There's a lot of local pride in Brooklyn. To many who live within its 81 square miles, Brooklyn is more than a
New York City borough. It's also a personality, an attitude and a living treasure. With over 2.5 million people, Brooklyn is the home of larger-than-life personalities such as Woody Allen, Jay-Z and Mae West. You'll find blocks of brownstone townhouses, up-and-coming places to eat and a cultural vibe that's uniquely Brooklyn.
A lot of
history happened in Brooklyn. Breuckelen, as it was once called, began as a Dutch settlement. During the Revolutionary War, major battles were fought here including the famous Battle of Brooklyn. By 1860, Brooklyn was America's third largest city, attracting people seeking work in refineries, iron works, and breweries. You can learn more at the
Brooklyn Historical Society in Brooklyn Heights. Don't forget to take in the picture-perfect view of the
Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan downtown skyline at the nearby promenade.
For another scenic view, visit
Prospect Park, a creation of Frederick Law Olmstead, who also designed Central Park. Right across from the park is the
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, with its Japanese garden and more than 10,000 plant species.
Creative types will find a cultural oasis in Brooklyn. Visit the Brooklyn Museum of Art, where the exhibits range from astounding Egyptian artifacts to provocative contemporary
art. The
Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) showcases innovative works in
performing arts. Or take a grand tour of
galleries in neighborhoods like DUMBO and Williamsburg, where many young artists are making their mark.
About 38 percent of Brooklyn's population are immigrants, making the borough a mosaic of
ethnic culture. Find Italian enclaves in Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst, Russian markets in Brighton Beach, and New York's other Chinatown in Sunset Park. This rich diversity and local flavor have made Brooklyn a great place to try out
restaurants. Order Polish pierogies in Greenpoint, grab a slice of authentic
New York pizza in Midwood, or check out a rising chef at a bistro in Boreum Hill. Try boardwalk food at Coney Island before catching a game with the Brooklyn Cyclones, a minor league affiliate of the Mets.