When you’re planning a New York City private tour, you’ve probably got the big sights on your list: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square… But there is a lot to be said for venturing away from the main tourist hotspots into the city’s other vibrant neighbourhoods.
Enter Bushwick… A creative hub in Brooklyn, and somewhere that should certainly be on your list of places to visit next time you’re in the Big Apple.
Here are our top five reasons why Bushwick needs to be on your radar, including why it’s best explored as part of a private tour of the city rather than trying to find your way on your own.
To hear about its fascinating history
All too often, New York gets associated with its many iconic locations that have featured in movies throughout the years. It’s great to see the sights from the silver screen, but New York has a much more storied past that Hollywood might suggest.
And Bushwick is a prime example. Originally a town made up of predominantly Dutch settlers in the 17th century, it was known for farming and firewood. Not what you would expect in New York today.
Over the decades, its identity evolved. Bushwick even became a brewing hub with the German and Austrian immigrants who moved to the area in the 19th century opening dozens of breweries here and in neighbouring Williamsburg.
Bushwick has also had its share of darker times, including rioting and looting during a blackout in 1977. But the community has always rebuilt and reinvented itself, which is why it’s such a fascinating place to visit.
To uncover its artistic gems
Bushwick is renowned for its artists and the creativity they bring to the neighbourhood’s streets. The Bushwick Collective is a large-scale art project that encourages artists from around the world as well as locally to leave their mark on this corner of New York City.
As Bushwick is home to many industrial-style buildings, it’s got the perfect blank canvases that have been transformed by colourful street art and graffiti.
There are huge murals as well as smaller artworks tucked away in hidden courtyards – seeing the best of them requires a bit of planning, which is where your guide on a private tour will come in handy!
Every year, the Bushwick Collective hosts its annual block party, which is an event that celebrates the diversity and creativity that makes the neighbourhood what it is. You can expect amazing street food, music and art if you’re lucky enough to be around for the event.
To try some of the best Mexican food
Bushwick is home to one of the largest Latino communities in Brooklyn and that means if you want to sample incredible tacos, burritos, flautas and quesadillas, among many other culinary delights, this is the place to come.
Alongside a selection of Mexican and other Latino restaurants, you’ll also find food trucks serving up delicious tacos that you can grab while you’re on the go. If you’re in the mood for tacos, La Lupe Cantina is said to be one of the best spots around.
To experience the incredible nightlife
A night out in Bushwick will be unlike any other night on the town in NYC. The place to head, whether you’re a local or a visitor, is the three-floor club Elsewhere.
It’s home to a roof terrace that’s open during the summer and regularly plays host to some of the world’s biggest DJs. You’ll also discover an eclectic mix of live music hosted at the venue, so it’s always worth seeing who’s playing while you’re in town.
Bushwick has made a name for itself as one of the more interesting places to go if you’re looking for a rave in the Big Apple – and alongside Elsewhere you’ll find plenty of venues where you can dance the night away, like House of Yes.
To find its hidden gems
A lot of the best spots in Bushwick are tucked away. Locals know where they are and that means they don’t always advertise their presence! With a local guide to show you around, you’ll discover the best coffee shops, brunch spots and dive bars in Bushwick.
This part of the city is home to microbreweries, a rum distillery and even a chocolate factory. The roster of businesses is constantly shifting, so going with a guide is the best way to ensure you don’t miss out.
Plus, if you organise a private guided tour, you can make sure that your experience of Bushwick focuses on your personal interests, whether that’s art, history, food or coffee.
