New York Dearest
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The Best of New York · By neighborhood · Brooklyn

The best things to do in Brooklyn.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 15 places.

As a local, Brooklyn has a hold on me. What I love most about Brooklyn is how different each neighborhood feels. You can walk from quiet, tree-lined streets in Carroll Gardens to the industrial edges of Gowanus, or go from a cozy café in Park Slope to a gallery opening in Bushwick, all in the same afternoon. All this to say, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Brooklyn!

I thought it was time to finally share my personal guide to Brooklyn (the places I return to often). Whether you’re visiting for the first time or already live here and just want new ideas for how to spend a weekend, this list has you covered.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide

Best things to do in Brooklyn, 2026

  1. Bar BlondeauBar · Williamsburg
  2. Brooklyn Botanic GardenPark · Prospect HeightsFounded in 1910, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a spot you can’t afford to miss while visiting Brooklyn.
  3. Brooklyn BridgeLandmark · DUMBOWalking across the Brooklyn Bridge is an famous New York experience.
  4. Brooklyn Bridge ParkPark · DUMBORelaxing in the park with your special someone is (easily) one of the most romantic things to do in Brooklyn.
  5. Brooklyn MuseumMuseum · Prospect HeightsThe Brooklyn Museum is often overlooked by those visiting Brooklyn for the first time, which is a pity.
  6. Domino ParkPark · Williamsburg
  7. Dyker HeightsLandmark · Dyker HeightsThis neighborhood is worth a detour for anyone researching the best things to do in Brooklyn during Christmas.
  8. Green-Wood CemeteryLandmark · Greenwood HeightsGreen-Wood Cemetery spans 478 acres and the spring blooms simply can’t be beat.
  9. Industry CityOther · Sunset Park
  10. Red Hook TavernRestaurant · Red HookRed Hook Tavern graces our list of the best burgers in New York City, but not without reason.
  11. Time Out MarketMarket · DUMBOThis my go-to spot when traveling with a group of friends who never agree on where to eat because there’s something for everyone.
  12. Brooklyn FleaMarket · DUMBOThe Brooklyn Flea (located in DUMBO) is considered one of the best flea markets in NYC.
  13. New York Transit MuseumMuseum · Downtown Brooklyn
  14. Peter LugerRestaurant · WilliamsburgPeter Luger has earned a reputation among locals for offering some of the best dry-aged steaks in New York.
  15. Prospect ParkPark · Park SlopeRegardless of the wrangle, one thing is certain, relaxing at Prospect Park is easily one of the most relaxing things to do in Brooklyn.

On the map

Where they are.

9 neighborhoods, DUMBO and Williamsburg most of all.

DUMBO

Williamsburg

Prospect Heights

Downtown Brooklyn

Dyker Heights

Greenwood Heights

Park Slope

Red Hook

Sunset Park

Best things to do in Brooklyn, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 19 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn (Helpful Guide & Tips).