Brooklyn, New York City’s coolest borough, is a playground of history and culture. Crossing the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find a mix of historic brownstones and modern attractions. Brooklyn was an independent city until 1898, and it’s got the unique vibe to prove it. Get ready to dive into the best areas to stay in Brooklyn, NYC.
Accommodation Options in Brooklyn, New York
Brooklyn’s journey from an industrial powerhouse to a creative haven is fascinating. It was the site of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a major shipbuilding site during WWII. Today, it’s the birthplace of many trends in music, food, and art. For example, the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival started in 2005 and has grown into a major event. Accommodations here range from chic boutique hotels to budget-friendly spots, so there’s something for every traveler.
Got your walking shoes? Prospect Park, designed by the creators of Central Park, offers 526 acres of green space, including the Prospect Park Zoo and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The Brooklyn Museum, one of the oldest and largest in the country, houses an extensive art collection. In DUMBO, stroll along cobblestone streets for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and visit the historic Jane’s Carousel. Brooklyn hosts festivals year-round, like the Mermaid Parade in June and the Brooklyn Book Festival in September.
Night owls will love Williamsburg’s buzzing nightlife, with its rooftop bars and live music venues like the Brooklyn Bowl. Park Slope is perfect for families, with its playgrounds and proximity to Prospect Park. Bushwick’s vibrant art scene, including the Bushwick Collective’s street art gallery, draws creatives. Brooklyn Heights offers serene streets lined with historic brownstones and unbeatable views of the East River from the Promenade. Whether you’re interested in creative studios or classic architecture, each neighborhood has something unique to offer.
Keep reading to explore Brooklyn’s neighborhoods and discover what makes each one a great place to stay.
If you don’t have the time to read the full post, here’s a quick summary of our best areas to stay in Brooklyn. Keep on reading to find out more information about each of these districts.
- Best location for sightseeing: Downtown Brooklyn
- Best location for closeness to Manhattan: DUMBO
- Best location for alternative nightlife: Bushwick | Williamsburg
- Best location for families: Park Slope & Prospect Park
- Best location for business travelers: Downtown Brooklyn
- Cheapest area to stay in Brooklyn: Bed-Stuy
- Best area for LGBTQ+ travelers: Williamsburg
What’s the best area to stay in Brooklyn?
The best area to stay in Brooklyn is Williamsburg. Just one subway stop from Manhattan, it’s ideal for young travelers as it is a hipster hub with many cafes, bars, and music venues. McCarren Park offers sports facilities and green spaces, while Brooklyn Brewery is great for tours. LGBTQ+ travelers love popular spots like The Rosemont and Metropolitan Bar. Williamsburg has plenty of hotel options for budget or luxury stays, and it stands out among the best areas to stay in, not only in Brooklyn but also in NYC as a whole.
Find available accommodation in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Best Hotels in Williamsburg
- Best 5-star hotel: The William Vale
- Best 4-star hotel: Wythe Hotel
- Best 3-star hotel: Pointe Plaza Hotel
- Best budget hotel: Pod Brooklyn
The Coolest Areas to Stay in Brooklyn
While we recommend Williamsburg as the best area to stay in Brooklyn due to its alternative vibe and proximity to Manhattan, other neighborhoods offer unique experiences for travelers. These are some recommended areas to stay in Brooklyn:
- Greenpoint has a relaxed vibe, blending Polish heritage with an arts scene. As one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn, it offers quaint shops and waterfront parks. Ideal for romantic getaways or unique experiences, accommodation ranges from boutique hotels to guesthouses.
- Park Slope is family-friendly, featuring beautiful brownstones and tree-lined streets. It’s one of the safest areas to stay in Brooklyn and an excellent environment for families visiting NYC.
- Williamsburg is known for its vibrant nightlife and lively arts scene, making it one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn. With trendy cafes and unique shops, it’s perfect for those seeking a youthful atmosphere. Accommodation includes boutique hotels and hip hostels for travelers wanting to enjoy Brooklyn’s nightlife.
- Downtown Brooklyn serves as a bustling hub, perfect for convenience. Known for modern skyscrapers and shopping, it’s one of the best areas for business travelers and tourists to stay. Easy public transportation access makes exploring NYC simple, with both luxury hotels and budget options.
- Bushwick is famous for its vibrant street art and creative community, which attract artistic travelers. This area is one of the best places for young backpackers seeking a unique atmosphere to stay in Brooklyn. Accommodation options include trendy hostels and cool lofts for a memorable experience.
- Boerum Hill offers quaint streets and a strong community feel, ideal for a local experience. As one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn, it features boutique shops and cozy cafes. Visitors can find boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts for a comfortable atmosphere.
- Bed-Stuy is rich in culture and history, providing an authentic neighborhood vibe. Known for beautiful brownstones, it’s one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn, offering accommodations ranging from stylish hotels to cozy rentals to suit various budgets.
- Crown Heights is diverse, featuring vibrant markets and beautiful parks. As one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn, it’s great for budget travelers and families alike. Affordable accommodations ensure a comfortable stay, perfect for experiencing NYC.
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Brooklyn
1. Williamsburg
The best location for nightlife
The quintessential Brooklyn district, Williamsburg is a hub for young travelers and nightlife.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn, NYC:
- Arts scene
- Trendy cafes
- Waterfront parks
- Live music
- Unique shops
- Brownstone architecture
- East River Ferry
- Street art
- Smorgasburg market
- Bridge views
- Arts festivals
The third most hipster neighborhood in America, according to Forbes Magazine, Williamsburg is located in the northern part of Brooklyn, just one subway stop from Manhattan, making it a convenient neighborhood to stay in for city access.
Historically, Williamsburg was an industrial area with factories and warehouses that contributed significantly to New York City’s economic growth in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Hasidic Jewish community established a strong presence in Williamsburg in the 1940s and remains a vital part of Williamsburg’s identity, blending traditional Jewish culture with the modern, alternative environment. This transformation symbolizes Brooklyn’s gentrification and cultural renaissance.
Williamsburg is ideal for young travelers, nightlife enthusiasts, and the LGBTQ+ community. Its hipster charm is evident in the many cafes, bars, and music venues. Popular nightlife spots are The Rosemont, Brooklyn Bowl, and The Four Horsemen wine bar.
Key attractions in the area include McCarren Park, which offers sports facilities and green spaces, and Brooklyn Brewery, where you can take a tour and enjoy tastings. Furthermore, the East River State Park has beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline, and the Music Hall of Williamsburg offers live music and concerts. The Brooklyn Flea Market is the place to find vintage goods and antiques.
The neighborhood is well-served by several transportation options. The L train provides direct access to Manhattan with key stations like Bedford Avenue and Lorimer Street. Additionally, the G train, which stops at Greenpoint Avenue and Nassau Avenue, connects Williamsburg to other parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Several bus routes are also available.
Accommodation options in Williamsburg range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Williamsburg has many options, whether you’re looking for a trendy boutique hotel or an affordable stay. Overall, it stands out among the best areas to stay in Brooklyn.
Best Hotels in Williamsburg, NYC
The William Vale
With a 60-foot rooftop swimming pool and an award-winning chef overseeing the dining options on offer, The William Vale offers accommodations in Williamsburg, across the East River from Manhattan.
Wythe Hotel
Housed in a converted 100-year-old factory, the 69-room Wythe Hotel is located on the Brooklyn waterfront. Its industrial character has been preserved, and some rooms still showcase exposed brick walls.
Pointe Plaza Hotel
With a modern glass façade, this hotel offers rooms with free WiFi and a spacious bathroom just 4 mi from downtown Manhattan. The subway station is a 10-minute walk away.
Pod Brooklyn
The Pod Hotel Brooklyn offers complimentary WiFi and concierge services. The rooms are housed in four buildings separated by a courtyard and connected by bridges. Each room at The Pod Hotel Brooklyn is fitted with a flat-screen TV with cable channels.
