The Complete Area Survival Guide & Top Hotel Picks To Help You Find The Best Places To Stay In Brooklyn

Find the best places to stay in Brooklyn with this list of 15 trendy, comfortable, and unique accommodations in New York’s hippest borough.

This article may contain links from our partners. We may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. Please read my privacy policy to learn more about affiliate links and how I keep this blog sustainable.

As New York’s trendiest borough, Brooklyn pulses to the beat of its own drum, seamlessly blending gritty streets with avant-garde art, music with expression, and old factory buildings with hip new clubs, bars, and hotels.

While Manhattan boasts its towering landmarks, Brooklyn whispers its own story of vibrant streets, creative enclaves, and a sense of community permeating every corner. 

Over the past decade, Brooklyn has emerged as a magnetic force, drawing in travelers seeking an authentic New York experience. It’s a place where you can wander through historic neighborhoods that have transformed into hubs of innovation, dine at cutting-edge eateries where culinary artistry takes center stage, and soak in the views of a cityscape that never sleeps.

This blog takes you on a journey through the best places to stay in Brooklyn, each one reflecting a facet of this borough’s multifaceted identity. From sleek urban retreats to boutique guesthouses tucked within historic neighborhoods, we’ve scoured the borough to curate a list that showcases the very essence of Brooklyn’s allure. Join us as we explore the trendiest spots, the hidden gems, and the inviting havens in one of New York’s great buroughs.

The words "Best Places to stay in Brooklyn" printed over an image of a city street at night.
Click to save and pin to your travel board!

The Best Places To Stay in Brooklyn at a Glance:

✨ Best affordable place to stay in Brooklyn: Hotel Le Bleu 

⭐ Best luxurious place to stay in Brooklyn: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

✨ The trendiest place to stay in Brooklyn: Henry Norman Hotel 

⭐ The most creative place to stay in Brooklyn: Penny Williamsburg

Table of Contents:

15 Best Places To Stay In Brooklyn

From modern and eco-conscious luxury to chic and creative ambiance, nearly every hotel in Brooklyn offers a unique stay that will make your trip one of the most memorable vacations of your life. Innovative artistry, tranquil havens, and elegant comfort await in this list of the top 15 best places to stay in Brooklyn. 

A graffiti wall covered floor to ceiling.
Street art in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

1. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Tucked beneath the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a 10-story haven that offers a city oasis for adventurous travelers. The rooms, adorned with greenery and reclaimed materials, provide a retreat-worthy ambiance. Seriously, you’ll never want to leave your room. 

But, if you can pry yourself away from your cozy escape, make your way to the sprawling 4,000-square-foot rooftop crowned with an exquisite infinity pool overlooking New York City. Here, you’ll have a front-row seat in one of the best places to watch the sunset over the Manhattan skyline.

Embracing an industrial-chic style, the hotel is adorned with eco-friendly details showcasing its commitment to sustainability. You’ll also find a bar/lounge and a delicious restaurant (which you can also order via room service). Even if you decide to stay at a different hotel on this list, make sure to stop by for a classic NYC brunch—it’s one of the best in the area.

Vibe: City Zen
Budget check: 💲💲💲
Neighborhood: DUMBO
Nearest Subway Station: High Street

2. William Vale Hotel

Luxury meets affordability at the William Vale Hotel. As one of the best places to stay in Brooklyn, this five-star sanctuary won’t leave your wallet gasping. Perched high in Williamsburg, this urban sanctuary offers spectacular city skyline views from its lofty chambers. Don’t miss the chance to bask in the allure of the rooftop bar, Westlight, or savor delectable Italian cuisine.

The William Vale Hotel transforms your stay into an immersive experience, from stylish modern rooms to captivating balcony panoramas. An inviting outdoor pool stretches 60 feet, a true rarity in the city. Even if you’re not a guest, you can snag a day pass for rooftop pool access and experience the opulence firsthand.

