It's a beautiful day in the Crown Heights neighborhood
Lively, charming, and full of spirit, Crown Heights is a diverse Brooklyn neighborhood that perfectly captures New York City's energy. It's a mixed bag of activity and culture here, with modern shops, bars, and restaurants that mingle with old-world brownstones and regal architecture from decades past. The district is known for its West Indian and Caribbean roots, which are still evident in its many dining establishments. Community is a big deal here, too, which you might notice when you leave your Crown Heights vacation rental and bump into a friendly neighbor sitting on his stoop.
Crowning achievements in history for Crown Heights
The Brooklyn Children's Museum is an especially family-friendly spot that is home to over 20,000 exhibits and artifacts. The Jewish Children's Museum, meanwhile, provides the younger generation with a keen understanding of the Jewish faith and culture. Equally humbling is the Weeksville Heritage Center, a historic pre-Civil War African-American settlement that explores 19th-century life. Crown Heights is situated just blocks from the beloved Prospect Park Zoo, a 12-acre space home to over 125 animals.
A brew, a DJ, and a boutique - do it all in Crown Heights
One-of-a-kind finds are the gems you'll find hidden in charming boutiques along the main thoroughfare here. Some even host classes, contributing to the community spirit. If you're more of a nightlife sort, this Brooklyn district doesn't disappoint. There are buzzy, industrial-style breweries and thumping clubs featuring the area's best DJs. A self-guided tour of the neighborhood is essential if you've booked a Crown Heights vacation rental. You can't miss the turn-of-the-century properties in the North Historic District, as well as the Brooklyn Public Library, which opened in 1896.
The snow falls on Crown Heights
Weather patterns in Crown Heights are largely dictated by each distinctive season. Winter is cold and produces plenty of snow—approximately 50 inches a year, to be precise. The sun drenches the neighborhood in the summer, but so does the humidity. It's worth packing your lightest, airiest pieces to achieve the most comfort while meandering around Brooklyn's crowded streets. Spring and fall offer more friendlier conditions; it's warm, but with a light breeze that may occasionally demand a jacket or, in the evenings, a scarf and sweater.
Blocks from the water in the heart of the borough
Brooklyn itself is situated at the southwestern tip of Long Island, while Crown Heights is set in the heart of the borough. Eastern Parkway runs through the neighborhood, which measures about 2 miles long in total. It's just blocks from the Upper New York Bay and the East River Promenade. One of the area's most significant sites is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, set just west of the district. If you've booked a Crown Heights vacation rental, a visit to this lush spot and its colorful flowers is a must. You'll also find a plethora of raccoons.