2. Downtown Brooklyn & DUMBO
The best location to stay in Brooklyn to visit MANHATTAN
Downtown Brooklyn offers excellent connectivity to Manhattan and features attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge and Barclays Center.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn:
- Vibrant atmosphere
- Best area visit Manhattan
- Easy subway access
- Great shopping
- Diverse dining
- Cultural attractions
- Near Brooklyn Bridge
- Waterfront views
Downtown Brooklyn is located just across the East River from Lower Manhattan and offers many cultural attractions, dining, shopping, and nightlife options.
Downtown Brooklyn is accessible via subway lines A, C, F, R, 2, 3, 4, and 5, making it possible to reach Manhattan in about 10-15 minutes. The East River Ferry also provides easy connections.
This central district is home to DUMBO. An acronym for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” this area is a trendy neighborhood with a vibrant art scene and the most iconic views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges.
Historically an industrial hub, Downtown Brooklyn has transformed over the years into a bustling center of commerce, culture, and residential life. Some must-see attractions include the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), which hosts performances, films, and events, and the New York Transit Museum, which showcases the history of the city’s subway system. Nearby, Barclays Center is a major sports and entertainment venue.
DUMBO’s Brooklyn Bridge Park offers views of the Manhattan skyline, the Manhattan Bridge, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
There are many places to eat and have fun at night. You can find casual dining spots, food halls, bars, lounges, and upscale restaurants. There are also cafes, bakeries, and pizzerias. Additionally, Downtown Brooklyn has many shopping options, including big stores, boutiques, and small shops. There are also art studios and the DUMBO Flea Market.
Accommodation choices range from modern boutique hotels to budget-friendly options. Many hotels have rooftop terraces, fitness centers, and on-site dining.
Best Hotels in Downtown Brooklyn, NYC
New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge
New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge offers 638 rooms and 28 suites. This nonsmoking property’s rooms feature flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, mini-refrigerators, and coffee makers.
Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown
Featuring a complimentary breakfast, Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown is just 1 mile from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Free Wi-Fi access is available.
3. Greenpoint
An excellent area in Brooklyn for Polish food and culture
North of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is known for its Polish roots, great food, and laid-back atmosphere.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn:
- Charming streets
- Vibrant arts scene
- Delicious Polish food
- Scenic parks
- Unique boutiques
- Family-friendly
- Bike-friendly
- Near Williamsburg
Greenpoint is the northernmost neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. It is situated north of Williamsburg along the East River, offering scenic views and easy access to New York City’s most famous attractions.
Historically, Greenpoint was an industrial area with factories and shipyards. In the mid-19th century, it was known for its shipbuilding industry. Additionally, the neighborhood is often called “Little Poland” due to its important Polish immigrant community. As a result, Polish restaurants, markets, and businesses still thrive here. The Polish and Slavic Center on Java Street serves as a cultural hub for the community.
Like most of Brooklyn, Greenpoint has undergone a gentrification process. Today, artist studios, upscale restaurants, and waterfront parks have turned it into a very desirable district. Notable attractions here include Transmitter Park, which offers views of the Manhattan skyline and is located on the site of a former WNYC radio transmitter, and the Greenpoint Historic District with its 19th-century row houses. The Greenpoint Terminal Market, a weekend market featuring handmade crafts and food trucks, is also a popular spot.
The nightlife in Greenpoint includes music venues like the Warsaw, which combines punk music with Polish cuisine. Additionally, many bars and nightclubs make it an appealing place for young travelers. Greenpoint boasts unique spots like the Sunshine Laundromat, which doubles as a pinball arcade and bar.
Greenpoint is connected by the G train, with stations at Greenpoint Avenue and Nassau Avenue, providing access to other parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Several bus routes also service the area.
Best Hotels in Greenpoint, NYC
Henry Norman Hotel
The Henry Norman Hotel is in Brooklyn. Free Wi-Fi access is available. Each room here includes a TV, air conditioning and an iPod dock.
The Box House Hotel
This Greenpoint hotel is a converted factory with lofts and suites and curated original artwork. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant Brooklyn Lantern. Free WiFi is offered.
