Made in Brooklyn Tour

If you’re curious about Brooklyn’s unique blend of history and modern innovation, the Made in Brooklyn Tour offers a compelling peek into the neighborhood’s creative heartbeat. This 3-hour walking experience, run by a Brooklyn native and licensed NYC guide, promises a look at the small businesses, artisans, and innovators shaping Brooklyn today. It’s a route that’s been recognized for its authenticity and engaging storytelling, making it an appealing choice for anyone wanting to understand what makes Brooklyn tick beyond the usual tourist spots.

What really draws us to this tour is its focus on local craftsmanship and industrial roots—you get behind-the-scenes visits to creative businesses and a guided history of Brooklyn’s industrial revolution. Plus, the chance to shop for exclusive Made in Brooklyn products adds a tangible souvenir to your experience. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users, and it runs sharply at 12:30pm, so punctuality is key.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who love stories of local entrepreneurship, enjoy a more intimate walk through a neighborhood, and want a different perspective than the standard sightseeing route. If that sounds like your vibe, read on for all the details.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience guided by a Brooklyn native who knows the ins and outs of the neighborhood.
• Behind-the-scenes visits to creative businesses and makers currently making it in Brooklyn.
• Educational focus on Brooklyn’s industrial past and how the digital revolution is shaping its future.
• Affordable price point at $55 for a 3-hour tour packed with stories and insights.
• No food or transport included, so plan accordingly.
• Strict start time at 12:30pm; arriving early is essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

We meet directly across Jay Street from Pedro’s Mexican Bar & Restaurant at 73 Jay St Brooklyn. The meeting spot is easy enough to find with Google Maps, but it’s worth arriving at least 10 minutes early to avoid missing the start. The guide is a Brooklyn native, so you’ll immediately get a sense of someone who genuinely knows the neighborhood’s nuances.

The Length and Pace

This is a compact 3-hour walk, usually in the afternoon, that covers a variety of stops. The tour is designed for those who enjoy walking and don’t mind a brisk pace, but it’s not overly strenuous. Since the tour is about exploring Brooklyn’s waterfront and its creative businesses, expect to be on your feet quite a bit, with some stops behind the scenes.

What You’ll See and Learn

The core of the tour is about Brooklyn’s creative economy and manufacturing. You’ll visit local small businesses and meet the artisans and entrepreneurs who are making it today. What’s compelling here is the blend of history and contemporary innovation—you learn about Brooklyn’s Industrial Revolution and how its spirit lives on in new digital and creative ventures.

The guide’s experience with manufacturing gives a richer understanding of Brooklyn’s industrial roots. You’ll hear about the innovators who helped shape the neighborhood’s character, along with how Brooklyn’s digital scene is transforming the local landscape. The tour aims to show how Brooklyn is still ‘making it’, whether through traditional craftsmanship or new tech-driven projects.

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Behind-the-Scenes Access

Unlike typical guided walks, this tour offers behind-the-scenes visits—a chance to see the actual workspaces of local makers. It’s a real highlight for those intrigued by small business success stories and local craftsmanship. You might find yourself browsing curated products directly from creators, which adds a special touch.

The Shopping Experience

Part of the charm is the opportunity to shop for Made in Brooklyn products. These are authentic items crafted by local artisans, giving you a memorable souvenir and supporting small businesses. It’s a more meaningful alternative to touristy gift shops.

The Modern Twist

The guide emphasizes Brooklyn’s evolution from its industrial past to its current digital and creative community. You’ll learn how Brooklyn’s neighborhoods have transitioned, and how local entrepreneurs are innovating in sustainability and design. This gives a nuanced picture of a neighborhood that’s still very much in flux and growth.

What’s Not Included and Practical Tips

The tour does not include food, drinks, or transportation, so plan to eat before or after. Also, since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes are a must. The group size is generally small, making for a more personal experience, but it does mean punctuality is crucial because the tour starts exactly at 12:30pm and they can’t wait for latecomers.

If you’re bringing a pet, note that pets are not allowed—only assistance dogs are permitted. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible either, so travelers with mobility challenges might need to consider this.

Duration and Booking Flexibility

The three-hour tour is usually offered in the afternoon and is flexible with booking—you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is great if your plans are still taking shape.

The Overall Value

At $55 per person, the Made in Brooklyn Tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s not a typical touristy sightseeing walk; instead, it’s a curated peek into Brooklyn’s local spirit and creative economy, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. For those interested in small business stories, Brooklyn’s past and present, or seeking an authentic neighborhood experience, this tour offers genuine value.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy local stories and are curious about how Brooklyn’s history influences its present. If you like discovering hidden gems and supporting small businesses, you’ll really appreciate the behind-the-scenes visits. It’s also suited for those who want a relaxed, educational walk without the crowds of typical tourist spots.

This tour might not be ideal if you require wheelchair accessibility or are looking for a tour with food, transportation, or a more family-oriented focus. It’s best for independent-minded explorers eager to learn about Brooklyn’s makers and innovators.

The Made in Brooklyn Tour offers a genuine, intimate look at a neighborhood that’s been turning ideas into products for generations. It’s a well-balanced journey through Brooklyn’s industrial roots and contemporary creative scene, guided by someone who truly knows the neighborhood’s pulse.

Travelers who value storytelling, local craftsmanship, and an authentic neighborhood vibe will find this experience both enjoyable and enlightening. It’s a smart choice if you want to see Brooklyn through the eyes of a proud local and walk away with a deeper appreciation for how this neighborhood continues to make it.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is primarily geared towards adults interested in Brooklyn’s makers and history, families with older children who enjoy walking and learning about local businesses will likely find it engaging. Keep in mind that the pace is brisk and the focus is more on storytelling and behind-the-scenes visits.

Can I bring my pet on this tour?
Pets are not allowed, except for assistance dogs. If you’re traveling with a service animal, you should contact the tour provider beforehand to confirm arrangements.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential since you’ll be on your feet most of the time. Dress appropriately for the weather, as a good part of the tour is outdoors or in unheated spaces.

How early should I arrive?
You should arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start at 12:30pm. The guide needs to start promptly and cannot accommodate late arrivals.

Is there a possibility of shopping during the tour?
Yes, part of the experience involves visiting small businesses where you can browse and purchase unique Made in Brooklyn products, supporting local artisans.

Are the stops accessible for people with mobility issues?
No. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the route involves walking through neighborhoods that might not be fully accessible.

If you’re keen on discovering Brooklyn’s creative heartbeat, this tour offers a thoughtful, local-centric perspective—perfect for those who want a meaningful neighborhood experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: