12 Must-Do Activities In Gowanus For An Unforgettable Experience

Looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in New York City? Look no further than Gowanus, the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood located in the heart of Brooklyn. With its mix of old-school charm and trendy new developments, Gowanus boasts a plethora of exciting activities that are sure to make your visit unforgettable. From kayaking through the canal to exploring local breweries and art galleries, here are 12 must-do activities that will help you discover the best of Gowanus.

Visit the Gowanus Canal for a scenic walk

The Gowanus Canal is an iconic waterway running through the heart of Brooklyn, New York. A visit to the canal promises visitors a scenic walk with stunning views of the surrounding neighborhood. Despite its infamous reputation as one of the most polluted waterways in the country, the Gowanus Canal has come a long way in recent years. Today, it is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the best ways to experience the Gowanus Canal is by taking a leisurely walk along its banks. Visitors can see first-hand the ongoing efforts to clean up the canal and the surrounding industrial area. The canal is lined with a mix of residential buildings, warehouses, and factories, all of which provide a unique glimpse into the history of the area.

One of the highlights of a walk along the Gowanus Canal is the views of its bridges. The elevated Gowanus Expressway runs above the canal, providing a unique urban landscape that is not to be missed. Visitors can also spot the iconic Carroll Street Bridge, which was built in 1889 and is one of the oldest retractable bridges in the United States.

Another popular attraction along the Gowanus Canal is the Gowanus Canal Conservancy. This group works tirelessly to improve the canal's water quality, restore its natural habitats, and promote environmental education. Visitors interested in learning more about the history of the canal and the efforts to clean it up can take a guided tour with the Conservancy.

In recent years, the Gowanus Canal has become a popular destination for foodies. The surrounding neighborhood is home to a wide range of trendy restaurants and cafes, serving everything from artisanal coffee to farm-to-table cuisine. Visitors can make a pit stop along the way to sample some of the area's culinary delights.

In conclusion, a visit to the Gowanus Canal is a must-do for anyone visiting Brooklyn. This iconic waterway offers a unique glimpse into the history of the area, as well as the ongoing efforts to restore and revitalize it. Whether walking along its banks, taking a guided tour, or sampling the local cuisine, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience at the Gowanus Canal.

Go kayaking or canoeing on the canal

If you're looking for a unique way to experience the city, consider exploring Brooklyn's Gowanus Canal by kayak or canoe. This industrial waterway has a reputation for being one of the most polluted bodies of water in New York City, but recent revitalization efforts have brought new life to the area.

The canal is often overlooked as a recreational destination due to its murky waters and odor, but it's actually become a popular spot for paddlers in recent years. Despite its questionable reputation, many New Yorkers have become familiar with the canal thanks to the Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club, a group of volunteers who offer guided tours and events throughout the year.

If you're interested in exploring the canal on your own, there are a number of outfitters who rent kayaks and canoes. The Gowanus Canal Conservancy provides a list of recommended rental companies on their website, and there are also a few options directly on site, such as the Brooklyn Kayak Company.

When kayaking or canoeing on the canal, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, remember that the water is polluted and may not be safe to come into contact with. You should also check the tide schedule before heading out, as the current can be strong and fast-moving.

It's recommended that paddlers wear gloves and cover any open wounds to avoid coming into contact with the water. You should also avoid capsizing or falling into the canal at all costs. If you do happen to fall in, make sure to thoroughly wash any affected areas and seek medical attention if necessary.

Despite these precautions, kayaking or canoeing on the Gowanus Canal can be a unique and exciting experience. You'll see the canal from a whole new perspective, and may even get a chance to spot some of the local wildlife, such as herons and egrets.

Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or just looking to try something new, don't count the Gowanus Canal out as a potential destination. With the right preparation and mindset, you can explore this historic waterway in a safe and enjoyable way.

Explore Brooklyn's only indoor rock climbing gym at Brooklyn Boulders

Characteristic	Description
Name	Bouldering Project
Type	Gym in Brooklyn, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4 / 316
Address	575 Degraw St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Phone	(347) 834-9066
Profiles

Brooklyn is one of the most popular boroughs in New York City, home to a diverse population and cultural landmarks. One of the most unique and exciting activities to try in this area is indoor rock climbing. And, at Brooklyn Boulders, the only indoor rock climbing gym in Gowanus, this activity becomes even more thrilling and accessible.

Brooklyn Boulders is an all-inclusive facility that offers a range of climbing options for people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, you'll find what you're looking for here. The facility is spacious and well-maintained, so you'll feel safe and comfortable while you climb.

In addition to climbing walls, Brooklyn Boulders offers various fitness classes, such as yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity training sessions. Among its other amenities are communal workspaces, private meeting rooms, and a coffee shop. So, it's not just a facility designed for rock climbing, but also a place where you can focus on productivity or socialize with your peers.

One of the most exciting aspects of Brooklyn Boulders is that it has a climbable transparent tube that suspends you directly above the lobby. This tube is a thrilling addition to the climbing gym that lets visitors climb in a unique and challenging way. It's hard to find any other indoor climbing facility that offers this kind of feature.

Everything in Brooklyn Boulders is designed to provide a great experience for visitors, making it an enjoyable activity for people of all ages. The facility has set up a youth rock-climbing program that focuses on developing skills, confidence, and teamwork for children. For adults, Brooklyn Boulders offers various group classes throughout the week, which cater to different interests.

If outdoor climbing is more your thing, Brooklyn Boulders provides outdoor group trips to nearby climbing venues, such as the Gunks. These trips are facilitated by experienced climbers who will guide you through your outdoor climbing experience and ensure that you return home safely.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a thrilling and engaging activity to do in Brooklyn, then you should check out Brooklyn Boulders. It offers a unique and well-rounded indoor rock-climbing experience, with various amenities, services, and programs suitable for all ages. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, head over to Gowanus and explore what Brooklyn Boulders has to offer!

Take a yoga class at Devoción Coffee

If you’re looking for a unique twist on yoga, look no further than Devoción Coffee in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn. While coffee and yoga may not seem like a natural pairing, Devoción has found a way to bring these two seemingly disparate worlds together in a beautifully harmonious way.

An oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the Gowanus neighborhood, Devoción is a popular destination for coffee lovers who appreciate high-quality, sustainably-sourced beans. But what makes this coffee shop stand out is its cozy space in the back of the shop, which is transformed each week into a serene yoga studio.

Classes are held twice a week and are appropriate for yogis of all levels. Each class lasts for an hour-long and is hosted by a rotating cast of talented and knowledgeable local yoga instructors. Mats are provided, but it’s recommended that you bring your own yoga props if you typically use them.

Devoción’s classes are designed to help you connect with your breath and cultivate mindfulness. From invigorating vinyasa flows to calming restorative practices, there’s something for everyone who wants to focus mindfulness and relax.

After class, stick around and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea alongside fresh, healthy treats like granola, smoothies, and nourishing breakfast bowls.

Devoción’s commitment to sustainability and ethical coffee sourcing also extends to its yoga classes. The team goes the extra mile to make sure that everything in the studio is eco-friendly, from the non-toxic mats and cleaning products to the high-efficiency heating and cooling system. You’ll feel good about your practice not just for the inner peace it brings you, but for its impact on the environment as well.

So if you’re looking to combine your love of yoga with your love of coffee, you’ll find the perfect blend of both at Devoción Coffee in Gowanus. Come for the yoga, stay for the coffee and community. Namaste.

Stop by the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co

If you're looking for a unique and quirky destination in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn, definitely make a stop at the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co. This retail store, which is run by the nonprofit organization 826NYC, sells all sorts of superhero-themed products and gifts while also supporting literacy and writing programs for children and teens.

Located at 372 5th Ave in Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co is a one-of-a-kind destination that defies easy categorization. Part gift shop, part literacy center, and part imaginative wonderland, this store caters to anyone with a love of comic books, superheroes, and all things fantastical. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a variety of superhero-themed items, including t-shirts, hats, masks, capes, and more. But the store doesn't stop there. You'll also find an array of other fun items, such as laser guns, secret decoder rings, and boxes of invisibility. Every product in the store has a unique backstory and is designed to inspire the imagination of visitors.

Of course, the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co wouldn't be complete without a nod to its charitable mission. 826NYC is a nonprofit organization that provides writing workshops, tutoring, and after-school programming to young people in the New York City area. Proceeds from the store go directly to funding these programs, which helps to provide young people with the tools they need to become creative, critical thinkers.

