Williamsburg: History, Hipsters, Street Art, Latinos, Hasidic Jews & stunning views!

Williamsburg is a vibrant must-see part of New York City. As a native New Yorker and local Brooklynite, I can't wait to introduce you to the diverse communities, cultures and history of this great neighborhood.

We begin in North Williamsburg, where I’ll cover 400 years of history, from Dutch farmland to an industrial hub, then into a bohemian enclave and the ‘hipster’ neighborhood it is today.

Our walk takes us to a street art gallery in a most unexpected place, then, as we walk toward the hipster 'main street', I'll talk to you about the diverse populations of Williamsburg underneath an expressway. We continue through the bustling neighborhood, passing by trendy boutiques and restaurants that line the streets.

Williamsburg is a neighborhood covered with murals and other forms of street art. At one famous work by artist Kobra, I'll present a condensed version of the origins of NYC graffiti and street art and its growth into the legit art form it is today.

We then head to the waterfront with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. There are many wonderful photo opportunities! 

As we walk along the waterfront, I’ll talk about the controversial transformation of the area from industrial warehouses to multi-million-dollar condos. I’ll talk about the battle over the Domino Sugar Refinery that sat on the water’s edge for more than 100 years and explain what 'poor doors' are (they are all over NYC!)

At the base of the Williamsburg Bridge, you’ll hear about how the bridge transformed Williamsburg, the famous jazz musician who practiced here for years and an acrobatic stunt that took place 285 feet above the bridge!

Then, we cross over into South Williamsburg and hear about the area’s Latino roots and culture and how this area came to be known as ‘Los Sures’. We will see a the stunning, landmarked Williamsburgh Savings Bank (yes, with an H), and I'll talk about some wacky urban zoning laws that could only exist in a place like New York City! Plus discover the Mona Lisa of Williamsburg.

We stop on the border of the Hasidic Jewish neighborhood, where I’ll explain this sect’s religious rules and customs. I’ll discuss the contrast between Hasidic and secular Jews in New York City.

I’ll wrap up by talking about moments in time when barriers were broken and the neighborhood’s residents - regardless of background, color and religion - came together to fight common dangers like environmental hazards and gentrification.

When the tour ends at Sobel Playground, I will help you figure out how to get to your next destination. I'm happy to answer any questions about the city and provide recommendations for additional activities.

Looking forward to showing you around B'burg!

*note that the marker on the map that is very far from Williamsburg is there in error and this platform has not yet removed it.