Residents of Prospect Lefferts Gardens call it “Brooklyn’s best-kept secret.” Flying under the radar of higher-profile nabes, this area is home to lush, leafy streets, a spectacular collection of intact 19th and 20th century homes, and access to the borough’s biggest green space, Prospect Park. Welcome to the Upper West Side of Brooklyn.

Originally the property of gentleman farmer James Lefferts, the area became a destination for the wealthy in the 19th century, leading to the creation of the neighborhood’s stock of beautiful homes. As those residents moved out, a more diverse population moved in; today, Prospect-Lefferts Garden is the locus of Caribbean-American culture in Brooklyn. It’s become a magnet for young families who love the porches and backyard gardens that many properties offer.

 

 

This architecturally diverse neighborhood is home to a slew of small businesses, independent coffee shops and restaurants. Named after New York Mayor and Governor DeWitt Clinton, this area was once considered a calm retreat outside of Manhattan. Clinton Hill also has a large influx of new buyers moving into the area. The plentiful playgrounds and parks allow for great urban exploration. Home to Pratt Institute and Saint Joseph's College, Clinton Hill has built a community that caters to the locals, students, business owners and families, all who celebrate the neighborhood for its rich history and welcoming appeal.

 

Clinton Hill’s main subway line is the G train which runs from North to South Brooklyn. This quick route to other neighborhoods gives Clinton Hill the unique spot of being right in the middle of a long history and ever-evolving mix of architecture, educational campuses and cultural hotspots. From mom and pops shops to NYC’s only Wegmans in the neighboring Brooklyn Navy Yard, shopping here is a breeze. Lastly, catch a beer at Mekelburg's, indulge in Caribbean Cuisine at Imani's, a neighborhood staple set in a renovated townhouse, or attend the local neighborhood block party known as “St. James Joy”. Soon enough you won't even miss Manhattan.

 

Once home to actress Susan Sarandon, comedian Bowen Yang and countless other artists, Clinton Hill offers a cultural diversity that influences its businesses, cuisine, and outdoor events. Sections deemed in the Historic District are lined with Gothic revival homes and churches from the 19th century. Take a stroll through Pratt Playground or grab a bite at Aita, there you will feel the full vibrancy of this charming neighborhood.

 

Its beautiful tree-lined blocks filled with coveted brownstone stoops and refined pre-war buildings historically drew artists of all genres to the neighborhood and has more recently become desirable for Manhattanites such as young urban professionals, families looking for more space, and lovers of New York history and culture. While roaming the streets, you’ll find beautiful brownstones, gothic revivals and Italianate style residences with sprinkles of new development. Historic Fort Greene Park which is just a short stroll away offers plenty of greenery and a mini escape from the NYC concrete jungle.