COURIER LIFE, JAN. 14–20, 2022 31
OUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE BOROUGH OF KINGS
BY SUSAN DE VRIES
If you want to explore Brooklyn history
and architecture this month, you
have a choice of a brisk walk or learning
while lounging on your sofa. The
Municipal Art Society has tour offerings
in Gowanus, Downtown Brooklyn
and Bay Ridge.
On Saturday, Jan. 22 historian Matt
Postal will lead an in-person walk
through the recently rezoned Gowanus
to gaze at the infamous “Bat Cave” and
remnants of the neighborhood’s industrial
past.
You can stay indoors on Thursday,
Jan. 27 for “Mercantile Heaven:
Brooklyn’s Downtown Shopping District”
with Brownstoner columnist
Suzanne Spellen. The virtual tour will
look back at the rich architectural and
social history of Fulton Street, which
once boasted a wealth of department
stores, theaters and restaurants to entertain
consumers.
Finally, head back outside on Sunday,
Jan. 30 for a deep dive into the late
20th century history of Bay Ridge. Architectural
historian Melanie Macchio
will guide walkers by impressive
residences, a monastery and more
to illuminate the development of the
neighborhood.
In-person tours are limited in number
and all attendees are required to
mask up. Tickets for in-person tours
are $30 ($20 for MAS members) while
virtual tours are $25 ($15 for MAS members).
For tour times and ticket information,
check out the tour page online.
Strolling in history
Explore Brooklyn virtually and in person this month
WALK THE WALK: The Brooklyn Bridge in
the early 20th century.
Photo by The Library of Congress