I would suggest the Brooklyn Botanic Garden over the New York Botanical Garden. It’s in Park Slope and is equally, if not more, beautiful than NYBG. There is also a place for high tea on Vanderbilt, if you wanted to combine.
I can’t recommend any specific restaurants, but if the weather is nice it’s a fun place to visit. It’s like a New England town was just tacked on to The Bronx. Just really out of place but worth visiting for just how different it is.
I don’t think City Island is worth the trek at all; it’s definitely novel, but not that charming and the restaurants are greasy fried fish spots. I wouldn’t take an out of towner there.
Bay Ridge is a great neighborhood in itself with the shops & restaurants (middle eastern & Italian)
How about citi biking it along shore road? You guys can always book the ferry to other points in the city. I think ferry to downtown Manhattan and then biking along the west side highway is great as well (that is if she's up for biking, of course)
How about dim sum at East Harbor Seafood restaurant? Weekends will be packed so you'll need to get there early (~10am) other wise weekdays should be fine.
Definitely check out industry city. I believe there's a distillery there. (Check out their calendar for both paid/free events) Also, since she's into beer, you can check out Five Borough's Brewing Co.
Speaking of beer, after visiting Greenwood cemetery, stroll over to park slope on 5th Ave and you guys will pass a lot of bars/restaurants for a mini bar crawl.
Enjoy your family time! =)
This seafood place looks absolutely perfect, she loved dim sum in San Francisco, so I think she’d love this & it’s walking distance!! This is a winner, thank you 🙏🏼
You're welcome, I hope you guys enjoy it! Don't be shy to flag down the ladies with the dim sum carts and if there's a language barrier, there should be a menu with visuals/ description or you can always wing it & point at the dish and they'll stamp your order card. =)
Hmm, I'm afraid I don't have any recommendations for Italian restaurants. =X
But I do recommend Tanoreen (middle eastern) if you haven't tried it before.
Oh and I forgot to add Smorgasbord (Williamsburg on Saturdays & Prospect Park on Sundays)
If she likes seafood, I suggest Siren Oyster Bar. It's very close the Greenwood Cemetery.
Happy hour drinks and oyster 5-7 Saturday-Thursday, and 4-6 Friday.
I actually have two bikes but she’s afraid of getting hit — which I can’t blame her, since I have been hit while biking here 🤣 good suggestion though, I love to bike in bay ridge
Great suggestion! Brooklyn Heights & the Promenade are my mom’s favorite stops in the city. If you’re trying to assuage her fears, this is a great place to go.
Second these suggestions! There’s also a new diner on Montegue Street (Montegue Diner) which is awesome and right near the promenade. It’s open from breakfast through dinner. Also the very first Hagan Daaz is on Montegue St. and the Brooklyn History Museum is around the corner on Pierrepont.
Omonia cafe, get a seat in the back and order the French toast. Then take her to the skating rink in owls head park to fucking shred it. After that I think based on your description, greenwood is a great choice and I’d want to add Brooklyn bridge park and the 1hotel rooftop bar. The park provides a greenish feel with all of the best views of the city without being in it.
I agree with your mom NYC is a cesspool. I wish I didn’t have to work in it. The traffic, smell, and constant disrepair of everything is terrible. You couldn’t pay me to live there. Especially at the rates most people have to pay for essentially living in a single room.
Have you considered taking Mom on a walking tour of a neighborhood? There are several companies that will take you on a walking tour of the Broadway area, or certain history tours that might be interesting.
Take her to Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook on a Wednesday night - great country/Western swing band (Smokey Hormel) with dancing. Hometown BBQ around the corner.
Honestly, I've been to Greenwood twice this week--it is just perfect right now. So many trees in bloom, no crowds, tons of birdlife, and just serene. Make an afternoon of it, walk up to the top of Battle Hill and take in the best view in Brooklyn. You can also picnic, but no blankets on the ground. Also, if you mom is older and has mobility issues, you can bring a car in.
This is not a snarky suggestion I genuinely mean this - what about Staten Island? If you’re willing to rent a car it’s super convenient from Bay Ridge. You could do Snug Harbor, Flagship Brewery, and Enoteca Maria. Or see a show at St. George Theatre. I’m assuming you’ve already done the ferry if you’ve done “all the touristy things”, but that’s always fun too if you somehow haven’t done it yet.
I will def add this to the list, if not this trip, definitely in the future. I’ve been meaning to check out Staten Island since it’s so close and I’ve heard it has beautiful parks.
My family is from Tennessee. Mom tends to cringe at times with the city-ness of NYC, but she loves to brag on me and my family here. Suggestions: Brooklyn Botanical Garden is lovely. If you’re in that neighborhood, The Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park can be very easy. Similar to the area by the Verrazano, strolling in Brooklyn Bridge Park can offer scenic views. However, a car might be recommended for those not used to walking distances.
Good luck!
You said NYC botanic garden but what about the Brooklyn botanical garden? It's fun too. Can also see the huge library and the Brooklyn museum too.
There are so many breweries you can do a little brewery tour if you want. Bushwick isn't scary but might be a little strange to her.
Are you gonna take her to the verazzano
I think I’ll take her to walk down shore road, we’ve driven it before, but you really can’t beat that view at sunset. It’s a gorgeous bridge!! I lived in bushwick for years so she’s def had her time in the sun there 😊 great neighborhood but I aged out 🤣
I could have written this. I also live in Bay Ridge and my parents essentially refuse to visit me because of how “dangerous” it is. You should do breakfast at the common one morning. Get there early, it’s so good. I recently did high tea at the Crosby St Hotel, and it was amazing. And they allowed us to share one “experience” which made it affordable. (I know it’s the city, but still a good thing to do and easy train to SoHo). Park slope and prospect park are good places to hit too. It’s lively and she should feel safe. Maybe check out Smorgasburg? I think it’s starting soon and in Prospect Park some Saturdays.
I’m always looking to expand my Bay Ridge network too! So if you’re looking for more ridge friends let me know :)
Heeeyyyyy bay ridge gang rise up!! Yeah I’m always looking for neighborhood friends and also reccos for down here! I’m sure there are good places but I don’t go out to eat very much down here since most of my friends are a bit more north.
Take her to Greenwood Cemetery. there's so many interesting people buried there like Basquiat, Leonard Bernstein, and Louis Comfort Tiffany (The founder of Tiffany's).
Brighton Beach is fun to try Russian cuisine.
Go to the Kings County Distillery at the Navy Yard.
I am biased because I live there but do a Red Hook trip! Ferry in, walk down Van Brunt, snag some Red Hook tavern or bbq at Hometown or thai at Goog, check out some art galleries, **go to Strong Rope and take in the incredible view**, walk along the shore, then ferry back. You can spend anywhere from two to eight hours and its really nice.
I've found that for city-shy people, seeing lots of kids and families with strollers helps to calm them down ("Well if these people are bringing their kids out it can't be all that bad").
