Frankly, we're astounded at how many visitors leave New York without ever seeing Brooklyn. By itself, this borough would be the fourth largest U.S. city. And what variety! Its highly desirable brownstone neighborhoods are as beautiful as any in Manhattan.
- We'll look first at Brooklyn Heights, whose luckiest residents enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Manhattan skyline.
- In Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens – two more gracious brownstone districts – we'll check out the varied ethnic cuisines on offer along Smith St., the newest of Brooklyn's highly touted restaurant rows.
- Then we'll ride the subway to Coney Island, the century-old seaside playground now in the midst of a remarkable revival.
- A stroll along the boardwalk brings us to Brighton Beach, where the language most commonly heard on the streets is Russian.
- Another subway will speed us to Flatbush, where stunning Victorian mansions in Ditmas Park are just steps from a bustling West Indian business district.
- We'll also check out Prospect Park – bigger (and perhaps more beautiful) than Central Park.
- We've saved some of the best for last: a stroll through two adjacent neighborhoods called Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, both filled with exquisite homes in a wide variety of styles.
What Is Not Included?
Tour participants pay their own food and beverage costs – and are encouraged to purchase their own all-day subway/bus passes before the tour begins.
You will, however, receive a detailed listing of the most prominent sites visited; printed suggestions on good Brooklyn restaurants (there are hundreds of them!); and information of other worthwhile New York attractions you might not discover on your own.
You will, however, receive a detailed listing of the most prominent sites visited; printed suggestions on good Brooklyn restaurants (there are hundreds of them!); and information of other worthwhile New York attractions you might not discover on your own.
Meeting Location
Fort Greene (Brooklyn, NY)
(Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)
- Would rainy weather result in cancellation of this tour?
- No, we'll go rain or shine. In fact, we'd cancel the tour only if there were a snowstorm which shut down the NYC subway system!
- Are children welcome?
- Yes, indeed! There's plenty of visual stimulation along the way. Most kids enjoy subway rides, too, as well as looking out of bus windows. Coney Island is also a kick for them, during the months when its rides and other amusements are open. What's more, kids under twelve may come along with their parents at no additional cost.
- Where does this tour end?
- We'll conclude our tour near where it began: near the Atlantic Avenue and Pacific Street subway stations.
- Are there any good restaurants near the finishing point?
- Yes, you'll be close to Junior's, famous for cheesecake that may be the world's best. There are also some wonderful dining opportunities available in the Fort Greene area: Thai, Cambodian, Indian, Middle Eastern, Haitian, South African, Italian and more.
- What should I bring?
- You'll want comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a bottle of water. An all-day (or all-week) MTA pass good for unlimited subway and bus rides is a sound investment, too.
- Is this tour conducted only in English?
- Yes. However, because the tourguide has spent a dozen years living in countries where English isn't the first language, he's become rather adept at speaking slowly and clearly.
- Can I arrange for a private tour?
- Of course you can! To inquire about making arrangements for such a tour, just click on the "Contact SwingStreets" link.
- Are gift certificates available?
- They are. If you're interested in purchasing one, please contact SwingStreets by clicking on the "Contact SwingStreets" link.
- Do you offer discounts to travel agents?
- Yes. Query Zerve for details.
SwingStreets
SwingStreets was established in 2001 by licensed New York City tourguide Paul Blair, himself a proud Brooklyn resident. After having taught school in Africa as a Peace Corps volunteer, worked for a decade as a freelance journalist in Indonesia, hosted a daily broadcast on Voice of America and written about music, food and Americana for at least two dozen publications worldwide, Paul currently edits Hot House, a New York jazz monthly that's been publishing since the early 80s. Now he looks forward to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with you on the streets of his favorite city.
