Just a few decades ago, Brooklyn was seen as the poor cousin of glamorous Manhattan – industrial buildings and working-class immigrant communities were the hallmarks of this NYC borough. That all changed when Manhattan real-estate prices skyrocketed and New Yorkers crossed the East River in search of precious space.
Brooklyn has become a hub of creativity for artists, and a byword for anything considered cool, while also retaining the strong community bonds that have thrived here for generations. Who else is better placed to parody the hipsters that descend upon the borough than the witty, wonderful locals? Brooklyn’s big and there’s a lot to cover so we’ve distilled the very best here; a handy guide to the artistic and creative hub of NYC.
Where to go for the best music, performing arts and film
The vibe: historic venues, new artists and vibrant creativity
The creative energy that makes Brooklyn pulse is not new – just look at the Brooklyn Academy of Music for proof. With roots dating back to 1861 when it was founded as the home of the Philharmonic Society of Brooklyn, today it’s a major cultural destination. The academy features three gorgeous historic performance spaces, hosting a dazzling roster of daring and avant-garde theater and opera companies, musicians, and dance troupes from around the globe. Additionally, there’s a cinema and a bustling café.
Moreover, an influx of young artists has led to the arrival of numerous galleries and concert venues. The Music Hall of Williamsburg, Bell House, and Brooklyn Bowl have become reliable go-to spots for indie bands, featuring both emerging talent and well-known national acts, along with DJs and burlesque performances. Engaging with other attendees can lead you to exciting after-parties, providing some of the best nights of your life in Brooklyn.
The number of film legends who have called Brooklyn home, including Spike Lee, Barbra Streisand, and Anne Hathaway, gives insight into why it’s a hotbed for movie production and home-grown talent. If you are a film enthusiast, experiencing one of Brooklyn’s independent cinemas is a must. Nitehawk is renowned for its restaurant-caliber food, local beer, and craft cocktails that you can enjoy while watching the movie. The cinema offers first-run films, thematic series, and 35mm movie showings. For a quirkier experience, the Spectacle Theater in Williamsburg screens arthouse films and B-movie classics in a former bodega setting.
Where to eat
The vibe: food trucks and halls, high-end dining, all with global cultural influences
Brooklyn wouldn’t be Brooklyn without its vast assortment of food trucks, innovative restaurants, food-centric startups, and traditional eateries. The city’s culinary scene includes many longstanding institutions such as Bamonte’s, the famous slices at Di Fara, and the hearty borscht at Varenichnaya in Brighton Beach. Additionally, the pierogis at Karczma, one of the few remaining Polish eateries in Greenpoint, offer a taste of tradition.
Furthermore, the entrepreneurial spirit of locals is evident in the countless creative businesses that have flourished in the 21st century. For instance, Steve’s Key Lime Pie, known for its indulgent dessert, is a must-visit in Red Hook. Ample Hills Creamery offers inspired ice cream flavors made with organic ingredients, particularly at its factory store in Red Hook.
Food halls have become a cultural sensation in many American cities, and Brooklyn definitely leads the way. They offer an excellent platform for new small businesses to thrive. In Downtown Brooklyn, DeKalb Market features a mix of established food purveyors like Katz’s Deli alongside newer operations. Gotham Market at the Ashland is conveniently located near BAM and the Barclays Center. Meanwhile, the food hall at Industry City, occupying six million square feet of renovated warehouse space, provides opportunities for shoppers to buy local goods, enjoy Japanese grocery offerings from Japan Village, and participate in free outdoor movie screenings or concerts.
Only in Brooklyn
The vibe: museums, bars and unique treasures you’ll only find in Brooklyn
Brooklyn didn’t earn its reputation as a trendsetting locale by following the crowd. Its unique characteristics often warrant a trip from Manhattan or beyond. For example, there’s the century-old carousel in Prospect Park and the stately Victorian-era Weir Greenhouse across from the historic Green-Wood Cemetery, currently being converted into the cemetery’s visitor center. With ample nightlife options, such as the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, you’ll discover the fusion of traditional pastimes and modern hipster culture.
Museums in Brooklyn also stand out in their uniqueness. The Puppet Library, located within a Brooklyn College building, displays over 100 puppets arranged in a gymnasium. The City Reliquary in Williamsburg is a treasure trove of New York City memorabilia and vintage civic artifacts. If you’re interested in the city’s transportation history, the New York Transit Museum provides a comprehensive overview of NYC’s diverse public transportation system through artifacts, maps, and vintage cars. It’s also a family-friendly attraction perfect for vacationing families.
This article was originally published on September 24, 2019.
