Fort Greene, named after Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene, is steeped in history. The Brooklyn neighborhood is distinguished by its hilly eponymous park—which, yes, once held an actual fort—and by its architecture, including impeccable 19th-century brownstones. It’s also a must-visit for many other reasons, including its importance to African-American culture, its vibrant restaurant scene and its status as an enduring creative center. And it’s just a 10-minute subway ride from Lower Manhattan. (From NYC.go the Official Guide to neighborhoods of NYC.)
Set-back wood-frame houses juxtaposed with brownstones and mansions give parts of Clinton Hill a 19th-century feel. Indeed, Walt Whitman lived here when Leaves of Grass was published in 1855. Pratt Institute’s campus encompasses several blocks of greenery, striking architecture and public art, while local cafés, bars and restaurants function as cozy hangouts for students, neighborhood residents and, increasingly, cuisine-loving visitors. (From NYC.go the Official Guide to neighborhoods of NYC.)