Vibe: Relaxation Getaway
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Nearest Subway Station: Bedford Avenue

3. Henry Norman Hotel

For an authentic Brooklyn experience, the Henry Norman Hotel is your go-to. Housed in a 19th-century warehouse still showcasing exposed pipes, tin ceilings, and the ever-so-classic NYC exposed brick walls, each room is a masterpiece of eclectic decor and industrial chic design

This hotel is a neighborhood favorite for artists and digital nomads. And, if you’re looking to stay awhile, consider upgrading your room to the Loft Suite, which comes with its own fully functioning kitchen.

If you’re not interested in cooking your own food—or simply want to try some of Brooklyn’s best food options—the Henry Norman Hotel is still a juicy choice. It’s right down the street from Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop, an authentic Brooklyn bakery where you can grab a couple of jelly-filleds and enjoy the pastry goodness at Henry Norman’s outdoor terrace.

Standing in the middle of a quiet neighborhood, a quick 15-minute walk from McCarren Park, the Henry Norman Hotel offers a respite of tranquility within bustling Brooklyn. Relaxation meets creativity in this haven, ideal for the curious traveler seeking an authentic glimpse into local life.

Vibe: Hip & Trendy
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Greenpoint
Nearest Subway Station: Greenpoint Av

4. The Box House Hotel

Also located in Greenpoint, the Box House Hotel is a swirling world of color and originality, perfect for adventurous and creative travelers. Formerly a door factory, this boutique gem presents apartment-style rooms, each a realm of space and character as local artists decorate them.

Situated near the Pulaski Bridge, If you’re looking to explore Greenpoint and its surrounding areas, The Box House Hotel is the perfect place to start. It’s near a plethora of trendy restaurants, bars, galleries, and boutiques. 

Request a room with a Manhattan view for an extra special backdrop to your adventure in this hotel, where modern design merges with comfort.

Vibe: Stylish Boutique 
Budget check: 💲💲💲
Neighborhood: Greenpoint
Nearest Subway Station: Vernon Blvd – Jackson Av


Life's Too Short Not To Travel. Click here to receive a FREE printable 6-day travel planner and plan your dream vacation in minutes.

5. Hotel RL Brooklyn

Budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic Brooklyn experience will find solace at Hotel RL Brooklyn. This hip haven is nestled next to a subway station and offers a minimalist design and a vibrant ambiance. It’s one of the best places to stay in Brooklyn if you’re looking to keep your wallet padded and your stay comfortable. It’s also perfectly located for adventurers looking to explore nearby Bushwick and Bed-Stuy.

The Hotel RI Brooklyn may not be the most serene hotel on this list. It’s located next to the subway, which means you might learn what it really means to stay in the City That Never Sleeps. But it’s still a fantastic option, especially if you’re a heavy sleeper.

This location is a bit of an up-and-comer, and the rooms are smaller than some of the other locations, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be comfortable! Hotel RI Brooklyn is hip, trendy, cute, and one of the best spots in town to listen to local music.

PSA: This is also a pet-friendly location!

Vibe: Hipster Vibes
Budget check: 💲
Neighborhood: Bushwick and the border of Bed-Stuy
Nearest Subway Station: Kosciuszko Street

6. Penny Williamsburg

Brooklyn is the trendiest borough in New York City, with a population made up of artists, musicians, and creatives. Penny Williamsburg is one such hotel embracing the diversity that makes Brooklyn so unique. As the new kid on the block, Penny Williamsburg just opened in 2022—it’s fresh, it’s new, and it’s trendy AF.

Before it opened, Penny Williamsburg commissioned the local landscaping artists at Verdant to craft lush foliage throughout the hotel and an enchanting terrace meadow. The hotel’s bright greenery spills over Penny Williamsburg’s foundation, adding a spark of vibrancy to the streets of this NYC neighborhood. 

Embracing the art theme of Brooklyn, guests here will find curated art books by The Strand littered throughout their rooms. Additionally, the hotel has partnered with non-profits and features exceptional art by local New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. 

