Renowned for its cool bars, diverse cuisine and rich culture, there is a reason why Brooklyn is today the largest, most densely populated area of New York’s five boroughs. Originally an independent city up until 1898, this charismatic New York suburb still fosters its highly creative and independent cultural vibe.
This bustling borough is truly the Rembrandt or the Picasso of New York’s five faces. The many galleries, opera theatres and vintage cafés make Brooklyn the hub of urban creativity, culture and charisma. Beating to the sound of new, up and coming talent, the borough’s bohemian undertones attract a diverse and multicultural crowd a paradise for art lovers and music fans alike. The beautiful built Brooklyn Museum is well worth a visit, offering travelling exhibits with a focus on Women’s art.
Visitors are treated to a whole host of culinary options to suit all tastes. From the exotic tastes of Brooklyn’s Chinatown to Italian fare like pizza, pasta and gelato, Brooklyn caters for every eventuality. So, whether you want to grab a quick bite from the traditional street vendors or relax with a glass of wine on one of Brooklyn’s rooftop spots, there is restaurant to suit every purpose. The lively bars and cafés that line the pavements show that Brooklyn can compete with its Manhattan neighbour at night.
Brooklyn offers an alternative shopping scene to its Manhattan counterpart. Take a stroll through the Williamsburg neighbourhood and sample a true taste of Brooklyn’s deep rooted cultural atmosphere. The traditional flea markets and vintage stores are a welcome distraction for visitors looking for a unique shopping experience.
With its open green spaces, public parks and outdoor pools, there is plenty of space to relax. Take a stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park and capture a truly unique view of the Manhattan skyline. Indulge your taste buds with a scoop (or two) at the infamous award-winning Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. There is plenty to explore in the surrounding Dumbo neighbourhood, uniquely defined by its multimillion ‘warehouse to condo’ conversions.
For the more energetic wanderers, view the sights from a different angle and walk across the 1.82 kilometre-long Brooklyn Bridge or take the subway from downtown Manhattan and explore the city using the excellent public transport connections.