Nice Brooklyn neighbourhood for vacation

Posted by: Kiwi cat on 11 July 2016

My wife and I and 2 adult children in their  early 20s will be staying in New York for 2 1/2 weeks over Christmas/New year. We would like to stay in Brooklyn for at least 10 days. Are there any locals on the forum that can recommend a neighbourhood that is safe and characterful with interesting eateries and local culture? We are on a budget and prefer to eat what the locals do, at cheap and cheerful places and to just enjoy the local vibe.

Posted on: 11 July 2016 by joe9407

Hiya Kiwi -- in my opinion, Williamsburg is far and away your best bet. Great fun to be had there, and your kids will love it.

Posted on: 11 July 2016 by Kiwi cat

Thanks Joe, from one cool cat to another! I have been reading a lot about the different neighborhoods in Brooklyn, and was suffering from "information overload". I  will now scour the accommodation app for a Williamsburg  apartment. Sounds great! ATB KC.

Posted on: 11 July 2016 by Bananahead

Have you considered the opposite side? Whenever I go to New York I always stay in Hoboken. Because it's not in New York itself it's not featured in guide books or websites. It's actually closer to Manhattan than Brooklyn because it's served by the PATH  and there are a lot of interesting things to see. Walk through Frank Sinatra park, take one of the small ferries across to Manhattan, eat at Johnny Rockets. Your children will love the local nightlife with plenty of sports bars to grab a beer and watch a game. It also gives the option of flying into Newark instead of JFK. Much nicer airport.  

Posted on: 12 July 2016 by Kiwi cat

Hi Bananahead

Thanks for your thoughtful recommendation. It could be worth exploring. We will be staying in a single small room with 4 beds in Manhatten for the first week, to get the usual tourist things done. I think we will be heartily over the cramped surroundings by then,  so the last 10 days of the holiday will be in an apartment where we can spread out a bit and enjoy a walkable neighbourhood. I note already that Hoboken accommodation,on average, seems to be less expensive than Brooklyn.  Also my sons main interests seem to be beer and sports, so he should be happy in Hoboken!