Post overview: Best things to do in Greenpoint
Brooklyn is a behemoth of a borough that you have to take in bite size portions, and today we’re diving into one of its most beloved neighborhoods, Greenpoint.
Found on the northern cusp of the borough, just before you cross Newtown Creek into Long Island City, Queens, Greenpoint is a gem. There’s so many fun things to do here, and half of them revolve around food!
So needless to say foodies will rejoice in all the options. There’s also plenty of parks (with stunning views, more on that later), shopping opportunities and thriving nightlife.
But look at me, I’m already getting ahead of myself. Are you ready to dive right in?
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Things to Do in Greenpoint
#18. Plan a coffee date at Bakeri
We’re big fans of Bakeri, a no-frills, artisanal bakery that makes mouthwatering treats. The woman-owned bakery opened in 2009 and has established itself as one of the best bakeries in Brooklyn.
Upon entry you’re greeted by a checker-board tile floor and a cedar-soffit ceiling, but most folks eyes will immediately zero in on the glass case filled with goodies.
The smell of the fresh bread, cinnamon rolls and scones will have you grinning ear to ear before you even try a bite. Once you order at the counter (don’t forget a coffee) grab a seat at one of their well worn, rustic tables and dig in.
Bakeri has both indoor and outdoor dining options. Meeting with friends to catch up over croissants and coffee is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint, and Bakeri is one of the best places to do it.
Address: 105 Freeman St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#17. Grab a slice of pie at Paulie Gee’s
In a city famous for its pizza, Paulie Gee’s is well ranked among some of the best. If your stomach is growling stopping by for a slice is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
The pizzeria has two unique locations with the same name, both churning out delicious wood fired pizza. There is a sit-down restaurant and a slice shop, and they’re less than a five minute walk from each other.
The restaurant wants guests to enjoy their pizza straight out of the oven, so they don’t offer any takeout orders. No big deal since it’s a beautiful setting for dates and get-togethers.
And believe me when I tell you I’ve read textbooks in college that were smaller than Paulie Gee’s menu. They offer a jaw-dropping 40+ different kinds of pies, how’s that for variety?
The slice shop has a significantly smaller menu but still dishes out pies with the same high quality you expect from the restaurant. It’s a more classic setting, reminiscent of a mom & pop shop.
Restaurant Address: 60 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Slice Shop Address: 110 Franklin Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#16. Elevate your heart rate at Ferox Extreme
Any of you who have ever watched American Ninja Warrior from your couch and said “I can do that” now have the opportunity to put your money where your mouth is.
One of the best things to do in Greenpoint is to have the most-fun workout you’ve ever had at Ferox Extreme. It’s a 40,000 square foot gym full of obstacle courses, parkour and trampolines.
Think of it as a bouncy-house park where adults can join in on the fun too. There are camps for kids (summer camps, after schools opportunities etc.) and classes for adults.
Or if you just want to run wild you can always sign up for an open-play. A two hour open-play admission runs around $30.
If you live close by and want to make Ferox Extreme part of your regular workout routine you can also opt to sign up for a membership, both monthly and annual memberships are available.
Address: 72 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#15. Look for a diamond in the rough at The Thing
I love thrifting – and I’m not talking about sifting through $80 band tees and ripped jeans, I mean real thrifting. The kind where you have to roll up your sleeves and more often than not you walk out empty handed.
So naturally, one of my favorite things to do in Greenpoint is to stop by The Thing (a second hand store) and see what kind of trouble I can get into.
The store is more like a rummage sale, you literally don’t know what you’ll find. This is the kind of store that tells you what you need, rather than you tell it. Small appliances, toys and clothing are all up for grabs on any given day.
Bonus: The Thing doesn’t have a website (that I could find) but they sporadically update their Instagram. Give it a quick glance for current hours and fun finds.
Address: 1001 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#14. Bust a move at the Good Room
I understand this isn’t up everyone’s alley, but some of you readers still have some life left in your knees and might enjoy a night of clubbing.
If this fits the bill you’re in luck, because one of the best things to do in Greenpoint is to stop by the Good Room, a nightclub. The music choice is balanced and the crowd is a blast.
As with most clubs there are drawbacks (lines for the bathrooms, crowds at the bar, it’s loud) but that’s just the nature of the beast.
For the most part the staff is professional, coat check is available and the drinks are strong. What more can you ask for? There’s even two rooms with different DJ’s, so if you’re not vibing with one just head over to the other.
If you’re hoping to meet new people, celebrate a birthday or just go dancing the Good Room is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
Address: 98 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#13. Take a ride on the NYC Ferry
If you’ve read any of our other articles you know we love the ferry. A means of public transportation, a one way ride costs $4.00.
From the Greenpoint ferry terminal you can take the East River route north to East 34th Street in Manhattan and past that to Long Island City, Queens. Or if you need to head south the stops are Williamsburg (both North and South), DUMBO and Pier 11.