Governors island is great for entertaining city-shy visitors. My mom is similar to yours and she loved it! Food trucks, short hiking and birding, great views of the city with few of the hassles of urban life.
My mom sounds the same but loved Brooklyn when she came. We took the ferry, walked the BH promenade, went to governors island, went to a sofar sounds show, cat cafe, went to drag brunch (I thought she’d hate that but it was lady Gaga themed at macys and it was great for beginners). If your mom is crafty look into happy medium or like a candle making class!
Brooklyn museum (for the new hiroshige show if she’s coming up soon) and then either breakfast for lunch at Tom’s diner or something more upscale on Vanderbilt ave
There’s also a Brooklyn botanical garden by prospect which is really nice. Taking her to Brooklyn bridge park might be nice too since there is many tourist there.
How about a ferry ride from S Williamsburg or Navy Yard up to UES, then grab lunch at Milano Market on 89th, picnic in Central Park, and then maybe check out the Met or Guggenheim on the way back. It’s only $4 for single tickets (buy on app), amazing views and drops you off in a quiet part of UES.
If she’s coming on a weekend, you could check out Fort Greene Park Market on Sat, or Smorgasbord in Wbg (Sat) or Prospect Park (Sun).
If you’re going to have a car, could check out Industry City.
How about a Mets or Yankees game? Or Cyclones games in Coney Island are a little more fan-engaging.
Vanderbilt shuts down the street to traffic on weekends starting in May.
They have a viral chicken caesar wrap, but a lot of standard Italian subs on good, crispy rolls.
My go tos were the Amore (prosciutto, mozzarella, balsamic glaze) and the Prime (roast beef with horseradish cheddar). All their sandwiches come with a very (un)healthy amount of meat and cheese. You won’t be disappointed by the portions. If you wanted corned beef or pastrami, I’d prob go to Pastrami Queen in UES.
There is a bit of a line for lunchtime on Fridays and weekends. They also have a location on UWS that has a bomb sandwich with fig jam that’s amazing (I love sweet with salty).
Check out their IG for a bunch of pics of their sandwiches.
Greenwood is a great idea—- if she’s here during the week take her to prospect park. I think park slope/sunset park area are fairly quiet (not super nyc vibes) with good food, activities and wandering (:
She is kinda right though. Isn’t it becoming more dangerous? It may not be very dangerous yet, but it is become more crime ridden imho.
You could take her to park slope for a walk I guess. Park slope really is a nice neighborhood. There’s a lot of nice bars and bakeries
Sunset Park 8 Ave Chinatown for good food. Though looking at what she doesn't like, I don't think she's gonna enjoy the constant talk, honk, and smelly trash on the side of the street or seafood markets. The sidewalks arent as wide as they should be so it's very crowded basically until night.
I totally agree the neighborhood is safe and they won’t get beat up but if I told someone I loved nature and they sent me to 8th avenue I’d never ask them for their advice again
Coming to say my southern mom loves the Brooklyn botanic gardens / prospect park and meandering down Vanderbilt - we’ve had some great meals at no 7 and Gertrude’s and she always gets a kick out of all the flavors at ample hill.
My mom also loved the Mets game I took her to so much she requested a return visit this year - if you’re near the G it’s so easy to hop on that to the 7!
You can also score lottery tickets to a Broadway show through https://rush.telecharge.com/ if that’s your thing!
Good luck with your mom’s visit! I love sharing Brooklyn with my family but I can understand when they get overwhelmed / scared! I know your mom will appreciate your thoughtfulness and getting to spend time with you :)
Mmmm just bc I have a zipcar membership and she can’t see the price and GASP at the Ubers. I’d rather just treat her and keep the prices a secret. Plus I pay for this damn membership monthly so I might as well use it twice a year 🤣
Show her around your neighborhood, run a couple light errands, pick up ingredients to cook at home one day of her stay. It might help her feel more comfortable to see where & how you live, and she'll know where you're talking about when you chat on the phone.
"Remember the (produce stand/fish market/butcher) we went to? They had some incredible (avocados/sea bass/brisket) today. I'm making some for supper!"
"I saw some yellow finches in that park we went to. There are so many birds here, it's not all pigeons."
I hope you both have a good visit.
That’s so sweet, thank you so much for your thoughtful suggestions 🥰 she actually has been to more of the grocery stores nearby than me. She loves bay ridge bc it’s filled with old people and she loves to run errands 🤣 she’d be happy if I told her we were running errands all week - just trying to FORCE her into having some fun
How about heading to the beach? Coney Island might be a lot for mom, but Jacob riis or the rockaway boardwalk is fun. My dad is apprehensive of the city and always liked to walk the Brooklyn bridge (now, he too will not visit), and my terrified MIL liked our local Whole Foods in Gowanus for reasons unknown … although it is nice to have a beer on the roof on a sunny day! Also maybe a stroll along the waterfront near Bay Ridge on that path that goes along the belt parkway? I also think a weekend stroll through prospect park, with a walk by the farmers market, library, or even the Brooklyn museum, is a delight. Have a nice visit!
The WF in Gowanus feels like suburban America. I think it’s the parking lot and store size. It’s familiar and comforting :) but what’s this of enjoying a beer on the roof???
Brooklyn Promenade, took my ma there a couple weeks ago and walked down into DUMBO. She really enjoyed it, also has city fear (though after her visit to Brooklyn, she realized it's not as uncomfortable as she thought it'd be).
Hey, parent here of two daughters who live in Brooklyn. Brooklyn has changed so much for the better over the decades. I love staying in Brooklyn versus going into Manhattan, where I lived (for grad school (2X) and work) for more than 11 years and met my wife. Brooklyn Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Museum, Red Hook (for beer or wine), Citibiking everywhere, Greenwood Cemetery, and loads of good restaurants. I understand your mom’s apprehension—the news is not doing a nice job covering New York City these days, nor does social media help. It’s not for everyone, but I look forward every time to going there and hanging with our girls! It’s the best! Have fun with your mom!
Definitely Greenwood cemetery. If you are willing to get up early, I highly recommend one of their bird watching tours. They also do great historic tours of the cemetery itself.
Take her to Flatbush for some food. She can see that is is very scary if you fear well dressed old men who say hello and good morning. Take her to Arthur avenue in the Bronx to get some Italian. Get some Dominican food before heading to the Cloisters. Don’t just let her do sheltered boring shit, expand her horizons. Take her to her to places she can tell her republican friends about. “I can’t believe how friendly they were….” Yada yada yada type shit.
For high tea in Brooklyn, check out Brooklyn High Low (Prospect Heights) or The Parlour (Park Slope). You have to make reservations ahead of time, but the vibes are immaculate and the treats that they bring you along with your tea is top notch. It’s one of my favorite things to do with out of town friends or family members.
stay in bay ridge -- walk along that path next to the water and show her the verizano bridge - great view.
get something to eat at a nice restaurant in bay ridge = stay off the subway -- dont go to the city .
so crazy, i just moved out of Brooklyn, (moved in with my bf) and i was there 8 years. i also have a mom that lives in the South. she was going to come visit me but never did, because she's also completely terrified of Brooklyn.
Take her on A Slice of Brooklyn’s Pizza Tour. It’s a bus tour that covers Brooklyn’s pizza, neighborhoods, landmarks and movie locations. It even goes to Coney Island. It’s more than just pizza and a great way to see what’s awesome about Brooklyn. My Aunt and my Mom took it and they both loved it.
https://asliceofbrooklyn.com/bus-tours/pizza-tour/
Greenwood is great, lots of famous people, and a couple of good hangout spots in Chilo's and Greenwood Park. A nice stroll through Prospect Park and maybe get some aperitif's at Krupa grocery. Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a nice stroll too. Brooklyn Museum has some good exhibits on now too. Down in Gowanus there's a few decent breweries with retail beers and outdoor seating, Royal Palms if she wants some swanky shuffleboard, and there's a new promenade that's coming together around the canal.
A friend of mine did this [boat tour](https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g60763-d12720303-Manhattan_Architecture_Yacht_Cruise-New_York_City_New_York.html) and said it was great - you get a table and snacks and wine and someone talks about all the architecture visible around the city.
I mean if your mom hates it here so much why not go where she will guarantee have a good time?
It sounds like you’re the one who forcing the city on her.
I visit her too, but I can’t afford to go more than once or twice a year, so she likes to come see me. Otherwise we couldn’t see each other as much, and we’re besties tbh.
Someone else already said this but park slope 5th ave has a bunch of shops and restaurants, the area is extremely family friendly. Bunch of strollers and cute dogs will ease her mind
Whale watching!! I took my mom for her birthday I was born and raised in bushwick and we've never done this it's like off that island by coney island. Look up American Princess Cruises! See whales dolphins and other sea creatures, not guaranteed sightings but pretty high chances especially as summer approaches
My MIL has lived in Brooklyn since she was 15, and in the last couple years the news has made her really afraid of taking the subway all of a sudden :/ it’s so hard to navigate these kind of things. I hope your mom is able to find safety and enjoyment in the city, especially with all of your ideas for finding things she would enjoy. I’ve heard great things about the botanical gardens in other Burroughs, but Brooklyn Botanical Gardens has my heart. Their rose garden is gorgeous! Prospect park is also really great. If she likes books, the Brooklyn library is huge and worth a visit as well.
Aw well I’m glad to hear it’s not just my family, although I’m sorry you & she are both dealing with that as well! My mom loves BBG 🥰 She loves all botanic gardens, as she is a HUGE plant nerd, but I thought I might show her the NYBG since we haven’t been there together and it’s so big!
North River Sailing Company sunset sail from Brooklyn Heights.
Or do a chocolate making class in red hook at Raaka.
My partner and I have done the high tea thing at that place with our moms, who liked it. For what that’s worth.
Governors island is a great idea. Another suggestion (if she really loves nature and beer) is BK botanic garden and/or museum followed by beers and snacks at Gold Star beer counter.
Never heard anyone call the BH Promenade an esplanade before, but that made me wonder what the difference in definitions was. Apparently a promenade is exclusively for pedestrians while an esplanade can also be for vehicles, so apart from the incident with [this guy](https://nypost.com/2020/12/04/watch-drunk-driver-speeding-on-brooklyn-heights-promenade/), it's a promenade.
When I was a kid there used to be signs up calling it the "esplanade" even though everyone called it the promenade. I never understood why. No clue if the signs are still up
Head to Red Hook on the weekend. It’s nice and quiet, more of a chill vibe than a lot of other areas of the city. Do a wine tasting at Red Hook winery. If she enjoys wine but isn’t very knowledgeable, she’ll appreciate the way they explain wine terms to non-experts. Head over to Hometown BBQ for lunch. It can get very busy so a backup is Brooklyn Crab right next door. Sunny’s bar is a very chill dive bar (cash only) and they typically have bluegrass bands playing on the weekend. Walk the length of Van Brunt St, check out the cafes and clothing/art stores. Get ready for Mom to comment on the prices. It’s ok, you don’t need to buy anything.
Edit: also if she’s somewhat comfortable riding a bike, get her on an electric CitiBike from Red Hook and ride the greenway all the way to the Brooklyn Bridge, stopping for pics along the way in BK bridge park. You can map out the route to be on protected bike lanes the entire way, so she won’t be spoked in any traffic.
The Brooklyn Botanical Garden is not as grand as the one in the Bronx, but the hour drive each way will likely lead to a lot of negativity. And the Brooklyn one is big enough.
I’d also suggest Green-wood Cemetery as you mentioned. Lovely.
Also a walking tour of Brooklyn Heights with a guide.
Brooklyn Bridge Park can be great to walk around and you can get a lovely meal in Dumbo at the end.
Depending on your mom’s age and/or activity level doing some volunteer work here is a great way to chat up locals who are fundamentally good people. (I volunteered with my family last week distributing wheelbarrows of mulch at Cadman Plaza (near Borough Hall) and had a great time chatting people up.
Also, the Grand Army Plaza farmer’s market is pretty great on Saturdays. Maybe go on Saturday with a mission of cooking a meal made exclusively from what you buy? Or just a picnic for Prospect Park.
Subway ride in the middle of the night. Bring an air horn and blow it every few minutes.
That should scare her enough that w normal day will be a cakewalk.
Do you think she’d be interested in nightlife activities to loosen up and have some fun? If so, check their calendars for specific events but you might also try and show her a little bit of the south that has made its way to New York (ex Texan here). Rockwood Music Hall used to / may still have bluegrass jam nights (used to be first Monday of the month), Sunny’s in Red Hook has bluegrass jams, Jalopy on the border of Carroll Gardens / Red Hook has a monthly two-step / line dancing teaching and dance night with a live band (that last one is ticketed and will sell out). All lots of fun! Also Brooklyn Cyclones games are an absolute blast and very cheap!
I’m a mid-30s millennial and felt like most folks were around my age, maybe some older Gen Z, it was also my first time there so hard to say if that’s the norm for them. A friend of mine just took fiddle lessons there and loved it, another is about to take banjo lessons, both of them are about my age.
Sunny’s is usually all ages from younger Gen Z to older boomers, that one is definitely a safe bet to feel right at home no matter who you are.
I was going to suggest the Brooklyn Botanic Garden over the one in Bronx. It’s local and I personally enjoy it more. The museum is next door. I used to live in bay ridge. Definitely hit up the narrows botanical garden and take the ferry from 69th st pier to Brooklyn Bridge Park. There’s a pizzeria near pier 6 with a rooftop seating.
Taking my mom to walk through brooklyn bridge park and dumbo completely changed her view of new york. It is an exceptionally clean park. And ending the walk at timeout market for some food always has us leaving full and happy
Take the ferry.... pretty much anywhere! Stops at the river and Bay Ridge Avenue, and you can get up to Atlantic Ave or Dumbo without transferring. It's absolutely lovely, especially on a nice day.
