Hi!

I've heard a little bit about Williamsburg being 'hip', and loft conversions. Now, I'm thinking of taking a trip to Williamsburg (NY) and checking out the neighbourhood, eats, people, etc.

Can anybody offer me suggestions of what to do in Williamsburg? I.e. what streets to walk along, any interesting sites or restaurants and cafes, anything? I'm basically going on a whim.

Also, advice on which subway line to take to get to an interesting location/walk would be great.

Thanks!

gtrekker2003

My daughter lives in Williamsburg; Bedford is a fun street lined with interesting shops and cafes and spas; the Williamsburg cafe is nice for dinner, they have tables outside.

I'm not from NYC so I can't offer more help; I'll be exploring the area for a few days this week so I'll try to post back next weekend
upon my return.

I know DD takes the subway straight into Union Square station without transferring.
I've done this with her a few times.

The L train runs straight down 14th Street (from west to east) straight into Williamsburg. It's a very short ride. Get off on Bedford Ave, the first stop in Williamsburg. Bedford Ave is the main strip. Walk around a little and then maybe walk to the next little neighborhood, Greenpoint. It's a Polish neighborhood, where everything is in Polish. It's a great juxtaposition with Williamsburg

If you enjoy reading, read "The Chosen" by Chiam Potok. It is the story of two teen Jewish boys who live in Williamsburg, NYC during WWII.

I just happen to be reading it now while I plan our trip to NYC during Thanksgiving.

Oh, and alibi thank you for the tip on Greenpoint. My grandfather was from Poland so I would enjoy visiting there.

Visit the Brooklyn Brewery! Depending upon when you visit, there are tours, special events and happy hours.

http://www.brooklynbrewery.com/

This Chicagoian has only been to Williamsburg twice and the first time I went on a whim too (the second time I stayed with someone who lived in the area). I liked the Brooklyn Brewery (very good beer) and also liked eating at Allioli (291 Grand Street) a little but very tasty tapas place. There are loads of fun shops, bars, and resturants and it is quite easy to get to from Manhattan. It is almost unbearably hip though. I live in Ukranian Village here (sort of the midwestern version of williamsburg), so I'm used to hipsters, but these guys seem to take it to a whole new level. Definately check it out.

Thanks for the great ideas everybody!

gtrekker2003