The Best Things To Do And See In Boerum Hill

Boerum Hill is a small neighborhood right in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn. Honestly, many Brooklynites wander the streets of this area all the time without realizing exactly where they are, and worse yet, not taking the time to discover the treasures this neighborhood has to offer. It’s the home of the ever so popular Atlantic Antic, but what about the other 364 days of the year” Here’s a guide to the top five places you should experience.

1. Van Leeuwen

Ice Cream Parlour, Vegetarian

‘I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream.’ Remember that song” And that feeling” Well, at Van Leeuwen, you can revisit the excitement you used to have about ice cream with delicious and unique vegan and traditional possibilities. Started back in 2008, Van Leeuwen was just a yellow truck on the streets of NYC. The goal was to take the complications out of the ice cream-making process by keeping things simple, so only fresh ingredients are used in their recipes. The classic flavors consists of fresh milk and cream, organic egg yolks, and cane sugar, while the vegan options are made from cashew milk, organic coconut milk, and pure cocoa butter. Needless to say, the artisanal treat is perfect on a hot or cold day.

2. The Invisible Dog Arts Center

Art Gallery

Located at 51 Bergen Street, the Invisible Dog Arts Center is a former factory building that now serves as a mecca for artists of all types and at different stages of their careers. It allows artists to be free to do whatever they like since it’s not concept-driven or a commercial space. Because the center is the home for artists specializing in every type of medium, this a great place to visit, and you’ll definitely need to make more than one trip to witness the many awesome exhibits. Just in time for the holidays is Wonderland, a winter group show featuring painting, illustrations, sculptures and photographs from 20 artists. Another interesting exhibit is In Your House, which focuses on breaking the boundary between public and private by way of an actual glass house.

3. The New York Transit Museum

Building, Museum

The New York Transit Museum has its own vintage train

Believe it or not, the small neighborhood of Boerum Hill actually houses one of the most interesting museums, one that all New Yorkers can appreciate — The New York Transit Museum. This one is actually the largest transit-transportation museum in the United States. The museum has a number of exhibits, both new and long term, in addition to their educational programs and guided tours. The most popular and longest running exhibition is Steel, Stone, and Backbone: Building New York’s Subways 1900-1925. Visitors to this exhibit get to see the city’s first subway line and the construction methods used to build it, along with historical artifacts and videos.

4. City Foundry

Store

There’s nothing like finding the perfect home. Even if you’re already settled in, it would be great to pick up some beautiful pieces that make you feel like hosting a cool party for the holidays. Well, City Foundry, founded by Sohrab Bakhshi, is a hub for upscale antiques in Downtown Brooklyn. This neighborhood staple is so popular that some of their merchandise has been used in Academy Award-winning films. Whatever it is you’re looking for to complete your home, look no further because City Foundry has plenty to offer. The custom upholstery and furniture restoration is great if you have anything you’re desperately clinging to but may be in need of an upgrade. If you love a modern feel, City Foundry has their own line of signature custom designed furnishings. So the next time you’re in theatres, take a look.

5. Bacchus

Restaurant, French

Bacchus is a French bistro named after the Greek god of wine, and the name could not be more fitting. The menu includes wine selections, even organic varieties, from all the major French regions. The cuisine is mouthwatering with hors d’oeuvres such as the braised leg of rabbit served over spinach with fig goat cheese sabayon and almonds or a dinner of Cornish hen wine stew with Vermin mushrooms, salsify, parsnips, and carrots and a side of dried cranberry couscous. As if serving delicious food and top-notch wine wasn’t enough, Bacchus is also a great place to have a celebration. They will customize a menu specific to you and your guests for any event you’d like. So why stress planning a reception dinner” Let Bacchus handle it and enjoy!
By Candice McLeggan

Candice is a native New Yorker and true city girl, as well as a creative journalism student at Baruch College. Her love for books and experience in fashion has fueled her love of writing. She has her own blog, Fashioncandi, and has worked as a contributing writer for various sites. Follow Candice and her adventures on the Culture Trip!

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