Vibe: Artful tranquility
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Nearest Subway Station: Metropolitan Av

7. The Hoxton

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a hotel in Brooklyn that is not a stylish boutique designed to make your stay feel like vacation heaven with ample opportunity for Instagram-worthy pictures. That’s why any of the hotels on this list can be considered some of the best places to stay in Brooklyn. Still, The Hoxton in Williamsburg is one of the best of the best.

Hailing from across the pond, The Hoxton brings boutique British charm to Williamsburg. 

Also built within a former factory, this hotel offers a sleek design, attentive service, and a rooftop bar with enviable views of the Manhattan skyline. This stylish hideaway invites you to explore Williamsburg’s trendsetting enclave while indulging in affordable luxury.

Vibe: Suave & Artsy
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Nearest Subway Station: Bedford Av

8. The Williamsburg Hotel

Elevate your Brooklyn experience at The Williamsburg Hotel, a masterpiece by London-based Michaelis Boyd Studio. 

A fusion of brick, glass, and Corten steel encases rooms boasting double-height ceilings and expansive windows. The hotel offers a complimentary bike rental service, so you can explore everything Brooklyn offers. 

Once you’re done on your biking adventure, return for some R&R at the Williamsburg Hotel rooftop pool. Then grab a bite to eat at a restaurant headed by Melissa O’Donnell, who has received a Michelin Bib Gourmand award not once but FIVE times. Next, order after-dinner drinks at one of the three bars on the property.

Vibe: Urban Oasis With A View
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Nearest Subway Station: Bedford Av

9. Hotel Le Bleu 

Experience tranquility at Hotel Le Bleu, an Art Deco haven in the heart of Park Slope. Amidst the bustle of New York City, find respite in these spacious and beautifully adorned rooms. Views of Brooklyn’s charm greet you at every turn, while the simplicity of the design creates an ambiance of calm within the urban whirlwind.

If you’re driving, then Hotel Le Bleu might be the perfect stay for your vacation because they offer free self-parking—a true luxury when it comes to the limited parking spaces available in the city.

Other amenities this property offers include a fitness center, business center, and complimentary breakfast AND snacks. 

Vibe: Serenity
Budget check: 💲
Neighborhood: Park Slope
Nearest Subway Station: 9 St

10. Franklin Guesthouse

For those seeking an extended stay, let me let you in on a little secret… 

Franklin Guesthouse in North Greenpoint. Here you’ll find your home away from home when you stay in one of this hotel’s spacious studios and suites, complete with fully stocked kitchenettes and cozy lounge areas featuring an artistic flair. 

At the Franklin Guesthouse, a warm and welcoming staff goes above and beyond to make you feel at home, whether it’s arranging thoughtful gestures or offering assistance.

Vibe: Homey Haven
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: North Greenpoint
Nearest Subway Station: Nassau Av

11. Nu Hotel

If you were looking for a hotel where you get your own in-room hammock, then look no further. The Nu Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Brooklyn for this reason. Not only does it embrace the artistic side of Brooklyn, but every guest has the opportunity to kick back and swing their worries away in their private hammock inside their room. 

If the hammock didn’t have you convinced, then maybe the convenience of the location will. Nu Hotel sits at the crossroads of Boerum Hill and Downtown Brooklyn, making it a strategic base for urban explorations. 

The hotel offers urban suites featuring recycled hardwood floors and organic sheets, while the walls are decorated with modern art. The hotel’s prime location allows you to delve into Brooklyn’s vibrant tapestry, from leisurely strolls across the Brooklyn Bridge to immersing yourself in the captivating tree-lined neighborhood. 

Ease into your day with a complimentary breakfast, then embark on an adventure with a borrowed bike or a workout in the 24-hour gym.

Vibe: Boho Deluxe
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Downtown Brooklyn
Nearest Subway Station: Hoyt – Schermerhorn Streets

12. Pod Brooklyn

Stepping into your room at Pod Brooklyn feels like you’re stepping onto the set of a sci-fi futuristic feature. Designed in the ever-so-efficient pod style, this hotel is nothing if not the epitome of modern innovation. The rooms here are simplistic and don’t offer much in the way of amenities—but who cares?! You’re here to explore.

