Sidetracked in Brooklyn
While tourists may flock to Manhattan, locals know there’s plenty to do across the river in Brooklyn, New York
When you visit Brooklyn, there are some things that should always make it onto your itinerary: a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, an afternoon at the Brooklyn Museum and a slice of cheesecake at Junior’s. But when you’re staying at The LOOK Red Hook Hotel or Union Hotel, it’s easy to make a few detours and experience off-the-beaten-path gems that are defining a new era in New York City’s most populous (and arguably, most popular) borough.
Follow these tips on how to see, taste and experience the signature sights as well as the coolest Brooklyn local spots during your next trip.
landmark status
when you visit brooklyn, every traveler should see: the brooklyn heights promenade
Snap your must-take photo in front of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline at the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. This pedestrian path is tucked away in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood—which is part of the borough's first Historic Preservation District. Feel the energy of Brooklyn and get a glimpse of its past as you walk along cobbled streets lined with 19th century brownstones.
local detour: prospect park + the brooklyn botanic garden
Designed by the architect team of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux (the duo behind Manhattan’s Central Park), Prospect Park has been open to the public since 1867 and features approximately 585 acres of woodlands, scenic trails, meadows and historic bridges.
But the city’s landmarks are made up of more than just concrete. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is filled with some of the world’s most exotic and beautiful plants. Enjoy the fragrant cherry blossoms in the spring or admire the garden’s own breed of magnolias in this 52-acre, year-round haven.
the local verdict
“It’s a peaceful oasis that temporarily suspends NYC fatigue,” says Yasmeen Chism, a frequent visitor to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
epicurean adventures
when you visit brooklyn, every traveler should taste: the caribbean flavors of crown heights + flatbush
Brooklyn is known for its amazing Caribbean food, so Let the colorful flags from nearly every island and the aroma of jerk seasoning lead you to the main streets of Flatbush and Utica Avenues. You’ll find an array of bustling restaurants and shops. Locals will point you to spots like Fisherman’s Cove, a favorite for its down-home Caribbean menu (think patties and the legendary jerk chicken) and casual counter service or Glady’s, where jerk meats, rum cocktails and complimentary scoops of coconut ice cream are crowd-pleasers.
local detour: salty, spicy korean barbecue found within the stylish, wood interiors of insa
After you’ve enjoyed your adventurous meal at this Gowanus neighborhood favorite, take some time to relax at the tiki bar or saunter over to one of the venue’s karaoke rooms to extend the evening.
the local verdict
“Whether you want an intimate corner to yourself or a loud karaoke group vibe, Insa offers the best of both worlds any given night. The menu has some great spins on some Korean classics, and it’s one of my favorite places to take friends to start or end our night,” says Brooklyn local Andrew An.
counter cultured
when you visit Brooklyn, every traveler should experience: the music hall of williamsburg
Just as New Yorkers favor quaint cafes and eateries, they also gravitate toward cozier spaces for live music. At the Music Hall of Williamsburg, you’ll catch the next big act—or veterans like Lauryn Hill—amongst one of the hippest crowds in the country.
local detour: tba music hall in williamsburg + a street art tour in bushwick
Discover New York's diverse nightlife culture at TBA, an electronica club fashioned out of an old auto shop. Located down by the Williamsburg Bridge (which connects Brooklyn to the lower east side of Manhattan), it's easily accessible by subway or rideshare service. This neighborhood spot features communal tables, craft beers and specialty cocktails.
For an artistic experience that extends beyond the walls of a museum, try a walking graffiti and street art tour through one of the largest outdoor galleries in the world—located on the north side of Brooklyn. The tour’s guide says, “Explore the history and culture of one of the longest running art movements, which exploded on the streets of Bushwick/East Williamsburg.” Along the way, learn how to spot and appreciate these fleeting pieces of graffiti art, murals, pasteups, stencils and installations before they disappear.
the local verdict
“TBA gives you the feeling of a small dance floor with the sound system of a big venue. It’s always a memorable, fun night—and they’ve even got empanadas at the bar!”” says local music fan Robby Trosan.
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