Summary of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn
The sprawling Brooklyn neighborhood known as Bedford-Stuyvesant, or Bed-Stuy, is composed of two historically distinct areas: Bedford and the more upscale Stuyvesant. Many parts of the neighborhood are landmarked, ensuring that the remarkable late-19th-century charm is preserved. Visitors can expect to see rows of beautiful brownstone homes on tree-lined streets, ample open sky, and historic buildings including churches and an old-fashioned community library. In recent years, the area has become a vibrant hub for artists and young families.
History
Long a focal point of New York City’s African American community, Bed-Stuy has exhibited a diverse blend of homeowners and renters. The neighborhood, along with others such as Fort Greene, has served as a crucial political and cultural center for Black life in New York City.
Since the late 1990s, the neighborhood has been gradually gentrifying. Many prospective homebuyers, priced out of other neighborhoods in Brooklyn and New York City, have discovered incredible value in turn-of-the-20th-century brownstones within Bedford-Stuyvesant. Some structures feature amazing detail, while others require significant renovation. Much of the area is already landmarked, with additional buildings under consideration for future historic status.
Getting There
Transportation: The neighborhood is served by the fast A and C trains, while the G line is also available. On the eastern side of the neighborhood, you can find the J and M trains, providing a half-hour ride to lower Manhattan. Additionally, numerous buses serve the area as well.
What to Do
Churches: Bed-Stuy boasts many wonderful churches, such as the historic Bridge Street AME Church. On Sundays, a strong sense of community can be felt in the neighborhood, an experience that’s rare elsewhere in New York City. For many residents, churches play an essential role in community life.
Restoration Plaza: Located on Fulton Street between Brooklyn and NY Avenues, the expansive Restoration Plaza complex may appear as a typical mid-20th-century office setting. However, it holds historical significance as it was established during the civil rights movement in the late 1960s, with support from then-senator Robert Kennedy Jr. as a direct response to civil unrest linked to racism and inadequate services.
Serving as a political heart for Bed-Stuy, today the plaza is home to banks, a supermarket, administrative offices, an art gallery, and the renowned Billie Holiday Theater, a community theater.
Brooklyn Parks: Fulton Park is referred to as “one of Brooklyn’s little-known oases.” It is a true sanctuary for the Bedford-Stuyvesant community, offering a space where residents can relax, read, have lunch, and participate in local festivals. It hosts events like an annual art fair in the summer and a Halloween parade in October.
Another notable spot is Herbert Von King Park, designed by the famous Frederick Law Olmsted, known for creating Central Park and Prospect Park. The community center features a recording studio, fitness equipment, an indoor dance studio, and the Eubie Blake Auditorium, where free jazz concerts are held during the summer.
For nature enthusiasts, the Magnolia Tree Earth Center is a must-visit.
Prospect Park, Brooklyn’s largest park, is accessible within 20 minutes by car, bike, or public transit.
Where to Stay
Hotels: The Akwaaba Mansion, Brooklyn’s first mansion transformed into a bed and breakfast, offers a grand Southern-style stay with spacious grounds. Additionally, consider the recently renovated 1887 Moran Victorian Mansion at 247 Hancock St. (between Marcy and Tompkins Avenues) or the Sankofa Aban Bed and Breakfast.
Another favored option is Arlington Place, which is situated in a landmark brownstone featured in Spike Lee’s film “Crooklyn.” Enjoy a luxurious weekend in Bed-Stuy at these unique accommodations. Don’t overlook the hip boutique Red Lion Hotel, located on Broadway, showcasing local art and pet-friendly amenities, alongside a range of community events and art series.
Where to Eat
Bed-Stuy is a food lover’s paradise, offering countless dining options that can easily fill an entire weekend. Sample authentic Japanese tapas at the new Trad Room, savor one of Brooklyn’s best artisanal pizzas at Saraghina, and indulge in brunch or Mediterranean cuisine at the local gem Hart’s.
Other Attractions
Community Gardens: For gardening enthusiasts, the neighborhood features a variety of community gardens transforming vacant lots into vibrant flower and vegetable spaces. Many of these projects have been thriving for over 20 years.
Stores: Retail shopping is found mainly along major thoroughfares, while small bodegas, food stores, and laundromats are scattered throughout the mostly residential streets. It’s common for residents to walk a short distance to reach a hardware store.
Rich History: The area is steeped in history, encompassing everything from 18th-century Dutch heritage to Revolutionary War narratives, significant figures in NYC and Brooklyn history, and a rich tapestry of Black American contributions. Furthermore, residents can appreciate numerous architecturally noteworthy churches and schools.
