Explore Brooklyn Heights Through Urban Sketching

Brooklyn , United States

Explore Brooklyn Heights Through Urban Sketching

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About this experience

This tour is for people who love to wander — to people-watch, slow down, and notice the city as it unfolds around them. Together, we’ll make time for looking deeply instead of moving quickly, allowing space for serendipity within New York’s fast-paced, bustling rhythm.

We’ll begin with a few quick sketches to loosen the hand and ground ourselves in the neighborhood, paired with short stories about the streets and spaces we’re moving through. From there, we’ll travel in gentle 30-minute intervals to a series of pre-selected spots around Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Along the way, you’ll discover my favorite corners of the area alongside a small group of curious, creative people. You’ll hear stories, share observations, and experience the city— a quiet counterpoint to the rush. Whether you’re visiting New York for the first time or seeing it anew, this walk is designed to slow you down, sharpen your eye, and help you begin your time in the city with intention.

Available options

Explore Brooklyn Heights Through Urban Sketching

What's included

Custom Bingo Card

Sketched Map of the Area

Detailed itinerary

From the outside, you can sketch the carousel as an object—perfect circles, strong verticals, mirrored surfaces. From the inside, it becomes something else entirely: a study in rhythm, rotation, and time. Children blur into streaks of color. Adults stand still at the edges, watching. The carousel becomes the calm center, and the city moves around it.

For sketching, Jane’s Carousel offers endless entry points:

Repetition and pattern
Circular composition
Motion without chaos
Reflection as distortion

Stop 2

One of my favorite views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and bridges — one of the most photogenic and sketchable spots in all of NYC.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide Johnna will meet you in front of the park tables in front of the soccer field. She will be wearing a red bandanna around her neck and holding a sign titled Urban Sketch Tour.

About Brooklyn

Brooklyn, one of New York City's five boroughs, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and thriving arts scene. From the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to the trendy streets of Williamsburg, Brooklyn offers a unique blend of urban energy and local charm.

Top Attractions

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Prospect Park

A large urban park designed by the same architects as Central Park, featuring lakes, wooded areas, and recreational facilities.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Brooklyn Museum

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, housing a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours $16 (general admission), discounts available

Coney Island

A historic amusement area known for its beach, boardwalk, and iconic attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction (some free, some paid)

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

A beautiful 52-acre botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, themed gardens, and seasonal displays.

Nature 1-2 hours $20 (general admission), discounts available

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-Style Pizza

Thin, large slices with a crispy crust and tangy tomato sauce, often topped with pepperoni or other classic toppings.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but not typically vegan or gluten-free.

Pastrami on Rye

A classic deli sandwich featuring thick slices of pastrami on rye bread, often served with mustard and pickles.

Lunch Not vegetarian or vegan, but can be made gluten-free with specific bread requests.

Bagels and Lox

Freshly baked bagels topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often accompanied by capers, red onion, and tomatoes.

Breakfast Not vegetarian or vegan, but vegetarian lox alternatives are available.

Dessert: Black and White Cookie

A classic New York cookie with half black and half white icing, often found at iconic bakeries like Junior's.

Dessert Vegetarian, but not typically vegan or gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Biking in Prospect Park Kayaking in the East River Hiking in Green-Wood Cemetery Picnicking in Brooklyn Bridge Park Yoga in the park Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and galleries Attending theater performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather and various outdoor events, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks, beaches, and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Haitian Creole, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Brooklyn is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in most neighborhoods. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 19 km (12 miles)
LaGuardia Airport • 20 km (12 miles)

By train

Atlantic Terminal, East New York

By bus

Atlantic Bus Terminal, Downtown Brooklyn Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is the most efficient way to get around Brooklyn and connect to other boroughs. It operates 24/7 with various lines serving different neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Williamsburg Park Slope DUMBO Brooklyn Heights Bushwick

Day trips

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

Visit two iconic landmarks in New York Harbor, offering a glimpse into the history of immigration and freedom in the United States.

Coney Island

15 km (9 miles) • Full day

A historic amusement area known for its beach, boardwalk, and iconic attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster.

Green-Wood Cemetery

6 km (4 miles) • Half day

A historic cemetery and National Historic Landmark, known for its beautiful landscapes, historic monuments, and scenic views of Manhattan.

Festivals

Brooklyn Folk Festival • April Brooklyn Book Festival • September Brooklyn Pride • June

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge and Prospect Park early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Explore lesser-known neighborhoods like DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope for a more local and authentic experience.
Try local specialties like New York-style pizza, pastrami on rye, and bagels and lox for a true taste of Brooklyn.
Use public transportation like the subway, bus, or Citi Bike to get around the borough efficiently and affordably.
Attend local events and festivals, such as the Brooklyn Folk Festival, Brooklyn Book Festival, and Mermaid Parade, for a unique and memorable experience.