Where To Stay In Brooklyn: Best Areas & Neighborhoods

New York City has to be one of the most iconic trips in America. More and more travelers are venturing out of Manhattan and into some of the other boroughs of this gigantic city, and Brooklyn is often at the top of the list for good reason.

Some years ago, Brooklyn would not have been an especially exciting place to see. But today, Brooklyn has developed its own identity and could be considered one of the coolest places to stay for a real, local experience in NYC.

Whether you plan to see the borough itself or use it as a less-expensive spot to stay for your entire New York City vacation, you will notice something: Brooklyn is massive!

As the largest borough by population, it might not be clear where the best places to stay in Brooklyn are. Or, you may have the opposite problem: with so many awesome neighborhoods, choosing where to stay in Brooklyn can be hard.

Well, we at ViaTravelers have broken it down for you here below. Read on to find out where to stay for an authentic Brooklyn experience.

What to Know About Brooklyn and Its Neighborhoods

Well, that’s why you’re here, right? Choosing where to stay in Brooklyn is not an easy task, thanks to the variety and diversity of each neighborhood. There is plenty to do in Brooklyn itself; you may want easy access to Manhattan, or you may want to be near the beaches and have fun on Coney Island.

Brooklyn has dozens of neighborhoods – according to New York City’s Department of Planning, it has 77 to be exact. With a higher population than the poster-boy Manhattan, you could almost consider Brooklyn a city itself. Let’s look at the borough’s geography and understand it before diving into specifics.

While many non-locals may think of Manhattan, when they think of NYC, Manhattan Island is just one of New York City’s five boroughs. Brooklyn is immediately south of Manhattan, located at the westernmost tip of Long Island. 

Brooklyn is bordered by the borough of Queens directly on its east and is connected by bridges to the boroughs of Manhattan and Staten Island. Therefore, Brooklyn is a very central borough with easy access to two of the three others, with the Bronx not being much further north.

Furthermore, Brooklyn is just a short drive or train ride away from cities in New Jersey like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Bayonne. These are other up-and-coming destinations for the traveler seeking more authentic destination experiences.

You don’t need to research all 77 neighborhoods of Brooklyn. There are several that stand out, and we’ve compiled them here. Whether you are a luxury hotel lover, hostel backpacker, something in between, or an Airbnb enthusiast, we’ll break down options for you in each.

Downtown Brooklyn

Arguably the best neighborhood for access to Manhattan, Downtown Brooklyn is exactly what it sounds like a central location with plenty of hotel and transit options. You can’t go wrong with staying Downtown, and you’ll enjoy direct access to the famous Brooklyn Bridge.

Things To Do In Downtown Brooklyn

Being one of the most photographed sights in Brooklyn and all of New York City in general, you won’t want to miss getting a picture by the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

The same goes for the Manhattan Bridge, just next to it. Both connect Manhattan to Downtown Brooklyn and, besides being a great photo op, provide an easy connection across the river.

You’ll find several places to get the best view of the city skyline and each bridge. Pebble Beach and Brooklyn Bridge Park are good places to take a stroll. 

On the neighborhood’s southern end and away from the waterfront and bridges, you’ll find the DeKalb Market, where you can try various foods and drinks. Nearby is the New York Transit Museum for those fascinated by locomotives and the massive system that connects the city.

Places to Stay in Downtown Brooklyn

Visitors love staying in Downtown Brooklyn for its numerous brand-name hotel and Airbnb options, shopping and dining offerings, and easy access to public transportation and the rest of the city.

Below, we’ve chosen a few of our favorites.

New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4 / 5 Stars	8.1 / 10 Stars	Jay St – MetroTech

If you’re like me, you like staying in brand-name hotels with loyalty programs. I love getting rewarded for my Marriott status and collecting points on every stay.

The New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge is my choice of Brooklyn hotel. I can expect clean and well-equipped rooms, good dining, and a Marriott fitness center; this hotel has beautiful city views and easy access to the Brooklyn Bridge. 

