Living in Brooklyn —or anywhere in New York City, for that matter— can be unwelcoming to an introvert.
After all, it’s not easy to focus on your inner thoughts and feelings or find solitude in the most populous borough in NYC (which would be the fourth largest in the country had it remained an independent city). The constant barrage of external stimuli and triggers can leave a loner feeling a little depleted, even if they’re just visiting. However, it is possible for the reclusively inclined to thrive in this borough. Seeking out spaces that are quieter, less crowded, designed for individual use or smaller groups, and, ultimately, meet the needs of those prone to sensory overload, can make an introverted Brooklyn existence not just tolerable, but genuinely enjoyable.
If you consider yourself among their ranks —or just need an occasional break from the perpetual calamity of navigating in and out of the borough— we’ve compiled some suggestions to make city living a bit more comfortable.
Scroll on for our introvert’s guide to Brooklyn.
Book a meeting room at the Brooklyn Public Library
10 Grand Army Plaza
Having a quiet, public space to oneself in Brooklyn is nearly impossible. Fortunately, the Central branch of the Library’s meeting rooms are a haven for those seeking solitude. With a full-access adult library card (which is free for New York state residents), patrons can reserve rooms of various sizes and configurations for up to two hours. These are great for working without external distractions, reading, or just taking a breather from the city. Learn more about booking meeting rooms at Brooklyn Public Library here.
Hit the contemplative mid-seas on an NYC Ferry
Various Locations
Getting around Brooklyn on public transit can be a nightmare for the inwardly focused. Just ask anyone who’s tried to ponder while a stranger’s backpack’s been pressed up against their face on the A train. Enter the NYC Ferry. Whether you’re able to make it part of your daily commute or simply ride it on occasion, you’ll appreciate that it’s generally less crowded and more civilized. The South Brooklyn route starts in Bay Ridge and ends at Corlears Hook, with stops in Sunset Park, Governors Island, Red Hook, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Wall Street, and Dumbo. Discover more NYC Ferry routes here.
Take a few laps around Transmitter Park
West St. between Kent St. and Greenpoint Ave.
If you’re in North Brooklyn and looking to escape the hustle and bustle, stop by WNYC Transmitter Park in Greenpoint. Located on West Street between Kent Street and Greenpoint Avenue, the park faces the East River and offers a picturesque view of the Manhattan skyline—a must-see at night. Find refuge in the green space, the gardens, while strolling along the pier, or simply stare out onto the waters while you recharge.
Treat yourself to a spa day at Body Mind Salt
6925 3rd Ave.
If you’re an introvert who’s looking to treat themselves, head over to Body Mind Salt in Bay Ridge. The luxury wellness center specializes in alternative therapies designed to mute the outside world. Flotation therapy, for example, involves lying in a tank filled with over 1,000 pounds of dissolved Epsom salt to create a zero-gravity experience. It’s said to promote muscle recovery as well as pain, stress, and pregnancy relief. If nothing else, floating in an isolation tank while relieving your overstimulated senses is truly the Rx every introvert needs.
See a movie at BAM Rose Theaters
30 Lafayette Ave.
The moviegoers at Brooklyn Academy of Music in Fort Greene tend to be a quieter, more well-mannered crowd compared to larger theaters, which is perfect for introverts who are looking for a calmer night out or weekend activity. Whether solo or in a small group, enjoy a curated selection of films that currently includes Nickel Boys, Babygirl, and The Brutalist, among others. See the full list of screenings here.
Spend a day at the Valentine Museum of Art
1655 Flatbush Ave.
Introverts appreciate smaller museums because they’re generally less crowded but no less inspiring. Valentine Museum of Art spotlights living, working visual artists and specializes in collecting specific series they created. For example, a recent exhibit titled “ref-u-gee” by artist Audrey Frank Anastasi consisted of 180 original paintings that honor the resilience of those forced to leave their homes. Past exhibits have also included BLM Photography by Chris Cook and The Drawing Project by Frank Wimberley, among others. Exhibitions are free and the museum advises calling before visiting for the latest schedule.
Soak up the sights and smells at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
990 Washington Ave.
The gardens and collections at Brooklyn Botanic Garden are a great escape from daily life in the borough. Even if you’re not horticulturally inclined, the environment provides a much-needed visual break from the concrete jungle. Leisurely stroll through the gardens or consider taking one of the many guided tours.
Get to know your neighborhood on a replenishing stroll
Everywhere
This wouldn’t be a legitimate introvert’s guide to Brooklyn without including one of our most popular pastimes: going for a walk. Whether it’s purposeful or simply wandering aimlessly, walking, when left unbothered, can be incredibly restorative. Set your walk up for success by strategically choosing quieter, scenic neighborhoods, such as Ditmas Park, Midwood, Kensington, Brooklyn Heights, Fort Greene, Bed-Stuy, and many others.
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