And truthfully, it doesn’t matter where you go, it’s still one of the best things to do in Greenpoint. Riding the ferry is a memorable experience, especially if the weather is nice and you ride on the top, open-air deck.
As far as tickets are concerned, each ferry terminal has booths where you can buy tickets but my local’s tip is to just download the NYC Ferry app. From the app you can buy tickets, scan a QR code to board and access maps.
Address: 10 India Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#12. Eat your fill at Dashi Okume
If you’ve never delved into the world of dashi I would first like to say, welcome. Now that pleasantries are out of the way allow me to explain what dashi even is: in a nutshell, it’s Japanese broth.
Dashi Okume in Greenpoint doubles as both a grocery store and restaurant that focuses on the liquid gold. You can have custom dashi packs made (that you can mix with water at home) or order a premade recipe.
If you rather have your dashi right then and there you can grab a seat at their restaurant where they offer fish, rice, tea and dashi.
This is Dashi Okume’s first outpost in America, but in Japan it’s been a crowd-favorite since 1871.
And lastly, don’t forget to peruse the offerings by Cibone, a high-end home goods store that’s right inside Dashi Okume. The ceramics are worth admiring, even if it’s just by way of window-shopping.
Address: 50 Norman Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#11. Visit the Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof
I want you to do a little excercise with me – imagine before the Concrete Jungle was ever even a thought inside someone’s head. Imagine the land full of wildlife, nature and flora.
As beautiful as New York City is, it’s sad to think of all the commercialization that’s ruined so many habitats. Luckily the Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof is hoping to help the situation.
The orginization partners with local businesses (warehouses and the like) to turn their roofs into small pockets of nature. Local wildflowers, birds and insects all get a mini version of New York City before the highrises took over.
As of now the green roof is not open to the public, instead you’ll have to visit on a day they host an open house or event. For a glimpse at their calendar visit the Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof website.
Address: 520 Kingsland Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#10. Have a rooftop drink at Westlight
What better backdrop for a photo than the sweeping views of New York City? Westlight is one of the best rooftop bars in Brooklyn, located on the 22nd floor of The William Vale hotel in Williamsburg.
The well-curated drinks and delicious small bites are just one of the many reasons why making to trip to Westlight is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
The Brooklyn rooftop bar has floor to ceiling glass panels that offer a 360° view of the city. I’ve come both during the day and at night and can’t decide which offers the better view, I’ll let you decide that one on your own. 😉
This is my go-to rooftop bar in Brooklyn and one of my favorite things to do in Greenpoint with friends. After every visit I fall more in love with the NYC skyline. PS – order the fries, trust me.
Side note: I know that Westlight is usually considered to be in Williamsburg, and normally I’d say it is too. With that said, according to the neighborhood boundaries set by Google – it’s technically in Greenpoint.
Address: 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
#9. Find a gem at the Brooklyn Record Exchange
Brooklyn is a quirky and eccentric borough, so it makes perfect sense the locals are emphatically obsessed with records.
One of the best things to do in Greenpoint is to visit the Brooklyn Record Exchange, which is a bright and airy store with an impressive collection of records.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or are just getting started the store is likely going to have something to suit your interests. Furthermore, if you need suggestions the staff is a valuable resource.
The Brooklyn Record Exchange buys, sells and trades records. Why not come make some cash with the box of old records collecting dust in your closet?
Address: 599 Johnson Ave 2nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11237
#8. Enjoy one of the best tacos in NYC
I first heard of Taqueria Ramirez like most folks, online. The small taco shop makes tortilla-wrapped bites of heaven styled after the street tacos you’d find in Mexico City.
There are six different types of meat offered, but the classic and heavy hitting pastor tacos are impossible to go wrong with. Topped with fresh onion and cilantro, they serve as reminder that the classics are classics for a reason.
If you want something a little out of the norm (for most restaurants, but common in the Mexican community) order the tripa (tripe) or the nopales (cactus) tacos for a quick trip to Mexico.
The booming popularity of Taqueria Ramirez means their small space is often littered with folks standing and eating their tacos both inside and outisde the restaurant.
There are no to-go orders, but trust me, you’re going to want to hang out for round two since this is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
Address: 94 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#7. Have a sip at Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co
Greenpoint Beer & Ale Company is the complete package. Since opening in 2014 the German-styled brewpub has kept a steady rotation of tantalizing brews that keeps locals come back time and time again.
The brewery comes equipped with ample hall-style seating as well as a roof-deck featuring a lit-up green water tower. The ambience alone warrants it a spot amongst the best breweries in New York City.
Thanks to the communal tables visiting is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint with friends. The food menu has shareable options, so do yourself a favor and order the giant pretzel.
Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co. hosts a trivia night once a month and I never seem to know whether the beer makes me a better or worse player. Regardless, trivia night at the brewpub is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint. .
Address: 1150 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#6. Visit MJ at Peter Pan Donuts
Peter Pan Donuts might look like a familiar place to anyone whose seen the Marvel movies. That’s because this is the bakery MJ (played by Zendaya) works at in Spider-Man: No Way Home!
