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Brooklyn isn’t just a borough—it’s a whole vibe. One of NYC’s five boroughs, it’s got its own rhythm: creative, gritty, diverse, and always doing its own thing. Whether you’re walking across the Brooklyn Bridge with the skyline in view, riding the Steeplechase at Coney Island, or hopping off the L train into Williamsburg, you can feel it right away—this place has serious personality! Manhattan might get all the spotlight, but Brooklyn’s where a lot of the best food, art, and culture are actually happening.
What makes Brooklyn stand out is its crazy mix of cultures and constant creative energy. Walk a few blocks and you might hear Spanish, Russian, Yiddish, or Haitian Creole—and smell something amazing cooking on just about every corner. Neighborhoods like Crown Heights, Sunset Park, Greenpoint, and Bed-Stuy are packed with traditions, stories, and flavor. And the art? It’s everywhere—from murals on buildings to pop-up shows in repurposed warehouses. Over the next 72 hours, you’ll get a real taste of what makes Brooklyn so special. Ready to dive in? It’s all here.
There’s no way around it—New York is expensive, and short-term Airbnbs can be tricky. The good news is that Brooklyn has plenty of hotels at a range of prices. Staying near a subway or bus line is key for getting around easily.
Brooklyn Heights or Downtown Brooklyn are great spots to stay if you want easy access to the rest of the city. With tons of subway lines nearby, it’s simple to explore different parts of Brooklyn—and even Manhattan. You’re just a 15- to 20-minute subway ride from Lower Manhattan, so jumping between boroughs is no big deal. Plus, with so many train options within walking distance, everything feels really convenient.
While Williamsburg and Greenpoint aren’t quite as connected transit-wise—with fewer subway lines—they still have plenty of hotel options. These neighborhoods are packed with restaurants, bars, music venues, and shops, making them a great choice if you want to be right in the middle of the action.
Downtown Brooklyn: Ace Hotel, Nu Hotel, New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge, Tillary Hotel
Williamsburg & Greenpoint: Pod Brooklyn Hotel, Coda Williamsburg, Henry Norman Hotel, Franklin Guest House
Several subway lines connect Brooklyn and Manhattan, making it easy to get between the two. The A, C, F, and R trains are commonly used for direct routes, but other lines like the 2, 3, 4, 5, N, Q, and L also run through both boroughs, depending on the station. With so many options, you’re rarely more than a few stops from wherever you want to go.
To ride, you can tap your credit card or phone using OMNY at the turnstile or buy a MetroCard at any station. Buses are also a good option, especially for areas less connected by subway. They use the same MetroCard or OMNY tap system and can be a slower but more scenic way to see the neighborhoods above ground.
Driving is always an option—though taxis are easier to hail from Manhattan, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft make getting a car quick and convenient when your feet need a break. Just be mindful of rush-hour traffic.
Citi Bike is another solid choice, especially on nice days. You can rent by the hour or grab a day pass, and with docking stations scattered across Brooklyn and Manhattan, the app makes it easy to find one nearby. Still, the subway and bus remain the most budget-friendly ways to get around—and the subway will almost always take you the furthest, the fastest.
DAY 1 | Gowanus, Red Hook & BoCoCa
9 AM: Breakfast
Ready to kick off your day? Start in Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood—once a gritty industrial zone, now alive with ceramic studios, artist spaces, and a wave of creative new businesses. Grab a coffee at Principles GI Coffee House, a one-of-a-kind spot inspired by the antiwar cafés of the Vietnam era and DIY punk. More than just a café—it’s a bike-friendly, vegan, alcohol-free, sustainable community space that welcomes everyone.
Stop in and you may see people working on signs for a rally, a book club meeting, or someone fixing a bike. Or, if you’re in full vacation mode and want to start the morning with coffee and pie (go ahead!), head to Four & Twenty Blackbirds. Don’t sleep on the Salted Honey Caramel or the Black Bottom Oat—they’re game changers.
