Things to Do in Williamsburg Brooklyn Near Our Boutique Hotel
Staying at The Penny Williamsburg puts you right in the center of one of Brooklyn’s most creative, energetic neighborhoods. Step outside the hotel and you’re surrounded by the cafés, galleries, parks, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make Williamsburg such a standout destination. Whether you’re here to explore the best things to do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, dive into the area’s food and nightlife scene, or simply soak up its one-of-a-kind culture, The Penny gives you an easy, walkable home base for discovering it all at your own pace.
Book a room to explore Williamsburg from The Penny: your base for art, eats, and local energy. See what’s nearby.
Some of the Best Places to Eat and Drink in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Eat
Williamsburg’s food scene is one of the neighborhood’s biggest draws, and staying at The Penny puts you close to some of its standouts. Start your morning with a smoked-fish bagel or a classic deli sandwich from Frankel’s Delicatessen, a local favorite that’s perfect for a picnic in McCarren Park. For dinner, Leo is just a ten minute walk from The Penny and offers a warm, easygoing spot for handmade pizzas, pastas, and seasonal plates that feel distinctly Brooklyn. And if you’re in the mood for a drink later on, The Four Horsemen pairs natural wines with thoughtful small plates in one of the coziest, most intimate dining rooms in the area. When you want something unforgettable without leaving the hotel, ElNico, The Penny’s own rooftop Mexican restaurant, is always ready to welcome you upstairs. With so many good places to eat in Williamsburg, Brooklyn just steps away, you’ll never run out of options.
Independent Shops & Vintage Finds in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Shop
Williamsburg is one of the best neighborhoods in New York for independent shopping, especially if you’re drawn to creative boutiques and one-of-a-kind discoveries. Just a short walk from The Penny, you’ll find places like Earwax Records just steps from The Penny. This long-standing local shop known for its mix of new and used vinyl and classic stereo gear, making it a must-stop for music lovers. A few blocks away, Desert Island offers an eclectic world of underground comics, zines, and art books, the kind of store that feels like its own little universe. And for those hunting for vintage clothing, 10ft. Single by Stella Dallas is a Williamsburg staple. Only a five minute walk from The Penny Hotel, it’s packed with well-curated pieces and unexpected treasures. Whether you’re browsing records, flipping through zines, or searching for the perfect vintage jacket, shopping in Williamsburg, Brooklyn is full of character, creativity, and genuinely fun finds.
Planning a shopping weekend with friends? Make a weekend of it. Stay close to Williamsburg’s best vintage shops, record stores, and independent boutiques, then come home to calm, design-led rooms.
Fun and Unique Things to Do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Do
Williamsburg is packed with places that make passing the time feel effortless. Whether you’re looking to spend the day doing activities, or want to spend an evening out, staying at The Penny puts you close to some of the neighborhood’s most beloved spots. For something lively, Brooklyn Bowl blends bowling, live music, and great food in one iconic venue. It’s a go-to for groups, celebrations, or anyone looking for a night that feels unmistakably Brooklyn. If you’re in the mood for something more relaxed but just as memorable, Nitehawk Cinema pairs new releases, indies, and cult classics with in-seat food and cocktails, making it one of the coolest ways to catch a film in the city. Placed just 15 minutes from The Penny, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxed but vibrant night out.
Whether you’re out with friends or exploring on your own, these are undoubtedly some of the most fun and unique things to do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, just minutes from The Penny.
From live music and bowling to cinema nights and late-night cocktails, Williamsburg’s best entertainment is only minutes from your room.
Everything within a short walk of The Penny
Explore Williamsburg, Brooklyn’s Tourist Attractions
Staying at The Penny Hotel puts you in the heart of everything that makes Williamsburg so special: the food, the culture, the parks, the creative energy, and the easy rhythm of the neighborhood. Whether you’re here for a weekend of exploring or a longer Brooklyn stay, our rooms, amenities, and rooftop dining make it simple to settle in and feel at home. If you want to make your stay feel even more special, check out our Offers page to find a package that suits you.
Book Your Williamsburg Stay, steps from Brooklyn’s best restaurants and art spaces.
Brooklyn Bowl
15 minutes walk
from
Enjoy bowling and tunes! This bowling alley is iconic to Williamsburg which also serves as a concert venue. It’s a fun place to hang with friends or work colleagues and don’t skip on the Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken!
Domino Park
20 minutes walk
from
Our newest park in Williamsburg, Domino Park sits waterfront and has a few different shops and eateries for everyone. The park features a cool playground for kids with water features to beat the heat during those warmer months.
Nitehawk Cinema
15 minutes walk
from
Our favorite movie theater in Williamsburg! Nitehawk Cinema plays new, classic, and indie films that you can enjoy while ordering food and drinks. Don’t sleep on the tater tots and queso or the caramel corn!
NYC Pet
10 minutes walk
from
Retailer providing pet supplies for cats & dogs from food to toys and grooming items.
Love Thy Beast
15 minutes walk
from
A chic pet store for your pooch or cat. Shop for toys, tees, and even bags to store your furry friend.
Court St. Grocers
10 minutes walk
from
A great place for a quick sandwich when you’re on the go! Offering a wide variety of sandwiches both for meat lovers and vegetarians, we enjoy The Jawn and the Italian Combo.