Tip: Walk a few blocks north and try the Brooklyn Bridge Bistro for something besides hotel food.

Hotel Indigo Brooklyn, an IHG Hotel

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	3.5 / 5 Stars	7.1 / 10 Stars	Hoyt Street

Another brand-name property at which you can earn points, especially if you have an IHG-branded credit card, is the Hotel Indigo brand. This brand is super cool and reflects the vibe of its location.

Hotel Indigo Brooklyn is just a block from the Dekalb Market and City Point BKLYN shopping mall, and you’ll find these rooms reasonably priced and in a good location.

Tip: Across the street, the Sheraton Brooklyn New York Hotel (another great place) has an awesome rooftop Asian fusion restaurant, Kimoto Rooftop Restaurant & Garden Lounge.

Airbnb: Luxury Apt Brand New Highrise

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4.87 / 5 Stars	Hoyt Street

If you prefer more amenities to make you feel at home while away, the Luxury Apt Brand New Highrise should have everything you need.

Hosted by a Superhost, you’ll get access to the building’s gym and lounge and a separate bedroom and living area. Note that there is wifi but no TV, but you probably won’t be watching much of it with all there is to do in the area.

Tip: A Taste of Katz’s is just minutes away on foot, selling the sandwiches that the famous Katz’s Delicatessen Jewish deli is known for.

Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.6 / 10 Stars	Jay ST – Metro Tech

To add a property in Brooklyn to the Hilton portfolio, the top-rated hotel on both TripAdvisor and Booking.com in this neighborhood is the Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown.

With that always-free hot Hampton breakfast with every stay and a central location to get to attractions on the northern and southern sides of the neighborhood, it’s no wonder why leisure and business travelers love this one so much.

Tip: Cross the street to McLaughlin Park to shoot some hoops in a pickup game with the locals.

Dumbo

This neighborhood overlaps a bit with Downtown Brooklyn but does deserve its section here as it is a very popular and scenic place to stay in Brooklyn.

Sometimes spelled capitalized, DUMBO is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass– that should help you envision the geography a bit.

Things to Do in Dumbo

As you can imagine, the Dumbo waterfront is one of the best places to enjoy the Manhattan skyline and riverfront views of Manhattan.

Being the entry point onto Long Island for the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, you will enjoy the benefit of both the view of these as well as the access they provide. Don’t miss a stroll across one or both bridges across the East River.

Visitors love the cobblestone streets of Dumbo and the post-industrialist feel of the neighborhood. Therefore, take in the uniqueness of this leftover architecture from its past. Today, the neighborhood is filled with independent boutiques, bookshops, food places, and startups.

Children enjoy a ride on the iconic Jane’s Carousel on the river. Children and adults enjoy a good slice of authentic New York pizza, which you’ll find easily around these streets.

Places to Stay in Dumbo

Travelers in search of beautiful city views, easy access to Manhattan by foot or public transit, and a more upscale experience will enjoy basing themselves in Dumbo.

Here are some of our top picks in this neighborhood, but be prepared to pay more to be here.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.4 / 10 Stars	High Street

Alright, technically, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is just outside of Dumbo, but it deserves a mention for its easy access to the neighborhood.

Besides, it has possibly the most iconic rooftop pool and lounge in the area, with views from the river to the bridges and the skyline. This is a luxury boutique hotel option, and the price reflects that.

Pro Tip: Even if you can’t afford to stay here, go up to the rooftop bar and lounge for amazing views day or night.

Airbnb: Beautiful Artist Loft

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4.84 / 5 Stars	York Street

This Airbnb is located in the heart of Dumbo, surrounded by some of the best restaurants in town if you don’t want to use the kitchen. Remember it is a private room in the host’s home, but she has some incredible reviews from past guests.

Tip: Just a few blocks to the west is a famous spot to photograph the Manhattan Bridge, you’ll find it marked on Google Maps.