9:30 AM: Powerhouse Arts
Next up is Powerhouse Arts—but heads up, you’ll need to book a tour in advance. Whether you're into art, architecture, or both, this place is a must. Housed in a beautifully restored industrial landmark that once served as a hub for Brooklyn squatters, it’s now a nonprofit fabrication space with workshops for metal, wood, ceramics, textiles, and printmaking. Flexible performance and exhibition spaces make it a true creative home base for artists and the community alike.
Their ceramics studio is especially impressive—among the best in the city. Alongside multiple wheels and both electric and gas kilns, you’ll find top-tier equipment: 3D printers, slip-casting and mold-making tools, and even a hydraulic press. Member work is always on view, and depending on the day, you might stumble upon open studios, exhibitions, or community events. Currently, their festival is underway, with performances and special exhibitions—be sure to check their calendar before you go.
Need a break after the tour? Walk over to Public Records’ Café for specialty coffee, housemade pastries, vegan brunch and lunch, plus a curated mix of records, magazines, and merch. If you’re a sound nerd—or just love a good vibe—come back in the evening for their Sound Room: an immersive quadraphonic venue that blends live music and DJ sets in a truly one-of-a-kind sonic space.
12 PM: Pioneer Works
Take the B61 bus—or bike over—to Red Hook, a waterfront neighborhood where industrial grit meets maritime charm. With no subway service, it feels close-knit, almost like a village.
While you’re in Brooklyn, swing by Pioneer Works- a nonprofit space where artists, scientists, musicians, and technologists come together under one roof. Studios, galleries, and performance spaces fill the building, and there’s always something happening. Most events are free and if you’re around for Second Sundays, don’t miss it. This laid-back open house brings live music, art, workshops, and food into a chill scene that spills into the garden. It’s one of the best ways to experience Brooklyn’s creative energy in action.
1 PM: Redhook Galleries
A few blocks away, the Kentler International Drawing Spaceis a nonprofit gallery in Red Hook that showcases contemporary drawings and works on paper by emerging and often overlooked artists from around the world. The focus here is on giving artists room to experiment and rethink what drawing—and art in general—can be.
Look North Gallery is dedicated to promoting Inuit art through its curation of contemporary sculptures and prints from world-renowned artists and emerging talents.
If you are visiting on a weekend, the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (BWAC) , which always has one or two exhibitions on view. Their massive 25,000-square-foot gallery fills two floors of a historic waterfront warehouse in Red Hook. It’s an incredible space where local artists and partner groups showcase and sell their work through juried and member exhibitions year-round.
2 PM: Lunch
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Brooklyn delivers. Try Baked in Brooklyn or Brooklyn French Bakers for fresh pastries and breads. Or head to the waterfront for Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie, famous for its chocolate-dipped key lime pie on a stick.
Getting hungry? I bet you didn’t think Brooklyn knew its way around BBQ…Hometown BBQ will change your mind about that. There is also Red Hook Tavern, known for its legendary burgers, Red Hook Lobster, and Defonte’s Sandwich Shop.
Ready for a drink? Start at Sunny’s Bar, a Brooklyn institution since 1890. Once a watering hole for fishermen and longshoremen, it’s now a laid-back live music spot where you can catch bluegrass, folk, and other rootsy sets most nights. It’s one of those rare places that still feels like old-school Brooklyn.
Looking for something a little more elevated? Head to Botanica at Widow Jane for craft cocktails in a stylish space. Right by the waterfront, you’ll also find Red Hook Winery & Red Hook Cidery.
4 PM: BoCoCa Studios and Shops
From there, make your way back toward Gowanus and into BoCoCa—short for Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, and Carroll Gardens, Court Street, Smith Street, and Atlantic Avenue, which cuts through all three, are lined with cafés, restaurants, and indie shops If you’re in the mood to browse, check out spots like The Primary Essentials, Rue Saint Paul, Su’juk Vintage, Black Gold Records, Books Are Magic, Orphan Guitars, and Exit9 Gift Emporium to start.
This corner of Brooklyn is also home to a thriving ceramics community. Studios across Gowanus, Red Hook, Sunset Park, and BoCoCa include Blue Room Pottery, ClayGround,ClayHouse Brooklyn, Clayworks on Columbia, Hey Clay, The Pottery Studio, Third Ave Clay, Gasworks, Slowburn Ceramics, BAT Clay and Ovington Pottery. Each offers its own approach to clay and community—be sure to reach out for visiting hours, workshops, and events.
Take your time wandering; when dinner calls, try neighborhood favorites: Boran, Gersi, Cafe Spaghetti, Black Mountain Wine House, Rucola, and Chuko. Wrap up with a cocktail at Clover Club, Barely Disfigured, Bar Tabac, Long Island Bar, or Grand Army—some of the borough’s best spots for a nightcap.
DAY 2 | Prospect Park, Prospect Heights, Fort Greene, Downtown Brooklyn & Dumbo
8:30 AM: Prospect Park
Get an early start for Museum Day! Pick up a coffee and croissant at Colson’s, then take a stroll through Prospect Park. If you’re up early, head to the Long Meadow, where dogs run off-leash until 9 am. Brooklyn loves its pups, and watching them race across the grass is a beautiful way to start the day. Grab a coffee and bite in the park at Poetica Coffee or Winner.
9:30 AM: Brooklyn Public Library and Botanic Garden
Stroll through Prospect Park and exit onto Eastern Parkway, where you’ll find the Central Library, the main branch of the Brooklyn Public Library. A striking example of Art Deco architecture, it was built in 1941 to resemble an open book when seen from above. Its curved limestone façade, gold-tipped columns, and sculptural entrance make it a must for architecture lovers.
If you have the time, make sure to add the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to your list of stops. This 52-acre urban oasis is home to all kinds of plant life, from lush specialty gardens to tropical greenhouses, and even a world-class bonsai collection (some of the trees are over 100 years old and still living in their original pots).
There’s something to see no matter the season: cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in the fall, and warm, leafy escapes inside the indoor gardens when it’s cold out. They also host fun public events throughout the year—seasonal festivals, plant sales, performances, and family-friendly celebrations.
10 AM: Brooklyn Museum and Galleries
Right next to the library sits the Brooklyn Museumand it’s well worth a stop. Its collection spans the globe—ancient Egyptian artifacts dating back more than 3,000 years share space with standout works from European, African, Oceanic, and Japanese traditions.
Don’t miss the contemporary icons—especially Judy Chicago’s The Dinner Party, a groundbreaking feminist installation that uses embroidery, ceramics, and textiles to reframe so-called “women’s work” in the art world. You’ll also spot a massive KAWS piece alongside work by Kara Walker, Hank Willis Thomas, and other artists pushing modern boundaries. Check the calendar: there are often free events, including the always-lively First Saturdays with art, music, talks, films, and hands-on activities for all ages.
And if you're still in the mood for more art, wander the neighborhood and hit up spots like The Shirley Project, Five Myles,Gallery Particular, Jenkins Johnson Projects, Welancora Gallery, Established Gallery, The Living Gallery, and Richard Beavers Gallery- there’s always something cool going on.
12:30 PM: MOCADA, Urban Glass, BAM, and More!
When you’re ready for another museum, you can walk or ride to Fort Greene and pop into MoCADA(Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts). The focus here is on contemporary art from across the African diaspora, with thoughtful exhibitions and community programs.
Swing by UrbanGlass located in the historic Strand Theatre. It’s a top-notch glassblowing studio and gallery where you can catch live demos, rotating exhibitions, and even take classes. Don’t miss the shop, which sells handmade cups, jewelry, and more.
Nearby, you’ll also find the gallery at Brooklyn Metal Works, exhibitions at BKLYN Clay,BRIC,490 Gallery,plus films and performances at Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). BAM is one of the best places to catch innovative and experimental performances. If you’re in the area in the evening, be sure to book tickets in advance for the theater, plays, musicals, and more. Before leaving the neighborhood, take a stroll through Fort Greene Park—it’s the perfect way to wind down.
