Once an industrial corridor, Gowanus has transformed into one of Brooklyn’s most intriguing neighborhoods. Home to converted warehouses, cutting-edge art spaces, and some of the best restaurants and breweries in NYC, Gowanus strikes a unique balance between old and new. Whether you're sipping a craft beer, exploring underground art galleries, or enjoying a canal-side stroll, this neighborhood offers something unexpected at every turn.
Gowanus’ history is deeply tied to its namesake canal, which was originally built as a transportation waterway for the area’s industrial factories in the 19th century. Over the years, the neighborhood saw waves of change, shifting from manufacturing to a hub for artists, makers, and entrepreneurs. Today, ongoing environmental cleanup projects and new developments continue to shape Gowanus into a modern, creative enclave.
From artsy warehouses to hidden cocktail bars, Gowanus has plenty of cool spots to explore.
A historically significant waterway now undergoing revitalization, with pedestrian-friendly paths and scenic viewpoints.
A popular music and comedy venue featuring live performances, DJ nights, and special events.
An organization that offers guided canoe tours of the Gowanus Canal, providing a unique way to see the neighborhood.
An interdisciplinary art and research space known for hosting exhibitions, talks, and collaborative projects.
A lively indoor shuffleboard club with retro vibes, craft cocktails, and a fun social atmosphere.
Gowanus has an industrial-meets-artsy feel, with a mix of converted loft spaces, art collectives, and sleek new developments. The neighborhood attracts creative minds and food enthusiasts looking for a unique Brooklyn experience.
Gowanus is home to a diverse community of artists, musicians, professionals, and longtime Brooklyn residents who appreciate its blend of history, creativity, and convenience.
Gowanus boasts an impressive food and drink scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to laid-back breweries.
Freek’s Mill: A modern American eatery with locally sourced ingredients and a stylish atmosphere.
Claro: A Michelin-starred Oaxacan restaurant known for its handmade tortillas and mezcal selection.
Insa: A Korean BBQ and karaoke spot offering delicious grilled meats and private singing rooms.
Four & Twenty Blackbirds: A beloved bakery specializing in homemade pies with seasonal flavors.
Threes Brewing: A top-tier brewery with a great selection of craft beers and a spacious backyard.
Lavender Lake: A stylish bar with a great cocktail menu and a large outdoor patio.
Strong Rope Brewery: A cozy taproom focused on locally sourced ingredients and unique beer styles.
Blueprint: A speakeasy-style bar offering handcrafted cocktails and a relaxing ambiance.
Gowanus Souvenir Shop: A quirky boutique selling Brooklyn-inspired gifts and artwork.
Parklife: A hybrid outdoor bar and event space that hosts movie nights and pop-up markets.
Books Are Magic (Nearby in Cobble Hill): A cozy independent bookstore featuring curated selections and author events.
Thomas Greene Playground: A small community park with sports courts and open space.
Carroll Park (Nearby): A charming green space just a short walk away, perfect for families and relaxation.
Gowanus Canal Walkways: A developing set of scenic walking paths along the canal’s edge.
Gowanus’ real estate market is growing rapidly, with a mix of converted industrial spaces, new high-rise condos, and historic brownstones nearby.
Expect to find artist lofts, warehouse-style apartments, and modern condominiums with industrial-chic designs.
Gowanus attracts young professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs who are drawn to its innovative spirit and prime Brooklyn location.
Gowanus thrives on its creative community, with regular festivals, pop-ups, and cultural events.
Gowanus Open Studios: A weekend-long event where local artists open their studios to the public.
FAD Market at The Invisible Dog: A seasonal pop-up market showcasing handmade goods and indie designers.
Gowanus Art Crawl: A self-guided tour featuring galleries, performance spaces, and public art installations.
Gowanus is a neighborhood where history, art, and innovation collide. Whether you’re sipping a locally brewed beer, browsing underground art galleries, or discovering a hidden restaurant, Gowanus offers a Brooklyn experience unlike any other. Check out more NYC neighborhood guides to uncover what makes Brooklyn’s neighborhoods so special!
12,799 people live in Gowanus, where the median age is 36 and the average individual income is $72,624. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Gowanus, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Daddy's Cafe, Kham Fruit Salad, and Arrow & Archer Bespoke.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 4.92 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 2.38 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 3.17 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.81 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.54 miles | 20 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.05 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.39 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.47 miles | 14 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.31 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.79 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.76 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.86 miles | 15 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.43 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
Gowanus has 5,209 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Gowanus do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 12,799 people call Gowanus home. The population density is 48,628.902 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
A top agent doesn't just list properties—they understand the market, anticipate challenges, and guide you every step of the way. From buying and selling to navigating financial complexities, Danielle provides the expertise needed to make every transaction a win.
