Williamsburg has a reputation as one of the trendiest spots outside of Manhattan, and for a good reason. It’s a great mix of walkable streets, fun restaurants, interesting people, and lots of cultures. At Arlo Hotel, we often recommend Williamsburg as a top destination for visitors looking to get out of Manhattan for a day.
To get to Williamsburg, you can take an Uber or the subway, but we recommend walking there across the Williamsburg Bridge. It connects to Manhattan in the Lower East Side and features spectacular views that are on the same level as the more famous Brooklyn Bridge. Built in 1903, the bridge held the title of the longest suspension bridge in the world until 1924. After your walk, grab a coffee at West Coffeehouse & Bar, which offers a great selection of roasts and optimal people-watching.
If you’re visiting Williamsburg on the weekend, head to the amazing City Reliquary, a museum and civic organization that features a stunning display of NYC artifacts and hosts many cultural events. This museum connects people to the impactful history and exciting present of the city. Continuing your cultural journey at Desert Island Comics on Metropolitan Ave. gives you access to self-published and more mainstream works from a wide variety of artists. Hop next door to Quimby’s Bookstore NYC, which features a great collection of literature, zines, and even some taxidermy.
Stretch your legs in the afternoon at Domino Park, a five-acre park on the waterfront featuring plenty of space for eating, skating, or just taking in the Manhattan skyline views. It’s named after the Domino sugar factory and incorporates columns and other elements of the old sugar refinery. After some time in the park, visit one of the dozens of acclaimed Williamsburg restaurants, including everything from pizza to pad thai. And when it’s evening time, head back to Arlo Hotel for our comfortable rooms and a nightcap.