2 PM: Shopping
Need a break from museums and want to squeeze in a little shopping? Stop into A.MANO Brooklyn,a beautifully curated home décor shop featuring work by local artists. Browse vintage treasures, handmade ceramics, unique jewelry, art books, and design-forward stationery. There’s even a cozy coffee bar inside—perfect for a pick-me-up while you shop. Or, head down the street for a tasty sandwich to-go from BKLYN Larder, or settle in at one of the many great restaurants nearby before heading back to the subway.
2:30 PM: New York Transit Museum
Wrap up your museum tour at the New York Transit Museum tucked inside the old Court Street subway station. It can get busy with school groups, but it’s worth it—vintage subway cars, retro signage, and interactive exhibits like the signal tower all bring transit history to life inside a restored 1930s station. It feels like stepping back in time.
4 PM: Dumbo
From museums to galleries—hop on the subway and head to DUMBO (that’s short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). Once a gritty industrial zone, it’s now a creative hub filled with tech startups, airy lofts, and a buzzing arts scene. You’ve got standout spots like the nonprofit pioneers A.I.R. Galleryand St. Ann’s Warehouse Theater, and newcomer, The Rat NYC. Whether you’re into experimental performance, cutting-edge art, or just curious to explore, Dumbo has plenty to keep your attention. After soaking in the art, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park to relax by the water—or stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for unbeatable skyline views.
6 PM: Dinner
When it’s time to eat, Dumbo delivers. For variety under one roof, head to Time Out Market New York. If you’d rather sit down with river views, try Cecconi’s, Celestine, Superfine, The River Café, or Vinegar Hill House. And if you’re craving classic New York pizza (and don’t mind the wait), there’s Grimaldi’s. If you’re up for a night-cap with a view (or in walking distance of a view) try Harriet’s Rooftop, DUMBO House, Gair’s or Water Street Tavern.
Ceramic Studios
For a deeper dive into Brooklyn’s maker culture, explore the network of ceramic studios across Prospect Heights, Flatbush, Lefferts Gardens, Fort Greene, Downtown Brooklyn, and DUMBO. Notable stops include BKLYN Clay, Lucky Pig Pottery, Brooklyn People’s Pottery, Pottery Studio 1, Wedge Ceramics, Mouse Ceramic Studio, Flatbush Clay Works, Newcomb Studios, Craft Salon, and The MudBklyn. Each offers its own approach to clay and community, so be sure to reach out for visiting hours and events.
DAY 3 | Greenpoint, Williamsburg & Bushwick
9 AM: Breakfast
Greenpoint, Williamsburg and Bushwick, are neighborhoods packed with restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries—and you can easily hit all three by walking or hopping on the subway. Start your day with a leisurely brunch at Five Leaves, a Greenpoint favorite with a crowd-pleasing menu. Prefer something quicker? Grab a coffee and pastry from Paloma Coffee & Bakery, Radio Bakery, or the classic Peter Pan Donuts, then hit the streets.
Greenpoint buzzes with creative energy, and its vibrant gallery scene reflects that spirit. Explore art spaces such as The Boiler,Subtitled NYC, Greenpoint Gallery, Auxiliary Projects,Brooklyn Art Studios, Gallery Art &,and AM:PM Gallery.Afterward, browse unique local shops such as The Wondermart,TEND,and Brooklyn Craft Company.
Founded by James Klein and David Reid, Klein Reidhas spent over 30 years handcrafting vessels, lighting, and objects that blend fine craftsmanship with lasting beauty—pieces now found in museums, collections, and homes worldwide.
From there, continue through Williamsburg, Bushwick, and even Bed-Stuy to check out a network of ceramic studios. Highlights include Clay Space, Choplet Ceramic Studio & Gallery, Maison Clay, KeramoStudio, Studio Barro, Bushwick Ceramics, Yaro Studio, Dirtbag ArtHaus, Centerpoint Ceramics, Brooklyn Clay Industries, Wilcoxson Brooklyn Ceramics, Artshack Brooklyn, and e.e. Ceramics Studio. Each has its own unique style and programming—reach out directly for visiting hours, workshops, and events.
