Located in the north of Brooklyn, Bushwick is a rapidly changing neighbourhood, once working-class and industrial, now popular with lovers of urban art, alternative culture and nightlife. Once unattractive, Bushwick has become a veritable hotbed of artistic experimentation, blending local and international influences. Here’s a guide to this unique district and its main points of interest.
The history of Bushwick
Bushwick, today a vibrant arts district, has a history marked by many transformations. Founded in 1661 by Dutch settlers as “Boswijck” (meaning “woodland district”), it began as an agricultural area before becoming an industrial centre in the 19th century, famous for its German breweries.
In the mid-twentieth century, the district went into serious decline, with factories closing and a rise in crime, particularly after the blackout riots of 1977. However, from the 2000s onwards, Bushwick was reborn thanks to the arrival of artists who settled there because of the affordable rents. This movement has transformed the district into a veritable artistic centre, notably with the creation of the Bushwick Collective, an open-air street art gallery.
Today, when you explore Bushwick, you’ll discover colourful murals and a creative atmosphere that reflects this revival. You’ll pass through a neighbourhood with a working-class and industrial past, but reinvented by contemporary artistic culture.
Visit Bushwick: 30-minute walking itinerary
A walking tour of Bushwick is a real challenge because of the dynamic and changing nature of the area. Graffiti, one of the area’s main attractions, frequently appears and disappears, covered by new works, making each visit unique. What’s more, commercial and artistic establishments can be destroyed, renovated or replaced, constantly changing the urban landscape. This rapid and unpredictable change forces visitors to be flexible in their exploration, as some of the places recommended in an itinerary may no longer be accessible or may have changed radically.
Troutman St/Wyckoff Av
428 Troutman St
Troutman/St Nicholas
The Bushwick Collective
427 Jefferson St
L Train Vintage
Johnson Av
Where to eat in Bushwick
Bushwick is a thriving district that attracts as much for its street art as for its many culinary options. You’ll find everything from trendy restaurants offering inventive dishes with local flavours, to small stalls serving simple, authentic cuisine. The multicultural influence of the district is reflected in the diversity of the menus, ranging from traditional Mexican cuisine to modern fusion dishes.
In addition, Bushwick’s industrial and artistic setting adds a unique touch to dining experiences, with establishments often located in renovated buildings, creating a relaxed yet creative atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a friendly atmosphere or a more intimate venue, Bushwick offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy food while discovering the vibrant soul of the neighbourhood.
The 4 most recommended restaurants in Bushwick
Where to stay in Bushwick?
Although Bushwick is a vibrant and evolving neighbourhood, it does not currently offer any particularly recommended hotels to stay in. If you’re looking for comfortable accommodation close to Bushwick, it’s best to head to Williamsburg, a neighbouring district that offers a wide selection of luxury hotels, combining modern style and comfort, often with uninterrupted views of Manhattan.
For those looking for more affordable options, you can explore other Brooklyn neighbourhoods such as Greenpoint or Downtown Brooklyn, which have well-located hotels with good public transport links, allowing you to reach Bushwick easily while saving on accommodation. These districts offer a good compromise between proximity and more reasonable prices, while offering easy access to New York’s major attractions.
Neighbourhoods near Bushwick
