A Beginner's Guide to Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn Bridge Park: Brooklyn Bridge Park is the best place to go for a walk and hang out. It basically runs along the Brooklyn waterfront, so there are amazing views of the city, with a super relaxing vibe. The park also has soccer fields, a basketball court and other activities, all around.

Prospect Park: Prospect Park is one of my all-time favorites! It's pretty big, and there are so many little paths that venture off the main course, that really make you feel like you’re not in a city anymore.

Brooklyn Museum: The Brooklyn Museum always has really cool exhibits going on, mostly fashion and music icons. The building itself is super beautiful and it's the next prospect park!

Botanical Gardens: The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens are a must-see. There is so much variety, and includes one of my favorite areas, the Japanese Garden, where you can see cherry blossoms when they are in season.

Fitness activities: There are a lot of cool fitness and wellness things to do around Brooklyn. Here are some of my favorites:

• Vital in Greenpoint — They are a climbing gym, but also have a bunch of different classes, such as cycling, rooftop yoga, etc.

• Ferox Ninja Park — Also located in Greenpoint, this place is super cool, with ninja-like apparatuses.

• The Bar Method — This place is super cute and fun. They offer Ballet Barre classes. I think it’s a super unique way to get a workout in.

• Brooklyn Boulder - Super fun. You can either take classes, or just go bouldering or rock climbing yourself.

Smorgasburg: Smorgasburg is a big, seasonal, outdoor food court, with various and diverse vendors. There are two locations, one in Williamsburg, and one in Prospect Park. If you go to Williamsburg, it’s really nice, right by the water. It’s right in front of a mini beach, which has amazing views of Manhattan.

New York Transit Museum: The NYC transit system is one of the most unique and historical transit systems in the world. This museum shows you everything you need to know, but in a really fun and unique way!

Thrifting: Brooklyn is the best for thrifting! Honestly, I could spend a whole day going around to the different stores.

• Artists & Fleas

• Monk Vintage

• L Train Vintage (multiple locations)

• Out of the Closet

• Underground Thrift

• Tired Thrift

Brado: Located in Cobble Hill, Brado has the best thin-crust pizza I’ve ever had! Check out their pastas, salads and sandwiches too!

Wanpaku: Amazing asian restaurant, with fun drinks and vibes. I love their ramen, and spicy salmon with fried rice. They have a speakeasy in the back!

Calabrije’s (best margs and tacos): This is one of my favorite places in Brooklyn to get drinks! They have over 10 different flavors of margaritas, and their tacos and food are super delicious.

Verde on Smith ($22 bottomless - good prices on food): This Italian restaurant is located in Cobble Hill, and is one of my favorite places for bottomless. It’s $22 per person for bottomless brunch drinks, everyday until 4 pm. Literally, the best deal I’ve found in Brooklyn.

Pierozek: As someone who is half Polish, I can confirm that this is one of the best pierogi places I’ve ever been to outside Poland! Located in Greenpoint, so delicious and authentic, and not too expensive!

Sister’s (nice ambiance and good food): Located between Fort Greene, Clinton Hill and Prospect Heights, this is my go-to place for brunch, or a relaxing dinner. Not only is their food amazing, but they have the cutest ambiance and vibes!

Randolph Beer Rooftop (beer and views): Located in Dumbo, this is a great place to grab some beers with friends. It’s super chill and they have a great selection of beers, not to mention it’s on a rooftop, so the views of Manhattan are amazing!

Time Out Market: This is a food hall filled with various food vendors that have been chosen by TIME OUT magazine. It’s pretty big, and is perfect for a food crawl! Also is right on the water, so there are some great views of Manhattan.