Airbnb: Charming Bright 2BR Apt- Sleeps 6

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$$	4.69 / 5 Stars	York Street

If you’re traveling with friends and family, you might need something a bit bigger, like this two-bedroom apartment, which is an entire place rather than a private room.

More travelers can bring the price down for everyone, so don’t count it out based on price. Guests had great things to say about the location and the host.

Tip: Don’t miss Superfine, a locally-famous Mediterranean restaurant in a converted warehouse space, just steps away.

Airbnb: Beautiful Bright Renovated 2BR w Balcony- Sleeps 5

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$$	4.63 / 5 Stars	York Street

Another larger 2-bedroom private apartment, this Airbnb, is managed by the same host as the previous one. Guests were equally satisfied with their hospitality and the unit. Long-term stays are allowed as well if you are looking to make Dumbo home for more than a few days.

Tip: Gleason’s Gym is a famous Brooklyn landmark just a short walk away. It is a boxing gym founded by famous boxer Bobby Gleason.

Bushwick

One of Brooklyn’s most central neighborhoods, Bushwick is the place to be if you’d like to see street art or enjoy nightlife. Bushwick borders the neighborhoods of Bedford-Stuyvesant and Williamsburg, both of which are also discussed below.

Things To Do In Bushwick

While you’ll find awesome street art all over the neighborhood, the Bushwick Collective would be the best place to start for those who want to see some. It is an outdoor gallery where artists worldwide come to paint and display their murals.

Similarly, the club scene in Bushwick is vibrant. One of the most famous clubs has to be the House of Yes, which is loved by partiers for theme nights and top-talent performers. You can also find niche places like comedy clubs, pubs, and interestingly themed bars and restaurants.

While Bushwick is a historically Hispanic neighborhood, and you’ll find plenty of this cuisine, you can also find the classics of New York, such as bagels, hot dogs, and pizza.

Places to Stay in Bushwick

If you want to spend your days admiring street art and your nights in the parties and clubs Brooklyn has come to be known for, Bushwick could be the place for you.

Here are some of the best places to kick back and relax when you need a break from all of that.

Bklyn House Hotel New York Bushwick

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.0 / 5 Stars	8.1 / 10 Stars	Flushing Av

An affordable but certainly comfortable option, the BKLYN House Hotel is in the northwestern corner of the stylish Bushwick neighborhood. You’ll have clean, air-conditioned rooms, nightlife within walking distance, and easy subway access to the rest of the city at this boutique hotel.

Tip: The Market Hotel is just down the road, but it’s not for accommodation: you will find parties and events in this space with some great performances.

Holiday Inn Express – Brooklyn – Bushwick, an IHG Hotel

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.0 / 5 Stars	7.6 / 10 Stars	Kosciuszko Street

Earning points and status is my favorite, so I must mention the Holiday Inn Express Bushwick. I love this brand because breakfast is free for everyone on every stay, and I can always expect a clean and comfortable room. 

Tip: Open the IHG Premier Mastercard and automatically earn Platinum status. Plus, you’ll receive a generous points bonus when you spend a certain amount, potentially making your stay free.

Apartment Rental: 2 Bedroom Apt Prime Location in Bushwick

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	3 / 5	Wilson Avenue

Here is a two-bedroom apartment for rent in Bushwick for those bringing their crew to the clubs together. It’s brand new to the rental market as of January 2022, so you could be one of the first travelers to enjoy it. Free parking is a major plus for those driving in.

Tip: Barchaa Peruvian Fusion Cuisine is just down the road and could be an exotic way to enjoy the Hispanic influences in this neighborhood.

Airbnb: Supreme Penthouse w/ Jacuzzi Tub & Bar

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4.67 / 5 Stars	Wilson Avenue

If you aren’t traveling with the crowd but still want the space, why not rent a luxurious penthouse? This spacious Airbnb is equipped with high-end amenities and has great reviews. However, partying and even small gatherings with outside guests are strictly prohibited, which could be just right if you are looking for a quieter Bushwick stay.

