Where to Stay in Brooklyn: 4 Amazing Areas + Local Tips

Ready to learn how to explore Brooklyn like a local? Then hop on this guide on where to stay in Brooklyn, New York and learn all about it.

If you’re looking for convenience and access to some of the borough’s best attractions, Downtown Brooklyn is a fantastic choice. It’s where you’ll find top hotels and a central location that makes exploring easy. 

But Brooklyn is all about variety—each neighborhood has its own character and charm, so there’s something for everyone!

Here’s a tip: Brooklyn is one of the most sought-after destinations, so booking your accommodation early is always a smart move.

Quick Picks for Your Stay

If you want to book right away, check out this short list which has some of the best hotels in Brooklyn Downtown:

Check out the map below, it will help you visualize all the best areas where to stay in Brooklyn:

1. Downtown Brooklyn & Brooklyn Heights – for the first time

Downtown is one of the best areas to stay in Brooklyn for any first-time visitors! 

As you’ll see I coupled Downtown with Brooklyn Heights since they are set right next to each other and both offer the same vibe. Both neighborhoods are very old, boast historic architecture, and are really safe.

The neighborhoods are filled with hotels and tons of attractions. Plus they have great subway connections but are also quite walkable.

Downtown Brooklyn is more modern and bustling, with high-rise hotels, shops, and easy access to subway lines that can get you to Manhattan in minutes. It’s perfect if you want to be in the center of the action with everything within reach.

Brooklyn Heights sits just next to Downtown but feels quieter and has lots of historic charm. It’s known for its charming brownstones, tree-lined streets, and the stunning Brooklyn Heights Promenade, which offers unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge.

PRO TIP: When traveling between neighborhoods in Brooklyn, consider using the G train, as it connects many areas without passing through Manhattan. However, depending on your starting point and destination, other subway lines (like the A, C, F, or N) may also provide direct routes. Be sure to check a subway map or an app for the fastest connection. 

When it comes to places to eat, head over to Old Fulton Street as that’s where you’ll find some iconic restaurants like Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, where you can eat some typical NY pizza!

And definitely check out the original Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery, they sell one of the best cheesecakes in NY!

For shopping, go for Fulton Steet, which is a pedestrian street full of shops, or Atlantic Avenue which has unique shops and boutiques. 

Now let’s check out some of the best hotels in Brooklyn Downtown:

Other options in Downtown & Brooklyn Heights

Things to do in Downtown & Brooklyn Heights

• Visit the New York Transit Museum
• Catch a sunset on the Brooklyn Bridge Promenade (map)
• Admire the architecture of the Brooklyn Borough Hall (map)
• Check all the stores on Fulton Street (map)
• Go on a walk to explore the cobblestone streets in Dumbo
• Snap a pic in the Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Explore the Brooklyn Heights Promenade
• See the famous Manhattan Bridge (map)

2. Park Slope & Boerum Hill – where to stay for families

Park Slope & Boerum Hill are 2 fabulous areas side by side, that are located ~30 min walk away from Downtown Brooklyn. It is perfect for tourists who want to experience a more laid-back side of the city!

Park Slope is loved for its historic brownstones, tree-lined streets, and relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Right next to Prospect Park (which is huge by the way!), it’s perfect for outdoor lovers, with easy access to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Brooklyn Museum. It’s also worth checking out the Zoo, which is right around the corner and is perfect for traveling with kids! 

Park Slope is filled with fab restaurants, especially around 5th Avenue – make sure you don’t confuse it with the 5th Avenue in Manhattan – and also on Union Street, as well as the less-known Court Street.

The neighborhood also has plenty of cozy cafes, local shops, and great restaurants, making it a peaceful yet vibrant place to stay.

Boerum Hill offers a quieter, artsy feel with indie shops, trendy eateries, and charming brownstones. Close to Downtown Brooklyn and major subway lines, it’s a great spot for exploring nearby neighborhoods or hopping on a train to Manhattan!

PRO TIP: If you are visiting Brooklyn during the weekend and want to use the subway, you should be careful. During weekends there is track work and the subways get shut down. You can’t really predict this, so maybe keep an eye on the official website and be ready to jump in an Uber. 

Now let’s check out the accommodations here! You’ll find some of the safest hotels in Brooklyn, NY, right in this neighborhood.

Other accommodation in Park Slope & Boerum Hill

Things to do in Park Slope & Boerum Hill

• Take the kids to the Zoo in Prospect Park
• Check out the restaurants on 5th Ave and 7th Avenue
• Catch a baseball game at the Barclays Center
• Explore Grand Army Plaza (map)
• Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
• Check out the art at the Brooklyn Museum
• Admire the 19th and 20th-century houses in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens area

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3. Williamsburg – the trendiest place to stay in Brooklyn 

This area is known for its artistic energy, with street art, quirky vintage shops, and local galleries around every corner. Williamsburg is a hotspot for food lovers, offering everything from stylish cafes and rooftop restaurants to some of the best food markets, like Smorgasburg, where you can sample local bites.

