Best Places To Visit In Brooklyn: Historic Sites, Landmarks, More
With all the eye-catching landmarks, historical sites, and great places to eat - it's no surprise Brooklyn has more residents than the other four outer boroughs of New York City. Founded in 1634, the borough played an active role in both the Revolutionary and Civil War, and transformed into one of the first urban areas in the country. Here are some of the borough's best landmarks.
Brooklyn Bridge
Where: Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY 11201
In the year 1883, this historic suspension bridge was made available to the public. More than one hundred years later, New Yorkers still rely on this iconic Brooklyn landmark to travel between Brooklyn and Manhattan. Whether you choose to walk or bike across, it'll afford you a breathtaking view of the city's skyline.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Where: Pierrepont Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201
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Take a break from the bustling streets with one of the most serene spots in the entire city. Since 1950, New Yorkers have viewed this historic and peaceful destination as an escape from the noisy Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Equipped with playgrounds, trees, benches and a stunning view of the skyline, there's no surprise that the promenade continues to attract native New Yorkers and tourists alike.
Jane's Carousel
Where: Dock St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
No trip to DUMBO is complete for a group of kids (or kids at heart) without a ride around this newly-refurbished carousel, originally built in 1922. Today, young children across the borough can enjoy a memorable ride on this vintage merry-go-round.
Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum
Where: 5816 Clarendon Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11203
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For just five dollars, get a tour the home of a Dutch family who immigrated to what is now Brooklyn in the 17th century. Generations of the Wyckoff family lived in this historical landmark until 1901. Since 1982, the home has been toured by anyv visitor interested in learning about the history of the city's oldest home and the families that occupied it.
Soldiers' And Sailors' Arch Monument
Where: 20 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Constructed in 1892, this arch-shaped monument was dedicated to the Union soldiers who risked their lives during the Civil War. It mimics the appearance of the celebrated Arc de Triomphe monument in Paris. This Civil War Memorial is stationed in Brooklyn's Grand Army Plaza, a public plaza that consists of other notable Brooklyn monuments.
Brooklyn Borough Hall
Where: 209 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Constructed in 1848, this landmark with its picturesque columns is admired by its many visitors. After strolling through Downtown Brooklyn, feel free to relax on the stone steps of the hall or take a seat on a bench and admire the Grecian style architecture.
Wonder Wheel
Where: 3059 Denos D. Vourderis Place, Brooklyn, NY 11224
A trip to the famed Coney Island amusement park is never complete without a ride on the celebrated Wonder Wheel. Since 1920, this not-so-conventional Ferris wheel has continued to bring joy to its riders. Thrill seekers can opt for a sliding blue or red car, while other riders may choose to enjoy a relaxing ride and breathtaking view of the ocean in a stationary white car. Whatever car you choose, a ride on this historic attraction should not be missed!
Parachute Jump
Where: Parachute Jump, Boardwalk West. Brooklyn, NY 11224
If you're off to Coney Island, don't forget to catch a glimpse of the once-popular amusement park ride now dubbed the "Eiffel Tower of Brooklyn." Located in Luna Park, this Brooklyn landmark stands tall at 250 feet weighs a whopping 170 tons. Built in 1939, this large attraction stopped being used in 1964. Although it is no longer in operation, this former park ride continues to delight visitors to Luna Park with its beautiful light displays.
Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims
Where: 57 Orange St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
This historic church is deeply ingrained in the fabric of American history. Founded in 1847, the church functioned as a house of worship and a stop on the Underground Railroad.
Jackie Robinson House
Where: 85 Bradhurst Ave, New York, NY 10030
Home of the legendary professional baseball player, Jackie Robinson, this Brooklyn home was officially recognized as a landmark in 1976. Robinson and his family lived in the Brooklyn home from 1947 to 1949, the year he was recognized as the most valuable player.
Old Stone House of Brooklyn
Where: 336 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11215
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Venture back to 18th century America with a visit to a historic Brooklyn site known for the important role it played in the American Revolutionary War. Used by British troops during the Battle of Long Island in 1776, this historical home was later restored in 1933. Today, the historic home and its popular exhibit exploring the iconic revolutionary battle are available to the public.
Brooklyn Grange
This farm spans across the top of a building located in a historic district known as the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Since 2012, the farm, built on a 65,000 sqare foot roof, has provided communities with access to fresh and organic produce. All New Yorkers are encouraged to thrown on their best farm attire and escape the city for some farm fresh air in Brooklyn.
St. Ann and the Holy Trinity Church
Where: 157 Montague St. Brooklyn, NY 11201
Regarded as a national historic landmark, this Brooklyn Heights house of worship opened its doors to worshipers in 1847. The Gothic-style architecture of this historic church is bound to capture the attention of any passerby. With its intricately crafted stained glass windows, eye-catching steeple, and breathtaking interior, this is a sight you don't want to miss.
Brooklyn Historical Society
Where: 128 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Drop your text book and explore the rich, 400-year old history of Brooklyn first-hand at this public museum and library. Inspired by Romanesque architecture, the society's captivating terra cotta building opened its doors to the public in 1881. Since 1985, the building has operated as a museum and library with educational and thought provoking exhibitions.
Brooklyn Waterfront Museum
Where: 290 Conover St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Grab your floaties and prepare to dive straight into maritime history at the floating Water Front Museum. Discovered by a professional juggler and clown in 1985, this historical landmark offers the public a glimpse of maritime history for free.