Brooklyn, New York

Fuhgeddaboudit
The famous “Now Leaving Brooklyn: Fuhgeddaboudit” sign, a playful and iconic landmark located at the Brooklyn end of the Brooklyn Bridge (specifically near the intersection of Sands Street and Prospect Street). It’s a nod to Brooklyn’s cultural identity, particularly its famous accent and slang. “Fuhgeddaboudit” (forget about it) is a classic Brooklyn-ism, popularized by movies and TV shows like The Sopranos and Goodfellas. It embodies the borough’s tough-but-charming attitude. File photo: Rosemarie Mosteller, licensed.

Brooklyn is one of the five boroughs of New York City and the most populous, home to over 2.6 million residents. Known globally for its artistic influence, cultural diversity, and distinct neighborhoods, Brooklyn has become a symbol of urban revival and gentrification. From historic brownstones to trendy cafes and iconic attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island, Brooklyn offers a rich mix of old and new that makes it a destination in its own right.

The Brooklyn Bridge with the Manhattan skyline in the background, as seen from the Manhattan Bridge. The iconic span connects Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan, offering one of the most recognizable views of New York City.
The Brooklyn Bridge with the Manhattan skyline in the background, as seen from the Manhattan Bridge. The iconic span connects Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan, offering one of the most recognizable views of New York City. File photo: oneinchpunch, licensed.

History

Originally settled by the Dutch in the 17th century as “Breuckelen,” Brooklyn became a city in 1834 and remained independent until it was consolidated into New York City in 1898. It has since evolved from an industrial and working-class area to one of the most desirable places to live in the city, known for its culture, art, and entrepreneurial energy. Historic landmarks, Civil War-era architecture, and immigrant roots are still visible today in many Brooklyn neighborhoods.

Coney Island, one of New York City’s most iconic seaside destinations. Behind the beach, the Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel and the historic Cyclone roller coaster highlight the amusement district that has drawn visitors for over a century. Known as both a residential neighborhood and a hub for leisure and entertainment, Coney Island offers a unique blend of classic boardwalk attractions, thrill rides, carnival games, and a festive seaside atmosphere.
Coney Island, one of New York City’s most iconic seaside destinations. Known as both a residential neighborhood and a hub for leisure and entertainment, Coney Island offers a unique blend of classic boardwalk attractions, thrill rides, carnival games, and a festive seaside atmosphere. File photo: Osugi, licensed.

Geography & Neighborhoods

Brooklyn spans over 70 square miles and is connected to Manhattan via multiple bridges and tunnels. It borders Queens to the northeast and has waterfront views of the East River, Upper New York Bay, and Jamaica Bay. Key neighborhoods include:

  • Williamsburg: Once industrial, now a hub for artists, creatives, and nightlife.
  • Brooklyn Heights: A historic district with cobblestone streets and panoramic views of Manhattan.
  • Park Slope: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and beautiful brownstones.
  • DUMBO (Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass): A tech and art hub featuring cobblestone streets and stunning skyline views.
  • Crown Heights: A culturally rich area with deep Caribbean and Jewish roots.
  • Bushwick: A hotbed for street art, loft living, and an emerging food scene.
Iconic view of Manhattan Bridge, New York City, USA seen from Washington Street in Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), Brooklyn with clouds coloring orange during sunset
The iconic view of the Manhattan Bridge as seen from Washington Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn, New York City. This famous vantage point, framed by historic red-brick warehouses, is especially striking at sunset when the sky glows orange and purple. File photo: 365 Focus Photography, licensed.

Attractions & Landmarks

  • Brooklyn Bridge: An architectural marvel connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan since 1883.
  • Prospect Park: Designed by the same minds behind Central Park, it’s a 526-acre green space with a zoo, lake, and bandshell.
  • Coney Island: An iconic beachfront boardwalk with amusement parks, Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, and summer fireworks.
  • Brooklyn Museum: New York City’s second-largest art museum, known for its Egyptian artifacts and contemporary exhibitions.
  • Barclays Center: Home of the Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty, and a major concert and event venue.
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden: A serene oasis featuring a Japanese garden, cherry blossoms, and plant collections from around the world.
Visitors pose in front of the mirrored DUMBO sign in Brooklyn, New York. The neighborhood, whose name stands for ‘Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,’ has become a popular destination for photos, waterfront views, and artsy, industrial-chic vibes.
Visitors pose in front of the mirrored DUMBO sign in Brooklyn, New York. The neighborhood, whose name stands for ‘Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,’ has become a popular destination for photos, waterfront views, and artsy, industrial-chic vibes. File photo: Sandra Foyt, licensed.

Dining & Cuisine

Brooklyn’s culinary landscape reflects its ethnic diversity and trend-setting culture. Notable highlights include:

  • Pizza: Try legendary spots like Di Fara, Lucali, or L&B Spumoni Gardens.
  • International eats: From Caribbean jerk chicken in Flatbush to Polish pierogis in Greenpoint to Middle Eastern fare in Bay Ridge.
  • Farm-to-table: Williamsburg and Fort Greene are full of locally sourced, seasonal dining options.
  • Markets: Smorgasburg in Williamsburg offers dozens of vendors and is one of the city’s top food destinations.
NEW YORK CITY, USA - OCT 20, 2015: Barclays Center is a multi-purpose indoor arena in Brooklyn, New York City. The arena was inaugurated in 2004.
Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York City, photographed on October 20, 2015. The arena, a striking architectural landmark, serves as a major venue for concerts, sports, and entertainment events, and is home to the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets. File photo: travelview, licensed.

Arts & Culture

Brooklyn is a major center of the arts. Its streets are filled with murals, galleries, and performance venues:

  • Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM): Hosts avant-garde theater, opera, dance, and film.
  • Street art and murals: Particularly prevalent in Bushwick and Williamsburg.
  • Local music scene: Indie bands, hip-hop artists, and DJs often get their start performing in Brooklyn venues.
New York City, Usa, 16/09/2014: iconic view of Dumbo, short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, a neighborhood in the New York City borough of Brooklyn
Street art mural in Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), Brooklyn, New York City. The neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, repurposed warehouses, and creative spirit, has become a hub for art, culture, and iconic city views. File photo: Naeblys, licensed.

Transportation

Brooklyn is accessible and well-connected:

  • Subway: Served by multiple subway lines including the A, C, F, G, J, L, M, N, Q, R, Z, and 2, 3, 4, 5 lines.
  • Ferries: The NYC Ferry connects waterfront neighborhoods to Manhattan and Queens.
  • Biking & Walking: With miles of bike lanes, parks, and bridges, it’s one of NYC’s best boroughs for walking and cycling.
Young tourist waiting for a train at the station in the subway, New York City
A tourist waits on the platform at Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall station in New York City. The station, located in Lower Manhattan, serves as a major stop on the city’s vast subway network and offers access to the nearby Brooklyn Bridge. File photo: AboutLife – Raev Denis, licensed.

Events & Festivals

  • Brooklyn Book Festival: Celebrates literature with readings, panels, and book fairs.
  • Coney Island Mermaid Parade: A colorful, quirky summer celebration.
  • West Indian Day Parade: Held on Labor Day, this massive event in Crown Heights honors Caribbean culture.
  • Bushwick Open Studios: A weekend-long open gallery event showcasing local artists.
Participants dressed as mermaids take part in the annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade in Brooklyn, New York City, on June 21, 2014. The parade, known as the nation’s largest art parade, celebrates creativity, summer, and the neighborhood’s seaside culture.
Participants dressed as mermaids take part in the annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade in Brooklyn, New York City, on June 21, 2014. The parade, known as the nation’s largest art parade, celebrates creativity, summer, and the neighborhood’s seaside culture. File photo: Serge Yatunin, licensed.

Living in Brooklyn

Brooklyn has a neighborhood for every lifestyle – from high-rise luxury in Downtown Brooklyn to quiet suburban-like streets in Marine Park. The cost of living can be high, especially in gentrified areas, but Brooklyn still offers more space and variety compared to Manhattan. It continues to draw young professionals, families, and immigrants alike.

Brooklyn stands as a dynamic, ever-evolving borough full of stories, flavors, and energy. Whether you’re crossing the Brooklyn Bridge for the first time or exploring its hidden neighborhood gems, Brooklyn offers an experience unlike any other – both deeply New York and uniquely its own.