In a nutshell
- Brooklyn is New York’s most creative borough and a great choice if you want to explore both major attractions and hidden gems.
- From street art and food markets to trendy neighborhoods and amazing skyline views — there are many cool things to do in Brooklyn.
- Based on our own experience, we’ll show you the must-see highlights, how to make the most of 1 day in Brooklyn, the best photo spots, and where to eat.
- A top pick for street art lovers: Join a street art tour with a local artist in Bushwick.
Top Attractions in Brooklyn on a Map
We’ve marked the top things to see in Brooklyn on a map to help you get a better overview.
The Top 6 Things to Do in Brooklyn
Planning to explore Brooklyn? Don’t miss these 6 awesome spots:
Brooklyn Bridge
What do you need to know? The Brooklyn Bridge is hands down one of the biggest highlights! It connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, and was the first bridge built over the East River. These days, more than 100,000 cars — plus loads of pedestrians and cyclists — cross it every day. Walkways and bike lanes are on a separate level above the traffic and clearly divided.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the top things to do in Brooklyn and a must for any New York trip. You can also rent a Citi Bike and ride across for a fun experience.
Our tip: Go early in the morning for fewer crowds. And if you’re spending 1 day in Brooklyn, don’t miss the view from Brooklyn Bridge Park at sunset — it’s stunning and way less crowded.
Brooklyn Heights
What do you need to know? Brooklyn Heights sits just across from the southern tip of Manhattan and is one of the most charming (and priciest) neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Think historic brownstones, peaceful streets, and stunning skyline views.
What can you do there? Walk through scenic Brooklyn Bridge Park, enjoy skyline views along the Brooklyn Promenade, spot the Statue of Liberty, and snap photos from Squibb Bridge without the crowds.
Is it worth it? For sure! If you’re into quiet spots with rich history, Brooklyn Heights is a great contrast to Manhattan’s fast pace.
DUMBO
What do you need to know? DUMBO (short for Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass) sits just north of Brooklyn Heights. It’s a tiny neighborhood with only about nine streets, known for its creative vibe, cool atmosphere, and prime spot along the East River.
What can you do there? Wander the streets, chill at cafés, hunt for finds at the Brooklyn Flea, hang out in Main Street Park or on Pebble Beach, ride Jane’s Carousel, take in the view from the Time Out Market rooftop, and of course, see the famous Manhattan Bridge photo spot in person.
Is it worth it? Totally! DUMBO blends industrial charm, design, food, and views. It’s one of the top things to do in Brooklyn and perfect if you’re spending 1 day in Brooklyn.
Our tip: Grab a delicious breakfast at Time Out Market!
Our tips for more free activities in NYC
Williamsburg
What do you need to know? Williamsburg is one of the trendiest and most creative neighborhoods in NYC. Where factories once stood, you’ll now find galleries, boutiques, cafés, and top-notch restaurants. Many global trends actually start right here.
What can you do there? Check out Domino Park with its old sugar refinery view, eat your way through Smorgasburg Food Market, find art and vintage pieces at Artists & Fleas, and sip cocktails along Bedford Avenue.
Is it worth it? Williamsburg is buzzing with creativity, food, and culture. It’s one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for a different side of NYC — a must for your Brooklyn in one day itinerary.
Our restaurant tips: Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream (amazing!), Little Choc Apothecary (vegan crepes), and Sunday in Brooklyn (great for any meal).
Bushwick
What do you need to know? Bushwick is Brooklyn’s rising creative hub. Once an industrial area, it’s now full of artists, creatives, and curious travelers. While Williamsburg has become well-known, Bushwick still feels raw and real — and that’s exactly why people love it.
What can you do there? The street art here is incredible! Around Flushing Avenue, the streets are like an open-air museum. If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the Bushwick Collective Block Party with live painting, music, and performances.
Is it worth it? If you’re into street art and want to explore a neighborhood that’s quickly changing, Bushwick should be on your list of things to do in Brooklyn.
Our tip: Join a guided street art tour led by a local artist. It’s a great way to learn more about the art scene and find the best murals.
Book a Bushwick street art tour online
Coney Island
What do you need to know? Coney Island sits at the southern edge of Brooklyn, right on the Atlantic. It’s famous for its beach, boardwalk, and vintage amusement parks. When summer hits, it’s where locals go to relax and cool off by the water.
What can you do there? Ride the rollercoasters at Luna Park, walk the boardwalk with ocean views, sunbathe on the beach, grab a hot dog, visit the New York Aquarium, play mini-golf, or explore the quirky Coney Island Museum.
Is it worth it? The nostalgic vibe at Coney Island is truly one of a kind. It might not be one of the typical New York highlights, but it’s perfect if you’ve seen the main sights and want something a little different in your list of things to do in Brooklyn.
