Things to Do in Brooklyn: A Local’s Guide

I have lived in Brooklyn for 7 years now. If there’s one thing I’ve learned about this hip and charming borough of NYC, it’s that there is no shortage of things to do. And at the risk of sounding biased, I do think Brooklyn is an amazing place to eat, drink, play and explore!

Honestly, my husband and I love Brooklyn so much, it’s where we got married! (Read more about our wedding here.)

Brooklyn is basically made up of a bunch of different neighborhoods, each with a different look and feel. Williamsburg and neighboring Bushwick are hoods that are filled with artists, yuppies, and hipsters alike. Park Slope has lots of families and some of the most gorgeous and historic architecture in the borough. Brooklyn Heights has incomparable views, and Ditmas Park, south of Prospect Park, has freestanding homes that are so Americana, you’ll often find Hollywood studios filming in the neighborhood.

All of the local neighborhoods, with distinct personalities and perspectives, is part of what makes Brooklyn so great. Now that I’ve spent ample time exploring the borough, I want to share my top tips and recommendations with you.

Keep reading to find out more about the best things to do in Brooklyn, plus where to eat, drink, shop, and play.

Just a quick note here about exploring Brooklyn during the pandemic. Many of the places I mention below, including restaurants and bars, are still open, but they are following the strict COVID-19 guidelines. If you are interested in going to one of the places I mention in this post, please check the websites for the latest information regarding their hours and COVID-19 policies. 

Things to do in Brooklyn – Let’s Eat!

Roberta’s in Bushwick

This spot has been on the Brooklyn food map for a while and for good reason. The pizza is amazing. (The Bee Sting – tomato, mozzarella, soppressata, chili & honey – is my personal favorite.) As you’ve probably read or heard, lines at Roberta’s are ridiculously long for this off-the-beaten-path restaurant. (During the COVID-19 pandemic, they are taking reservations!) My trick is to wait for the warmer weather. When that first day of spring hits and it’s nice enough to sit outside, snag an outdoor table in their large garden. It is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Brooklyn.

The tables are first come first serve but the garden is 3 times the size of the restaurant, so your wait time will be exponentially less. The only catch is that if you want to eat pizza in the garden, you order it from Roberta’s take-out shop right next door. It seems like a small inconvenience considering you get to spend an afternoon in the sunshine with a group of friends, sipping cold brews while waiting for arguably the best pizza in Brooklyn. And once you’ve had your fill, walk it off by checking out the incredible graffiti by the Bushwick Collective throughout the neighborhood. (Learn more about Brooklyn street art here.)

Café Mogador in Williamsburg

Is there such a thing as middle eastern comfort food? If so, Cafe Mogador has nailed it. It’s probably why I want to eat at this restaurant every single day. From the various mezze appetizers, which come with perfectly puffed pieces of warm pita bread, to the various lamb and chicken tagines, everything on the menu is outstanding. Wash it all down with a drink from their impressive list of cocktails, including my hubby’s favorite, the Gold Rush, and mine, the Rosemary Spritz.

Hometown BBQ in Red Hook

NYC has its fair share of BBQ joints, but Hometown BBQ is the real deal. Set up in an old warehouse, the chalkboard menu is full of pit-smoked standards as well as specials, inspired by the melting pot of international cultures in Brooklyn. In quintessential BBQ style, the venue is first come first serve with a walk-up counter. While the large space is a great option for a big group of friends, often my husband and I will tuck in for an impromptu Sunday afternoon date. We’ll find a spot at the bar and feast on ribs and mac & cheese. The Korean sticky ribs and Vietnamese hot wings are also at the top of our list.

Related: My favorite brunch spots in Brooklyn

Sushi Katsuei in Park Slope

There is no shortage of sushi restaurants in New York City. But when I want to avoid all the gimmicky rolls and fried appetizers in favor of a simpler and sublime experience, I head to Sushi Katsuei. With two locations, one in Park Slope and the other in the West Village, they focus on serving beautiful and refined pieces of sushi and sashimi, each with its own accompaniment. I highly recommend sitting at the bar and ordering the omakase. It is reasonably priced compared to other high-end Japanese restaurants but the quality is just as good.