Cibone O’Te | Photo Courtesy: Nicholas Newcomb & Jill Bell
If you want to get a little something for yourself, swing by Dashi Okume Brooklyn, a Japanese shop where you can create your own custom dashi packs to enjoy on the spot or take home. Right next door, Cibone O’Te showcases work by Japanese artisans—ceramics, textiles, woodcraft—all thoughtfully made and beautifully displayed.
Before you leave the neighborhood, you must stop by Sunshine Laundromat—Brooklyn’s best laundry spot...just kidding (sort of). The laundry is real, but the real draw is the hidden back room packed with more than 200 pinball machines and a full bar. Part laundromat, part speakeasy, part arcade.
If you’re sticking around Greenpoint into the evening, catch a movie with a twist. In what might be one of NYC’s last actual DVD rental shops—yes, they still exist—is Film Noir Cinema, a 54-seat indie theater with a delightfully offbeat lineup. You might stumble into Super Volcano, Hotspring Shark Attack, or a deep dive into Japanese cyberpunk. It’s the kind of place that makes movie night feel like a hidden gem only insiders know about.
12 PM: Lunch in Williamsburg
Next stop: Williamsburg. You might be getting hungry, in which case, you’re in luck—this place is basically pizza heaven. You can’t go wrong with a slice from L’Industrie Pizzeria or Best Pizza, all top-tier, all totally worth the hype. Want something else? Not a problem. Switch it up with a roast pork sandwich from Fedoroff’s, grab something sweet and creative at BK Janie, or check out High Lua or Maison Premiere for something with a twist.
1 PM: Galleries
Once you’ve recharged, it’s time to explore the local art scene. Williamsburg is packed with galleries—start with spots like Dune, Caravalho, Choplet Ceramic Studio and Gallery, Summertime, Pierogi Gallery, Art Cave, and Snow Gallery. Take your time wandering and finding what speaks to you.
Into quirky, offbeat museums? Don’t miss The City Reliquary. This tiny-but-mighty spot is packed with NYC artifacts, rotating exhibits of local collections, and annual events that celebrate the city’s weird and wonderful past. Think film nights, costume contests, and the legendary Miss Subways throwback. Always worth checking the calendar to see what’s on.
Mogutable offers a curated collection of artisanal tableware and home goods, with a particular love for ceramics. Everything here feels intentional—simple, elegant, and full of quiet charm.
Mociun is a jewelry and home goods store with an emphasis on one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces.
Another can’t-miss spot is This is Latin America.More than just a shop, it’s a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture, craft, and community. From handmade ceramics and textiles to wooden pieces, stonework, and delicious treats, every piece is carefully selected to reflect the region’s traditions and artistry.
Make time for the Artists & Fleas Market. This buzzing marketplace is packed with locally made goods—think art, fashion, jewelry, and unique Brooklyn-centric souvenirs. It’s a great way to support independent makers and take a little piece of the neighborhood home with you.
2 PM: Domino Park
Before you head out, take a stroll through Domino Park—built on the site of the old Domino Sugar Factory—for killer views of the East River and the Williamsburg Bridge. Or grab a spot in McCarren Park for some top-tier people-watching.
3 PM: Bone Museum
Then swing over to Bushwick and check out the weird and wonderful Bone Museum—home to over 150 skulls and the largest public collection of human spines in the country (who knew?). You’ll get a look at everything from the medical bone trade to rare conditions like gigantism and trauma-related injuries. Fun!
4 PM: Studio Visit
Make your way over to the studio of multidisciplinary artist Karina Sharif, whose sculptural works blend paper, ceramics, and other media to explore the divine Black femme experience. Rooted in themes of rest, adornment, and sensory encounters, her pieces serve as both therapy and celebration, transforming everyday materials into vessels of healing and beauty. Email for an appointment.