Franklin Guesthouse
Franklin Guest House offers accommodations in Brooklyn, New York. The property has free WiFi access and a fitness center.
4. Boerum Hill
one of the best districts to stay in Brooklyn, NYC
Boerum Hill offers boutique shopping and tree-lined streets.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn, NYC:
- Quiet, charming streets
- Beautiful brownstones
- Boutique shopping
- Trendy restaurants
- Cozy cafes
Boerum Hill is known for its historic brownstones and tree-lined streets. It is located just south of Downtown Brooklyn and offers easy access to many parts of the city. It is well-connected by the F and G trains at the Bergen Street station, making it convenient to explore Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Historically, Boerum Hill evolved from a working-class neighborhood to a sought-after residential area. The neighborhood features 19th-century homes and cultural landmarks.
Boerum Hill boasts attractions such as Boerum Park, Columbus Park, and the Micro Museum. Art lovers can explore Clover’s Fine Art Gallery, and comedy enthusiasts can enjoy live performances at the Eastville Comedy Club. Furthermore, the Invisible Dog Art Center is a multi-disciplinary arts center with exhibitions, performances, and workshops and the nearby Barclays Center offers sports events and concerts.
Dining and nightlife options include cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and bars. Atlantic Avenue, one of Boerum Hill’s main streets, has boutique shops, antique stores, and food markets.
Best Hotels in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn
Ace Hotel Brooklyn
Ace Hotel Brooklyn features a fitness center, garden, restaurant, and bar. This 4-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking throughout and is located a 10-minute walk from Barclays Center.
Hilton Brooklyn New York
Hilton Brooklyn New York is located in downtown Brooklyn. The property has an onsite restaurant, Black Walnut, and provides WiFi.
Holiday Inn Brooklyn Downtown, an IHG Hotel
Offering an indoor heated pool and indoor whirlpool, The Holiday Inn Brooklyn Downtown provides rooms with a desk, an iron with ironing board, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
5. Prospect Park
The best location for families visiting Brooklyn
Park Slope is a calm area with many local shops, cafes and beautiful brownstones.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn:
- Tree-lined streets
- Historic brownstones
- Near Prospect Park
- Great restaurants
- Unique boutiques
- Lively nightlife
- Relaxing parks
- Easy subway access
- Farmers’ markets
The Prospect Park area, located southeast of Downtown Brooklyn, is a great place to stay. This upscale area includes neighborhoods such as Park Slope, Prospect Heights, and Lefferts Gardens, known for their historic architecture, quiet streets, and green spaces.
Prospect Park, designed by the architects behind Manhattan’s Central Park and opened in 1867, is the centerpiece of the area. The park offers activities like boating, picnicking, and bird-watching. Nearby attractions include the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, home to many plant species, and the Brooklyn Museum, one of the largest art museums in the United States.
Other attractions include the Prospect Park Zoo, the Brooklyn Public Library Central Branch, and the Grand Army Plaza Farmers’ Market. The area also has shops, cafes, and bars, such as Union Hall and The Bell House.
Public transportation is convenient, with key stations like Prospect Park Station (served by the B and Q lines), Grand Army Plaza Station (served by the 2 and 3 lines), and Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center Station (served by multiple lines, including the 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, and R).
Accommodation options mainly include upscale apartment rentals in Park Slope.
Best Hotels near Prospect Park, Brooklyn
La Quinta by Wyndham Brooklyn Downtown
This Brooklyn hotel is 5 minutes from the subway station and 1.6 mi from the Barclays Center. It features a buffet breakfast.
Serenity Park Slope – Entire Brownstone apt.
This 1-bedroom apartment will provide you with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a living room. Additional in-room amenities include wine or champagne.
6. Bed-Stuy
An affordable area to stay in Brooklyn
Bed-Stuy offers a rich cultural history and a growing food scene.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn, NYC:
- Historic brownstones
- Rich cultural history
- Affordable accommodation
- Lively community vibe
Bed-Stuy, short for Bedford-Stuyvesant, is in northern Brooklyn, about 4 miles (6.4 km) from Manhattan.