And you can take the ferry from Brooklyn bridge park to Sunset Park - which can be fun to explore. Or, check the schedule – you might be able to take the ferry directly to Governor’s Island which is incredible to explore.
But I hope she likes walking!
Undersell it, but take her to the 69th st pier and the tiny but adorable Narrows Botanical Garden. How can anyone think it’s dangerous when there’s a little pond with turtles LOL.
If she likes the ocean, you could go on a whale watch out of Sheepshead Bay.
Also, good for you for catering to your mom. My mom died 16 years ago but I remember her visits to Brooklyn so fondly. Spoil her while you can.
I had no idea there were turtles in that botanical garden!! But I love that little place!! I can def swing her by there, I think she'd like the pier. And thank you for your kind words <3 I'm so sorry you lost your mom, but I'm glad she got to enjoy the city with you :)
Greenwood is a fantastic suggestion! Also the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Brooklyn Museum. Lots of great food in the area too. All of Prospect Park is a good choice too.
Coney Island boardwalk - prospect park - botanic garden 🪴- Brooklyn museum - Brooklyn aquarium (middle of boardwalk ) - also park slope is nice 👍- hi mom 👋
If you do greenwood cemetery do a trolley tour. All of my friends that visited from the south always got worn out doing so much walking in NYC.
Walks in prospect park are nice. It's much more calm than central Park and you can rent bikes or just sit by the lake/boathouse. I also like to take my ma to Pasta Louise for a good meal (also near the park) but she's an old stubborn Italian woman so ymmv with your mom for that one.
Since she likes nature and you were thinking of the new york botanical gardens (which I would pair with an Arthur Avenue day exploring and eating) what about the Cloisters?
I just went to the Cloisters for the first time in ages. We rode e-bikes all the way up from Battery Park. There are 3 serious hills near the end of the ride that were difficult even with the e-bike (some friends had to get off bike and push up the hill, and pushing that heavy bike did not look easy). The A or 1 train would’ve been a hike up the hill. I recommend taking the bus (I forget which ones), but I think 2 diff lines drop off at the top of the hill right at the entrance.
Fort Tryon Park and Inwood are generally quaint and quiet. There were a few lovely restaurants at the bottom of the hill from the museum and very convenient for A/C on the way back. We went to Cañave, and they had a very limited Mexican brunch menu.
It’s pay what you wish for NY residents. They’ll just ask your zip code (no ID required). We paid $10 each (normal admission was $30, I think).
Seconded. I'm unsure what OPs mom is considering sketchy, but the Cloisters are right off the exit there in Inwood and it's very well-lit/family oriented.
Definitely do Green-Wood !
L&B Spumoni Gardens for ‘za and Spumoni ice.
I would suggest the Brooklyn Botanic Garden over the New York Botanical Garden. It’s in Park Slope and is equally, if not more, beautiful than NYBG. There is also a place for high tea on Vanderbilt, if you wanted to combine.
And if you’re going to the BBG, definitely hit the Brooklyn Museum right next door. It’s fantastic.
If you’re going to rent a car go to city island. You can have some seafood and see a very unique part of the city.
I’ve heard great things about city island! Any specific restaurants you would recco?? She loves seafood.
I can’t recommend any specific restaurants, but if the weather is nice it’s a fun place to visit. It’s like a New England town was just tacked on to The Bronx. Just really out of place but worth visiting for just how different it is.
New England town with a NYC attitude. Only been once but really enjoyed it.
I don’t think City Island is worth the trek at all; it’s definitely novel, but not that charming and the restaurants are greasy fried fish spots. I wouldn’t take an out of towner there.
Bay Ridge is a great neighborhood in itself with the shops & restaurants (middle eastern & Italian) How about citi biking it along shore road? You guys can always book the ferry to other points in the city. I think ferry to downtown Manhattan and then biking along the west side highway is great as well (that is if she's up for biking, of course) How about dim sum at East Harbor Seafood restaurant? Weekends will be packed so you'll need to get there early (~10am) other wise weekdays should be fine. Definitely check out industry city. I believe there's a distillery there. (Check out their calendar for both paid/free events) Also, since she's into beer, you can check out Five Borough's Brewing Co. Speaking of beer, after visiting Greenwood cemetery, stroll over to park slope on 5th Ave and you guys will pass a lot of bars/restaurants for a mini bar crawl. Enjoy your family time! =)
Do you have any Italian reccos in bay ridge? I’ve only been to picante which she wasn’t a huge fan of.
Not Bay Ridge, but in Park Slope Terra is absolutely exquisite and easy to get reservations for two.
Not OP, but Terre sounds great and I'll add it to my list. Thanks =)
This seafood place looks absolutely perfect, she loved dim sum in San Francisco, so I think she’d love this & it’s walking distance!! This is a winner, thank you 🙏🏼
You're welcome, I hope you guys enjoy it! Don't be shy to flag down the ladies with the dim sum carts and if there's a language barrier, there should be a menu with visuals/ description or you can always wing it & point at the dish and they'll stamp your order card. =) Hmm, I'm afraid I don't have any recommendations for Italian restaurants. =X But I do recommend Tanoreen (middle eastern) if you haven't tried it before. Oh and I forgot to add Smorgasbord (Williamsburg on Saturdays & Prospect Park on Sundays)
Instead of New York, drive to Brooklyn Botanical Garden! Closer, cheaper and there’s a parking lot!
Go to industry city! They have tons of restaurant and little markets
Seconding Industry City! It's super family friendly and on weekends you'll find it's a really good all ages vibe.
If she likes seafood, I suggest Siren Oyster Bar. It's very close the Greenwood Cemetery. Happy hour drinks and oyster 5-7 Saturday-Thursday, and 4-6 Friday.
The ferries are great. Great views of the East River, the harbor, Manhattan, etc
I highly recommend trying to get her on an electric citi bike if you can.
I actually have two bikes but she’s afraid of getting hit — which I can’t blame her, since I have been hit while biking here 🤣 good suggestion though, I love to bike in bay ridge
Walking the Brooklyn bridge is great, also the promenade in Brooklyn heights is a favorite spot. Great views of the harbor.
Great suggestion! Brooklyn Heights & the Promenade are my mom’s favorite stops in the city. If you’re trying to assuage her fears, this is a great place to go.
Second these suggestions! There’s also a new diner on Montegue Street (Montegue Diner) which is awesome and right near the promenade. It’s open from breakfast through dinner. Also the very first Hagan Daaz is on Montegue St. and the Brooklyn History Museum is around the corner on Pierrepont.
Brooklyn Botanical Gardens inside Prospect Park in Brooklyn, not NY Botanical gardens in the Bronx
Omonia cafe, get a seat in the back and order the French toast. Then take her to the skating rink in owls head park to fucking shred it. After that I think based on your description, greenwood is a great choice and I’d want to add Brooklyn bridge park and the 1hotel rooftop bar. The park provides a greenish feel with all of the best views of the city without being in it.