6: Dinner and Night Out
When dinner time rolls around, if you’re ready for more stellar pizza, sure, you can follow the crowd to Roberta’s, but maybe try Ops, both are divine, and at Ops you can make a reservation. And if you’ve hit your pizza limit (is that even possible?), you’ve got options galore. From Ethiopian to Thai, Persian to Réunionese, Bushwick is a global food crawl waiting to happen. Try spots like Plaza Ortega, Bunna Cafe, Falansai, Eyval, Nowon, Maloya—or just wander around and see what catches your eye.
If you still have energy left and want to end the night on a high note, check out Bushwick’s nightlife and see what bands are playing live at Elsewhere, Starr Bar, or Alphaville, or dance it out until the sun rises at The House of Yes, TV Eye, Sultan Room, or Avant Gardner.
If you have one more day or a few hours to kill… Coney Island & Governor’s Island
It’s a bit of a trek, but a trip to Coney Island is iconic. Go for a swim in the Atlantic, crush a famous Nathan’s hotdog (or, you know, six), catch a Cyclones baseball game, and maybe even learn how to lay on a bed of nails at Coney Island USA’s Sideshow School. Take in the views from the Wonder Wheel at Luna Park, then scream your face off on the Cyclone wooden roller coaster. And of course, don’t leave without yelling “Warriors, come out and playyy!” like you’re in everyone’s favorite NYC cult classic. Maybe save those hotdogs for after the roller coaster…
Technically not Brooklyn, but just a quick 5–6 minute ferry ride away via Brooklyn Bridge’s Pier 6, Governor’s Island is a fun detour with unbeatable skyline views. Once a military base, it's now a lively public park filled with history, art, and a surprising sense of escape from the city.
There’s plenty to explore—lavender fields, hilltop slides, hammock groves, grazing sheep, rotating art, and food trucks. The island hosts everything from Jazz Age lawn parties to craft fairs and music festivals, so check the calendar before you go. Rent a bike, stroll around, or get on the water with a kayak or pedal boat for a whole new view of NYC. Check their website to see what’s happening while you’re there.
Brooklyn’s the kind of place that keeps unfolding the more you explore—full of stories, flavors, and unexpected gems around every corner. Whether you’re into food, art, music, or just good people-watching, there’s always something new to stumble upon. And while this guide covers a lot, there are still many more neighborhoods to check out—each with its own vibe and local flavor. You’ll leave feeling full, inspired, and probably already planning your next trip back.
Nicholas Newcomb is a Brooklyn-based ceramics artist and sculptor dedicated to the humble beauty of handmade pottery. With an interest in nature, design, and culture, Nicholas’s work is inspired by the textures, colors, and forms found all around us. Mentored by Toshiko Takaezu, he bridges the gap between art and design, emphasizing the energy and intention behind each piece to foster connection, reflection, and play.
As a co-founder of the Brooklyn Ceramic Arts Tour, Nicholas believes strongly in community building and supporting local ceramicists. His studio in Flatbush, Brooklyn, is a collaborative space where craftsmanship and creativity come alive. Through his work, Nicholas aims to celebrate the unique beauty of handmade ceramics and encourage curiosity and dialogue within the community.
Jill Bell is a Brooklyn-based ceramic artist and the founder and co-organizer of the Brooklyn Ceramic Arts Tour (BCAT), an annual event celebrating the borough’s vibrant ceramic community. A graduate of Moore College of Art and Design and Virginia Commonwealth University, she has exhibited widely across the United States, including work in exhibitions at institutions such as The Clay Studio (Philadelphia, PA), Clay Art Center (Port Chester, NY), Michener Art Museum (Doylestown, PA), and galleries from New Orleans to Portland. She has been recognized in competitions such as the Dirty South Cup (River Oaks Art Center) and Earth and Fire (Sedona Art Center). Through her art and curatorial work with BCAT, Jill continues to champion community, craft, and the evolving discourse of contemporary ceramics.
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