Pod Brooklyn is located right across the street from the plant-based restaurant, The Butcher’s Daughter, and is close to an abundance of other restaurants and bars in the area. 

It’s the perfect location to explore all of Williamsburg and even venture out into other parts of Brooklyn.

While at the hotel, gaze through oversize windows onto verdant courtyards and rooftops, all connected by glass walkways and living walls, creating a harmonious blend of nature and urbanity.

Located a stone’s throw from Bedford Avenue, Pod Brooklyn grants easy access to neighborhood favorites and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re seeking exploration or relaxation, this pod life experience promises a unique and memorable stay.

Vibe: Pod Life
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Nearest Subway Station: Metropolitan Av

13. Even Hotel Brooklyn

Even Hotel Brooklyn emerges as a serene retreat amidst the vibrant energy of Downtown. A gateway to the best neighborhoods like Park Slope and Fort Greene, it invites you to a realm of wellness and relaxation

Immerse yourself in the two-level fitness studio, featuring a living green wall and rejuvenating fitness classes like yoga and spin.

With a contemporary and calming aesthetic, the hotel envelops you in an ambiance of tranquility. 

Indulge in fresh, natural food at Cork and Kale restaurant, and retreat to accommodations adorned with natural wood and soothing hues. Embrace the Even ethos with in-room fitness zones, spa showers, and adjustable LED lights, a haven of well-being.

Vibe: Relaxation and Rejuvenation, Baby
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Downtown Brooklyn
Nearest Subway Station: Nevins St

14. Ace Hotel Brooklyn

The Ace Hotel in Brooklyn is the type of place where you might see an artist perform right before they make it to the big leagues. As one of the best places in New York to catch a live music show, the Ace Hotel is also one of the best places to stay in Brooklyn. 

Music, art, and the vibrant beating of Brooklyn’s creative scene converge at Ace Hotel Brooklyn. Positioned on the residential fringes between Boerum Hill and Fort Greene, this boutique gem showcases the pulse of the borough. Local musicians and artists frequent this creative hub, making it a hotspot for the city’s creative minds.

Vibe: Underground Music Scene
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Downtown Brooklyn
Nearest Subway Station: Hoyt – Schermerhorn Streets

15. Wythe Hotel

In the dynamic tapestry of Brooklyn, the Wythe Hotel stands as a pioneer of hospitality, a true landmark that shaped the borough’s luxury landscape since its opening in 2012. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Williamsburg, this eight-story former factory captures the essence of Brooklyn’s creative spirit and urban energy.

Positioned at the epicenter of Williamsburg’s effervescent Bedford Avenue, the Wythe Hotel boasts an unparalleled location, surrounded by a top-tier selection of bars, restaurants, clubs, and a bustling creative scene.

Yet, what truly sets the Wythe Hotel apart is its waterfront allure. 

Drink in sweeping views of the East River and the iconic midtown Manhattan skyline from the comfort of your room. Whether it’s the tranquil moments gazing over the river or the vibrant energy of the surrounding neighborhood, the Wythe Hotel perfectly summarizes the essence of Brooklyn living.

Vibe: Chic Urban Haven
Budget check: 💲💲
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Nearest Subway Station: Nassau Av

A person stands at a cross walk wearing a backpack

Where Not To Stay In Brooklyn

As a visitor, you’re not likely to run into one of Brooklyn’s “bad neighborhoods.” But if you’re looking for the best places to stay in Brooklyn, it makes sense that you’d want to know which places to avoid. Luckily for tourists, the gritter parts of town typically lack economic, social, and cultural resources, meaning that there wouldn’t be much to draw you to these areas.

Still, it’s good to know these things so you can plan your trip efficiently. When visiting Brooklyn, stay away from Brownsville. Not only is Brownsville a bad part of Brooklyn, but it’s the most dangerous part of New York City as a whole. This part of town sees 1,300 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, with homicides being the most common occurrence.