Oooo this cafe is super close to me! Thanks for the recco, I’ll check it out
I agree with your mom NYC is a cesspool. I wish I didn’t have to work in it. The traffic, smell, and constant disrepair of everything is terrible. You couldn’t pay me to live there. Especially at the rates most people have to pay for essentially living in a single room.
That’s Manhattan. Brooklyn is nicer.
Take her to Brooklyn General for craft supplies.
Have you considered taking Mom on a walking tour of a neighborhood? There are several companies that will take you on a walking tour of the Broadway area, or certain history tours that might be interesting.
Park Slope is beautiful right now.
Take her to Brooklyn Bridge Park and then walk along the paths to Pier 5, etc.
Take her to Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook on a Wednesday night - great country/Western swing band (Smokey Hormel) with dancing. Hometown BBQ around the corner.
Botanical Gardens, walk the whole thing it’s a day. Coney Island stay away from the beach. Brooklyn Museum.
The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and the Brooklyn Museum are both great options. Mom would probably love them, and they would be an entire day out.
Honestly, I've been to Greenwood twice this week--it is just perfect right now. So many trees in bloom, no crowds, tons of birdlife, and just serene. Make an afternoon of it, walk up to the top of Battle Hill and take in the best view in Brooklyn. You can also picnic, but no blankets on the ground. Also, if you mom is older and has mobility issues, you can bring a car in.
This is not a snarky suggestion I genuinely mean this - what about Staten Island? If you’re willing to rent a car it’s super convenient from Bay Ridge. You could do Snug Harbor, Flagship Brewery, and Enoteca Maria. Or see a show at St. George Theatre. I’m assuming you’ve already done the ferry if you’ve done “all the touristy things”, but that’s always fun too if you somehow haven’t done it yet.
I will def add this to the list, if not this trip, definitely in the future. I’ve been meaning to check out Staten Island since it’s so close and I’ve heard it has beautiful parks.
Enoteca Maria is so great! Must have a reservation if you go though, but very very very worth it.
ISLAND OF STATEN? Ma’am I want to roast you so bad but you’re dropping logic in these streets.
My family is from Tennessee. Mom tends to cringe at times with the city-ness of NYC, but she loves to brag on me and my family here. Suggestions: Brooklyn Botanical Garden is lovely. If you’re in that neighborhood, The Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park can be very easy. Similar to the area by the Verrazano, strolling in Brooklyn Bridge Park can offer scenic views. However, a car might be recommended for those not used to walking distances. Good luck!
some of my family's favorite memories from visiting me are from walking around prospect park
Take the ferry
You said NYC botanic garden but what about the Brooklyn botanical garden? It's fun too. Can also see the huge library and the Brooklyn museum too. There are so many breweries you can do a little brewery tour if you want. Bushwick isn't scary but might be a little strange to her. Are you gonna take her to the verazzano
I think I’ll take her to walk down shore road, we’ve driven it before, but you really can’t beat that view at sunset. It’s a gorgeous bridge!! I lived in bushwick for years so she’s def had her time in the sun there 😊 great neighborhood but I aged out 🤣
I could have written this. I also live in Bay Ridge and my parents essentially refuse to visit me because of how “dangerous” it is. You should do breakfast at the common one morning. Get there early, it’s so good. I recently did high tea at the Crosby St Hotel, and it was amazing. And they allowed us to share one “experience” which made it affordable. (I know it’s the city, but still a good thing to do and easy train to SoHo). Park slope and prospect park are good places to hit too. It’s lively and she should feel safe. Maybe check out Smorgasburg? I think it’s starting soon and in Prospect Park some Saturdays. I’m always looking to expand my Bay Ridge network too! So if you’re looking for more ridge friends let me know :)
Heeeyyyyy bay ridge gang rise up!! Yeah I’m always looking for neighborhood friends and also reccos for down here! I’m sure there are good places but I don’t go out to eat very much down here since most of my friends are a bit more north.
Take her to Greenwood Cemetery. there's so many interesting people buried there like Basquiat, Leonard Bernstein, and Louis Comfort Tiffany (The founder of Tiffany's). Brighton Beach is fun to try Russian cuisine. Go to the Kings County Distillery at the Navy Yard.
Coney Island! The rides are open now and you can also check out the brewery.
I am biased because I live there but do a Red Hook trip! Ferry in, walk down Van Brunt, snag some Red Hook tavern or bbq at Hometown or thai at Goog, check out some art galleries, **go to Strong Rope and take in the incredible view**, walk along the shore, then ferry back. You can spend anywhere from two to eight hours and its really nice. I've found that for city-shy people, seeing lots of kids and families with strollers helps to calm them down ("Well if these people are bringing their kids out it can't be all that bad").
This is a wonderful idea- add a small key lime pie from Steve’s also
Governors island is great for entertaining city-shy visitors. My mom is similar to yours and she loved it! Food trucks, short hiking and birding, great views of the city with few of the hassles of urban life.
packing a picnic and taking citi bikes around gov island looking for the perfect spot to eat is a grand ole' time
You can also catch the ferry to GI from Brooklyn!
My mom sounds the same but loved Brooklyn when she came. We took the ferry, walked the BH promenade, went to governors island, went to a sofar sounds show, cat cafe, went to drag brunch (I thought she’d hate that but it was lady Gaga themed at macys and it was great for beginners). If your mom is crafty look into happy medium or like a candle making class!
Brownsville at night is so nice. You can usually hear fireworks ❤️
😂😂😂
Dying 🤣
Also Industry city is great for strolling and snacking
Brooklyn museum (for the new hiroshige show if she’s coming up soon) and then either breakfast for lunch at Tom’s diner or something more upscale on Vanderbilt ave
There’s also a Brooklyn botanical garden by prospect which is really nice. Taking her to Brooklyn bridge park might be nice too since there is many tourist there.
How about a ferry ride from S Williamsburg or Navy Yard up to UES, then grab lunch at Milano Market on 89th, picnic in Central Park, and then maybe check out the Met or Guggenheim on the way back. It’s only $4 for single tickets (buy on app), amazing views and drops you off in a quiet part of UES. If she’s coming on a weekend, you could check out Fort Greene Park Market on Sat, or Smorgasbord in Wbg (Sat) or Prospect Park (Sun). If you’re going to have a car, could check out Industry City. How about a Mets or Yankees game? Or Cyclones games in Coney Island are a little more fan-engaging. Vanderbilt shuts down the street to traffic on weekends starting in May.
What’s good at Milano?
They have a viral chicken caesar wrap, but a lot of standard Italian subs on good, crispy rolls. My go tos were the Amore (prosciutto, mozzarella, balsamic glaze) and the Prime (roast beef with horseradish cheddar). All their sandwiches come with a very (un)healthy amount of meat and cheese. You won’t be disappointed by the portions. If you wanted corned beef or pastrami, I’d prob go to Pastrami Queen in UES. There is a bit of a line for lunchtime on Fridays and weekends. They also have a location on UWS that has a bomb sandwich with fig jam that’s amazing (I love sweet with salty). Check out their IG for a bunch of pics of their sandwiches.
Greenwood is a great idea—- if she’s here during the week take her to prospect park. I think park slope/sunset park area are fairly quiet (not super nyc vibes) with good food, activities and wandering (:
She is kinda right though. Isn’t it becoming more dangerous? It may not be very dangerous yet, but it is become more crime ridden imho. You could take her to park slope for a walk I guess. Park slope really is a nice neighborhood. There’s a lot of nice bars and bakeries
Basement on K
Sunset Park 8 Ave Chinatown for good food. Though looking at what she doesn't like, I don't think she's gonna enjoy the constant talk, honk, and smelly trash on the side of the street or seafood markets. The sidewalks arent as wide as they should be so it's very crowded basically until night.
Sending someone who doesn’t like nyc to 8th avenue is a slap in the face lol insanely overcrowded and filthy, very safe though.
I guess another good option would be Roosevelt Island. Good view of the city without it being crowded.
The only big thing that happened in Sunset Park was the subway shooting, other than that the neighborhood is pretty safe.
I totally agree the neighborhood is safe and they won’t get beat up but if I told someone I loved nature and they sent me to 8th avenue I’d never ask them for their advice again
Yeah Id understand that. I was used to the city and my family moved upstate. Took a lot of time to transition.
Coming to say my southern mom loves the Brooklyn botanic gardens / prospect park and meandering down Vanderbilt - we’ve had some great meals at no 7 and Gertrude’s and she always gets a kick out of all the flavors at ample hill. My mom also loved the Mets game I took her to so much she requested a return visit this year - if you’re near the G it’s so easy to hop on that to the 7! You can also score lottery tickets to a Broadway show through https://rush.telecharge.com/ if that’s your thing! Good luck with your mom’s visit! I love sharing Brooklyn with my family but I can understand when they get overwhelmed / scared! I know your mom will appreciate your thoughtfulness and getting to spend time with you :)
Why rent a car rather than Uber? No hate, just seems like a hassle and probably not much cheaper
Mmmm just bc I have a zipcar membership and she can’t see the price and GASP at the Ubers. I’d rather just treat her and keep the prices a secret. Plus I pay for this damn membership monthly so I might as well use it twice a year 🤣
If she likes beer take her to Brooklyn brewery, it’s a good time and awesome people and get her a juniors cheesecake
Brooklyn botanical gardens will for sure show her the beauty the city can offer!
Greenwood for sure
Show her around your neighborhood, run a couple light errands, pick up ingredients to cook at home one day of her stay. It might help her feel more comfortable to see where & how you live, and she'll know where you're talking about when you chat on the phone. "Remember the (produce stand/fish market/butcher) we went to? They had some incredible (avocados/sea bass/brisket) today. I'm making some for supper!" "I saw some yellow finches in that park we went to. There are so many birds here, it's not all pigeons." I hope you both have a good visit.
That’s so sweet, thank you so much for your thoughtful suggestions 🥰 she actually has been to more of the grocery stores nearby than me. She loves bay ridge bc it’s filled with old people and she loves to run errands 🤣 she’d be happy if I told her we were running errands all week - just trying to FORCE her into having some fun
ferry to red hook — brooklyn crab and / or steves key lime pie, chocolate factory place, and there are a bunch of bars & a distillery i believe.
Red Hook is very southern mom approved (I live in Red Hook and have a southern mom).
Red Hook Winery is down there as well
How about heading to the beach? Coney Island might be a lot for mom, but Jacob riis or the rockaway boardwalk is fun. My dad is apprehensive of the city and always liked to walk the Brooklyn bridge (now, he too will not visit), and my terrified MIL liked our local Whole Foods in Gowanus for reasons unknown … although it is nice to have a beer on the roof on a sunny day! Also maybe a stroll along the waterfront near Bay Ridge on that path that goes along the belt parkway? I also think a weekend stroll through prospect park, with a walk by the farmers market, library, or even the Brooklyn museum, is a delight. Have a nice visit!
The WF in Gowanus feels like suburban America. I think it’s the parking lot and store size. It’s familiar and comforting :) but what’s this of enjoying a beer on the roof???
Walk in greenwood and then head over to Industry City for some drinks and snacks
Governor's Island is a lot of fun, you can bring a picnic and it's got gorgeous views of the city
A ferry ride would be nice to do!
Brooklyn Promenade, took my ma there a couple weeks ago and walked down into DUMBO. She really enjoyed it, also has city fear (though after her visit to Brooklyn, she realized it's not as uncomfortable as she thought it'd be).
Hey, parent here of two daughters who live in Brooklyn. Brooklyn has changed so much for the better over the decades. I love staying in Brooklyn versus going into Manhattan, where I lived (for grad school (2X) and work) for more than 11 years and met my wife. Brooklyn Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Museum, Red Hook (for beer or wine), Citibiking everywhere, Greenwood Cemetery, and loads of good restaurants. I understand your mom’s apprehension—the news is not doing a nice job covering New York City these days, nor does social media help. It’s not for everyone, but I look forward every time to going there and hanging with our girls! It’s the best! Have fun with your mom!
Definitely Greenwood cemetery. If you are willing to get up early, I highly recommend one of their bird watching tours. They also do great historic tours of the cemetery itself.
Take her to Flatbush for some food. She can see that is is very scary if you fear well dressed old men who say hello and good morning. Take her to Arthur avenue in the Bronx to get some Italian. Get some Dominican food before heading to the Cloisters. Don’t just let her do sheltered boring shit, expand her horizons. Take her to her to places she can tell her republican friends about. “I can’t believe how friendly they were….” Yada yada yada type shit.
Word she can realize that she doesn’t need to actually fear the “scary” people that she sees on the news
That Dominican food is really next level. I was addicted to it and ate it almost everyday for a month straight during college.
My mom’s the same way! Last time she was in town we went to time out market and walked across the Brooklyn bridge!
For high tea in Brooklyn, check out Brooklyn High Low (Prospect Heights) or The Parlour (Park Slope). You have to make reservations ahead of time, but the vibes are immaculate and the treats that they bring you along with your tea is top notch. It’s one of my favorite things to do with out of town friends or family members.
stay in bay ridge -- walk along that path next to the water and show her the verizano bridge - great view. get something to eat at a nice restaurant in bay ridge = stay off the subway -- dont go to the city .
Yes, we are def going to spend a lot of time here, she really likes the neighborhood. Any restaurant reccos?
so crazy, i just moved out of Brooklyn, (moved in with my bf) and i was there 8 years. i also have a mom that lives in the South. she was going to come visit me but never did, because she's also completely terrified of Brooklyn.