Tip: The host can even arrange for a private chef to come in for you!

Williamsburg

This neighborhood has to be the trendiest in all of Brooklyn. You may have heard others refer to Williamsburg as ‘the hipster neighborhood’; we wouldn’t disagree. It boasts waterfront city views, easy access, and many cool places to shop and eat.

Things To Do In Williamsburg

You won’t quickly run out of things to do in the Williamsburg neighborhood. One great spot not to miss is Domino Park and the Williamsburg Bridge just next to it.

The park was once home to a Domino Sugar refinery, and its ruins remain. It combines a unique piece of history with a beautiful waterfront backdrop of the city skyline over the East River.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants around Williamsburg, but one famous one, especially for craft beer lovers, is the Brooklyn Brewery.

This microbrewery offers food and drinks, tours, and a look at the brewing process. Berry Park also has a rooftop beer garden if you can’t get enough Brooklyn beer.

Williamsburg is full of independent designers and shops that sell interesting clothes, accessories, and more. Bring your wallet and shopping bags to take home a unique and vintage memory of Brooklyn. 

Places to Stay in Williamsburg

Williamsburg attracts a hip crowd looking for unique things to do in Brooklyn. Besides being such a cool place, those prioritizing city views and access will also be pleased. We’ve chosen some accommodations in Williamsburg for everyone.

Pod Brooklyn

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.6 / 10 Stars	Metropolitan Av

Have you heard of the concept of pod hotels?

The Pod Brooklyn found its perfect home in Williamsburg as this new and cool type of accommodation grows in popularity. Basic and small but clean and comfortable, your little pod will have everything you need to enjoy Williamsburg’s uniqueness.

Tip: There are a ton of interesting restaurants just outside, but vegetarians will appreciate The Butcher’s Daughter, right across the street.

The Williamsburg Hotel

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.2 / 10 Stars	Bedford Avenue

The super-trendy Williamsburg Hotel is an independent property that Williamsburg visitors love. Potentially, one of the best parts is the 10-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of either Manhattan or Brooklyn. 

Tip: They even have loaner bikes, a great way to explore the streets of Williamsburg.

The William Vale Hotel

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.5 / 10 Stars	Bedford Avenue

The William Vale is a five-star hotel, but comparatively speaking, it won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for some luxury in Williamsburg, this could be the place for you. High-rise views, an outdoor pool, and an overall friendly environment are some reasons that guests love this place.

Tip: Even if you don’t stay here, their rooftop bar is a great gathering place, and their Italian restaurant is excellent.

Airbnb: Chic, Bohemian 3BD/2BA + Roof Deck in Williamsburg

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$$	4.82 / 5 Stars	Marcy Ave

Here’s another one for a Brooklyn trip with others: a spacious three-bedroom rental with a roof deck. Although it is more expensive initially, traveling in a group can be cheaper for each person than a hotel. Guests love the great decorations and outdoor space, but the free private parking space is what sold many.

Tip: Nearby, MetroRock Williamsburg could be a fun activity for the fit traveler who wants to do some rock climbing in the city’s heart.

Coney Island

Did you know it’s not an island anymore? The Coney Island neighborhood is one of the best-known in Brooklyn. It was once separated from the rest of Brooklyn along its southern shore by a creek that turned into a sandbar many years ago. Most people associate Coney Island with the beach and rides it is famous for.

Things To Do In Coney Island

Possibly, its best-known attraction would be the Coney Island amusement area. Note how we don’t refer to it as an amusement park; it isn’t a centralized park like Disneyland. Instead, the rides and attractions are spread across the neighborhood.

They are generally open between Easter and Halloween, operating on weekends only at the beginning and end of that season.

Coney Island is home to one of Brooklyn’s best beaches. With the rides just a few steps away, the combination of beach and rollercoasters can make for a perfect summer day in Brooklyn.