Apollo Bagels
15 minutes walk
from
Starting as a pop-up from the sourdough pizza folks at Leo, Apollo Bagels is serving up some of the best bagels in New York City.
The Four Horseman
15 minutes walk
from
Wine bar from James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem serving small plates that rotate daily.
Marsha P. Johnson State Park
15 minutes walk
from
Named in honor of a pioneer of the LGBTQ civil rights movement, this park sits on the waterfront with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline
McCarren Dog Park
12 minutes walk
from
Just steps away from The Penny, McCarren Dog Park offers a fun spot for your pup to run and play.
Best Pizza
2 Minute walk
from
Small, cozy stop serving elevated wood-fired pies with veggies & meats, plus Grandma slices. Walls are covered in paper plate art by past diners.
Leo
10 minute walk
from
Great spot for dinner any day of the week or weekend lunch. Easy-going hub for pizza, lasagna & wine with a takeout cafe offering bites to go. Penny’s picks are the butter beans, Caesar Salad, and the clam pie.
Commodore
10 minute walk
from
What’s not to love about fried chicken, biscuits & other Southern dishes in a low-key saloon? Beyond that, the nachos and piña coladas are
Frankel’s Delicatessen & Appetizing
15 minute walk
from
Contemporary Jewish deli specializing in bagels with smoked fish, plus classic sandwiches & brisket. Grab a sandwich and enjoy in McCarren park for breakfast or lunch
Sunshine Hot Stone Bodywork
5 minutes walk
from
This place is no-frills, but the massages are out of this world if you like deep, therapeutic body work. Ask for Linda!
Dobbin St. Co-Op
10ft. Single by Stella Dallas
5 minutes walk
from
A pretty big selection of men’s & women’s vintage clothing, shoes & more. Great place to snag a vintage jumpsuit!
Grass Roots Juicery
12 minutes walk
from
Get healthy here with an assortment of juices, smoothies, snacks and other delicious stuff, all made in-house. They also sell a selection of wellness-y products for face/body/soul.
McCarren Park
5 minutes walk
from
This 35-acre community park is a gathering place and center of outdoorsy good times for the neighborhood. Highlights include all kinds of sports fields, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized outdoor pool (open seasonally), Bocce courts, a skate park, a running track and much more.
Desert Island
5 minutes walk
from
This place is the embodiment of punk rock, selling experimental and underground books, comics, zines and more. The window displays are always a highlight.
Earwax Records
8 minutes walk
from
Our neighborhood independent record store offering a good selection of new and used records, CDs and vintage stereo equipment.
PS9Pets
8 minutes walk
from
A pet store located inside a record store is, well, just cool. PS9 has been selling high-quality pet foods and cool/weird accessories for the urban animal kingdom for close to 20 years.
Rule of Thirds
15 minutes walk
from
An awesome, casual Izikaya spot for Japanese comfort food, a wide selection of sake and killer cocktails.
Union Pool
2 minutes walk
from
Chill dive bar with a big outdoor space located in an old pool supply store. A Dive-in (get it?). Live music of all genres and a great taco truck sweeten this spot.
Why Stay at The Penny for Your Williamsburg Visit
Staying at The Penny places you in the heart of Williamsburg Brooklyn, just steps from some of the best restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions in the neighborhood. As a boutique hotel, The Penny offers a more personal and design-forward experience, blending comfort with character.
After a day exploring Williamsburg’s top things to do, return to a space that feels both relaxed and thoughtfully curated. With its central location and distinctive style, The Penny is an ideal boutique hotel for experiencing the neighborhood like a local.
Williamsburg Brooklyn Attractions FAQs
What are the best things to do in Williamsburg Brooklyn?
Some of the best things to do in Williamsburg Brooklyn include exploring local restaurants, shopping at independent boutiques, visiting art galleries, and walking along the waterfront with views of the Manhattan skyline.
Is Williamsburg Brooklyn worth visiting for tourists?
Yes, Williamsburg is one of Brooklyn’s most popular neighborhoods, known for its creative energy, food scene, and unique shops. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a different side of New York City.
What are some fun things to do in Williamsburg at night?
At night, Williamsburg offers rooftop bars, live music venues, cocktail bars such as elNico Rooftop, and late-night dining, making it one of the most vibrant areas in Brooklyn after dark.
Where should I stay when visiting Williamsburg Brooklyn?
Staying in the neighborhood gives you easy access to everything. Choosing a boutique hotel in Williamsburg Brooklyn, like The Penny, allows you to experience the area’s style, culture, and convenience all in one place.
Is Williamsburg Brooklyn walkable?
Yes, Williamsburg is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. It is close to other neighborhoods such as DUMBO, Greenpoint and Bushwick.
What is Williamsburg Brooklyn known for?
Williamsburg is known for its arts scene, independent shops, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife, making it one of Brooklyn’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Your Williamsburg Stay Starts Here
Williamsburg is a neighborhood best experienced on foot. Mornings begin with neighborhood cafés, afternoons unfold between galleries and waterfront parks, and evenings end with skyline views and late-night drinks.
The Penny Williamsburg places you at the center of it all, offering a calm, design-forward base in one of Brooklyn’s most creative and walkable neighborhoods. Whether you’re here for a weekend with your pet exploring or a longer Brooklyn stay, our rooms, amenities, and rooftop dining make it easy to settle in and feel at home
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