Things to Do in Brooklyn Heights, 11 From a Local

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a beautiful 85-acre waterfront park that stretches 1.3 miles along the East River. Irresistible views of the Manhattan Skyline take center stage as happy couples pepper the lawn with picnic blankets and pizza boxes in tow. The park has a few attractions like playgrounds, sports fields, gardens and a scenic promenade.

It’s very popular in the summer months when the park hosts outdoor movies (July 11 – August 29 at Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn). I always make sure to bring out-of-town guests here, especially as sunset. Nobody is immune from the magical feeling of seeing the skyline light up for the night. This is one of my favorite things to do in Brooklyn Heights in the summer.

If you’re a bookworm, walking by Truman Capote’s home in Brooklyn Heights is a pilgrimage you won’t want to miss. Located at 70 Will Street, Capote lived in this home from 1955 to 1965 and wrote some of his most famous books, like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “In Cold Blood.”

The pre-Civil War building is a private residence and isn’t open to the public, but seeing the house from the outside is still a thrilling experience for bookworms. Capote’s residence proves that the neighborhood served as a safe haven for writers and artists many years ago, making this a must-visit spot for history buffs.

An eclectic mix of charming cafes, cute local shops and adorable corner restaurants, strolling down Montague Street feels like being on a movie set. Historically, Montague Street was seen as the commercial spine of Brooklyn Heights. But today the street serves as a lively community hub, where locals frequently gather to enjoy the perks of daily life in the neighborhood.

So whether you’re looking for a fun homemade gift, a good meal, or simply want to admire the historic architecture, there’s no denying that strolling down Montague Street is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn Heights.

Opened in 1973, Henry’s End is my favorite restaurant in Brooklyn Heights. It’s been owned by the same family for 40+ years and specialized in wild game dishes (like wild boar pot stickers and elk chops). The atmosphere is perfectly cozy and very inviting, too. Giving the restaurant endearing vibes few can resist.

Also worth noting, Henry’s End is renowned for their award-winning wine list, so don’t sleep on the recommendations being doled up by the sommelier. This is my go-to spot when I’m in search of romantic things to do in Brooklyn Heights.

Located in a magnificent Queen Anne-style building, the Center for Brooklyn History was formed in 2020 by uniting the Brooklyn Historical Society and the Brooklyn Public Library. The Brooklyn Historical Society been serving as a custodian of Brooklyn’s rich past since 1863 (for more than 150 years!).

The center houses an extensive collection of maps, photographs, and manuscripts that tell the story of Brooklyn’s evolution from a small Dutch settlement to one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods.

There’s also a slew of engaging exhibitions and speaking panels that offer deeper insights into everything from architectural to current social issues. Visiting the Brooklyn Historical Society will give you a deeper appreciation for the area’s history, it’s a must-do in Brooklyn Heights!

Atlantic Avenue is a melting pot of Middle Eastern shops, antique stores, and eclectic boutiques, reflecting the neighborhood’s diversity. The avenue is also known for its annual Atlantic Antic (one of the oldest street festivals in NYC). A stroll along Atlantic Avenue is one of the top things to do in Brooklyn Heights for anyone keen to feel like a local.

L’Appartement 4F began as a hobby for French expat Gautier Coiffard, who started experimenting with sourdough and croissant lamination during the pandemic. Encouraged by his wife, Ashley, they began selling their baked goods to friends, colleagues, and soon enough — to strangers.

The baked goods quickly gained popularity, leading them to open a storefront in Brooklyn Heights. Their success is evident by long lines every morning, everyone eager to get their hands on some authentic French pastries. Within a year, locals began billing this as the best bakery in Brooklyn, largely thanks to the exceptional croissants, especially ‘Le Framboise,’ a raspberry-chocolate-almond croissant.

Another big deal is the viral petite croissant cereal (each tiny croissant is hand-rolled in small batches). They only make a few boxes each day are notorious for selling out at opening. As mentioned, there’s almost always a line, but if you’re walking by and the line is short, pop in for some of the best baked goods in Brooklyn Heights (the coffee is great, too!).

The Binc is a stylish art-deco inspired cocktail bar that serves some of the best libations in town, making them a favorite among those in the know. This dimly lit spot feels warm and inviting, creating the perfect ambiance for a romantic date in Brooklyn Heights. Likewise, the friendly bartenders and laid-back vibe make it an ideal place for unwinding after a long day or catching up with friends. No matter what the occasion, The Binc is sure to fit the bill.

Adored for the unparalleled views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the majestic Brooklyn Bridge, walking the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a must-do while visiting Brooklyn Heights.

The scenic esplanade stretches for 1/3 of a mile and is lines with benches, blooming plants and interesting plaques detailing the history of the area. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely walk, or prefer to start your morning with a brisk jog, it’s hard to to think of a better place to start the day.

Housed in a decommissioned 1936 subway station, the unique New York Transit Museum takes a deep dive into the evolution of New York City’s robust public transportation system. Housing an extensive collection of vintage subway cars, visitors can (literally) step back in time and experience the commute folks made 100 years ago.

The museum offers a hands-on learning experience with interactive exhibits, detailed reconstructions, and engaging tours that illuminate the engineering marvels that lay below ground. From the early days of horse-drawn carriages to the modern subway, visiting this museum is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn Heights for families.