Bushwick is a Brooklyn neighborhood known for its street art, galleries, nightlife and independent restaurants. Many of its warehouses have become studios, performance spaces and bars, and murals cover walls, roll-down gates and whole buildings. This guide covers how to get there, where to see the art, and where to eat, drink and go out.
Key Takeaway:
- Bushwick's street art is the main draw. A self-guided walk is the easiest way to see it.
- Galleries and the annual Bushwick Open Studios open the neighborhood's art scene to visitors.
- For a night out, House of Yes and The Bushwick Starr are two of the best-known performance venues.
- Maria Hernandez Park is the neighborhood's main green space.
What is the fastest way to get to Bushwick from JFK or Newark airport?
BLADE offers scheduled helicopter flights between JFK or Newark and Manhattan. Flights take about 5 minutes and start from $195 per seat. BLADE's Manhattan lounges are BLADE Lounge West at the West 30th Street Heliport, BLADE Lounge East at the East 34th Street Heliport and BLADE Downtown at the Wall St. Heliport. From Manhattan, you finish the trip to Bushwick by car or subway.
BLADE does not fly to Brooklyn on its scheduled service, and LaGuardia is available by charter only. All flights are operated by FAA-licensed carriers.
Where is Bushwick in NYC, and how do you get around?
Bushwick is in north Brooklyn, next to Williamsburg and Ridgewood. Once you arrive, walking is the best way to explore, since most of the murals, cafes, bars and venues are within a few blocks of each other. The subway connects the neighborhood with Manhattan.
Exploring Bushwick's Street Art Scene
Self-guided street art tour
You do not need a map to find street art in Bushwick, but a loose plan helps:
- Start near Maria Hernandez Park.
- Walk the surrounding blocks and look up. Murals cover building walls, fences and garage doors.
- Look for the work of the Bushwick Collective, a group that has brought artists to paint walls across the neighborhood.
- Finish at a gallery or a cafe.
Murals change often as artists paint over old work, so each visit is a little different. Go in daylight for the best photos.
Notable murals and artists
Artists such as Jerkface and Queen Andrea have left their mark on Bushwick's walls. Many pieces deal with social themes, including gentrification and the neighborhood's diversity.
Galleries and Artistic Venues in Bushwick
Overview of galleries in the neighborhood
Bushwick's galleries show work by both emerging and established artists, often in converted industrial buildings. Many focus on local artists, and openings, artist talks and workshops are common.
Bushwick Open Studios and other art events
Bushwick Open Studios is an annual event where artists open their studios, galleries and alternative spaces to the public. It is a chance to meet artists and see work in progress. Check the dates ahead of time if you want to plan a trip around it. Guided art walks and tours of the murals also run through the year.
Best time to visit Bushwick for street art, nightlife, and events
Bushwick is most active from late afternoon into the night, especially on weekends, when galleries hold openings and nightlife venues run their biggest programs. For street art, go during the day, when the light is better for photos and the streets are easier to walk.
The Culinary Scene in Bushwick
Popular eateries and dining options
Bushwick's food scene runs from cafes and bakeries to breweries and sit-down restaurants. Well-known spots include Roberta's for pizza and Faro for contemporary Italian food. New places open often, so ask locals what is new.
Unique dining experiences, such as Syndicated
Syndicated combines a bar, a restaurant and a movie theater, so you can have dinner and a drink while you watch a film. It is a good option for a relaxed evening.
Nightlife and Entertainment in Bushwick
House of Yes and The Bushwick Starr
House of Yes is known for its performance-driven nights, which mix live music, DJs, theater and costume. The Bushwick Starr is a theater that presents new and experimental work. Check both venues' schedules and buy tickets ahead for popular nights.
Live music venues and performance spaces
Beyond these two, Bushwick has bars with live music, DIY spaces and rooftop venues, and pop-up shows are common. Local listings are the best way to find out what is on.
Outdoor Activities and Parks in Bushwick
Maria Hernandez Park and its amenities
Maria Hernandez Park has basketball courts, a baseball field, fitness equipment and a playground. It is named after Maria Isabel Hernandez, a community activist who fought drug dealing in the neighborhood.
Other outdoor activities and recreational areas
Community gardens are scattered through the neighborhood, and cycling is a popular way to get around.
Vintage Shops and Bookstores in Bushwick
Molasses Books and Urban Jungle
Molasses Books is a bookstore with a cafe, a comfortable place to browse over coffee or tea. Urban Jungle sells vintage furniture, home decor and art, and its stock changes often, so there is something new on each visit.
Exploring Bushwick's unique shops and boutiques
Independent stores in Bushwick sell handmade jewelry, clothing by local designers, books and gifts. Human Relations is another bookstore worth a stop. Local artisans and designers are behind many of them.
Plan a day in Bushwick
- Late morning: coffee and a walk through the murals.
- Afternoon: galleries, bookstores and vintage shops.
- Evening: dinner at one of the neighborhood's restaurants.
- Night: a show at House of Yes or The Bushwick Starr.
If you have more time, Williamsburg is next door. See our guide to fun things to do near NYC's Williamsburg.
FAQs about Fun Things To Do Near Nyc'S Bushwick
What are some of the top things to do in Bushwick, Brooklyn?
Take a self-guided street art walk, visit galleries and the Bushwick Collective's murals, browse bookstores such as Molasses Books and Human Relations, eat at Roberta's or Faro, and go out at House of Yes.
Are there any special events or experiences in Bushwick?
Bushwick Open Studios, held once a year, opens artists' studios to the public. Galleries also hold regular openings, and House of Yes and The Bushwick Starr run shows throughout the year.
What are some recommended places to eat and drink in Bushwick?
Roberta's, Faro and Syndicated are well-known options, and the neighborhood has many cafes, bakeries and breweries.
Are there any unique specialty shops or stores in Bushwick?
Yes. Look for independent bookstores such as Molasses Books and Human Relations, vintage stores and shops selling work by local designers.