There’s a long pier to fish off of or enjoy the views of the Brooklyn shore, and swimming is refreshing during a hot New York summer. The beach and carnival atmosphere create the environment for some seriously tasty food.

The classic New York cuisine is easily found in Coney Island: get a slice of pizza, a loaded hot dog, a massive burger and fries, and much more. Take this stuff to the Friday night fireworks during the summer season to cap off your Coney Island night.

Places to Stay in Coney Island

You’ve chosen the right neighborhood if you are headed to Coney Island in any season with warmer weather. Between riding the rides, catching rays, and cooling off in the ocean, here are some great places to recharge your batteries.

Best Western Brooklyn Coney Island Inn

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.4 / 10 Stars	Bay 50th Street

This is another one that is technically just outside of our neighborhood, Coney Island, but is close enough to definitely be considered an option—especially given the lack of hotels in this area.

The Best Western Brooklyn Coney Island is a cheaper option for those who want to stay in Brooklyn. It allows easy access to the area’s beaches and rides. Breakfast is included, and travelers report that it’s a good one.

Tip: Just down the road towards the shore is Nathan’s Famous hot dog restaurant, a classic and authentic Coney Island treat.

Airbnb: Coney Island Beach Amusement 1 Br Apt

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.75 / 5 Stars	Coney Island-Stillwell Ave

Renting a one-bedroom apartment like this gives you more space during your stay in Brooklyn and the flexibility to save money on dining.

However, you may be less tempted to use the kitchen with all the tasty New York food around Coney Island. Guests of this place were very happy with the host and the location.

Tip: The Coney Island Brewery isn’t far from here and may just be the right place to take a break from the beach and ride.

The Parachute Guest RM

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$	Not enough to calculate yet, but hosted by a Superhost and great reviews.	Coney Island-Stillwell Ave

For the traveler wanting to save the most on accommodation, this may be one of the cheapest in Brooklyn. The Parachute Guest RM is a private room Airbnb in an artist’s home. Free parking, a washer, and dryer add extra value to this place.

Tip: While this place is a bit further from the subway, the Coney Island Ferry terminal is nearby, and the 2022 service was launched between here and Manhattan!

Airbnb: Cozy Studio Apartment

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	Not enough to calculate yet, but hosted by a Superhost and great reviews.	Coney Island-Stillwell Ave

Here’s one for those who prioritize being by the beach: steps from the sand and the boardwalk, Cozy Studio Apartment will allow you to waste no time in soaking up the sun and riding the rides. Guests said that it was immaculate and better than the photos.

Tip: The Ford Island Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk is steps away, so this could be a great choice if you are catching a performance there.

Bedford-Stuyvesant

You might hear locals refer to this neighborhood as Bed-Stuy for short. Centrally located just south of Williamsburg and east of Downtown Brooklyn, it’s just down the road from Prospect Park. Bedford-Stuyvesant is a neighborhood for history, architecture, and especially culture. 

Things To Do In Bedford-Stuyvesant

One of the top things Bed-Stuy is known for is being an African American cultural heritage center. A very diverse neighborhood of Brooklyn, it was once home to many successful black Americans such as Jay-Z, Duke Ellington, Spike Lee, and many more. Despite being a very large neighborhood, locals will give off a small-town vibe and welcome visitors.

Another hallmark of Bed-Stuy is its impressive architecture. The city has more Victorian real estate than anywhere else in the country.

You’ll see brownstones, block concepts, and all kinds of other historical touches preserved in all their classic glory. The neighborhood has a rich history reflected in the houses and shops lining the streets.

Bed-Stuy is a great place to get some of that amazing food that New York City is known for. Peaches HotHouse is best known for its southern comfort dishes and plentiful cocktails.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get a New York bagel, perhaps from Greenburg’s Bagels Bed Stuy. These are just a few; you’ll easily find much more to eat around here.

