Whether arriving by bike over John A. Roebling's storied 126-year-old suspension bridge or wandering through after flea-market shopping in nearby DUMBO, visitors to Brooklyn Heights will undoubtedly be drawn first to its photo op–friendly streets of impeccably restored row houses. Indeed, the area is unquestionably lovely, and its commercial thoroughfares have abstained from attracting the hip and overly trendy (for the most part). But scratch the surface and you'll find a vibrant neighborhood with thoughtfully curated stores, innovative restaurants and such energetic cultural institutions as the Brooklyn Historical Society and the Heights Players. The Heights wears its rich history on its sleeve, with stately architectural styles, august churches and schools, and literary landmarks. In the late fall and early winter, the streets take on a lamp-lit glow and hum with busy pedestrians. An evening stroll can take you down bustling Montague Street to the peace and quiet—and majestic views—of the Promenade, capturing all the appeal of New York's first suburb.

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