This sketchy neighborhood is situated between East New York Ave and Linden Blvd. If you’re taking the L or 3 train, know that these lines pass through this area, though the 3 cuts service here at night as a safety precaution. But don’t worry, there are many subway stops before you reach this part of town—you’d have to be extremely lost (or fall asleep on the train) to wind up here.

But if you find yourself in Brownsville, seek assistance from a conductor who can guide you out of the neighborhood and to a safer place.

Getting Around Once You’ve Found The Best Place To Stay In Brooklyn

Like most of New York City, Brooklyn offers a variety of options to get around. The choice is truly up to you and what you feel the most comfortable with. Here are three options for how to get around Brooklyn once you’ve found the best place to stay:

Subway

The subway is the most convenient way to get around Brooklyn and the rest of New York City. New York has one of the best subway systems in the world, and it’s easy to use, even if you’ve never ridden the train before. 

The fare costs $2.90 (it just went up from $2.75 for the first time in years). 

You don’t need a special card to enter the subway station. Instead, with the convenient OMNY tap system, all you need to do is tap your credit or debit card or your mobile wallet on the pad connected to the turnstile, and the system will let you through.

To make things even easier, you also don’t need a map to navigate the subway system (although you can access one here if you’d like). Google and Apple Maps are connected to the subway, so simply enter your destination, and your phone will give you step-by-step directions on where to get on, when to get off, and when to switch trains if needed.

Ferry

Like NYC’s subway system, Brooklyn also has a ferry system with multiple lines and stops. This means you can curate your Brooklyn adventure to be even more unique by exploring all this borough has to offer via the ferry. 

A one-way pass on the ferry is $4, and it makes stops at the most popular Brooklyn neighborhoods like DUMBO, Atlantic Ave, Red Hook, Bay Ridge, North Williamsburg, and Governor’s Island.

Taxi or Uber

Taxis are available throughout the city and are an easy and convenient way to travel between excursions. If you’re nervous about hailing a cab, you can always ask the doorman or concierge at your hotel to do it for you. 

When hailing your own cab, make sure you check for an illuminated light on the taxi’s roof sign. If the center number is lit, this means that the taxi is available. If the entire sign is lit up, the taxi is not currently on duty.

Even more convenient than a taxi is ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. At the touch of a button, you can have a car called and sent to your location. 

Ride-sharing is often cheaper than a cab. So, it’s a wonderful option for those who are traveling on a budget and don’t want to take the subway. 

Practice travel safety

While tech makes our lives easier, practicing caution and travel safety’s always a good idea. Here are a few tips for safely calling an Uber or Lyft:

  1. Request your ride while indoors, surrounded by others nearby.
  2. Confirm the assigned car’s make and model on your app before entering the vehicle.
  3. Before stepping into the car, ask the driver who they’re picking up to ensure they’re the right vehicle.
  4. Opt for the back seat for a safer exit on either side when the driver pulls over for drop off.
  5. Utilize in-app location sharing with a trusted contact to keep them informed of your whereabouts.
  6. While ride-share drivers may engage in friendly conversation, refrain from divulging personal details.
  7. Trust your instincts. Even if it seems trivial, always listen to your intuition.

Walking

Like the rest of New York City, Brooklyn is designed for walking. This is, of course, the cheapest way to travel throughout Brooklyn. And sometimes, it might even be faster. When waiting for a train, taxi, or Uber can be 15 minutes or longer, sometimes it’s just faster to reach your destination on foot. 

No matter what, if you’re visiting Brooklyn—or any part of New York, for that matter—you’ll be doing a lot of walking. So make sure you’ve got yourself a good pair of walking shoes like these ones.

Also, while Brooklyn is a pretty safe place, it’s always wise to be vigilant. Practice travel safety with these walking tips:

  • Always let someone know where you’re going.
  • Don’t walk alone at night if you can help it.
  • Keep your eyes on the road (or sidewalk) and not on your phone.
brooklyn bridge

FAQs About Visiting Brooklyn

Okay, so now that we’ve covered where to stay and how to get around, let’s make sure that all the boxes for this guide are checked off by going over a few frequently asked questions.

