Things to Do This Summer in Williamsburg and Greenpoint

New York City is beginning to buzz with life again after its unexpected pandemic slumber of 2020. As residents and tourists are reemerging, so are a multitude and variety of businesses and restaurants throughout neighborhoods around Brooklyn.

Williamsburg and Greenpoint, north-west Brooklyn neighbors and settled right across the East River from Manhattan, offer their own hip and trendy options for summer fun. With many food options, vintage storefronts, and greenspace events within its neighboring parks, there is no shortage in finding a new activity to beat summer boredom. If your niche is exploring the outdoors, discovering the latest food trend, finding vintage treasures, or uncovering history through learning, then these two neighborhoods are for you!

McCarren Park (Williamsburg and Greenpoint)

McCarren Park- image from NYC Parks

Initially named Greenpoint Park, McCarren Park is a 35-acre emerald treasure connecting Greenpoint to Williamsburg. Spanning about four city blocks, this green space features a recreation center, multiple playgrounds, a bathhouse, and a swimming pool so large that it can hold 1,500 swimmers and over one million gallons of water.

Aside from swimming, McCarren park offers plenty of courts and field spaces for all sports lovers alike. Featuring an abundance of kickball, baseball, bocce, basketball, football, tennis, and running tracks, you are bound to find a group sport for anyone. If you want to make a day of it, you can also take advantage of picnic areas equipped with barbecue pits and picnic tables.

Whether you only have an hour or two or an entire day, there is no shortage of outdoor fun to be had. This park is perfect for an afternoon picnic, a game of catch with your pup, and especially great for taking in the summer vibes of Brooklyn.

Smorgasburg (Williamsburg)

Smorgasburg Poutine- Khalfani Coicou @Realfoodviews

Located in Williamsburg at the Marsha P. Johnson state park, Smorgasburg is an adventurous food lover’s dream.

Its beginnings were founded in 2011 as a spin-off of the Brooklyn Flea and have launched dozens of small restaurants while welcoming millions of foodies, both New Yorkers and tourists alike. Perfectly nicknamed “The Woodstock of Eating” by the New York Times, this open-air food market is the largest of its kind in America.

Smorgasburg can be experienced every weekend between 11 am to 6 pm (most locations) and is a must for those with ambitious local cuisine bucket lists.

Empty stomachs are a must, and stretchy pants are optional.

Greenpoint Terminal Market (Greenpoint)

Greenpoint Terminal Market - DoNYC.com

Greenpoint Terminal Market is guaranteed to satisfy any shopper’s itch for those who love a good bargain or even just a unique find.

This outdoor market featured over one hundred vendors, ranging from food vendors, local shops, and creative one-of-a-kind offerings. Located at 2 Noble Street, right off the Hudson River, this shopper’s delight offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline as an unparalleled backdrop while you browse for unique treasures.

Along with shopping and eating, Greenpoint Terminal Market also offers diverse events to participate in. With Glass House Yoga, musical guests and concerts, and Paint & Sip parties, you can easily make visiting this market an all-day activity.

Greenpoint Terminal Market is open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer from 10 am to 6 pm.

Bring your pup (dogs are welcome), an empty tote bag, and plan to spend a few hours exploring this gem of Greenpoint.

Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour (Williamsburg)

One of the best things about New York City is its rich culture everywhere you look. And Williamsburg is no different. For a unique and informative look at this beloved hipster neighborhood, this tour is your best bet.

The Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour offers both historical and modern information about Williamsburg’s culture, people, and happenings. During your tour, you will view incredible street art and murals, discover trendy boutiques of all kinds, and uncover the hip, up-and-coming places to grab a bite or a hand-crafted cup of coffee. At the end of the tour, you will have the opportunity to capture a breathtaking, panoramic view of the well-known and loved Manhattan city skyline while soaking in Brooklyn’s waterfront.

This tour is perfect for New York City residents and tourists alike. For those who love to continue discovering the heart and rich culture of the city, this tour should top your summer bucket list!

Summertime is the perfect time to explore any neighborhood in New York City, and Williamsburg and Greenpoint are no exception. With ongoing special events and concerts in the park, restaurants to satisfy any craving (hello, little Poland! -  the nickname of Greenpoint), and unique shops and boutiques, it’s no wonder people flock to this area of Brooklyn for culture and fun. Regardless of why you spend time in Williamsburg and Greenpoint, you are sure to leave with a full soul and a full stomach.