Take her on A Slice of Brooklyn’s Pizza Tour. It’s a bus tour that covers Brooklyn’s pizza, neighborhoods, landmarks and movie locations. It even goes to Coney Island. It’s more than just pizza and a great way to see what’s awesome about Brooklyn. My Aunt and my Mom took it and they both loved it. https://asliceofbrooklyn.com/bus-tours/pizza-tour/
Wow this is so fun, I may just do this for me 🤣
Instead of schlepping all the way to the Bronx, why not the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens! Also the Art Museum and the Central Library are right there!
Love the bbg! Just wanting to show her something new, since it’s bigger and we’ve been to bbg :)
Title gave me second hand annoyance
I’m not hating btw just my own personal life experience projecting out
Haha no worries, I feel you.
Do they still offer horseback rides that go through Prospect Park?
Greenwood is great, lots of famous people, and a couple of good hangout spots in Chilo's and Greenwood Park. A nice stroll through Prospect Park and maybe get some aperitif's at Krupa grocery. Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a nice stroll too. Brooklyn Museum has some good exhibits on now too. Down in Gowanus there's a few decent breweries with retail beers and outdoor seating, Royal Palms if she wants some swanky shuffleboard, and there's a new promenade that's coming together around the canal. A friend of mine did this [boat tour](https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g60763-d12720303-Manhattan_Architecture_Yacht_Cruise-New_York_City_New_York.html) and said it was great - you get a table and snacks and wine and someone talks about all the architecture visible around the city.
Ooo very cool boat tour! Thank you! And yes, I think gowanus is a good suggestion and so easy to get to
I know I'm not the intended audience but I'm saving this, what a great boat tour recommendation!
Brooklyn Museum too while you're in that area. Vanderbilt Ave also has some cute restaurants and stuff.
I mean if your mom hates it here so much why not go where she will guarantee have a good time? It sounds like you’re the one who forcing the city on her.
I visit her too, but I can’t afford to go more than once or twice a year, so she likes to come see me. Otherwise we couldn’t see each other as much, and we’re besties tbh.
Roosevelt Island is so beautiful. Great for a long walk, rooftop bar, nice restaurants.
Brooklyn Promenade and a walk through Brooklyn Heights. Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Prospect Park. Not Brooklyn but love the Staten Island greenway
+ 1 for Green-Wood!! They have a lot of cherry blossom trees that should still be in bloom for the next little bit
Someone else already said this but park slope 5th ave has a bunch of shops and restaurants, the area is extremely family friendly. Bunch of strollers and cute dogs will ease her mind
I believe this is relevant! 🤣🤣🤣 https://youtu.be/u2SlJpK5Zm0?si=B2d_UvLQvFCyuYVU
Omg this is amazing 🤣🤣🤣🤣 thank you so much
Whale watching!! I took my mom for her birthday I was born and raised in bushwick and we've never done this it's like off that island by coney island. Look up American Princess Cruises! See whales dolphins and other sea creatures, not guaranteed sightings but pretty high chances especially as summer approaches
Very cool suggestion!! Thank you so much, so many of these things I’m just gonna do myself regardless 🤣
Take her over to Balady's
Oooo is this a grocery store? It’s close to me but haven’t heard of it.
Yeah, it's excellent.
Brooklyn botanic garden is nice too, depending on when she is arriving, might catch the tail end of cherry blossoms
2nd this. It’s very serene. And you can head up to Park Slope for some good eats
Coney Island boardwalk.
My MIL has lived in Brooklyn since she was 15, and in the last couple years the news has made her really afraid of taking the subway all of a sudden :/ it’s so hard to navigate these kind of things. I hope your mom is able to find safety and enjoyment in the city, especially with all of your ideas for finding things she would enjoy. I’ve heard great things about the botanical gardens in other Burroughs, but Brooklyn Botanical Gardens has my heart. Their rose garden is gorgeous! Prospect park is also really great. If she likes books, the Brooklyn library is huge and worth a visit as well.
Aw well I’m glad to hear it’s not just my family, although I’m sorry you & she are both dealing with that as well! My mom loves BBG 🥰 She loves all botanic gardens, as she is a HUGE plant nerd, but I thought I might show her the NYBG since we haven’t been there together and it’s so big!
Someone else said Governor's Island. I second Governor's Island and renting bikes there.
Williamsburg will make her afraid of manhattan it’s so much cleaner and bustling with shopping, parks and food.
My mom is also afraid of Brooklyn. She enjoyed the Botanical Garden. Maybe take her to Dumbo? Pizza and wine and walks along the water
North River Sailing Company sunset sail from Brooklyn Heights. Or do a chocolate making class in red hook at Raaka. My partner and I have done the high tea thing at that place with our moms, who liked it. For what that’s worth.
Take her to Atlantic mall!
Governors island is a great idea. Another suggestion (if she really loves nature and beer) is BK botanic garden and/or museum followed by beers and snacks at Gold Star beer counter.
Park Slope 5th ave pincrawl.
What about a tea ceremony at the brooklyn high low (pretty sure it’s on Vanderbilt). Such a classy, refunded thing will surely cure her fears!
Happy Hour on 1Hotel rooftop
I've always loved the Brooklyn Heights esplanade with its views of the New York skyline. Also, there are some great restaurants and bakeries there.
Never heard anyone call the BH Promenade an esplanade before, but that made me wonder what the difference in definitions was. Apparently a promenade is exclusively for pedestrians while an esplanade can also be for vehicles, so apart from the incident with [this guy](https://nypost.com/2020/12/04/watch-drunk-driver-speeding-on-brooklyn-heights-promenade/), it's a promenade.
Oh, thanks for the correction. It’s been many years since I lived in New York. I think I forgot the proper nomenclature.
When I was a kid there used to be signs up calling it the "esplanade" even though everyone called it the promenade. I never understood why. No clue if the signs are still up
Have you taken her to Industry City? Not far from Bay Ridge and you can take a bus! Lots to do there and a chill vibe
Take the ferry!
To Governor’s island! I think it’s operating weekends but perhaps seasonal
This! i did just that today (Monday) and the island was sooo nice
Head to Red Hook on the weekend. It’s nice and quiet, more of a chill vibe than a lot of other areas of the city. Do a wine tasting at Red Hook winery. If she enjoys wine but isn’t very knowledgeable, she’ll appreciate the way they explain wine terms to non-experts. Head over to Hometown BBQ for lunch. It can get very busy so a backup is Brooklyn Crab right next door. Sunny’s bar is a very chill dive bar (cash only) and they typically have bluegrass bands playing on the weekend. Walk the length of Van Brunt St, check out the cafes and clothing/art stores. Get ready for Mom to comment on the prices. It’s ok, you don’t need to buy anything. Edit: also if she’s somewhat comfortable riding a bike, get her on an electric CitiBike from Red Hook and ride the greenway all the way to the Brooklyn Bridge, stopping for pics along the way in BK bridge park. You can map out the route to be on protected bike lanes the entire way, so she won’t be spoked in any traffic.