What is the most walkable neighborhood in Brooklyn?

When it comes to walkability in Brooklyn, a few neighborhoods truly stand out. According to Walk Score—a website that measures walkability based on the accessibility of amenities—Cobble Hill and Brooklyn Heights take the lead as the most walkable neighborhoods in the borough. These vibrant enclaves boast a near-perfect score of 98, offering a plethora of amenities within easy reach.

Not far behind, Boerum Hill, Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Carroll Gardens, Gowanus, and Park Slope all impressively score 96 or 97, making them incredibly pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods where daily errands and leisurely strolls can be accomplished on foot. 

Luckily enough, several of the hotels on this list of the best places to stay in Brooklyn fall in these areas, including 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, Even Hotel Brooklyn, and Nu Hotel.

What is the most popular Brooklyn Street?

Flatbush Avenue is Brooklyn’s most famous street. It’s the main street that stretches from the iconic Manhattan Bridge down to the scenic Rockaway Peninsula. 

As a bustling thoroughfare, it’s adorned with a rich tapestry of eateries, shops, and notable landmarks, among them the prominent King’s Plaza Mall, one of the few places in NYC where you can find typical Mall of America stores like Macy’s, ULTA, and Burlington all in one place.

Is Brooklyn a good place to stay as a tourist?

The answer to this question depends on what you’re looking for as a tourist. For instance, if you want to spend most of your time on Broadway and in Time Square, then Brooklyn may not be the best choice for you—although still not a bad one! 

If you take the train from Brooklyn to Midtown Manhattan, you’re likely looking at a 30-minute to an hour subway ride, which is doable but not ideal when you are only visiting for a short amount of time. 

However, the borough of Brooklyn itself offers loads of things to do for tourists. Brooklyn offers amazing street art, art galleries, and events. There is also a lively music and night scene. So, if you want to explore one of NYC’s hippest areas, then Brooklyn is a fabulous place to stay. 

The best neighborhoods to stay in Brooklyn

While there are many splendid areas to visit, the best neighborhoods to stay in Brooklyn are Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Downtown Brooklyn, Park Slope, and DUMBO. 

These locations offer glamorous accommodations, are close to transportation, and are nearby plenty of bars, restaurants, and galleries to spend your time.

Is it better to stay in Brooklyn or Manhattan?

Brooklyn and Manhattan are two completely separate beasts. So, deciding whether it’s better to stay in Brooklyn or Manhattan is like comparing apples and oranges. It really depends on your preference.

Brooklyn is very trendy and hip. It offers:

  • Cheaper accommodations than Manhattan
  • Is more spacious
  • Features fewer crowds
  • And is much quieter in comparison. 

It’s also where Coney Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens are.

On the other hand, Manhattan is where you’re going to get the iconic New York City vibe with the bustling streets and bright billboards. In Manhattan, you’ll find:

How to get to Brooklyn

Brooklyn has the nice advantage of being close to three major international airports. This makes visiting Brooklyn possible for people from all over the world.

How to get to Brooklyn from JFK

JFK International Airport, situated to the east in Queens, is the central hub for Delta, American, and JetBlue. The AirTrain system makes transportation easy by efficiently transporting passengers throughout the city, particularly via the Howard Beach station, which offers bus and subway connections to Brooklyn.

How to get to Brooklyn from LGA

Although smaller than JFK, LaGuardia Airport thrives as a domestic flight hub and is also located in Queens. While public transportation from LaGuardia to Brooklyn entails a longer journey, it’s still possible, though taxis and Ubers are going to offer a more comfortable and quicker experience.

How to get to Brooklyn from EWR

Newark Liberty International Airport, across the river in New Jersey, is another viable option for Brooklyn-bound travelers. As United Airlines’ NYC hub, it offers extensive domestic and international routes. You can get to Brooklyn from Newark Airport via public transit—albeit with a few connections and transfers. Or, you can take a taxi or Uber. 

Keep in mind travelers coming from Newark are going to take the longest time getting to Brooklyn, and it might be the most expensive route as taxis, and Ubers will have to go through heavier tolls. But this airport might make the most sense because of the flight options, and it’s worth it to consider it when purchasing your tickets.

What attractions are in Brooklyn?

Now that you know the best places to stay in Brooklyn, let’s go over some of the best things to do in New York City while you’re here:

Best attractions in Williamsburg

The cross roads at Bedford Av featuring a wall mural showcasing a girl with her head on her hands.

Williamsburg, perched on the East River’s edge, is the epicenter of hipster culture in the city. The neighborhood pounds with an eclectic energy that reverberates through its independent boutiques, trendy designer outlets, and a myriad of bars and restaurants. The streets are adorned with vibrant street art and murals, offering a visual feast that complements the neighborhood’s creative spirit.

Williamsburg’s strategic waterfront location ensures more than captivating views—it provides a gateway to iconic Manhattan attractions and an array of city highlights. So not only is Williamsburg one of the best places to stay in Brooklyn, but it’s also one of the best places to stay in all of New York City for adventurers who want to experience more than one borough. 

The best things to do in Williamsburg include:

  • Domino Park
  • McCarren Park
  • Bushwick Inlet Park
  • Brooklyn Brewery
  • Williamsburg Bridge
  • Shopping
  • Street art
  • Music & Nightlife

Hotels in Williamsburg:

Best attractions in DUMBO

The Brooklyn Bridge

Once you start exploring New York City, you’ll find that a lot of neighborhoods have abbreviated nicknames like DUMBO. Short for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” DUMBO is one of Brooklyn’s most coveted neighborhoods. Nestled along the East River waterfront, DUMBO beckons visitors with its breathtaking vistas of the magnificent New York City skyline, graced by the majestic silhouettes of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge.

Brooklyn’s DUMBO is an ideal base for visitors looking to explore both Brooklyn and Manhattan because of how close it is to NYC’s epicenter.

The best things to do in DUMBO include:

  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • Manhattan Bridge
  • Brooklyn Heights Promenade
  • Time Out Market
  • Brooklyn Bridge Park

Hotels in DUMBO:

Best attractions in Downtown Brooklyn

Aerial view of Downtown Brooklyn

Downtown Brooklyn is the heart and soul of the borough and a beacon for all those who are wanting to experience Brooklyn in its most authentic. A leisurely stroll leads to an array of enticing dining options in Fort Greene and Fort Greene Park, along with the culinary delights of the DeKalb Market’s food hall and shopping haven.

Downtown Brooklyn’s allure extends beyond its proximity to key venues—it’s a gateway to an array of experiences in neighboring Fort Greene and Boerum Hill. This trifecta of neighborhoods encapsulates the essence of urban Brooklyn, providing a multifaceted backdrop for an immersive and well-connected stay.

Best things to do in Downtown Brooklyn:

  • Barclay’s Center
  • Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)
  • Long Island University
  • Brooklyn Tabernacle
  • DeKalb Market
  • Fort Greene Park
  • Junior’s Cheesecake

Hotels in Downtown Brooklyn:

Best attractions in Park Slope

A row of brownstone houses

Nestled within the enchanting embrace of brownstone-clad streets, Park Slope emerges as an unassuming gem among Brooklyn’s stay options. Its discreet charm and proximity to Manhattan attractions, facilitated by an intricate web of subway lines, make it a compelling option for one of the best places to stay in Brooklyn. 

Anchored by the lively thoroughfares of 5th Avenue and 7th Avenue, Park Slope exudes a vibrant dining and shopping scene, all within easy reach of Downtown Brooklyn’s Barclay’s Center.

Park Slope is also conveniently located near an iconic Brooklyn treasure: Prospect Park. Designed by the same visionaries behind Central Park, Prospect Park offers a lush playground of nature and leisure.

Things to do in Park Slope:

  • Barclay’s Center
  • Old Stone House
  • Explore 5th Avenue Shopping & Dining
  • Explore 7th Avenue Shopping & Dining
  • Prospect Park
  • Grand Army Plaza
  • The Brooklyn Museum
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden
  • Prospect Park Zoo

Hotels in Park Slope:

Best attractions in Greenpoint

A city scape next to a river

Much like its waterfront counterparts, Williamsburg and DUMBO, Greenpoint is a superb neighborhood to capture the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. 

As the northernmost enclave of Brooklyn before the landscape segues into Queens, Greenpoint offers a unique fusion of panoramic views that stretch across the river, connecting seamlessly with the city’s bustling heart. This strategic location offers swift access to Queens, Manhattan, and the broader expanse of Brooklyn, facilitated by an array of subway lines and the ever-convenient NYC ferry services.

Beyond its visual allure and premium location, Greenpoint beckons with a tapestry of experiences that cater to diverse preferences. The neighborhood’s culinary landscape is a mosaic of delectable options, inviting visitors to embark on a gastronomic journey that mirrors the city’s eclectic spirit. Alongside its dining treasures, Greenpoint unfurls a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, ensuring that every corner is a potential source of exploration and entertainment. 

Things to do in Greenpoint:

  • WNYC Transmitter Park
  • Domino Park
  • Williamsburg Bridge
  • Brooklyn Brewery
  • McCarren Park
  • Bushwick Inlet Park

Hotels in Greenpoint:

Best attractions in Bushwick

Overview of Brooklyn with the Manhattan skyline in the distance

While all of Brooklyn is bursting with vibrant and creative energy, there’s nothing else like Bushwick. Nestled within the heart of Brooklyn, Bushwick emerges as an irresistible haven for those enthralled by street art, Hispanic culinary delights, and an electrifying nightlife. 

This neighborhood stands as a testament to creativity, epitomized by the renowned Bushwick Collective—an expansive open-air gallery adorned with an array of vibrant murals, each a testament to the collaborative spirit of artists spanning the globe. Bushwick’s artistic tapestry seamlessly blends with its cultural identity, creating a captivating ambiance that resonates with enthusiasts and explorers alike.

As a dynamic neighbor to both Williamsburg and Bedford-Stuyvesant, Bushwick radiates an infectious energy that spills over from its surrounding neighborhoods. Particularly appealing to the nocturnal at heart, Bushwick boasts a bustling nightlife, with the iconic House of Yes taking center stage. This legendary venue, known for its exuberant-themed parties and immersive performances, stands as a global beacon for nightlife aficionados.

Things to do in Bushwick:

  • Bushwick Collective
  • House of Yes
  • Dining
  • Nightlife

Hotels in Bushwick:

Final Thoughts on the Best Places To Stay in Brooklyn

From the industrial-chic allure of DUMBO’s 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge to the artistic haven of Penny Williamsburg, each accommodation on this curated list of the best places to stay in Brooklyn reflects the incredible personality of this borough. Whether you’re drawn to Williamsburg’s trendsetting vibes, Park Slope’s tranquility, or Greenpoint’s artistic enclaves, Brooklyn’s neighborhoods offer a kaleidoscope of flavors, sights, and sounds that embody the borough’s dynamic spirit.

The words "Best places to stay in Brooklyn" printed over an image of a graffiti wall.
Love this article? Share it with others—click to pin!

Additional Resources:

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Here are a few helpful services:

Booking.com | Find a comfy place to lay your head after a full day of adventuring.

Vrbo | If you’re looking for a more homey vibe, these rental homes might do the trick.

Expedia | Whether you’re looking for some wheels or a flight, you can find a way to get to your destination here.

Get Your Guide | Find local attractions and tours and book tickets to your excursions.

Viator | Another great resource for local attractions and tours.

TSA | If you’re flying, check out the TSA page to make sure that you pack to TSA regulations.

New York City Attraction Pass | Save 40% at 5 major New York City attractions, including the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty.

World Nomads Travel Insurance | Feel safe while traveling with simple and flexible travel insurance.

Heading to New York City soon? Check out the 72 Best Things To Do In NYC At Night.

Booking.com

You might also enjoy: