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Explore Brooklyn’s Waterfront and its many different views throughout the various towns.

Coney Island Art Walls Janelle Victor

A summer trip would have to be the absolute best time to visit NYC. Where the days are longer, due to the sun setting between 8 and 9pm. The energy is amazing, from tourists to locals, the mood can be felt as pure happiness. The Brooklyn Waterfront consists of many different towns, including Williamsburg, Red Hook, Dumbo, Coney Island and plenty more. Each location offers different amazing experiences and views of the beautiful city.

Friday
1) 2:00 P.M. CHOCOLATE ART

Who doesn’t love Chocolate? Kick off your trip by visiting Roaka Chocolate factory, which might bring some flashbacks from Willie Wonker and his factory. Here you will not only learn, but see firsthand, how chocolate is made. From beans to bars you’ll see the transformation and of course do various tastings along the way. Admission will run you ($10) but be sure to book a tour ahead of time to secure this unique experience. Afterwards Head town to BWAC, Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition is Brooklyn’s largest artist-run organization. You can view works of art made by local artists, who if you go on the right day, can even meet these artists, Tons of exhibits to see, also be sure to take a viewing of the outdoor sculpture show.

Brooklyn Ice House Bar, Red Hook Janelle Victor

2) 4:30 P.M. LUNCH ON ICE

Time to drink. Head to Brooklyn Ice House. Where you’ll find distressed wood benches and vines on the buildings in its patio. You’ll also see various signs and drawings that will cause you to chuckle while you dine. Happy hour lasts a full 8 hours, between 12:00 P.M. – 8:00 P. M so you’d want to take advantage and get any cocktail for just ($10) or Beer for ($4) They probably have the most original Quesadilla, with pulled pork and ranch sauce. Highly recommended and it’s just ($10). After this tasty quick meal, you’ll be ready to truly see Brooklyn.

3) 6:30 P.M. HISTORY ON THE BARGE

Before the sun sets, be sure to visit the Waterfront Museum and Showboat Barge. Some consider it The Floating Museum” It is quite an experience just to see. After entering the Barge, you can learn some very significant history of what and how it was used over 100 years ago. Afterwards, be sure to take a walk through Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier and soak in the sunset with amazing views of the NYC skyline, more specifically the Statue of Liberty. In the summer months of July and August. You can catch a movie under the stars with the Red Hook Flicks free movie viewings. Afterwards take a nice stroll to Calexico for a quick bite. This food truck turned restaurant is a neighborhood favorite. Here you can try various kinds of tacos that are surprisingly large in size and flavor. Be sure to try the Chipotle pork tacos. ($11) While ordering you might spot some spicy peanuts at the counter. Give them a try, they will keep you wanting more.

4) 9:30 P.M. SUNSET NIGHT

What better way to end the night off than with some music and entertainment. Head down to Sunset Park to Sev Studio Lounge where you can get a great feel for Brooklyn’s nightlife. The atmosphere is fun with its neon lighting. Grab a drink at the bar and relax or head down to the Game room where you can Play pool (Free of charge). If you’re lucky they will be offering Open Mic, and you can join the entertainment by singing, reciting poetry or even standup comedy.

Saturday
5) 9:30 A.M. RISE AND FISH

Get an early start to your day and head down to Coney Island for a full day packed of fun. Wear a swimsuit; pack a change of clothes, a camera and a full appetite. Bright and early, stop at Tom’s Coney Island for breakfast. An old fashioned diner with outdoor seating, that’s sure to give you a nice relaxed feel. Try their banana nut pancakes and pastrami omelet for ($20.85) after this, you’ll be more than ready to start your day. Take a walk down to the New York Aquarium at Coney Island. Last entry is at 3:30 P.M so early arrival is suggested. There is plenty to see. From outdoor spaces of Sea Cliffs to a 4D theatre that makes you feel like you are actually underwater. Admission is ($10.95).

Coney Island Art Walls Janelle Victor

6) 2:00 P.M. AMUSEMENT ART

Luna Park, of Coney Island awaits you. Enter this amusement park (free of charge) stroll through and site see or purchase credits (1 for $1) to pick select rides to go on or games to play. From roller coasters to carnival games and cotton candy, this attraction is a must see. This year is the 90th anniversary of the historic rollercoaster, Cyclone. There
will be tons of celebrations in honor of it. So take advantage, get a drawing f yourself and other fun souvenirs. Afterwards walk over to Coney Island Art Walls, “The outdoor museum of street art” (coneyartwalls.com) Here you can get lost in a maze of artistic walls, featuring both old and new art and sculptures. It’s a perfect place for photo ops, you can also find local food trucks to catch a quick bite for lunch, or you can walk a few minutes to the Nathans Famous Hot dog restaurant. Not your ordinary hot dog, Nathans has been around since 1916 and is widely loved, especially here at Coney Island. It’s said your trip is not complete without it. Order 2 hot dogs for ($8.90) choose between regular, cheese, chili and other options. Guaranteed the bed hot dog you’ll ever have.

7) 5:30 P.M. BEACHWALK

In most places, this would be a late time to go to the beach, but here in Brooklyn, it’s actually the perfect time. It’s not as hot as it is earlier in the day and also less crowded. So after a day exploring Coney Island, it’s time to take a breather. Lay out a towel and soak in the sun at Brighton Beach. You can relax while getting an amazing view of Luna Park, and can say you were just there. Take a dip in the cold water and enjoy the waves. Afterwards, wash off with the public fountains and feel free to change clothes in the public restrooms. Take a walk on the Riegelmann Boardwalk, where you’ll see tons of venders and shops, Varity of games to play, souvenir shops and so much more. Be sure to purchase an Italian icy from a vendor.

8) 7:30 P.M DINNER WORKS

After wondering the boardwalk, and Of course building an appetite, make a stop at Place to Beach where you can dine outdoors on the boardwalk with its beachfront seating, and catch a beautiful view of the sunset, while listening to live music. It’s known for it’s frozen margaritas ($12) so be sure to try one of their unique flavors from sour apple to red chili or cucumber. Pair it with their selection of burgers or quesadillas. After diner, hold on to your seats, you’ll see the locals gathering on the boardwalk to view fireworks. You’ll have a perfect view.

9) 10:00 P.M. KAREOKE

Your Jam packed day at Coney Island wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the nightlife. After the spectacular view of fireworks, head down to Mermaid Lounge, where you can not only dance, but sing the night away as well. This Karaoke bar will be sure to give you an exciting experience.

View of the Williamsburg Bridge from The East River state Park. Janelle Victor

Sunday
10) 10:00 A.M. COFFEE IN WILLIAMSBURG

Start your day off like a true New Yorker, with a nice cup of coffee. Head to Blue Bottle Coffee shop on Berry Street in Williamsburg, where you can get a vintage feel setting while receiving quality brew. Try a macchiato ($3) or if you’re a cold coffee lover, try the New Orleans iced coffee ($4) Grab a seat outside and view the locals walking by. Afterwards head down to the Williamsburg waterfront to Smorgasburg. Here you will find tons of vendors selling various items from food to jewelry. Be sure to try some Food Mash-Ups, (dishes created using 2 different elements) like a Romen Burger or a Spaghetti Donut. While browsing through the different venders you’ll also get an amazing view of the NYC skyline.

11) 12:30 P.M. ICE CREAM IN THE PARK

On a hot afternoon, ice cream is always a must. And so is OddFellows Ice cream shop. Here you’ll get wowed to feel as if you are in an old school ice cream shop, from the bright color and décor to the staff’s uniforms. The ice cream flavors change often, but if you’re lucky, some of their unique flavors like, Thai Iced Tea and Carrot Cake Cream Cheese, will be available. Take your delicious ice cream to go and go for a riverside stroll down to the East River State Park. Do some relaxing with breathtaking views. The park has plenty of benches where you can sit and chat, or grab a riverside rock and have a seat. The water is nice and calm, as your experience is sure to be.

12) 3:00 P.M. SHOP AND DINE

Williamsburg is the perfect place to find some of Brooklyn’s most original fashions. Head to the iconic vintage shop, Beacon’s Closet, Or for some contemporary finds, head to Pinkyotto and Gant. For jewelry, head to Catbird. Afterwards, head to Glasserie, for your last meal in Brooklyn. This Mediterranean restaurant is sure to leave you pleased. Try the popular dish, Caramelized Chicken Liver and Fried Spring Harvest ($18) Pair with their original cocktail, Persian Gold, made with Gin, Saffron, Lemon, and Q Tonic ($12) and if you have room for dessert, A must try is the Rose Milk Custard, Pistachio and Apple ($11)

Lodging

The Wythe Hotel (80 Wythe ave, 800-491-6126; wythehotel.com) This 70 room hotel has a perfect view of the Williamsburg waterfront and was constructed in 1901. Rates start at $295

For stays close to Coney Island Wyndham Garden Brooklyn Sunset Park (457 39th Street, 718-972-0900; www.wyndhamhotels.com) Easy access to NYC transit and a 5v minute drive to Coney Island beach and boardwalk. Rates begin at $199