One Perfect Day in Brooklyn Heights

Your guide to living like a local (even if you already are).

Classic brownstones, cobblestone streets, and the soft hum of city life at half-speed. Here’s your itinerary for a day in Brooklyn Heights: slow mornings, good food, and skyline views. Not a local and looking for a place to stay? Check out the ACE Hotel or 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.

In the morning…

Start your morning off with a coffee and pastry at Ferrane Bakery. This cozy Swedish spot is famous for its cardamom buns, but don’t stop there. Grab a cinnamon bun, a cookie, or a flaky croissant (you really can’t go wrong) and enjoy them in their cozy space before heading out for the rest of your morning. You’ll need the fuel!

From there, you’ll head to Brooklyn Bridge Park which is arguably one of the best walking routes in the area. Walk along the piers, enjoy some people watching, and sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Your walk ends at Recoverie Wellness Club, where their intro offer gets you 50% off your first session — and it’s buy-one-get-one-free. For $75, you can try two recovery treatments of your choice: infrared sauna, red light therapy, cryotherapy, and more. It’s the perfect way to relax and reset for the day.

Cardamom Bun at Ferrane Bakery and Brooklyn Bridge Park views

In the afternoon…

Now that you’re recharged (and probably hungry), grab lunch nearby. For something quick, Lassen & Hennigs on Montague Street is a staple, think fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods. Staying near the waterfront? A slice from Fini Pizza never disappoints. If you’re in the mood for a longer lunch, Café Brume offers Friday lunch and a lovely weekend brunch. Or, for something cozy and unfussy, Lichee Nut is a reliable favorite.

Fini Pizza, Lichee Nut

Once you’ve eaten, wander through the neighborhood’s small shops. Some local favorites to browse:

• Books Are Magic (The kind of bookstore you never want to leave)

• Housing Works (A thrift shop with heart)

• Unearth Vintage (Cool, curated vintage finds)

  ~~ Subscriber-only below: 20 more favorite local spots, plus evening drinks & dinner picks and early-morning plans to make the most of Brooklyn Heights. ~~