Williamsburg

 

Williamsburg may just be the coolest neighborhood in the city! The stylish blend of street art, artisanal goods, and repurposed factories along with the stunning waterfront views of nearby Manhattan make this urban Brooklyn area a coveted haven for city-dwellers.

 

The ‘Burg, as it’s often known, was named for Jonathan WiIliamsburgh, a grandnephew to Benjamin Franklin. Williamsburg lost both its ‘h’ and its city status in 1855 when it officially became part of Brooklyn. 

 

Creativity has been a staple of Williamsburg since the 1970s when artists flocked to the area in search of studio space and easy access to Manhattan. While the neighborhood’s cultural influence has grown to include fashion, music, and food, modern-day Williamsburg retains a cool, artistic feel.

 

 

A hot spot of pop culture and style, Williamsburg is always buzzing. Here you’ll find the charm of artist-run boutiques and vintage shops as well as the convenience of large, well-known retail stores like Whole Foods and Apple. The vibe is carefree and artistic, with an emphasis on creativity and freedom of expression, and residents welcome authenticity and diversity.

 

Art galleries flourish in this chic neighborhood, and pop-up events keep the party going all night. Most bars have outdoor areas and residents keep them packed. With its expansive parks and lively creative scene, Williamsburg is perfect for artists, young professionals, and families looking for a dynamic and vibrant lifestyle.  

 

Foodies, you’re in luck! Williamsburg is known for its diverse, top-notch culinary options. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite with friends or have a taste for a specific cuisine, gastronomic Williamsburg is sure to please. Check out 12 Chairs Cafe and take a trip to Tel Aviv without even leaving the neighborhood! The Wythe Avenue cafe offers homemade Israeli and Middle Eastern food and wine.

 

Bushniwa is the place to go for artisanal sake and an extensive menu of sushi and Japanese specialties, while Roberta's is sure to please any pizza lover. Enjoy the casual vibe of this low-key pizza joint and try Bee Sting, the local favorite.

 

The go-to Thai restaurant in Williamsburg is Eim Dee Thai. The fresh, authentic recipes and friendly atmosphere make this one of the neighborhood’s best-kept secrets.            

 

Clear your schedule and get ready for a good time! Williamsburg has entertainment and activities for everyone. The music scene is particularly exciting, with both the Music Hall of Williamsburg, which offers live shows most nights of the week and the cultural beacon Brooklyn Steel. As the name implies, the music hot spot was once a steel factory and now hosts hundreds of concerts every year. Rolling Stone Magazine even named Brooklyn Steel one of the 10 best live music venues in America!

 

Outdoor enthusiasts will love McCarren Park, a 35-acre oasis in the heart of Williamsburg. Play handball, bocce, soccer, and tennis, or bring the pups and enjoy the dog run. The star of the show here is the Olympic-size McCarren Park Outdoor Pool, where locals (of all ages!) enjoy free swimming lessons. 

 

Make sure to set aside some time on Saturdays for Smorgasburg. This open-air food market is the largest in the country and has been called “The Woodstock of eating” by the New York Times.  

 

Williamsburg offers innovative educational opportunities, including: