Part museum and part education center, the Brooklyn Historical Society is known for its community programs, rotating exhibitions, and 33,000-volume library. Delve into Brooklyn's past and present as you walk its halls and view its exhibits. Neighborhood tours of Brooklyn Heights offer historic information on Brooklyn. Purchase a NYC sightseeing pass for deals at the historical society and around the city.
History aficionados shouldn't miss the 19th century historical society.
Bibliophiles should stop at the Othmer Library reading room, replete with stained glass windows and carved columns.
Check the calendar before you arrive—several public events are hosted monthly, including lectures and round-table discussions.
The historical society's museum is ADA accessible.
There is a recommended admission for all adults, but children under age 12 and students are admitted free.
The Brooklyn Historical Society has two locations—the main location on Pierrepont Street and a second location in DUMBO on Water Street. To visit the main location and library via the subway, hop on the 2, 3, 4, or 5 train to Borough Hall, or the A, C, or F to Jay Street/Borough Hall. To visit the DUMBO location, take the A or C to High Street, the 2, 3 to Clark Street, or F to York Street.
The Brooklyn Heights branch of the historical society is open Wednesday to Sunday; the DUMBO location is open Tuesday to Sunday; both are closed on major holidays. Come mid-week to avoid crowds.
You find the entrance to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge about a 10-minute walk from the Brooklyn Heights location and a 5-minute walk from its DUMBO branch, at Cadman Plaza Park. Whether you walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and into Downtown Manhattan, or walk beneath the historic structure to visit DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park, the waterfront views are not to be missed. Stop by at night to see Manhattan's skyline sparkling across the river.
