A brief but glorious period in Brooklyn’s history is commemorated by a Greek Revival civic building that is one of the biggest in the borough.
Visit Brooklyn Borough Hall to remember a time when an independent Brooklyn was one of the most powerful cities in the United States.
Until the unification of New York City in 1898, Brooklyn was an independent entity. This magnificent neoclassical building was funded and built in 1848 during the height of Brooklyn’s importance and remodeled with expansion in the 1890s. The structure fell into disrepair after Brooklyn’s demotion but was restored to its former glory, and more, in the 1980s. Today it serves as Brooklyn’s main administrative building. Look up at the elaborate decorations to see the pride of an area that has never lost its independent streak.
Reach the hall on foot for an iconic view of the façade, which looms large and distinctive against the increasingly modern constructions of downtown Brooklyn. Gaze up at the clock tower, where a cupola is topped by a bronze statue of Justice, a part of the original design added during the 1980s renovations. Peer at the Greek Revival details carved into Tuckahoe marble, masterpieces of architects Calvin Pollard and Gamaliel King.
Stay outside, where a farmers market fills the plaza three times a week. Climb the steps inside, remembering that this is a working government building. Admire the craftsmanship of the two-story lobby with its black-and-white marble floor. The iconic Welcome to Brooklyn sign from the opening credits of Welcome Back, Kotter proclaims that the borough is the “4th largest city in America.”
Brooklyn Borough Hall is in downtown Brooklyn, near a subway stop bearing its name. Atlantic Terminal is a 5-minute subway ride, 12-minute drive or 20-minute walk away. Get here in about 25 minutes by subway from Midtown Manhattan or 30 minutes by car. Lines running through Borough Hall station offer easy connections to the rest of the borough. Several bus lines run down adjacent streets. Parking in the area is extremely limited, so getting around without a private vehicle is best.
The building is open during regular business hours, with occasional entrance restrictions in place.
