Our Ten Best: Tourist Attractions in Brooklyn

“New York, New York”, as the great Frank Sinatra sang; New York is the one of the great meccas of the world. When tourists arrive, they are bombarded with places to visit but naturally they gravitate toward the city, Manhattan that is. There is so much more to offer though and with five boroughs making up the city, Brooklyn is the most populous of them all. It carries extreme diversity and its rich history makes it a point of interest. Tourists won’t be disappointed when checking out these attractions in Brooklyn.

10. Brooklyn Brewery- Looking for a place to wind down with friends or just enjoy a little self-indulgence? Brooklyn Brewery is the place for beer lovers. Opened in 1988, this Williamsburg hotspot’s famed brews are made in a warehouse that provides guided tours from Monday-Saturday. For reservations call (718)-486-7422.

9. Brooklyn Public Library (Central Library)- If you enjoy getting lost in the pages of a book, the Central Library is the perfect place. Opened in 1941, the Central Library is the largest in Brooklyn, with over 1 million publications. There are readings, lectures, and exhibitions open to the public. Due to recent renovations, when a coffee break is needed there is a café located near the main entrance. For more info logon to www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org or call (718)-230-2100.

8. Brooklyn Heights Promenade- Overlooking the East River, South Street Seaport, and the Brooklyn Bridge viewers can see the Manhattan skyline all from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The setting along this mass is one of serenity to sit and reflect. This is also a very romantic place to take a date. The Promenade leads to Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge), where there are lovely restaurants to dine. During the summer, movies are played outdoors, giving an old time feel for the family to enjoy.

7. The Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims- One of Brooklyn’s hidden landmarks; the Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims is extremely historic. Founded in 1847, the church has served as more than just a place of worship. Henry Ward Beecher was its first pastor who was a leader in the Abolitionist movement. It was at this church that it became a station for the Underground Railroad. Although the church still has active Mass, tours are given. To make an appointment call (718)-624-4743 or email [email protected].

6. BAM Opera House- The Brooklyn Academy of Music is America’s oldest performing arts center, founded in 1861. Visitors can catch an array of exhibits ranging from dance, art, music, and more. BAM also screens new cinema releases. All that is art, is BAM. To find out more about BAM’s venues call (718)-636-4100 or visit www.bam.org.

5. Prospect Park- Prospect Park is the “Central Park” of Brooklyn. The 3.36 mile stretch covers multiple areas in Brooklyn and serves as a plaza for many to enjoy outdoor activities. There are multiple playgrounds for children, along with an entrance to the Prospect Park Zoo. Currently under renovations, Wollman Rink is another spot within the mass that serves as a seasonal ice skating rink. Concerts are held in the summer and there are lots of areas for families to BBQ, while enjoying live entertainment. To access more information visit, www.prospectpark.org or call (718)-965-8951.

4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden- With admission at $10 (free for children under the age of 12), the Botanic Garden is the perfect place for plant lovers or even those looking for a peaceful ambiance. Founded in 1910, by Dr. Charles Stuart Gager the Botanic Garden now has over 12,000 plant forms. There are hands-on activities that visitors can participate in (preregistration required), ranging from planting tasks for children to pest management courses for adults. For more information on hours and location, visit www.bbg.org or call (718)-623-7200.

3. Brooklyn Museum of Art- Located at 200 Eastern Parkway between Classon Avenue and Underhill Avenue, the Brooklyn Museum of Art dates back to 1897. Constructed by the P.J. Carlin Company the museum has a vast number of exhibits making it one of the largest museums in the U.S. One of its primary collections consists of Egyptian works. The museum’s location is also surrounded by multiple landmarks, which makes for a fun filled day with the family.

2. Coney Island- A must go when visiting Brooklyn, Coney Island serves as a historical landmark as well as a local spot for the family to enjoy. Home to Luna Park, this theme park houses rides such as “The Cyclone” roller coaster, built in 1927; one of the oldest coasters in the U.S. Coney Island Beach is also located right behind the park. Some other sites at Coney Island include the Brooklyn Cyclones and the New York Aquarium. It is also the site of the Nathan’s hot dog challenge that occurs every summer.

1. Brooklyn Bridge- Designed by John Augustus Roebling, the Brooklyn Bridge has an extremely rich history. Its 5,988 ft. span was completed in 1883. After 129 years the bridge still serves as a link between Brooklyn and Manhattan. Other than being an in between for transport, there is a path to walk across the bridge which overlooks the East River. Biking is also allowed, as many use the bridge as a source of exercise.