Perfect day in Dumbo, Brooklyn
I’ve been visiting every NYC neighborhood in an attempt to explore my own city the way I do when I travel. I'm 100 neighborhoods deep and have documented it all on TikTok.
Now, I’m on a mission to write it all out—next up: Dumbo, Brooklyn.
I grew up visiting Dumbo, and at its core, it hasn’t changed much—which I love to see.
I recommend arriving via my favorite mode of transportation in NYC: the ferry. The views from the top deck are incredible. Or, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge—equally stunning in its own way.
First stop: & Arabica, a Japanese coffee shop where I always get the Kyoto latte. This chain is extremely selective with its locations, and the view of the bridge here is beautiful.
Then, walk over to Brooklyn Heights to pick up a couple of pastries from L’Appartement 4F. They started as a home bakery during the pandemic and blew up. Now, they bring a slice of Paris to Brooklyn.
Next, stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park. Start at the upper level via Squibb Park, then wind your way down toward Jane’s Carousel. It’s the best way to take in all the beauty the park has to offer.
Hop on the carousel, then head to Pebble Beach for the perfect photo-op.
Time for some shopping: The Brooklyn Flea (open on weekends) always has great finds—I love browsing their vintage magazines and old cameras. Also check out Front General Store, Grant Vintage, and Hudson Wilder. And don’t miss Usagi, a Japanese concept store with shopping, co-working spaces, and matcha. These are just a few—Dumbo is packed with cool spots to bounce between.
Art is a huge part of Dumbo’s culture. Smack Mellon is a free gallery with rotating installations. I’d recommend checking what exhibitions and gallery shows are happening when you visit. There are also frequent open houses, festivals, and art events throughout the year—worth keeping tabs on.
For lunch, head to Vinegar Hill House, tucked away in the sub-neighborhood of Vinegar Hill. Their seasonal pancakes are unmatched, and the quiche is amazing too. The back garden feels like a countryside escape.
For drinks, stop by Evil Twin Brewery for unique flavors—think chocolate-dipped strawberry beer. Then end the day with a sunset drink at the Time Out Market rooftop. If you’re hungry, their food hall features outposts of some of NYC’s most famous restaurants.
Once the sun sets, hop back on the ferry as the city lights start to twinkle.