Located half an hour away by subway from Downtown Brooklyn, right on the banks of the East River, this neighborhood offers some amazing views of Manhattan.

NOTE: Brooklyn is mostly a safe city, but definitely stick to the tourist areas and be mindful of your belongings when you’re out in big public spaces. Try to avoid walking alone at night in secluded spots. 

If you’re looking for an area that is hip and trendy then you’ll definitely like it here. However, keep in mind that Brooklyn is no longer New York’s “cheap cousin” so definitely expect to find some pricey hotels here. 

The best way to explore Williamsburg is just to walk around. That way you can discover street art and find all sorts of hidden gems.

PRO TIP: I don’t recommend renting a car while visiting Brooklyn but rather using the subway or better yet, grabbing an Uber.

Some fun places you should check out while you’re here are Domino Park and Grand Ferry Park, both offering some amazing waterfront views.

Here you’ll also find the Brooklyn Brewing Company where you can take tours, the Williamsburg Music Hall where you can catch a show, or just do some tastings and some great restaurants like Sunday In Brooklyn. 

Other accommodation options in Williamsburg

Things to do in Williamsburg

• Admire the street art while exploring the area
• Grab a bite at Smorgasburg food market (map)
• Head to Domino Park to see the Williamsburg Bridge 
• Listen to live music at the Brooklyn Bowl (map)
• Visit The City Reliquary museum 
• Take a trip to Crown Heights to admire the Victorian Houses
• Go on a tour of the Brooklyn Brewery Company

4. Greenpoint – where to stay in Brooklyn for foodies

Located right near Williamsburg, a 40-minute ride away from Downtown Brooklyn by subway, this neighborhood is famous for its old-school charm and modern energy, making it a great spot for visitors looking for a more laid-back vibe.

Known for its strong Polish roots, you’ll find authentic bakeries, delis, and cozy eateries serving pierogis and other Eastern European favorites. In recent years, Greenpoint has also become a hub for trendy cafes, cool boutiques, and stylish restaurants.

Yep, that’s right, here you’ll find some fab restaurants where you can enjoy some yummy dishes after a day of exploring! Make sure you try out Five Leaves (map) on Bedford Avenue, ACRE, and Le Gamin.

For some incredible views of the Manhattan skyline, I recommend you head for a walk in Greenpoint’s parks. There are quite a few, and the ones that overlook the water like the WNYC Transmitter Park are so nice! 

PRO TIP: Instead of using the subway, as this neighborhood is served only by 1 line, you can take a ferry to reach Williamsburg or Downtown & Brooklyn Heights areas. 

Some other spots that you should check out are the Green Point Gallery (map) and some of the vintage clothing shops! You never know what hidden jewels you could find in stores like Beacon’s Closet (map).

Other accommodation options in Greenpoint

Things to do in Green Point

• Visit the Józef Piłsudski Institute of America
• Explore the WNYC Transmitter Park
• Grab dinner at Five Leaves restaurant
• Admire the art at Green Point Gallery
• Take a day trip to Coney Island (map)

👑 Luxury price:	US$450
🧳 Mid-range:	US$280
🛏️ Budget:	US$140
📍 Best area:	Downtown Brooklyn
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
💵 Best mid-range hotel:	Hilton Brooklyn
👛 Best budget hotel:	Hampton Inn

BONUS: Top vacation rentals in Brooklyn

Looking to rent a cool apartment in Brooklyn? 

Then search no more because I’ve found some awesome vacation rentals in the city that are perfect for you. Holiday homes are perfect for groups of friends or families. Usually, these places have more rooms and also other facilities like kitchens and balconies. 

I’ve listed the accommodations below from most to least expensive, and the costs for all places are around US$300: 

• Charming Apartment – a fully-equipped apartment that comes with a kitchen, a comfy bed, a couch and an indoor fireplace.
• Cozy & Chic Apartment – boasting 2 spacious rooms, this accommodation offers a dining area, a mini-fridge, a toaster and a kettle.
• Private Deck Paradise – offering a kitchen, a living room area where you can relax and a little patio, this place is surely a keeper! 

FAQs about where to stay in Brooklyn

Final thoughts on where to stay in Brooklyn

What a city! 

It’s no easy thing to plan a trip there but hopefully, after reading this guide on where to stay in Brooklyn, you’ll feel more than ready to start booking accommodations. Thanks to Gary from New York Tours By Gary and Julia from Born & Bred New York Tours, both Brookylin locals, for their contribution and insider tips that helped shape this comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Brooklyn.

Once you decide where to stay, I’d definitely recommend booking your hotels here in advance, Brooklyn is one of the most famous destinations in the world and accommodations sell out super fast!

If you’re not sure which hotels to pick, here are my 2 top-rated hotels, both set in Downtown Brooklyn: 

• Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – this hotel comes with an amazing rooftop pool that boasts stunning views
• Hilton Brooklyn – a great hotel that comes with modern rooms and a bar

Well, have fun exploring this exciting city and as always, don’t forget that you can always drop any questions you might have in the comment section below. 

Safe travels, 

Victoria

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