Greenpoint in Brooklyn: what to do in this New York neighborhood?

What to know about Greenpoint

• Greenpoint is a neighborhood in the northwestern corner of Brooklyn. The East River borders it to the west, offering sweeping views of Manhattan. To the north lies Queens, while the trendy neighborhood of Williamsburg sits to the south.
• Twenty-five years ago, no one would have suggested visiting Greenpoint—there was little reason to. But New York has changed. Greenpoint is now as fashionable as its neighbor Williamsburg. You’ll find vintage shops and thrift stores throughout the area, including Beacon’s Closet (74 Guernsey Street) and Awoke Vintage (107 Franklin Street).
• Until the 19th century, Greenpoint was mostly farmland before the industrial revolution transformed it. The neighborhood became a hub for Polish immigrants, earning it the nickname Little Poland.
• Starting around 2005–2010, major real estate projects began sprouting along the East River waterfront. With direct views of Manhattan, the neighborhood attracted developers and wealthier residents. Yet Greenpoint retains traces of its Polish heritage, making it worth exploring for a different side of New York.

What to see in Greenpoint, Brooklyn

WNYC Transmitter Park

• The main reason to visit Greenpoint is the spectacular view of Manhattan. Head to WNYC Transmitter Park, a public park on the East River waterfront. You’ll enjoy views of the Empire State Building and Midtown buildings, including SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
• The park features a pier extending into the East River. This long boardwalk is now known as Greenpoint View. You won’t be alone—the pier is busy with ferries from NYC Ferry.
• Curious about the unusual name? Before becoming a park, this site housed the former transmission tower for radio station WNYC.

McCarren Park

• McCarren Park is Greenpoint’s largest park, spanning 37 acres (15 hectares). You’ll encounter few tourists here and get a genuine taste of local life. The park marks the boundary with Williamsburg.
• The park opened in 1906 as Greenpoint Park but was renamed in 1909 to honor Brooklyn Senator Patrick H. McCarren.

Little Poland

• Greenpoint retains clear traces of its industrial past, when a large Polish community called it home. Walk along Manhattan Avenue, the neighborhood’s main street, to see shops with Polish signs. The avenue is lined with small restaurants and delis serving traditional food.
• Don’t miss Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop. Founded in the 1950s, this bakery feels frozen in time. It’s famous for delicious donuts made from a recipe that hasn’t changed since opening.
• Stroll between Franklin Street, Nassau Avenue, and Greenpoint Avenue to see charming wooden houses and converted industrial buildings.

How to get to Greenpoint

• The fastest way to reach Greenpoint is by ferry with NYC Ferry. The East River B line connects directly from East 34th Street in Manhattan to Greenpoint—it’s right across the river.
• Note that NYC Ferry rides aren’t included with a New York subway or bus pass. You pay separately for each trip. But it’s worth it—the ferry gets you to Greenpoint in just a few minutes.
• You can also reach Greenpoint by subway, though it takes longer. Take the E or M line to Court Sq, then make a long transfer to the G line. Alternatively, take the L to Lorimer St and transfer to the G at Metropolitan Av.
• As you can see, the ferry saves you significant time. Plus, you can use it to return to Manhattan or continue south to other parts of Brooklyn or Queens.

Frequently asked questions

When should I visit Greenpoint?

Visit Greenpoint later in your trip, after you’ve explored Manhattan. This lets you discover a different, more local side of New York away from the main tourist areas. Plus, you’ll appreciate the Manhattan views even more after seeing those landmarks up close.

Where should I eat in Greenpoint?

To experience the neighborhood’s Polish heritage, head to Pierozek (592 Manhattan Avenue) for excellent homemade pierogi. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable. Another must-try Polish spot is Krajan Polskie Deli (160 Nassau Avenue), a Polish grocery offering soups, schnitzels, pierogi, and daily specials for just a few dollars.

Photos of Greenpoint