The Top 8 Things to Do in Red Hook, Brooklyn

Embrace Red Hook's Foodie Scene

Red Hook has always been known for its restaurants—Defonte's has been serving up incredible hero sandwiches since it opened in 1922, while Hometown Bar–B–Que is known citywide for its Southern style pulled pork, baby back ribs, and mac n' cheese. For amazing seafood, head to Red Hook Lobster for Maine-style lobster rolls (served cold with mayo) or Brooklyn Crab for all things crab, mussels, clams, and chowder.

Get Your Drink On

There's something for everyone when it comes to drinking in Red Hook, whether you're craving craft beer from Sixpoint Brewery, a glass of vino from Red Hook Winery (which sources grapes from its North Fork vineyards on Long Island), or prefer to sample rum, grappa, and whiskey at Van Brunt Stillhouse. For local vibes and affordable cocktails, stop by Sunny's Bar, the oldest in Red Hook, dating back to the late 1800s, or Brooklyn Ice House, a funky neighborhood bar with a sweet yard and patio.

Enjoy the View from Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier

Located right on the water, Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier offers a multitude of grassy spots perfect for reading, sun tanning, or gazing out at the boats sailing by on the water. Pack a blanket and enjoy a peaceful Brooklyn morning, then take a walk out on the Pier, which extends out into the Buttermilk Channel, once a key route for New York's early shipping trade back in the 1800s. With views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty, it's a great place to catch a sunset. Visit in summertime for complimentary kayak rentals by Red Hook Boaters and free movies on the Pier during events by Red Hook Flicks.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Red Hook bakery and coffee shop Baked has received rave reviews from practically everyone, including Bon Appetit and The New York Times. The homemade Oreos, Red Hook "red hot" cake, and, if you're feeling decadent, melt-in-your-mouth sweet and salty brownies, are all worth a try.

Also located near Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier, Steve's Authentic Key Lime Pies, serves up what Al Roker once referred to as the "last genuine key lime pies in the U.S." If you haven't worked up an appetite just yet, fear not; the four-inch tart is small and perfectly shareable. Chocoholics should try the Swingle, a frozen chocolate covered key lime pie on a stick.

Shop and Snack Your Way Around Ikea

Ikea only has one location in New York City, so, as you can probably imagine, folks from the area head to Red Hook regularly in search of new furnishings and to feast on some of those world-famous Swedish meatballs. On weekends, NY Waterway actually runs free ferry service from three Manhattan hotspots (Pier 79 in Midtown, Brookfield Place in Battery Park City, and Pier 11 at South Street) to a dock right in front of the Ikea store in Brooklyn. Get some home inspiration from the staged rooms, then, after navigating the store's maze, treat yourself with something tasty from the food court or pick up a box of freshly baked cinnamon rolls to take home.

Visit a Museum on a Barge

The Waterfront Museum, located inside what is formerly the historic Lehigh Valley No. 79 barge, is open to the public on Thursdays and Saturdays. Explore the vessel, see the Captain’s original living quarters, and check out a collection of tools used by longshoremen and stevedores. Don't miss the whirling ball machine, a fantastic permanent art installation that mesmerizes all who encounter it. 

Sample Latin American Fare at Red Hook Ball Fields

If you've worked up an appetite, pick up an afternoon snack at Red Hook Ball Fields. From April to November, you'll find an assortment of food trucks and carts featuring culinary treats from Red Hook Food Vendors. Feast on fresh ceviche, hot chicken tamales, spiced corn on the cob, El Salvadorian style pupusas, and a multitude of tempting Latin American straight-off-the grill street food favorites.

Browse the Bookstores

Spend some of your time in Red Hook perusing the aisles of local indie bookstores. Pioneer Books is a part of Pioneer Works, known for being "a center for research and experimentation in contemporary culture." Its exhibition space is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 7 p.m., with a suggested donation of $10 per person.

Nearby, Freebird Books is a cozy gem of a used bookstore owned by Brooklyn resident Peter Miller. Expect ongoing literary events, a wide selection of reasonably priced books (both used and new), coffee, tea, wine, beer, snacks, and a relaxing outdoor patio.