When you visit the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co, you'll also have the opportunity to explore the store's "heroic" back room. This area is designed to resemble a superhero lair and contains a number of fun installations and displays. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the exhibits and get lost in the magic of the space.

Overall, the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to add a little bit of magic, whimsy, and heroism to their day. Whether you're shopping for gifts for a superhero-loving friend or just looking to indulge your own comic book fantasies, this store is worth a stop. Not only will you find cool items to take home, but you'll also be supporting a great cause in the process. So go ahead and channel your inner hero - you won't regret it!

Visit the Morbid Anatomy Museum

The Gowanus neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York is home to some unique and interesting attractions, one of which is the Morbid Anatomy Museum. This museum is not your typical art museum, rather it is dedicated to exploring the intersections of death, beauty, and medicine. Here are some reasons why you should add the Morbid Anatomy Museum to your Gowanus itinerary.

History and Exhibits: The Morbid Anatomy Museum was founded in 2014 by Joanna Ebenstein, an art historian, and writer. The museum features a collection of over 2,000 objects related to death, both natural and man-made. Some of the exhibits include preserved human specimens, objects used in Victorian mourning rituals, and artifacts related to medical procedures. Visitors can learn about the history of death practices and gain a new perspective on contemporary issues related to mortality.

Events and Lectures: In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts a variety of events and lectures throughout the year. Past events have included taxidermy workshops, lectures on death in literature, and discussions on the history of medicine. These events allow visitors to engage with experts in the fields of death, medicine, and art and to gain a deeper understanding of the topics explored in the museum's exhibits.

Café and Gift Shop: The museum features a café and gift shop, providing visitors with an opportunity to take a break and reflect on their visit. The café offers coffee, tea, beer, and wine, and the gift shop includes books, artwork, and other items related to death and mourning.

Location and Accessibility: The Morbid Anatomy Museum is located in the heart of Gowanus, a short walk from the Carroll Street subway station. The museum is wheelchair accessible and there is a seating area for visitors who need to rest.

In summary, if you're interested in exploring the fascinating intersection of death, medicine, and art, the Morbid Anatomy Museum is a must-visit attraction when you're in Gowanus. With its unique exhibits, events, and café, the museum is a thought-provoking and memorable experience.

Dine at award-winning restaurants like Littleneck or Runner & Stone

Characteristic	Description
Name	Littleneck
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 322
Address	288 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Phone	(718) 522-1921
Hours	Wednesday - 5–9 PM Thursday - 5–9 PM Friday - 5–10 PM Saturday - 5–10 PM Sunday - 11 AM–3 PM, 4–8 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 5–9 PM
Profiles

The Gowanus neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York has become a vibrant destination for foodies seeking award-winning restaurants in a stylish yet laid-back setting. Among the many dining options in this part of town, two standouts are Littleneck and Runner & Stone.

Littleneck, which bills itself as a "slightly coastal" American restaurant, has gained a loyal following for its delicious seafood dishes and creative cocktails. The menu changes frequently, but some of the standout dishes have included roasted oysters with garlic and butter, pan-seared scallops with fennel and apples, and the lobster roll, which many consider one of the best in the city. The cozy, brick-lined space is perfect for a romantic date or an intimate dinner with friends.

Runner & Stone, meanwhile, offers a more rustic and European-inspired dining experience. This bakery and restaurant serves up hearty, comforting dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as house-cured bacon and sourdough bread made from scratch. The brunch menu is particularly popular, with options like eggs benedict with smoked salmon, buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup, and a breakfast sandwich featuring a homemade sausage patty. Despite its modest, industrial-chic décor, Runner & Stone has earned accolades from the likes of the New York Times and Eater.

Both Littleneck and Runner & Stone are located in the heart of Gowanus, a neighborhood that has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Once known for its heavily polluted canal, Gowanus has become a hub for artists, brewers, and foodies. The area boasts a variety of independent shops, galleries, and performance spaces, giving it a unique, creative vibe.

In addition to Littleneck and Runner & Stone, visitors to Gowanus can also check out other top-rated restaurants like Pig Beach, a barbecue joint with outdoor seating and live music, and Calexico, which serves up mouth-watering Mexican fare like tacos and burritos.

