A guide to solo female travel in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is one of the most popular boroughs in New York City for solo female travelers. Known for its eclectic neighborhoods, rich culture, and diverse attractions, it’s a place that has so much to offer in the city that never sleeps! Here’s our guide to help you make the most of your adventure as a solo female traveler in Brooklyn.

Key takeaways

• Solo female travel in Brooklyn
• Best time to visit Brooklyn
• Must-see places in Brooklyn
• Things to do in Brooklyn
• Getting around Brooklyn
• Weather in Brooklyn
• Accommodation for solo female travelers in Brooklyn
• Is Brooklyn safe for solo female travelers?
• Tips from a Brooklyn local
• Brooklyn for solo female pet sitters
• Things to do with dogs in Brooklyn
• House and pet sits in Brooklyn

Solo female travel in Brooklyn

Best time to visit Brooklyn

This will depend on your preferred vibe, but overall April to June and September to October are the most comfortable months, offering mild weather and plenty of activities without the extremes of summer or winter. Fall is particularly picturesque if you enjoy the beautiful foliage and a more relaxed pace as a solo traveler.

Must-see places in Brooklyn

Brooklyn Museum

A world-class museum with exhibits highlighting art, history, and culture, including a focus on women’s rights and empowerment.

Prospect Park

Designed by the creators of Central Park, it’s perfect for biking, walking, or simply relaxing.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

A tranquil escape with seasonal highlights like cherry blossoms in spring.

Coney Island

A nostalgic trip with its boardwalk, amusement park, and Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs.

Barclays Center

Great for catching both live concerts and sporting events - depending on whether you prefer music or muscle!

Greenpoint

For a more relaxed vibe, explore the Polish bakeries and trendy restaurants along Franklin Street.

Things to do in Brooklyn

Take a Class

Cooking or mixology classes at local studios like Brooklyn Kitchen.

Attend Events

Check out live music at Brooklyn Bowl or Music Hall of Williamsburg.

Shop Local

Explore independent shops at Dekalb Market Hall or Atlantic Avenue.

Yoga & Wellness

Join a yoga session at Sky Ting Yoga or book a massage at The Now in Williamsburg.

Getting around Brooklyn

The best way to travel - for convenience and cost - is the Subway. It’ll take you almost anywhere in the Big Apple, with many services running late if not all day. However, for safety reasons, it’s best to avoid late-night trains. Otherwise, for short distances or to reach areas not covered by the subway, Brooklyn has a great bus service. If you travel from subway to bus in two hours, you don’t have to pay anything more than your original ticket!

But, one of the best ways to get around this borough is by walking or cycling. The streets are both pedestrian and bike-friendly, offering a great way to see the sights and absorb the atmosphere at a more relaxing pace.

Weather in Brooklyn

Brooklyn experiences a humid subtropical climate, but its year is split up between the four seasons. While Spring and Fall can be fairly mild at about 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), temperatures can seriously drop come Winter with average temperatures around 20°F to 30°F (-6°C to -1°C)! Similarly, the summer months can be as hot as 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). 

Accommodation for solo female travelers in Brooklyn

You know what we’re going to say here, pet people… There ain’t no adventure like a pet sitting adventure! Stay in a local home right in the heart of Brooklyn while sharing the rewarding experience of caring for a pet. Settling into a big city can be daunting, but it’s made all the easier with a new pet pal by your side. 

But, if you can’t find a pet sit while you’re traveling, there are a few more options. If you have the cash to splash on a boutique hotel, check out either The William Vale (Williamsburg), Hotel Brooklyn Bridge (DUMBO), NU Hotel (Downtown Brooklyn), or The Hoxton (Williamsburg) to stay in style.

Mid-range hotels worth looking into are the Pod Brooklyn (Williamsburg) and Hampton Inn (Downtown Brooklyn). Some great budget options include The Local NYC (Long Island City, near Brooklyn) and International Student Center Hostels which are found in a variety of locations around New York.

Is Brooklyn safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Brooklyn is generally safe for solo female travelers, but like any large urban area, it’s essential to stay aware and take precautions. The borough is diverse, with neighborhoods ranging from quiet and residential to lively and bustling, so safety can vary depending on the area and time of day.

However, there are some areas to exercise caution including parts of East New York, Brownsville, and Bedford-Stuyvesant: These areas have historically had higher crime rates, although they are improving.

Always stay alert and practice street smarts while you’re out and about. Trust your instincts - if you feel uncomfortable in a situation or neighborhood, leave. 

Tips from a Brooklyn local

Like the rest of New York, Brooklyn has so much to offer it’s difficult to know where to start first. Luckily, we have some first-hand tips from a few locals who have advice on how best to enjoy your time in the borough.

• Take your time with neighborhoods - Brooklyn is vast and diverse, so focus on exploring one or two neighborhoods per day.
• Use public transportation like a local - The subway is your best bet for getting around. Make use of apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to navigate. Citi Bike is ideal for shorter distances—ride along the waterfront or through Prospect Park. Take the NYC Ferry for a scenic and relaxing way to get to neighborhoods like DUMBO, Williamsburg, and Red Hook.
• Eat your way through Brooklyn - Brooklyn is a food lover's paradise, with options ranging from iconic staples to hidden gems.
• Explore Brooklyn’s parks and green spaces - Prospect Park was designed by the same team behind Central Park, and it’s a favorite for locals. Explore the Long Meadow, Boathouse, and Prospect Park Zoo. Brooklyn Bridge Park with amazing views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
• Embrace Brooklyn’s creative side - Visit the Brooklyn Museum and the street art in Bushwick (look for tours if you want to learn more). Check out music venues like Music Hall of Williamsburg, Brooklyn Steel, or smaller spots like Pete’s Candy Store. Participate in a pottery, painting, or cooking class—many local studios offer short-term sessions.
• Shop local - Thrift Shops are huge in Brooklyn! Explore Beacon’s Closet or L Train Vintage for unique finds and bargains. Otherwise, fleamarkets like Brooklyn Flea or Artists & Fleas (Williamsburg) are also excellent for find deals.

Brooklyn for solo female pet sitters

Things to do with dogs in Brooklyn

Brooklyn offers a variety of activities for you and your dog to enjoy together. People in Brooklyn love their dogs, so it makes sense there’s plenty to do with your pup pal.

Prospect Park 

This expansive park allows off-leash hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM in designated areas such as the Long Meadow, Nethermead, and Peninsula Meadow. Additionally, Dog Beach provides a spot for dogs to cool off during these times. 

This is also where Coffee Bark is held monthly. It’s an event that allows dog owners to socialize while enjoying coffee and pastries. Aw!

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Another great dog park is open for all types of pups and their humans! Features two dog runs at Main Street and Pier 6, offering spaces for dogs to play off-leash. 

Other Half Brewing Company

A dog-friendly taproom where leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners for a fresh brew.

The Red Hook Winery

Offers wine-tasting experiences with your pup by your side, both indoors and on the patio.

House and pet sits in Brooklyn

As we mentioned, the best way to see the Big Apple is through pet sitting. It’s a great way to settle into any big city and allows you to connect with some new furry friends, as well as a new neighborhood. Check out the latest sits available in Brooklyn, New York, to find your own pet sitting adventure.