Places to Stay in Bed-Stuyvesant

For a central location full of history and culture, Bedford-Stuyvesant can be a great place to stay in Brooklyn. To stay on the streets where some famous artists and musicians once stayed, consider some of these accommodations.

Hotel RL Brooklyn

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.0 / 5 Stars	7.6 / 10 Stars	Kosciuszko Street

The Hotel RL Brooklyn is a hip and modern place to stay for a very reasonable price. A café and seasonal rooftop lounge complement the nicely furnished rooms, and the neighboring Bushwick just steps away.

Tip: For breakfast, BK Bagels is just a block away and could be a great place to try an authentic New York bagel.

Apartment Rental: Newly Renovated Duplex Apartment 2

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$$	8.2 / 10 Stars	Gates Av

If traveling to Bed-Stuy with a group of others, this Newly Renovated Duplex could give you some great space and a great deal. It has a gaming console, a balcony, and three bedrooms, along with a washer and dryer.

Tip: Get a slice (or two, or three…) of real New York pizza just down the road at Bklyn Pizza.

Airbnb: Bright and Open 2 Bedroom Apartment in Brooklyn

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	5.0 / 5 Stars	Kosciuszko Street

It would be a crime not to mention an Airbnb with a perfect five-star rating, like this two-bedroom in Bed-Stuy. You’ll get to stay in a typical brownstone that this neighborhood is known for, and you’ll have easy access to the attractions here and across the city.

Tip: Down the road, you’ll find Guacuco, a family-owned Venezuelan restaurant, which is a great way to sample New York’s international cuisine.

Airbnb: Historic Brooklyn Townhouse Apartment and Garden

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.91 / 5 Stars	Bedford-Nostrand Avs

If the historic houses and tree-lined streets of Bud-Stuy are some of the best reasons to visit, then you may even want to stay in one of the typical brownstones among them.

This Historic Brooklyn Townhouse is over 100 years old but is well-cared for and updated by its hosts, who live just upstairs in the neighboring unit.

Tip: For some of that fantastic Italian food New York is known for, head to nearby Macoso Trattoria and even dine outdoors if the weather is right.

Flatbush

Flatbush is also in central Brooklyn, but it is closer to the southwest of the borough. Besides having direct access to one of Brooklyn’s most famous parks, it also borders the neighborhoods of Little Haiti and Little Caribbean, so you might guess that there are some cultural and culinary spillovers from just a block or two away.

Things To Do In Flatbush

As mentioned, Flatbush is one of the neighborhoods that enjoy direct access to Prospect Park, where you’ll find plenty to do. With historical buildings, a zoo, and even a dog ‘beach’, the park is a place to visit no matter the season.

The Brooklyn Museum is on its northern end. Flatbush, directly adjacent to Little Haiti and the Little Caribbean, definitely has a Caribbean influence.

Island nation flags and restaurants are plentiful, and be sure not to miss your chance to get authentic jerk chicken or other Caribbean specialties!

Simply enjoying the history and architecture around the neighborhood is another great (and free) way to enjoy it. There are unique-looking houses and shops, Victorian mansions, and historical buildings and churches abound thanks to the area’s rich history.

Places to Stay in Flatbush

For easy access to arguably the most beautiful park in Brooklyn, with plenty of things to do and to experience Caribbean culture and cuisine, look no further than the Flatbush neighborhood. The places we’ve chosen offer all this and a convenient spot along the subway line.

A and Faye Bed and Breakfast

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	5.0 / 5 Stars	9.3 / 10 Stars	Church Avenue

The A and Faye Bed and Breakfast is the top-rated accommodation in Flatbush on TripAdvisor and Booking.com. This simple and laid-back stay offers comfortable amenities like air conditioning and free wifi for a fair price.

Tip: Don’t miss the chance to wander around Prospect Park, as you’ll be just across the street.