And you know what Aunt May says, “with great power there must also come great responsibility”.
Luckily they use that power for good, they make some of the best donuts in NYC. Stopping by for a bite of something sweet is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint, and Peter Pan Donuts is the perfect place.
The old school sour cream donuts are out of this world, you can’t find donuts like this at Krispy Kreme (which I also love). And speaking of old school, Peter Pan is a cash only establishment so come prepared.
Address: 727 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Also worth consideration: Moe’s Doughs is a six-minute walk and usually quite a bit less crowded than Peter Pan’s. The donuts taste similar because the founder of Moe’s worked at Peter Pan’s for 18 years!
Address: 727 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#5. Peruse the Greenpoint Terminal Market
The Greenpoint Terminal Market used to be right on the water, overlooking the East River into the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Now it’s a block further inland, but remains one of the best flea markets in NYC.
The grand opening of its new locale takes place on Saturday, August 26th and kicks off the season that will last until October. The market is open every Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine, from 11AM to 6PM.
The booths are full of vendors selling vintage clothing, custom and unique new products and food. Plus, there’s often a DJ so you get to shop and show off your moves as you enjoy one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
Address: 72 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#4. Picnic at McCarren Park
Right on the border between Williamsburg and Greenpoint, McCarren Park is a hotbed for anyone hoping for a breath of fresh air.
It’s impressive that the +100 year old park has managed to remain a popular stomping ground for locals.
The park has plenty of fields and courts that enable you to partake in a variety of sports. You can play soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball so visiting is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
As you’d expect, dropping by is also one of the best things to do in Greenpoint with kids. Most of us have shoebox-sized apartments, so giving your littles a place to tire out without breaking furniture is a Godsend.
The park even has a pool! Since it’s operated by the city you can enjoy one of the best things to do in Greenpoint for free, the pool will only cost you a brief wait in line. For opening dates and FAQ’s check the NYC Park’s website.
Address: 776 Lorimer St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#3. Watch a movie at the Skyline Drive-In
Okay you might be wondering why I included a drive in theater as one of the best places to watch outdoor movies in NYC since a lot of New Yorkers don’t own a car.
But fret not, I’m not going to make you borrow your grandmother’s hooptie. The Skyline Drive-In has seats for those who travel by foot and catching a flick is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
There are concessions selling all the movie-watching necessities. The stands open two hours before each showtime so guests can arrive and snack while soaking in the sunset or taking in the views of Manhattan.
Not only is the Skyline Drive-In one of the best things to do in Greenpoint, it’s also a great place to take in the Macy’s Fourth of July Firework Show.
Tickets for both movies and the firework show can be purchased at the Skyline Drive In website. Tickets need to be bought in advance since there is no in person box office.
Address: 1 Oak St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#2. Peruse the shelves at Word
One of the biggest perks of living in New York City is the plethora of charming, independing bookstores. One of which is Word, and visiting the store is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
Their two floors are brimming with an ecclectic area of reads, and it doesn’t hurt the store itself is cute too. Supporting independent bookstores is easy with joints like Word making it irresistable not to visit.
The store frequently hosts authors for book signings and readings, so don’t forget to keep an eye on the event page online. The magic of a small and cute, local bookstore helps make Word one of the best things to do in Greenpoint.
Address: 126 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#1. Catch the Sunset at WNYC Transmitter Park
Transmitter Park is tiny standing at a mere six and a half acres but believe me, the view is priceless.
The park gets its name because from 1935 to 1990 it was home to two antennas for WNYC, New York City’s public radio. Present day it’s a simple greenspace where locals gather to get some fresh air.
Stopping by for the striking panoramas is one of the best things to do in Greenpoint, especially if you time your visit for sunset. The park is across the East River from the East Village, so the vistas of Manhattan are stunning.
The park also hosts a rotating array of activities including outdoor-survival classes and free outdoor movies. For a glimpse at their schedule visit WNYC Transmitter Park’s website.
Address: Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Greenpoint Best Things to Do (Post Summary)
- Catch the Sunset at WNYC Transmitter Park
- Peruse the shelves at Word
- Watch a movie at the Skyline Drive-In
- Picnic at McCarren Park
- Peruse the Greenpoint Terminal Market
- Visit Mary Jane at Peter Pan Donuts
- Have a sip at Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co
- Enjoy one of the best tacos in NYC
- Find a gem at the Brooklyn Record Exchange
- Have a rooftop drink at Westlight
- Visit the Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof
- Eat your fill at Dashi Okume
- Take a ride on the NYC Ferry
- Bust a move at the Good Room
- Look for a diamond in the rough at The Thing
- Elevate your heart rate at Ferox Extreme
- Grab a slice of pie at Paulie Gee’s
- Plan a coffee date at Bakeri
Map of the best things to do in Greenpoint
And there you have it, dear friends. My list of the best things to do in Greenpoint, Brooklyn!
Hope you found the article useful, until next time. Cheers.
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