Historically, Bed-Stuy has been an important area for the Black community, especially since the Great Migration, a period during the early to mid-20th century when many Black Americans moved from the rural South to urban areas in the North. This migration brought a rich cultural influence to Bed-Stuy, which continues to thrive today.
For visitors, Bed-Stuy offers several attractions. Restoration Plaza is a community center hosting events, arts programs, and local services. The Bed-Stuy Art Walk showcases murals and public art, reflecting the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage. Herbert Von King Park offers green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The Weeksville Heritage Center preserves the history of one of America’s first free Black communities.
Public transportation in Bed-Stuy includes the A and C subway lines, connecting the neighborhood to Manhattan in about 20 minutes. The G line also serves the area, providing additional connectivity.
Best Hotels in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn
Condor Hotel by LuxUrban
Located in Brooklyn, this boutique hotel features a charming stay with central access to many of Brooklyn’s attractions and venues. Bicycle and luggage storage and Free WiFi access are also available.
7. Bushwick
A hip and alternative area to stay in Brooklyn
Thanks to its murals, galleries, and unique bars, Bushwick is perfect for alternative nightlife and street art lovers.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn, NYC:
- Iconic street art
- Trendy coffee shops
- Vibrant nightlife
- Hip restaurants
- Indie art galleries
- Unique thrift stores
Bushwick is one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn, especially for those interested in arts and nightlife. Located in northern Brooklyn, it’s about 5 miles (8 km) from Manhattan.
Not unlike Williamsburg, Bushwick started as an industrial area in the 19th century and has turned into a center for arts and culture. The neighborhood is famous for street art, including murals and the Bushwick Collective, an outdoor gallery featuring work by local and international artists. The area has many galleries and performance spaces.
Attractions include María Hernández Park, which has playgrounds, sports facilities, and open areas. The House of Yes is a performance venue with shows, dance parties, and events. Kings County Brewers Collective is a local brewery with craft beers and a lively taproom.
Bushwick has various nightlife options, from dive bars to trendy clubs, with live music, DJ sets, and themed nights.
While Bushwick is farther from Manhattan than other districts, it has connections to the city. The L train runs through the neighborhood, connecting it to Manhattan in about 20 minutes. The J, M, and Z subway lines also serve the area.
Best Hotels in Bushwick, Brooklyn
Artistic Cozy Loft Retreat
Artistic Cozy Loft Retreat is located in Brooklyn. Free Wifi is available throughout the property. The apartment features one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a washing machine, and one bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
8. Crown Heights
Budget-friendly area to stay in Brooklyn
Crown Heights is a vibrant multi-cultural district with budget-friendly accommodation.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Brooklyn:
- Historic architecture
- Caribbean food spots
- Vibrant nightlife
- Easy access to Prospect Park
- Brooklyn Museum nearby
Crown Heights is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Brooklyn. Located southeast of Downtown Brooklyn, it’s about a 15-minute subway ride away.
Crown Heights developed significantly in the early 20th century with the construction of row houses and apartment buildings. The area is home to a large Caribbean community, and it’s famous for the annual West Indian Day Parade, a celebration of Caribbean culture since the 1960s.
For visitors, Crown Heights offers several attractions. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum and the Jewish Children’s Museum provide interactive exhibits. The Weeksville Heritage Center preserves the history of one of America’s first free black communities. Eastern Parkway features cultural landmarks.
Franklin Avenue has bars, lounges, and music venues. Public transportation options include the 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines with stations at Franklin Avenue, Nostrand Avenue, and Utica Avenue. The C line serves Kingston-Throop Avenues. Several bus routes also connect the area.
Best Hotels in Crown Heights, Brooklyn
Stay in Historic Brooklyn Townhouse
A recently renovated apartment, Stay in Historic Brooklyn Townhouse offers accommodations in Brooklyn. Both free Wi-Fi and on-site parking are available at the apartment free of charge.