Airbnb: Beautifully Modern Garden Apt in Heart of BK

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.50 / 5 Stars	Beverley Road

The name says it all: this is a truly modern two-bedroom apartment for a fair price, close to the vibrant commercial strip of Flatbush.

Tip: King’s Theater concert hall is nearby, making this a great and affordable place to crash after seeing a show.

Airbnb: Very Clean Private Room in Ditmas Park Brooklyn

Pricing	Airbnb Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$	4.67 / 5 Stars	Newkirk Av – Little Haiti

If you are on a tight budget but want to experience the culture of the Flatbush neighborhood, consider this private room on Airbnb. All past guests gave the location five stars, and they were pleased with the comfort and service of the host.

Tip: For some unique desserts, Taste The Tropics USA, which offers Caribbean-inspired ice cream, is nearby. 

Rental Apartment: Luxury 1Bdr Penthouse With Balcony & Pool

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	New to the market; rating to come	Church Av or Parkside Avenue

Looking for a little luxury in Flatbush? This penthouse rental could be the one with its indoor pool, gym, balcony, and playground. You are a stone’s throw away from Prospect Park and the subway.

Tip: Hit a Caribbean-themed tiki bar for some rum, such as The Zombie House, a few minutes away.

Greenpoint

As Brooklyn is now ‘cool’ and we’ve already listed some of the coolest neighborhoods to stay in, Greenpoint deserved a mention as an up-and-coming cool spot.

Bordering hipster-central Williamsburg, Greenpoint is on the far north riverfront of Brooklyn with equally exceptional views of Manhattan and the bridges.

Things To Do In Greenpoint

Greenpoint was a major destination for immigrants from Poland, and it still retains this cultural identity in many ways. You might want to try some good Polish food with hints of NYC evolution. The architecture around here is rather industrial due to its past as a city full of factories where Polish immigrants came for work.

There is plenty of shopping to be done in Greenpoint as well. Vintage, independent, and otherwise unique shops and boutiques are commonplace. This is a great place to get a New York fashion piece to take home.

After enjoying the city views from the waterfront, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, breweries, and clubs to hit. There’s even a ‘laundromat’ you’d otherwise pass by, only to learn that it conceals a super-cool pinball arcade and bar! 

Places to Stay in Greenpoint

If you want to discover the next Williamsburg before the masses do, Greenpoint is a good bet. Besides being a trendy spot at the moment, you won’t be disappointed with the city views and ferry boat connectivity.

There are just a few places to stay here, making it a more exclusive place to base yourself.

The Box House Hotel

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	4.5 / 5 Stars	8.8 / 10 Stars	Greenpoint Av

The Box House Hotel is a converted factory in Greenpoint, furnished with curated artwork and chic accessories. Guests in these lofts and suites even have access to the sauna.

Pro Tip: The Glasserie Mediterranean restaurant is just a block away and is a neighborhood favorite.

Henry Norman Hotel

Pricing	TripAdvisor Rating	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	5.0 / 5 Stars	9.0 / 10 Stars	Greenpoint Av

The Henry Norman Hotel is another hip and trendy place with nouveau art, decorations, and an overall atmosphere. Guests appreciate the studio-equipped rooms for more self-catering possibilities.

Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to try an authentic Brooklyn bakery, like Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop, down the road.

Airbnb: Charm with a view

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.89 / 5 Stars	Greenpoint Av

If Greenpoint is one of the neighborhoods known for its views, you have to consider a place with a good one, such as Charm with a view. This is a great choice if you are looking for extra space, a self-catering kitchen, or just a place to admire the river and skyline.

Tip: Around the corner is Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters, a super hip place to get your morning energy and enjoy the atmosphere.

See Related: New York Pass Review

Flatlands & Gravesend

If you are looking for somewhere slower-paced and more residential, certain neighborhoods can offer you a very local experience. Flatlands and Gravesend are two that come to mind, among others.

These neighborhoods may not have the sights and attractions of the others, but they can offer a quieter and different residential experience.