Our tip: Planning to visit Luna Park? Check if your New York Pass includes entry — it can save you money and help you keep your plans flexible.
What To Do in Brooklyn in One Day? Our Suggestions
Of course, you could easily spend a whole week discovering everything Brooklyn has to offer, but we know most visitors don’t have that much time in New York City.
So we’ve put together a simple itinerary for how to spend the perfect 1 day in Brooklyn:
- Bushwick: Take subway line 8 to Jefferson Street and check out the amazing street art in the area. Plan for about an hour to explore.
- Williamsburg: Head over to Bedford Avenue next. It’s packed with great cafés and restaurants – like Sunday in Brooklyn. If you’re here on a Saturday (April through October), don’t miss the Smorgasburg Food Market. Then stroll through Domino Park to the South Williamsburg ferry terminal.
- Ferry to DUMBO: Hop on the ferry toward Wall Street (Pier 11) and get off at the next stop in DUMBO. If the weather’s nice, grab a spot on the upper deck for the ride!
- DUMBO & Brooklyn Bridge Park: Explore the DUMBO area, snap a photo of the Manhattan Bridge, and enjoy sunset views of the skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park.
- Brooklyn Bridge: End your day with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge back to Manhattan.
You can also do the route in reverse if you prefer. Just keep in mind that you’ll miss the sunset in Brooklyn Bridge Park that way.
Would you like to plan not just one day, but a full week in New York City? Then check this out:
Where To Stay in Brooklyn: Our Hotel Tips
Of course, we can’t leave out our recommendations for where to stay in Brooklyn New York. First, a quick note: booking a hotel in Brooklyn is a great option if you’ve been to NYC before and want to explore a different side of the city. For first-time visitors, though, we’d suggest staying in Manhattan – or in Queens if you’re looking to save a bit.
The best places to stay in Brooklyn:
Pod Brooklyn: A modern budget hotel with a prime location right in Williamsburg.
Penny Williamsburg: Stylish boutique stay with a cozy vibe, surrounded by some of the best bars and restaurants in Brooklyn.
Moxy Brooklyn: Trendy hotel with a rooftop bar and awesome views over the Brooklyn skyline.
Check out more tips about where to stay in NYC here:
7 Cool Facts about Brooklyn
- Brooklyn is one of New York City’s five boroughs and probably the most well-known one after Manhattan.
- Even though it doesn’t have as many iconic landmarks, for us, it’s still the most exciting borough in New York.
- Brooklyn was once its own city and didn’t officially become part of New York City until 1898.
- Around 2.5 million people live in Brooklyn—almost a million more than in Manhattan.
- If Brooklyn were an independent city, it would be the fourth largest in the USA, after New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
- In terms of land area, Brooklyn is about three times the size of Manhattan.
- And fun fact: the famous bagel craze in the U.S. actually started in Brooklyn.
FAQ about Things to Do in Brooklyn
Who will love Brooklyn?
For us, a visit to Brooklyn is an absolute must. Of course, that doesn’t mean it has to be the same for you.
If you want to see more than just the usual highlights in Manhattan during your trip to New York, then Brooklyn is worth a visit.
If you like strolling through the trendy districts of a city, then Brooklyn is also for you.
If you want to visit the coolest bars and cafés in New York and like individual stores, then you can’t go past Brooklyn either.
Is Brooklyn dangerous?
It is probably because of the many films and series set in New York that Brooklyn is often directly associated with crime. For a long time, this was indeed the case, but that is long gone.
Most parts of Brooklyn, including the neighborhoods presented here, are almost as safe as Manhattan. We didn’t feel any less safe in Brooklyn than in other cities.
Conclusion: Brooklyn is safe!
What's the difference between Brooklyn and Manhattan?
Brooklyn and Manhattan are two very different boroughs.
Manhattan is the vibrant center of New York, characterized by skyscrapers, hustle and bustle and world-famous sights such as Times Square and Central Park.
Brooklyn, on the other hand, is considered a creative, diverse borough. Here you will find lively neighborhoods, a strong art scene and plenty of living space.
In other words: Manhattan offers touristy and bustling city flair and Brooklyn cultural, quieter diversity.
Is Brooklyn, NY walkable?
Yes, Brooklyn ist widely considered very walkable, with many neighborhoods offering tree-lined streets, local shops, parks and excellent public transit.
Areas like Park Slope, Williamsburg und Brooklyn Heights are especially pedestrian-friendly.
Which films were shot in Brooklyn?
Brooklyn is one of THE spots for Hollywood films.
Marvel in particular likes to make use of the beauty of this neighborhood. For example, in the entire Spider-Man series and for The Avengers from 2012.
But films such as Men in Black and Saturday Night Fever were also shot here.
These were our best tips for things to do in Brooklyn
Know another great spot in Brooklyn? Or still have a question? Drop us a comment—we’d love to hear from you!