5 Best Things to Do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

It’s no secret that we love Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Despite just being just one stop away from Manhattan, the neighborhood offers a vastly different landscape that’s more relaxed but cool. From its rooftop bars to outdoor park to warehouses-turned-art-spaces, Williamsburg is a great retreat from the hustle of the city, while still being easily accessible. We love it so much that we even have a booth at Artists & Fleas Brooklyn (70 N 7th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249). So, next time you’re looking to experience some of the best that Williamsburg has to offer, here are our suggestions:

1. Brunch: Smorgasburg

Every New Yorker knows that Smorgasburg is the best way to try lots of NYC’s best and trendiest restaurants all at once. Open every Saturday from April to October in Williamsburg’s East River Park, Smorgasburg is the largest weekly open-air food market in America. From ramen burgers to deep fried cookie dough, Smorgasburg’s got it all. As it can get pretty busy once lunch hour hits, we recommend going early and bringing a big group of friends (so you can all share and try more foods!).

2. Coffee: Devocion

Brooklyn and Coffee: name a more iconic duo, I’ll wait. And the two are basically synonymous for good reason too. Devocion’s one of my favorite coffee shops anywhere as it offers delicious, fresh, and fair-trade coffee in a gorgeous old warehouse-turned-coffee shop setting. With deep Chesterfield sofas that have developed a fine patina over time and a plant wall reminiscent of the jungles from which its coffee beans are carefully sourced, Devocion is a local gem that offers a relaxing environment for you to get work done or meet up with friends over a cuppa.

3. Outdoor: McCarren Park

One of my favorite parks about Williamsburg is its more relaxed atmosphere compared to the city, and nowhere is this more apparent than in McCarren Park. Featuring big grassy fields perfect for picnicking or kite-flying, baseball fields, a 400m running track, and an outdoor pool in the summertime, McCarren Park is great for fun, outdoor activities that’ll make you lose track of time. Best of all, it’s close to a ton of restaurants and bars in Williamsburg so you have everything you need in close proximity.

4. Shopping: Artists & Fleas

After you’re done trying all the different cuisines at Smorgasburg, head over to Artists & Fleas at 70 N 7th Street. Situated in a warehouse, Artists & Fleas is a marketplace where you can find a wide range of designers selling a variety of wares such as handmade jewelry, creative art prints, vintage clothing, home decor, and more. We have a booth here, so definitely stop by and say hello!

5. Drinks: Westlight at The William Vale Hotel

If you’re looking to be impressed, look no further. Located on the rooftop floor of the recently-opened William Vale hotel, Westlight is a cocktail bar and restaurant that boasts a dynamic menu alongside breathtaking 360º views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. If visiting with a large group, we recommend making reservations in advance to ensure that you’ll have a table.

In conclusion, these are just a few of our favorite places to visit in Williamsburg. If you have any more suggestions, let us know in the comments!