Things To Do In Flatlands & Gravesend

Both neighborhoods are in southern Brooklyn, with Gravesend bordering Coney Island and Flatlands closer to Flatbush.

We’ve discussed the fun things to do in these neighborhoods above, and staying in a quieter part of town can be an attractive accommodation for people who still want to enjoy those things.

However, your best bet to enjoy the neighborhoods is to walk through and look at them like a local. You could rent a whole house here, where they are more common, unlike most of NYC.

Get bagels and breakfast sandwiches, snack on homemade pastries, and indulge in family-style restaurants with worldwide cuisines. 

Places to Stay in Flatlands and Gravesend

Sometimes, we don’t need to be in the center. A few minutes away can be just as satisfying and potentially less expensive. While hotels are rarer in these parts, you could find yourself in a well-equipped rental or Airbnb to live like a local.

Airbnb: Super Modern, Clean, Quiet Apartment in Flatlands

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.75 / 5 Stars	Flatbush Av – Brooklyn College

If you are looking in these neighborhoods, you are looking for a more residential experience, so Airbnb is the way to go. This one-bedroom in Flatlands has excellent reviews and is a comfortable place to call home for short or long-term stays.

Airbnb: Brand New Bright and Clean Two Bedrooms in Gravesend

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$	4.60 / 5 Stars	25th Avenue

You could have a two-bedroom apartment with self-check-in in Gravesend for a lot of extra space and even less expensive than one of the more popular neighborhoods. Long-term stays are also an option here.

Airbnb: Super Clean 1 Queen Bed, 2-Full Bed, 1 Sofa Bed in Gravesend

Pricing	Booking.com Rating	Nearest Subway Station
$$$	5.0 / 5 Stars	Kings Hwy

This two-bedroom apartment in Gravesend can be a great way to save money on a bigger unit. It offers plenty of room, extra beds, and easy access to Coney Island and beyond. There is also plenty of dining and shopping nearby.

See Related: Where to Stay Outside New York City

How to Get to Brooklyn

Brooklyn is conveniently surrounded by three major airports, making flying an option for just about anyone. The three New York City area airports are connected to the entire country and the rest of the world.

JFK International Airport is in Queens, just to the east. This massive transit center is a Delta, American, and JetBlue hub. With so many people arriving daily, JFK Airport is well-connected with the AirTrain, which moves them to various points around the city.

The most convenient station to take the AirTrain to for destinations in Brooklyn is Howard Beach, where bus and subway lines link up the borough.

LaGuardia Airport is JFK’s smaller counterpart, also in Queens, but on the north shore of Long Island rather than the south. A bit smaller doesn’t mean much less busy, but you will find mostly domestic flights here.

While bus lines will take you across town, public transportation from LaGuardia to Brooklyn will take longer. Taxi cabs and Ubers are readily available, however. Finally, Newark Liberty International Airport may be across the river in New Jersey. However, it is an option for Brooklyn travelers.

United Airlines’ New York City hub has a huge network of domestic and international routes. Public transit will require some connections and stops in Manhattan, and this will be the longest ride in a taxi or Uber among the three airports. However, for the right flight, it could be the right choice.

Of course, flying isn’t the only way to get to the New York City area. The famous Pennsylvania Station, referred to as Penn Station, is the big city’s rail gateway to the outside.

Immediate connections are to the end of Long Island, across the bridges and tunnels to New Jersey, and up to Connecticut, but Amtrak’s network can bring you much further than that. Driving to Brooklyn is also always an option, and parking is at least more affordable than in Manhattan.

Once you arrive, New York City has a massive network of buses, subways, and ferries that can help you skip all that horrible NYC traffic. Prices are fair, the stops are convenient, and who wouldn’t want to take the famous subway?

Related Resources

• Best Views of NYC for Free
• Where to Stay in New York City with Family
• Best Place to Stay in New York City for Sightseeing