All in all, Gowanus offers foodies plenty of reasons to make the trip to this corner of Brooklyn. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of comforting brunch fare, there’s something for everyone at this trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood.

Attend a concert at The Bell House

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Bell House
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 1,450
Address	149 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Phone	(718) 643-6510
Profiles

If you're looking for a unique and intimate concert experience in the Gowanus area, look no further than The Bell House.

Located at 149 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, The Bell House is a live music venue and bar that has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry. However, what sets it apart from other venues is its intimate size and inviting atmosphere.

The Bell House can accommodate up to 400 guests and features a bar and lounge area, as well as a stage and dance floor. You never know who might show up to perform, as the venue has previously hosted acts such as The Lumineers, Vampire Weekend, and St. Vincent.

Aside from the top-notch entertainment, The Bell House also offers a variety of food and drinks. The bar features a wide range of craft beers, cocktails, and wine, as well as a menu of delicious bar bites and entrees, perfect for a pre- or post-show meal.

Tickets for shows at The Bell House typically range from $15-$40, but prices may vary depending on the performer. The venue also offers VIP packages, which include perks such as early admission, a reserved table, and a meet-and-greet with the artist.

It's important to note that due to its size, tickets for shows at The Bell House often sell out quickly. Be sure to check the venue's website or social media pages for upcoming shows and to purchase tickets ahead of time.

In short, if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind concert experience in Gowanus, The Bell House is the place to be. With its cozy atmosphere, impressive lineup of performers, and delicious food and drinks, it's a venue you won't want to miss.

Catch a flick at Nitehawk Cinema

Characteristic	Description
Name	Nitehawk Prospect Park
Type	Movie theater in Brooklyn, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 1,648
Address	188 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Phone	(646) 963-9295
Profiles

If you find yourself in the Gowanus area of Brooklyn and are looking for something interesting to do in the evening, catching a flick at Nitehawk Cinema might be just the ticket. This unique theater combines the magic of the movies with delicious food and inventive cocktails, making it a must-visit destination for cinema lovers and foodies alike.

One of the things that sets Nitehawk Cinema apart from other theaters is its dine-in experience. Seating options include regular theater seats, as well as more comfortable options like couches and booths. But the real draw is the theater's menu, which features a creative selection of food and drinks that are served right to your seat. From truffle popcorn to fried chicken sliders, the dishes here are sure to satisfy any craving. And the cocktails are just as impressive - with options like the "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (a blood orange margarita) and the "Goodfellas" (a mixture of whiskey, amaro, and coffee bitters), you won't find these drinks anywhere else.

In addition to the food and drinks, the theater itself is worth admiring. The main theater has a capacity of over 140 seats, and features a state-of-the-art digital projection system and surround sound. And if you're lucky enough to snag a VIP seat, you'll be treated to your own personal table and service buzzer.

But what's really special about Nitehawk Cinema is its dedication to showcasing unique and engaging films. The theater has a rotating selection of independent, foreign, classic, and cult films, as well as regular events like movie trivia and filmmaker Q&As. And if you're a fan of the classics, be sure to check out Nitehawk's "Country Brunchin'" series, which pairs classic Westerns with a delicious Southern-style brunch.

Overall, if you're in the mood for a fun and memorable night out in Gowanus, look no further than Nitehawk Cinema. With its delicious food and drink options, comfortable seating, and engaging film selection, this theater is sure to become a new favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Hunt for vintage treasures at the Gowanus Flea

If you're on the hunt for unique vintage treasures, then look no further than the Gowanus Flea. Located in the heart of Brooklyn's Gowanus neighborhood, this outdoor market is a haven for antique enthusiasts, bargain hunters and bohemian types.

The Gowanus Flea is open on weekends from 10am to 5pm, and features a rotating collection of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and accessories to vinyl records, furniture, and handmade crafts. Whether you're a collector or just looking for something one-of-a-kind, the flea market offers an eclectic mix of items at affordable prices.

One of the major draws of the Gowanus Flea is the opportunity to find unique vintage fashion pieces that are not easily found in chain stores. The stalls are lined with vintage and retro clothing items, including denim jackets, leather boots, printed dresses, and classic handbags. Expect to see fashion pieces from the 1920s to the 1990s, all with their unique style making it easy to create your own customized and classic look.

