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New York: Always a Good Idea to visit Williamsburg

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Advisor - Chelsea File
Curated By

Chelsea File

  • New York

  • Solo Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Williamsburg

  • Outdoors

  • Nightlife

  • Entertainment

NYC skyline from across the East River after sunset
Curator’s statement

Williamsburg, Brooklyn is the perfect New York homebase if you're looking for great food, shopping and a neighborhood feel. The beauty of Williamsburg is that it is a quick subway or Uber ride away from the heart of New York City while still serving a more relaxed vibe. Williamsburg is anchored to Manhattan by the Williamsburg Bridge, and provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It's a place to explore, get lost and discover something unexpected.

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Where to stay in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

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Things to do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Chelsea File posing for a picture in Williamsburg, giving two thumbs up!

Hop off at Bedford Ave, and you are in the epicenter of Williamsburg. When it comes to shopping, there is everything from local vendors to luxury brands like Hermes and Le Labo. Spend hours exploring, and make sure to walk all the way to the water for a breathtaking view of the New York City skyline. While you’re shopping and wandering, you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Be sure to grab some grub and a coffee or matcha to keep your body energized all day. Venture to the waterfront, where you can find breathtaking views of the New York City skyline and wander into Domino Park. Domino Park is a 5-acre park with the original Domino Sugar Factory plopped among places to lay in the sun, yummy tacos by Danny Meyer and during the summer months, a mini-golf course! Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? Check out The Gutter, a bowling alley meets dive bar and pizza stop that boasts eight vintage hardwood lanes to show off your skill. Or take an adult circus lesson at STREB, a circus school with flying trapeze, aerial lessons and trampoline classes that will have you literally flying through the air.

For some off the beaten path activities, check out:

  • The Gutter: Adult-bowling? Yes! The Gutter is a dive bar meets bowling alley. There are limited lanes, so be prepared to wait, and have a drink (and maybe some pizza).

  • STREB: The circus is calling! Hop in a flying trapeze lesson or learn how to flip and bounce. This spot will make you smile and teach you some new tricks.

  • Nitehawk Movie Theater: Rainy day in the city or want a chill evening on the town? This place serves cocktails, gourmet food, and shows movies. The beauty of the Nitehawk is that they show both current films and some classics for those feeling nostalgic.

  • Smorgasburg: Traveling April to October? Famously coined "the Woodstock of eating," Smorgasburg is a seasonal outdoor food market where you can get a taste of what the New York food scene has to offer.

Day Trips:

Day trips to the city are always a fun adventure. For a quick trip to the city, stop by: The Whitney Museum, Washington Square Park, Little Island — the options are endless! Message me for a New York City guide based on what your interests are!

Places to Eat & Drink in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Fries with mash potatoes in a girls hand

Drinks:

  • Fresh Kills Bar: Your spot for craft cocktails -- fresh ingredients, no-menu, delicious cocktails made to order. These are some of the best cocktails around.

  • Eavesdrop: The weekend or happy hour spot — especially if you love music. This spot has small bites, craft cocktails and music in a space designed for sound. Bartenders curate the music, usually on vinyl. They also whip up some of the best martinis in town...I've had my fair share :)

Restaurants:

  • Misi: Craving a delicious meal where you can sit at a table or cozy up and the bar? Look no further. This is one of Missy Robbins' (also the chef at Lilia) spots, and it does not disappoint. Misi celebrates handmade pasta dishes and vegetable antipasti inspired by simple Italian cooking.

  • Laser Wolf: Rooftop views meets shared plates -- Laser Wolf serves fun Israeli-inspired food that lives up to the hype. Located in The Hoxton, Williamsburg, this spot typically has a long wait, so make a reservation or plan to grab a drink downstairs at the hotel bar.

  • St. Anslem: Open grill cooking at its best. This is where you come if you're craving one of the best steaks of your life. Do not be fooled by the meat-forward menu, because the veggies and seafood are just as delicious. If you have some luck, try to snag a seat at the bar so you can watch all the cooking magic happen in real time.

  • Five Leaves: The ultimate brunch spot (or weekday breakfast/lunch moment). Located right at the top of McCarren Park, this spot is perfect for alfresco dining and a solid meal. Whether you're craving eggs or a burger, this place has you covered.

  • Okonomi // Yuji: Looking for traditional Japanese breakfast? This spot is a little off the main drag and totally worth the adventure. Walk over from Bedford Ave or take the L train to Lorimer Street. Only open 9am – 2pm and with 12 seats, this spot has infinite charm and serves delicious Ichiju Sansai by day and Yuji Ramen by night.

  • Best Pizza: When you’re ready for your pizza moment, this is the place to go. Whether you want to go classic or spice it up with some prosciutto di parma and burrata, simply put…they have the slice you want.

Coffee:

  • Devocion: In need of a caffeine hit? This is your spot. Devocion sources its coffee directly from independent coffee producers throughout Colombia and is roasted in-house in Brooklyn. Beyond the delicious coffee, this cafe has a beautiful seating area with a huge sun roof and a two-story vertical garden.

  • Black Brick Coffee: Looking for a coffee alternative? This spot has a whole matcha menu along with delicious coffee options. My recommendation: the ginger turmeric latte. It is chef's kiss. What's great about Black Brick Coffee is their ample seating options (indoor and outdoor).

Advisor - Chelsea File

Travel Advisor

Chelsea File

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Alexandra Gonzalez’s itinerary, A Fall Weekend in New York City.

This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to New York City.

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