Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Brooklyn
Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Brooklyn
1. Artists & Fleas Williamsburg
A lively indoor marketplace showcasing rotating independent designers and vintage curators, packed with handmade jewelry, art prints, and one-of-a-kind fashion.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a concentrated dose of Brooklyn style—perfect for finding gifts and limited-run pieces you won’t see elsewhere.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend late morning to early afternoon for the fullest vendor lineup without peak crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small tote and arrive with a short wish list; stalls turn over fast and card readers can be spotty, so carry a little cash.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Buzzing, creative, and treasure-filled; many note great value and friendly makers, with crowds building after 2 pm.
2. Catbird
Beloved Williamsburg jeweler known for delicate stacking rings, dainty necklaces, and ethically sourced fine jewelry crafted in Brooklyn.
✓ Why Go:
Signature designs and heirloom-worthy pieces make it a go-to for meaningful gifts and self-treats.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday opening hours for personalized attention; pre-holiday mornings for ring sizing without a wait.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff about care kits and limited online-only drops that occasionally hit the store; nearby Bedford Avenue boutiques make an easy shopping stroll.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers love the warm service and timeless designs; expect a steady buzz on weekends.
3. Empire Stores
A restored 19th‑century brick warehouse in DUMBO filled with design-forward retail, flagships, and pop-ups set beside postcard-worthy waterfront views.
✓ Why Go:
Combine shopping with skyline photos and a stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park in one stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for relaxed browsing; golden hour if you want photos with your purchases.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the rooftop for free harbor views between store hops; look out for seasonal makers’ markets in the courtyard.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beautiful setting and stylish shops; a favorite for out-of-towners and locals showing off Brooklyn to guests.
4. Brooklyn Museum Shop
Museum store stocked with design objects, art books, and exhibit-inspired collections that channel the city’s creative pulse.
✓ Why Go:
Find culture-rich souvenirs and gifts tied to current exhibitions and Brooklyn makers.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for calm browsing; align with an exhibit visit for themed finds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check for member discounts and limited-edition artist collaborations that sell out quickly.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for thoughtful curation and quality; shoppers appreciate the unique, artful selection.
5. Industry City
A sprawling waterfront campus of design shops, outlets, maker studios, and specialty food stores amid murals and courtyards.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a full-day destination where you can browse indie brands, score deals, and sample local craft goods in one place.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend midday for the most energy and pop-ups; weekday afternoons for space to explore.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a site map at the info desk and check building directories—hidden studios and sample sales are half the fun.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Spacious, family-friendly, and endlessly browseable; many end up staying longer than planned.
6. Greenlight Bookstore
Fort Greene’s cornerstone indie with smart staff picks, author events, and a well-edited selection of lit mags and gifts.
✓ Why Go:
A quintessential Brooklyn bookstore experience with community vibes and discoveries you won’t find at big-box shops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings for readings and signings; mornings for quiet shelf-browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for signed editions and check the event board—tickets for big names can go fast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Warm, welcoming, and impeccably curated; shoppers rave about the recommendations.
7. WORD
Cozy Greenpoint indie known for small-press gems, zines, and clever gifts, plus a neighborhood-first approach to curation.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for thoughtful presents and discovering new authors before they’re everywhere.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late afternoons for unhurried browsing; early weekends before brunch crowds spill in.
✓ Insider Tip:
Tell staff your mood and let them hand-sell you something unexpected; don’t skip the card racks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Charming, personal, and hyper-local; visitors feel like regulars after one visit.
8. Urban Jungle
A cavernous Bushwick vintage warehouse from the L Train Vintage family, brimming with denim, tees, military coats, and retro accessories.
✓ Why Go:
Bargain-friendly thrifting with the thrill of the hunt and constant restocks.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays right at opening for fresh racks and roomy fitting areas.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a reusable bag and check every aisle—best finds hide on end caps and low shelves.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Huge selection and low prices; can be chaotic, but the digs are worth it.
9. City Point
Downtown Brooklyn’s multi-level complex mixing big-name retailers with indie pop-ups, plus a bustling food hall for mid-shop refuels.
✓ Why Go:
A convenient hub where you can check off essentials and discover local makers under one roof.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays midday to dodge commuter and after-school rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Scan the concourse for weekend craft markets and seasonal brand activations.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Modern, convenient, and value-forward; can get busy but layout keeps it manageable.
10. Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co.
A whimsical Park Slope storefront selling capes, masks, and imaginative gadgets; every purchase supports 826NYC’s youth writing programs.
✓ Why Go:
Quirky gifts with a cause—shopping that delights kids and grownups alike.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons and weekends when the shop is most animated.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about limited-edition items and seasonal releases; proceeds fund free writing workshops for local students.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Playful, clever, and heartwarming; a small shop that leaves a big impression.
