7 Ultimate Things to Do in Dumbo, Brooklyn

At the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge lies the 85-acre Brooklyn Bridge Park - a great place to relax and check out the skyline. Walk around the park to get some fresh air as well as a good view of the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, and Empire State Building. Read a book, have a picnic and take a nap in the relaxing atmosphere of the park.

Those who love outdoor sports can take advantage of the various amenities at the park like the soccer field as well as volleyball and basketball courts. There is also a boathouse at the park that offers a chance to go kayaking along the New York Harbor.

During summer, the Brooklyn Bridge offers 'Movies with a View', where a movie is played on the Harbor View Lawn, every Thursday evening after sunset.

Started by the well-known publisher powerHouse Books, POWERHOUSE Arena is a boutique bookstore that acts as an art gallery, exhibition and event space. Numerous performances, exhibitions and events are held here regularly.

One of the best things that the place is known for is the book launches and readings that happen here. In fact, several famous writers and authors have graced POWERHOUSE Arena for book readings and signings since its launch in 2006.

If you are a foodie with a sweet tooth and have a soft corner for desserts, this is a perfect place to look for. While there are several Jacques Torres Chocolate Shops in New York, the one in Dumbo is the first in the city.

The place is known for its uniquely-flavored chocolates infused with Earl Grey tea, Pastis licorice liquor, fresh mint tea, etc. If you visit Dumbo during winter, do try their famous Chili Hot Chocolate. The store is also a great place to buy chocolate souvenirs for friends and family.

Located near the Manhattan Bridge Archway, the Dumbo Flea Market happens every Sunday, from April to October. Considered to be one of the best flea markets in the world, you would see an array of stalls by local vendors selling vintage clothing, old records, artisan crafts, retro furniture and handmade jewelery.

Although a part of Brooklyn Bridge Park, this almost 100-years old carousel does need a special mention. Jane's Carousel was built in 1922 and was part of the Idora Park in Youngstown in Ohio. After the park was closed in 1986, this carousel with 48 carved wooden horses was bought by Jane and David Walentas.

A tobacco warehouse in the past, St. Ann's Warehouse is one of the most prestigious theater and performing arts center of New York. Built in 1860, the building still holds yesteryear's charm. In fact, St. Ann's Warehouse is hugely responsible for the popularity of Dumbo.

Since its introduction, St. Ann's Warehouse has churned out some advanced theater and concert presentations by renowned artists. Even if you are not planning to watch a performance, do visit the place. Accessible to everyone, the Max Family Garden is located on the premises.

One of the things Dumbo is popular for is pizza, and the best is surely served at Juliana's Pizza. Started by Patsy Grimaldi and named after his mother, Juliana's Pizza serves the most delicious coal-fired oven pizzas, pies and calzones. However, it would be difficult to get a pizza without waiting in a long queue. Still, it is definitely worth the wait!