Café Madeline in Ditmas Park

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention one restaurant in my cozy little corner of Brooklyn – Ditmas Park. That restaurant is Café Madeline. What this place lacks in atmosphere and décor, it more than makes up for with the food. The menu is full of healthy and delicious options, including everything from brekkie bowls (one of my favorite imports from Australia) to amazing smoothies, plus 20 different options of lattes, (the rose petal is my go-to) and savory salads and sandwiches. One of my favorite options on the menu is the Krispy Kale Salad with grilled Haloumi cheese, and my husband always orders the Croissant Lamb Burger with avocado and a fried egg. (Can you tell who the healthy one is in our relationship?!)

Ample Hills Creamery in Gowanus

If you’re looking for ice cream that’s a little more adventurous than your basic vanilla and chocolate, head to Ample Hills Creamery in Gowanus. Founded by a local Brooklyn couple, they now have a cult following. With flavors called Salted Crack Caramel and Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, it’s easy to see why. And if you happen to live locally, it’s a great spot to consider for children’s birthday parties. They have a private party room upstairs where they teach the kiddos how to make their own ice cream before everyone gets to indulge in the shop’s signature flavors.

Things to do in Brooklyn – Cocktails!

Hotel Delmano in Williamsburg

When my husband and I lived in Williamsburg, Hotel Delmano was our go-to spot. Of course, it helped that it was only a few blocks away from our apartment, but the real appeal was the intimate speakeasy vibe and the impressive list of cocktails and spirits. I also love that they take crowd control seriously, so there’s no jostling at the bar.

Clover Club in Cobble Hill

If you’re looking for artisanal cocktails with a laid-back, neighborhood feel, check out Clover Club on Smith Street in Cobble Hill. I could happily spend an evening sitting at the bar, enjoying one of their signature cocktails with an appetizer or two. But the best-kept secret of this bar is the back room which is available for private parties. If you live locally, it’s a great option to consider for a birthday or holiday party.

Spritzenhaus 33 in Greenpoint

Spritzenhaus 33 on the border of Williamsburg and Greenpoint is one of my favorites. My husband and I have celebrated many a birthday here. It’s a great gathering spot for a large group of friends. They serve craft brews, ciders, and wine. Settle in at one of the communal tables and play an epic game of Jenga with your friends!

Pig Beach in Gowanus

While it’s open year-round, Pig Beach, just off the Gowanus canal, is best enjoyed when the weather is warm and you feel like wallowing in the sunshine with a cold beer or a craft cocktail and a group of friends. The large yard full of picnic tables feels like a European beer garden and if you’re feeling hungry after a couple of drinks, they offer food as well. But by far, the biggest draw for us is their kid and a dog-friendly policy. We love to bring our dog, Archie, with us wherever we can, so Pig Beach is always at the top of our list when springtime hits.

The Hotel Bars Lemon’s & Westlight 

Having lived in Williamsburg, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention both of these hotel rooftop bars. Bar Blondeau (formerly Ide’s) at the Wythe Hotel, is the original and worth it for the overall hipster atmosphere. But at 22 stories high, the views of the Manhattan skyline from Westlight at the William Vale Hotel are unparalleled. I suggest making a reservation for Westlight (even just for drinks) and request a table by the windows. Otherwise, you will probably be in for a long wait.

Sycamore Bar & Flowershop in Ditmas Park

I love Sycamore because how often do you find a hidden bar pouring a great selection of bourbons behind a flower shop? It’s a super cozy spot in the wintertime and a great option come summertime when you take advantage of their outdoor garden. And who doesn’t love leaving a bar with a fresh bouquet of flowers?

Things to do in Brooklyn – Shop!

Rue Saint Paul in Carroll Gardens

Rue Saint Paul is a shop that’s not far from my apartment in Brooklyn but that’s not the reason why I love it so much. What’s great about this shop is that they are a fashion-minded boutique that also cares about sustainability and ethical manufacturing. And they are Brooklyn’s only destination that offers new, rental, and pre-owned sustainable fashion.

Mud Australia in Boerum Hill

I am obsessed with the homewares in Mud Australia. Everything is so soothing, from the minimalist aesthetic of the tableware to the color-coordinated displays. Whenever I need a new serving piece or want to give someone a special housewarming gift, this is my go-to spot.

