The First Timers' Guide to Brooklyn

Being NYC’s most populous borough and possessing a land area that is almost three times the size of Manhattan, it would take several days to see all that Brooklyn has to offer—however, if you're short on time, fret not! We're here help to help you cover the essentials with this first-timers' guide to Brooklyn.

Coney Island

A favourite day trip destination for urbanites, Coney Island is situated at Brooklyn’s southern end and has evolved over 5 decades into becoming one of the biggest amusement areas of America. During the holiday seasons, urbanites flock down in droves to blow off steam on exhilarating rollercoaster rides and freak shows. 

Luna Park features an exciting bunch of rides, including the nostalgic 1927 Cyclone rollercoaster as well as the newer Thunderbolt rollercoaster. In 2020, the Park celebrated its 10th anniversary with a huge expansion plus brand-new rides like the Big WaveZ (an interactive water ride with inbuilt human movement sensors), a four-level Ropes Course Adventure Zone with a circus theme, the Super Flume Ride, and lastly, the family-friendly Junior Coaster. Luna Park also offers arcade games, cafes, live entertainment, and souvenir shops.

Also available on Coney Island is Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park, which features an eye-catching old-school ferris wheel and other spinning-related rides. If spinning isn’t quite for you, perhaps you’d find Scream Zone more to your liking—this park features the iconic Steeplechase Ride from 1908, as well as adrenaline-pumping rides like the Torpedo and Slingshot.

Foodies on Coney Island should not miss out on sumptuous hot dogs from Nathan’s Famous. The Coney Island Circus Sideshow is also worth checking out, as well as the 4.8km-long Boardwalk and Coney Island Beach.

Brooklyn Bridge

Built in 1883, Brooklyn Bridge is actually one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world and links the island of Manhattan to Brooklyn. It can be crossed by car or on foot—take the scenic walk over if you have time. Just bear in mind that crowds can be expected as Brooklyn bridge-crossing is a popular activity, so schedule your walk to take place in the earlier hours of the morning if squeezing amongst crowds bothers you.

It takes roughly an hour or so to leisurely cross the bridge. For those travelling in the winter, beware of merciless cold winds which can jeopardise your Bridge-crossing experience. You’re advised to cover up warmly before attempting to cross the Brooklyn Bridge in winter.

Brooklyn Flea

After crossing the Brooklyn Bridge head over to nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park (approximately a ten-minute walk) to see the cutely-named DUMBO—Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass—neighbourhood. Apparently, Brooklyn Bridge Park has helped the DUMBO area evolve from being an ordinary neighbourhood to a buzzing tourist attraction. The hugely popular outdoor bazaar known as the Brooklyn Flea can be found here. This flea market is truly impressive, with items ranging from vintage wares and records to the top-rated food market Smorgasburg. On a side note, the venue of the Brooklyn Flea is not fixed; do check up on possible venue changes and special features on Brooklyn Flea’s official website before heading over to avoid disappointment.

Prospect Park Brooklyn

Situated in the heart of Brooklyn, Prospect Park was designed by the same architect responsible for Manhattan’s Central Park. Offering a wide range of events and activities, this park is a must-visit in Brooklyn.

Hop on a boat tour, have a go at horse-riding or take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful natural surroundings. You’d also find historical landmarks such as the Grand Army Plaza, and the Prospect Park Zoo within this large park. The Park’s LeFrak Center also offers an ice skating rink during the winter, which doubles as a rollerskating rink in the summer. 

Pay a visit to the Prospect Park Boathouse and Audubon Center for an educational experience about the various species of bird that visit the park on a yearly basis. The Audubon Center also offers birdwatching tours for aspiring ornithologists. For history buffs, walking tours about ‘Brooklyn's Backyard’ are available.

If there in the summer, be sure to catch open-air concerts such as ‘Metropolitan Opera In The Parks’.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

A part of Brooklyn’s first ever Historic Preservation District, this renowned pedestrian walkway offers breathtaking views of lower Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Governors Island, Staten Island and the beautiful waterfront. 

After a walk along the promenade, have a go exploring Brooklyn Heights. A scenic residential neighbourhood, Brooklyn Heights is lined with countless restaurants and boutique stores especially along its main avenue Montague Street. Brooklyn Heights was once home to literary legends like Truman Capote, Arthur Miller, H.P. Lovecraft, among many others. Therefore, the annually-held Brooklyn Book Festival is a must-see in these parts.