Brooklyn is New York City's most populous borough, and the second largest in area. Like Manhattan, Brooklyn is made up of neighborhoods -- each with their own culture and history. Brooklyn is also home to many great restaurants, shops and cultural institutions, making it a wonderful place to visit when you come to New York City. Check out our list of things to see and do in Brooklyn for some inspiration for your visit.
More: Where To Eat in Brooklyn
1. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Heather Cross
One of New York City's iconic landmarks, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a wonderful experience. If you want to walk across the entire span of the Bridge, I recommend going from Brooklyn to Manhattan -- watching the Manhattan skyline emerge as you walk across the Bridge is really amazing. Alternatively, you could experience both skylines unfolding if you walk from Manhattan to the halfway point and walk back.
2. Take the Train to Coney Island
Heather Cross
Coney Island is just a train ride away from Manhattan, but it feels worlds apart. Busiest during the summer months, Coney Island feels equal parts beach escape and kitchy carnival.
3. Explore Prospect Park
Heather Cross
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Prospect Park welcomes 8 million visitors every year. The 585-acre Prospect Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who also designed Manhattan's Central Park. Prospect Park offers a wealth of activities and events throughout the year, making it a worthwhile destination for locals and visitors alike.
4. See Art at the Brooklyn Museum
One of the country's largest and oldest art museums, the Brooklyn Museum is easily accessible from Manhattan and is home to a world-class collection representing works from ancient Egypt to the present.
5. Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Heather Cross
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2010, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of New York City's top outdoor attractions. Whether you want to learn about horticulture, admire the beautiful gardens or simply enjoy a peaceful "escape" from the city, the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens is a great destination. It's particularly well-known for its annual Cherry Blossom Festival, but they host exhibitions and events year-round.
6. Play at the Brooklyn Children's Museum
Opened in 1899, the Brooklyn Children's Museum was the first museum created specifically for children and inspired the creation of children's museums around the world. Since completing a major renovation and expansion in 2008, the Brooklyn Children's Museum offers a wonderful range of interactive exhibits and activities for children to enjoy and explore.
7. Meet the Sea Lions at the New York Aquarium
Photo by Julie Larsen Maher © WCS
CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO DAMAGE FROM HURRICANE SANDYLocated along the Boardwalk near Brooklyn's Coney Island, the New York Aquarium is New York City's only aquarium. With over 8,000 animals on exhibit, the New York Aquarium strives to educate visitors about aquatic ecosystems and encourage visitors to advocate for their preservation.