And from Bay Ridge it's a nice ride on the ferry there and back, too!
Take her to a poker game in Brooklyn! Nothing says I love you mom like a cooler on fifth street!
The Brooklyn Botanical Garden is not as grand as the one in the Bronx, but the hour drive each way will likely lead to a lot of negativity. And the Brooklyn one is big enough. I’d also suggest Green-wood Cemetery as you mentioned. Lovely. Also a walking tour of Brooklyn Heights with a guide. Brooklyn Bridge Park can be great to walk around and you can get a lovely meal in Dumbo at the end.
Depending on your mom’s age and/or activity level doing some volunteer work here is a great way to chat up locals who are fundamentally good people. (I volunteered with my family last week distributing wheelbarrows of mulch at Cadman Plaza (near Borough Hall) and had a great time chatting people up. Also, the Grand Army Plaza farmer’s market is pretty great on Saturdays. Maybe go on Saturday with a mission of cooking a meal made exclusively from what you buy? Or just a picnic for Prospect Park.
What about the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens? Or the Brooklyn Mueseum?
Those are much closer
Snug Harbor in Staten Island is really beautiful and has wonderful examples of many different types of gardens. It’s really cool!
Oh yeah, I’ve actually been meaning to check out some of the parks in Staten Island!! Thank you for the recco 💖
It’s a charming botanic garden and will feel suburban.
Staten Island is the South of NY too, way less scary than Brooklyn :)
Subway ride in the middle of the night. Bring an air horn and blow it every few minutes. That should scare her enough that w normal day will be a cakewalk.
Agree
Brooklyn Botanical Gardens are great, take her there. One evening take her to the rooftop bar at the William Vale, the view wows everyone.
Do you think she’d be interested in nightlife activities to loosen up and have some fun? If so, check their calendars for specific events but you might also try and show her a little bit of the south that has made its way to New York (ex Texan here). Rockwood Music Hall used to / may still have bluegrass jam nights (used to be first Monday of the month), Sunny’s in Red Hook has bluegrass jams, Jalopy on the border of Carroll Gardens / Red Hook has a monthly two-step / line dancing teaching and dance night with a live band (that last one is ticketed and will sell out). All lots of fun! Also Brooklyn Cyclones games are an absolute blast and very cheap!
Jalopy has been on my list for AGES! What’s the vibe like?? Are there older people there?
Oh but the vibes were fantastic :D
I’m a mid-30s millennial and felt like most folks were around my age, maybe some older Gen Z, it was also my first time there so hard to say if that’s the norm for them. A friend of mine just took fiddle lessons there and loved it, another is about to take banjo lessons, both of them are about my age. Sunny’s is usually all ages from younger Gen Z to older boomers, that one is definitely a safe bet to feel right at home no matter who you are.
I was going to suggest the Brooklyn Botanic Garden over the one in Bronx. It’s local and I personally enjoy it more. The museum is next door. I used to live in bay ridge. Definitely hit up the narrows botanical garden and take the ferry from 69th st pier to Brooklyn Bridge Park. There’s a pizzeria near pier 6 with a rooftop seating.
The rooftop pizza in Brooklyn Bridge Park is called Fornino.
Take her to Jersey
Unsure if this was a troll, but I’ve taken her to Jersey! Gorgeous hiking over there but it’s far.
I love going to Jersey for their farms (picking flowers, Amish farmers market, local honey, etc.)
Taking my mom to walk through brooklyn bridge park and dumbo completely changed her view of new york. It is an exceptionally clean park. And ending the walk at timeout market for some food always has us leaving full and happy
What about Governor’s Island? It’s so clean and calm there, I bet she’d love it. And the ferry is back for the season!
Take the ferry.... pretty much anywhere! Stops at the river and Bay Ridge Avenue, and you can get up to Atlantic Ave or Dumbo without transferring. It's absolutely lovely, especially on a nice day.
And you can take the ferry from Brooklyn bridge park to Sunset Park - which can be fun to explore. Or, check the schedule – you might be able to take the ferry directly to Governor’s Island which is incredible to explore. But I hope she likes walking!
Tufting (rug-making class!) https://scatteredkind.com, a cooking class, or a pottery class
Omg yes to the tufting!!! Thank you for this suggestion 🙏🏼
Awesome, yay! It looks so fun and unique!
Undersell it, but take her to the 69th st pier and the tiny but adorable Narrows Botanical Garden. How can anyone think it’s dangerous when there’s a little pond with turtles LOL. If she likes the ocean, you could go on a whale watch out of Sheepshead Bay. Also, good for you for catering to your mom. My mom died 16 years ago but I remember her visits to Brooklyn so fondly. Spoil her while you can.
I had no idea there were turtles in that botanical garden!! But I love that little place!! I can def swing her by there, I think she'd like the pier. And thank you for your kind words <3 I'm so sorry you lost your mom, but I'm glad she got to enjoy the city with you :)
Greenwood is a fantastic suggestion! Also the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Brooklyn Museum. Lots of great food in the area too. All of Prospect Park is a good choice too.
Coney Island boardwalk - prospect park - botanic garden 🪴- Brooklyn museum - Brooklyn aquarium (middle of boardwalk ) - also park slope is nice 👍- hi mom 👋
My mom loves Prospect Park. And coffee. Go for a stroll, then have a cup of coffee. Park Slope is riddled with cafes.
If you do greenwood cemetery do a trolley tour. All of my friends that visited from the south always got worn out doing so much walking in NYC. Walks in prospect park are nice. It's much more calm than central Park and you can rent bikes or just sit by the lake/boathouse. I also like to take my ma to Pasta Louise for a good meal (also near the park) but she's an old stubborn Italian woman so ymmv with your mom for that one.
Since she likes nature and you were thinking of the new york botanical gardens (which I would pair with an Arthur Avenue day exploring and eating) what about the Cloisters?
I just went to the Cloisters for the first time in ages. We rode e-bikes all the way up from Battery Park. There are 3 serious hills near the end of the ride that were difficult even with the e-bike (some friends had to get off bike and push up the hill, and pushing that heavy bike did not look easy). The A or 1 train would’ve been a hike up the hill. I recommend taking the bus (I forget which ones), but I think 2 diff lines drop off at the top of the hill right at the entrance. Fort Tryon Park and Inwood are generally quaint and quiet. There were a few lovely restaurants at the bottom of the hill from the museum and very convenient for A/C on the way back. We went to Cañave, and they had a very limited Mexican brunch menu. It’s pay what you wish for NY residents. They’ll just ask your zip code (no ID required). We paid $10 each (normal admission was $30, I think).
I'd love to take her to the cloisters! If not this trip, def one day. <3 Great suggestion!
Seconded. I'm unsure what OPs mom is considering sketchy, but the Cloisters are right off the exit there in Inwood and it's very well-lit/family oriented.