Industry City

There are many reasons it’s worth checking out Industry City, including the many shops that now call this neighborhood home. From Brooklyn born boutiques and specialty food purveyors to established brands and designer outlets, there’s a bit of everything here.

Even better, Industry City also hosts various pop-up markets and flea markets throughout the year. Check out the Industry City calendar for the latest info on events and COVID-19 guidelines.

Bird in Various Brooklyn Locations

If you’re looking for quirky and quintessential Brooklyn style, head to Bird. One of the forerunners of the Brooklyn fashion scene, the original shop located in Park Slope has been around since 1999. Now there are numerous locations in Brooklyn, including Williamsburg, Cobble Hill, and Fort Greene. What I love about Bird is that they mostly celebrate independent and local designers. Every piece is unique and tells a story. The brand truly captures Brooklyn’s creative spirit.

Things to Do in Brooklyn – Let’s Play!

Rooftop Reds

Only in Brooklyn will you find a vineyard on top of a warehouse located in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. And that place is Rooftop Reds. With no public transport nearby, it definitely is a bit of a journey to get here, but it’s well worth it. The rooftop vineyard is an oasis from the hustle-bustle of the city, and a great spot to have a glass of wine while watching the sun go down. Do check the website before you visit because hours are seasonal. During the warmer months, they throw lots of cool events, including weekly movie screenings and sunset yoga. Just make sure to drink some wine after the yoga class, not before!

Brooklyn Bridge

There’s a reason millions of people walk across this bridge every year. The views are iconic. You want to start your walk on the Manhattan side. Once you get to Brooklyn, take your time wandering in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Spanning from Dumbo to Red Hook, the park’s waterfront promenades will treat you to even more spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.

There are also plenty of activities for kids, including Jane’s Carousel (which is temporarily closed during COVID-19), playing fields on Pier 2, and a pop-up swimming pool and beach in the warmer months.

When you’re ready for a pit-stop and some food, head to Front Street in DUMBO, (which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass – in case you were wondering!), where you’ll find many options, including Shake Shack, the world-famous pizza joint Grimaldi’s, and my personal favorite, Gran Electra.

Brooklyn Flea 

While Brooklyn has always had its flea markets, the inception of Brooklyn Flea took this whole flea market thing to a new level. Located outside in Dumbo from April through October, and inside at Industry City during the winter months, the best part about the market is the amazing, artisanal community it created. From jewelry, furniture, and baby clothing to cheeky t-shirts, handmade soap, and tableware, the offerings are tremendous. If you love shopping, then this is a great thing to do in Brooklyn. Even better, most of the vendors are local, so making a purchase means supporting the local artisan economy.

Prospect Park

My husband and I feel so lucky that we live only a few blocks from Prospect Park. It is truly a pastoral paradise. Every weekend we find ourselves there, either for an early morning run or for an afternoon walk with our dog, Archie. It is definitely a place worth visiting.

If you have kids, there are plenty of playgrounds to choose from, as well as the Prospect Park Zoo and seasonal roller and ice skating at the Lefrak Center at Lakeside. Or just do what we do – choose a path to follow through the woods with nature surrounding you.

Brooklyn Brewery 

If you like beer, you’ll want to visit Brooklyn Brewery. You can hang in the tasting room and have a couple of brews with your friends, or take a tour to learn about the history of the Brewery and how they brew their beer. And if you get hungry, there’s always a rotation of food trucks and vendors to choose from.

Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum is an iconic cultural institution of art and a great thing to do in Brooklyn. My husband and I love to take advantage of Target First Saturdays. Like the name, the event takes place the first Saturday of every month and offers free art and entertainment, including everything from curator-led tours, to community talks and live music. It’s a great way to see the museum and check out a vibrant and popular community event.

So, What Do You Think?

There you have it – a list of my favorite things to do in Brooklyn.

Now I’d love to hear from you because I’m always looking to discover new places! If you live in Brooklyn or have visited, what are your go-to spots? What places do you recommend? And if you get a chance to visit one of the spots on my list, please let me know your thoughts!

Happy exploring!

Download My Travel Secrets!

Subscribe to get my FREE Travel Planning Guide plus inspiration about living your best life at home and abroad.

First Name

Leave this field empty if you're human: