Explore Brooklyn in 3 Days: A Perfect Itinerary for Art, Food, and Adventure
Day 1
Afternoon
3:00 PM: Arrive at NU Hotel Brooklyn, where modern design meets Brooklyn’s artistic spirit. Check in and unwind in your sleek, spacious room, with its vibrant pop art-inspired décor. Grab a welcome refreshment and let the adventure begin.
4:00 PM: Take one of the hotel’s signature NU Bikes and ride through the heart of Brooklyn. Pedal over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking views of the skyline, and explore DUMBO — one of the city's most photogenic neighborhoods. Don’t forget to stop at Brooklyn Bridge Park to capture the perfect shot of the bridge with the Manhattan skyline behind it.
Evening
6:00 PM: Located in DUMBO, The River Café is an iconic Brooklyn dining spot with views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. Dine on New American dishes, from grilled lobster tail to decadent steak frites. Pair your meal with a curated cocktail or wine from their extensive list.
8:00 PM: If you’re in the mood for entertainment, head over to Barclays Center (just a 15-minute walk or short subway ride away) and catch a live concert, Brooklyn Nets basketball game, or a premium live event. Check the event schedule for top-tier performances.
10:30 PM: After the show, grab a late-night cocktail at the Clover Club, an elegant yet laid-back cocktail lounge. Savor expertly crafted drinks while soaking up the warm, vintage ambiance. It’s a great way to cap off your first night in Brooklyn.
Day 2
Morning
8:00 AM: Head to Bakeri, a cozy Scandinavian bakery in Williamsburg, just a short ride from the hotel. Enjoy artisanal pastries like freshly baked cinnamon buns, cardamom buns, and an assortment of hearty sandwiches. Pair it with a rich Latte made with locally roasted coffee.
9:30 AM: Brooklyn is a hub of creativity, and the Brooklyn Museum is a must-visit. Spend a couple of hours exploring its stunning collection, which includes over 1.5 million works of art. If you're into local galleries, head over to MINUS Space or Pioneer Works to discover even more contemporary pieces from Brooklyn’s rising artists.
Afternoon
12:00 PM: Head over to Smorgasburg, a legendary open-air food market (seasonal), located in East River State Park (near Williamsburg). Taste everything from Korean fried chicken to vegan tacos and everything in between. Don’t miss the famous Lobster Roll stand!
2:00 PM: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Prospect Park, Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park. Take in the gorgeous greenery, and maybe even rent a rowboat on the Prospect Park Lake for a peaceful water escape.
4:00 PM: For a mix of shopping and local eats, visit Fulton Mall or head to Time Out Market Brooklyn in DUMBO. The market has local food stalls, artisan products, and live music for a fun afternoon experience.
Evening
6:30 PM: For dinner, make your way to Rucola, an intimate Italian restaurant in Boerum Hill. Known for its warm, rustic vibe and seasonal menu, enjoy dishes like roasted beet salad, handmade pastas, and wood-fired meats. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy, delicious meal.
9:00 PM: Continue your Brooklyn adventure with a show at The Bell House, a renowned venue for live performances. Whether it’s a comedy show, concert, or dance party, this cozy, intimate venue offers great sound and an unforgettable experience.
11:00 PM: If you want to keep the night going, head over to Bar LunÀtico, a nearby dive bar with a laid-back atmosphere, where you can unwind to live jazz music.