situated right in the middle of Brooklyn and covers an impressive extended area. It has plenty of attractions for visitors, including a beautiful lake, nature trails, gardens, and even a golf course!
If natural beauty is your thing, then Prospect Park is the place for you. And if you’re looking for something more recreational, there are plenty of restaurants and pubs to choose from. In fact, Prospect Park is so famous among New Yorkers that prefer a more local park in comparison to Central Park which is more tourists oriented.
8. Atlantic Avenue
One street reveals iconic architectural styles from Victorian mansions built by entrepreneurs. Who made their fortunes during the steam engine era to 1920s skyscrapers, among New York City’s first examples of Art Deco design.
Many other unique attractions await you in the beautiful borough of Brooklyn!
How to Visit Brooklyn City
There are many ways to visit Brooklyn City. Depending on your travel schedule, one route may be better than another. Here is a list of the most common transportation options:
- MTA Bus
- Rail: Long Island Railroad
- Subway
The standard way to explore Brooklyn in New York City is by walking. Several major arterial roads also connect different parts of Manhattan and Queens with Brooklyn Heights and Brooklyn Bridge Park.
The neighborhoods near Gowanus Canal in Greenpoint – make it easy to find your way around town no matter where you’re staying or what you’re interested in seeing.
The subway trip from Upper East Side to Brooklyn takes about 40 minutes. The Upper East Side to Brooklyn subway service, run by MTA. Make sure to visit the official MTA website and download your subway map.
Summary
Brooklyn in New York City is the place to be if you’re looking for a cultural experience and some good food. There’s so much to visit and do here, so whatever your interests may be, there’s sure to be something that will fulfill your interest in this historic borough.
So, whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or just want to take in some of NYC’s unique history, Brooklyn is definitely worth a visit.