If music is your thing, you'll find an extensive selection of vinyl records, CDs and cassettes from all genres of music. The vendors offer many rare and hard-to-find pieces, making it an ideal place to start your music collection.

Apart from clothing and music, the flea market is also home to craftsmen showcasing their handmade wares. You'll find a wide range of jewelry, handbags, home décor, and other unique items that make for great gifts. And with the ongoing pandemic situation, visitors can take heart that most of the vendors will be selling their wares in an outdoors, socially distanced setting.

To keep the energy level high while browsing the stalls, the Gowanus Flea features a rotating collection of food trucks and tents selling delicious local snacks and beverages. A feast for your tastebuds!

Overall, if you're looking to explore Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood and discover some unique vintage treasures, the Gowanus Flea is certainly worth a visit. You never know what you'll find, but the experience of combing through the eclectic mix of offerings is almost always thrilling. So grab a friend and make a day out of it – and make sure to leave plenty of room in your shopping bag!

Visit the Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse for electronics recycling

If you live in the Gowanus area of Brooklyn and have old electronics lying around your home, consider taking them to the Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse for responsible recycling. Located on 9th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, this facility takes in electronic waste and ensures that it is safely disposed of or recycled in an environmentally-friendly way.

Many electronics contain hazardous materials, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can be harmful to people and the environment if they are not disposed of properly. By recycling electronics, these materials can be safely extracted and used in new products, reducing the need for harmful mining practices. Additionally, many electronics are made from valuable materials that can be reused, such as gold, silver, and copper.

The facility will accept a wide range of electronics, including computers, laptops, printers, monitors, televisions, and more. They also accept batteries, including rechargeable and single-use varieties. For a full list of accepted items, check out their website.

The Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse works with certified recycling partners to ensure that your electronics are recycled responsibly. This means that any hazardous materials are extracted and disposed of safely, and valuable materials are reused in new products. By recycling your electronics, you are helping to reduce waste and protect the environment.

The Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse is open Monday through Friday, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. They ask that you call ahead if you are planning to bring in a large amount of electronics. They also offer pick-up services for businesses with a large amount of e-waste.

In conclusion, if you have old or unwanted electronics, don't simply throw them in the trash. Consider taking them to the Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse for responsible recycling. By doing so, you are helping to protect the environment and reduce waste.

Play a round of mini golf at Shipwrecked Miniature Golf

Characteristic	Description
Name	Shipwrecked
Type	Amusement center in Brooklyn, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 589
Address	621 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Phone	(718) 852-4653
Hours	Wednesday - Closed Thursday - 7–11 PM Friday - 3–11 PM Saturday - 11 AM–11 PM Sunday - 11 AM–10 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed
Profiles

If you are looking for a fun and unique activity to do in Gowanus, Brooklyn, why not try a round of mini-golf at Shipwrecked Miniature Golf? This 18-hole mini-golf course is inspired by the fictional story of Captain Salty Sam and his sunken ship, which has been transformed into a mini-golf course.

As soon as you enter the grounds of Shipwrecked Miniature Golf, you'll be transported into a pirate adventure, with the sound of waves crashing against the shore and the sight of palm trees and pirate flags waving in the sea breeze. The course is full of exciting obstacles, including sunken treasure chests, a giant squid, and even a cannon that shoots your ball out and onto the green. But be careful not to hit your ball into the water, as you may lose it forever!

One of the standout features of Shipwrecked Miniature Golf is the attention to detail. Each hole has a unique design that fits perfectly with the pirate theme, and there are even interactive elements that add to the fun. For example, on one hole, you have to hit your ball through a giant skull's mouth to get to the green, and on another, you have to hit your ball up a ramp and into a treasure chest to unlock a secret passage.

Another great thing about Shipwrecked Miniature Golf is that it is suitable for people of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned mini-golf pro or a first-timer, there is something here for everyone. The course is also wheelchair accessible, so everyone can join in on the fun.

In addition to mini-golf, Shipwrecked Miniature Golf also offers a variety of other activities, including axe-throwing and balloon darts. There is also a bar on-site, where you can enjoy a drink or two between rounds.

Overall, if you are looking for a unique and fun activity to do in Gowanus, Brooklyn, you should definitely check out Shipwrecked Miniature Golf. With its pirate-themed design, exciting obstacles, and attention to detail, it is sure to be a fun and memorable experience for all.

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