Brooklyn neighborhoods
Brooklyn, New York City’s most populous borough, is awash in history and culture. Originally a city in its own right, Brooklyn was joined with the surrounding areas, including Manhattan, in 1898 to form what we now know as modern day NYC. This rich history that goes back to the colonial era, has influenced the borough’s character, as well as its architecture, with large swaths of the borough being considered to be part of Brownstone Brooklyn as well as being designated historic districts. In recent decades even the neighborhoods outside of what would be considered prime Brooklyn have experienced a renaissance as the borough has been going through a major real estate and development boom.
The Best Neighborhoods in Brooklyn
Take a look at the best places to live in Brooklyn. Explore various areas and discover the coolest, safest and nicest neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
Bedford Stuyvesant
Bedford-Stuyvesant, better known by its shortened nickname of Bed-Stuy to most New Yorkers, has recently been making a name for itself as one of Brooklyn's most dynamic neighborhoods. Bed-Stuy has come a long way from its "Do or Die" days when Biggie called it home. Nowadays this largely residential neighborhood charms residents and visitors alike with its tree-lined streets and collection of over five hundred 19th century row-houses and brownstones, many of which are located in the Stuyvesant Heights Historic District. Bed-Stuy’s stunning architecture coupled with the areas attractive real estate prices has helped attract an influx of new residents and businesses, quickly revitalizing the neighborhood in the process. The neighborhood’s once rough and gritty streets are now home to dozens of hip cafes, trendy bars and restaurants, and some of the New York City’s best jazz clubs and lounges.
Boerum Hill
Boerum Hill offers its residents a delightful mix of classic old-world Brooklyn brownstone living combined with a more trendy West Village type vibe. The community is known for its tranquil, tree-lined streets as well as its architecture and is home more than two hundred 19th century townhouses and brownstones, most of which are located in the to appropriately named Boerum Hill Historic District. The neighborhood is conveniently located in the heart of Brooklyn, providing easy access to the borough’s many attractions and entertainment venues, including Barclays Center. It is also only a short 20-minute subway ride from Manhattan. Boerum Hill also offers plenty to do within its boundaries, especially when it comes to the district’s thriving shopping, culinary and bar scenes. The area surrounding Smith and Court Streets, in particular, is home to a bevy of chic shops, designer boutiques, hip bars, and trendy restaurants. Overall, Boerum Hill is one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn to live in.