Everyone’s talking about back-to-school and pretty much all things fall. Well, I say, it’s still summer, so let’s get as much of what the city has to offer as possible before it’s all done! I grabbed a friend, some Perrier® and took a little tour of Brooklyn!

The Biggie Mural

As you make your way around the borough, take a moment to enjoy the art and culture you’ll find throughout! A must see is the “King of NY” mural of Brooklyn rapper Biggie Smalls aka The Notorious B.I.G. created by Naoufal “Rocko” Alaoui and Scott “Zimer” Zimmerman as part of their art collective Spread Art NYC. Naturally, the mural is found in the heart of Biggie’s home of Bed-Stuy on the corner of Bedford Avenue. and Quincy Street. 

As a Brooklyn resident, Biggie is a staple and this mural is not just an expression of talent but sets the tone for all that makes Brooklyn the cultural and artistic hub that it is. This was just a taste, a great kick-off to our day’s journey. Here are more recommended sights and things to do in Brooklyn before summer’s out!

Williamsburg

A little further down Bedford Avenue is Williamsburg, a rather easygoing neighborhood (no one is in a rush!) with a plethora of eateries for every taste and more dope murals! I couldn’t resist this one featuring the iconic Biggie lyric. Man… the creative expression throughout Brooklyn is worth its own tour! Come to Williamsburg for a good cup of coffee at a hip cafe, a fancy brunch or just take in the culture and snap a few pics.

The vibrant hues of this mural by Doug Aldrich remind me of the work of Portugese mural artist AKACorleone inspired by the colorful new Perrier® flavors, watermelon and strawberry.  This kinda made me a little proud to be a Brooklynite!

Sweet Chick

I’ve only hit a couple eateries in Williamsburg so far but one that hubby and I stumble into often is chicken and waffle joint, Sweet Chick. Right at the corner of North 8th Street and Bedford Avenue, across the street from the ‘Spread Love’ mural you’ll get some tasty fried chicken paired with light and airy waffles in a quaint, homey atmosphere. Grab a friend and go!

Brooklyn Museum

Stop by Wednesday through Sunday to catch some of the ongoing cultural exhibits and an eclectic mix of art through the centuries. While we have Williamsburg on the brain, on the first floor, check out the beautifully restored abstract murals from the original Williamsburg Houses. Originally commissioned in the 1930s, they’ve been on display at the Brooklyn Museum after being rediscovered in the 80s. They have an amazing story and history that’s worth a visit!

Even if it’s closed, there’s plenty of space outside the museum to just sit and eat lunch, people-watch or read a good book.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Literally right next “door” to the museum is the gorgeous Brooklyn Botanic Garden where many flock yearly to see the Cherry Blossoms. The blossoms are done blooming for the year but there’s still much beauty to take in during a summer walk through BBG. Grab a map and take a walk on your own or enjoy a guided tour to see the seasonal highlights. Get the kids involved and enjoy Kids Discovery Stations throughout the summer as well as Family Discovery Weekends with hands-on activities and education as you explore nature.

Smorgasburg

I’ve yet to do this but it’s SO on my Summer 17 bucket list! Originating — and still held on Saturdays — in Williamsburg (hence the name), Smorgasburg is THE largest weekly open-air food market in America. From April to October, over 100 vendors gather at Prospect Park on Sundays from 11 am til 6 pm offering food and beverages to a hungry public. If you’re a foodie or just looking to stretch your legs on a lovely Sunday afternoon, head to Smorgasburg, feed your face then walk it off with a stroll through the park.

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Afropunk Fest

Dubbed “the most multicultural festival in the US”, Afropunk is live music meets fashion meets art and just good vibes! Whether you go for the sounds — ummm… Solange, Willow Smith, Soul II Soul (#80sbaby), to name a few — or the AMAZING lineup of apparel, arts and goods vendors, you won’t be disappointed! Afropunk will miss me this year as it lands on my anniversary weekend, August 26th & 27th but, please, head to Commodore Barry Park and enjoy for me!

Wherever you find yourself for the rest of the summer, whether traipsing around Brooklyn or wherever your home may be, pack some Perrier® to keep you cool and hydrated! Perrier‘s sugar-free and calorie-free natural mineral waters are easy to carry and are great on their own or when used to create your own refreshing summer cocktails! There’s a crisp, naturally flavored option for everyone: Green Apple, L’Orange, Lime, or the new kids on the block, Strawberry and Watermelon.

I hope this encouraged you to explore the culture of your own city. You never know what hidden gems you might find! Find more inspiration HERE and sign up {in the upper right hand corner} for a chance to win Perrier for a year!

What’s on your radar to check out in YOUR hometown before summer’s done?

 

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