Brooklyn: A Step Off My Beaten Path
Ever since I started my first job, right out of college at 22, design, trend, and business trips to Manhattan have been a staple.
In the early years, I spent one week each month there on business. While that may sound like a lot to some people, for me it was the best of both worlds. I got to visit and experience the city on an expense account, then go home to the midwest, my family, affordable housing and so on.
Even as I grew in my career, I typically didn’t go more than four months without a trip to New York. However, when a new job opportunity came up that coincided with a global pandemic, I had to take an NYC hiatus.
The funny thing is that even with all that back and forth travel, I never really explored New York City beyond the borough of Manhattan. I realize now what a true missed opportunity that was. I went back to visit in May of this year for the first time in FIVE years - a span of time that would previously have seemed impossible. It was fantastic to see the city alive and well, but this time I was determined to see more than just Manhattan.
This time, I spent a glorious, perfect weekend in Brooklyn.
Perhaps my favorite stop was at Brooklyn Museum. I loved being able to not only view the public exhibits, but being allowed backstage to see the visible storage. Between the public and semi-private displays, there is so much furniture and decor represented from the mid 1800s to today - a great reminder of how home furnishings change, but ultimately support and enhance current lifestyles.
They also had a Thierry Mugler fashion exhibit on display that reminded me of his avant garde approach, the feminism that 90s fashion models represented and reawaked so many memories of my misspent youth in New York.
And while Central Park is undeniably iconic, nothing beats the Brooklyn Botanic Garden for pure serenity and beauty. With a multitude of both outdoor gardens and indoor conservatories, it’s a great stop, regardless of weather.
There was so much more I would have loved to see and do, but we only had the weekend to explore. The borough of Brooklyn has definitely left me wanting (and planning) more time there. It was a good reminder to find new ways to explore even the cities I’ve been to over and over. There’s always something new to see, do and experience if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone.