When visiting New York, most people tend to head straight for Manhattan, but the other boroughs have a lot to offer too, and Brooklyn is the best place for some quirky, hipster haunts, as well as some pretty exciting bigger attractions.
To get to Brooklyn from Manhattan, you could drive or get a cab, which will take around 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Of course, not everyone has the option of a car, and New York’s roads can be intimidating with all the traffic and tourists.
Keep in mind that if you are ever involved in any type of car accident, you can contact a car accident lawyer (New York) here. Otherwise, a subway journey between the two takes around 25 minutes and only costs a couple of dollars.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a stunning outdoor space spanning 52 acres and featuring a glorious mix of flora, fauna, and wildlife to explore. There are many events throughout the year, including the Cherry Blossom Festival in May, and be sure to check out Shakespeare Garden too.
There are individual greenhouses, and the plants and flowers are lovingly cared for, which really shows. It’s a different experience, depending on when in the year you decide to visit, but it is always worth a stroll around. Keep your eyes peeled for the free walking tours to really get the most of these gardens.
Brooklyn Bridge
This iconic structure is so much bigger than you could imagine, and walking across it gives you breathtaking views, so it really is worth a visit if you are able. When it opened in 1883, it was the world’s largest suspension bridge.
The bridge itself is around 1 mile long, and it takes anywhere from 30-60+ minutes to cross, depending on if you are stopping to shoot some photos or take in the view.
Coney Island
Coney Island is the center of fun and excitement, featuring iconic roller coasters, games, shops, and dining, right on the beach. Also, on Coney Island, you’ll find the fantastic New York Aquarium.
There are so many quirky, fun events held here, from the Mermaid Festival to the Beard and Mustache Competition. There is also a weekly fireworks display from June to September, every Friday.
Brooklyn Flea
If you’re a fan of a good bargain or like to rummage through vintage wares for some hidden treasure, there is nowhere better to do so than Brooklyn Flea. Running from April to October, you will find the market in Williamsburg on a Saturday, and DUMBO on a Sunday.
Don’t forget to check out Smorgasbord, too, for all the artisan food offerings you could ever want.
Prospect Park
The 526-acre park is the perfect space to spend a sunny (or rainy) day in Brooklyn. Designed by the same people who came up with Central Park, there is also a zoo, carousel, and pedal boats, so this is an ideal family location. Take a picnic and make a real day of it.
Final Thoughts
These are just five of the many things there are to see and do in Brooklyn. Visit New York on the blog for other places to see in the state of New York.
