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Polaroid of the Week: Hidden Gems of Southern Brooklyn – Coney Island Parks and Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

Polaroid of the Week: Hidden Gems of Southern Brooklyn – Coney Island Parks and Verrazzano-Narrows BridgeThis month in New York continues to exceed expectations. As another vibrant week draws to a close, I'm eagerly anticipating my first Thanksgiving in the U.S. and my upcoming birthday—sure to be the highlights ahead.

Reflecting on last week, it's remarkable how I balanced it all while prioritizing rest. I finally visited the Whitney Museum (a must for art enthusiasts), reconnected with old friends, tackled my ever-growing list of must-try bars and restaurants, explored favorite Brooklyn and Manhattan neighborhoods, maintained a rigorous exercise routine to counter indulgent eats, accomplished key work tasks, and enjoyed lively nights out savoring New York's exceptional craft beer scene.

The week's standout was a photography expedition through undervisited southern Brooklyn spots with a fellow photographer: Calvert Vaux Park near Gravesend Bay, famed for its ship graveyard with rusty wrecks offering prime photo opportunities, and Coney Island Creek Park on the opposite side of Coney Island from the iconic boardwalk. Highlights included fishermen casting nets in chilly waters amid circling seagulls, breathtaking Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge views linking Brooklyn to Staten Island (as pictured), and warm, golden afternoon light from the setting sun—ideal for capturing stunning shots.

Capping off a day in the crisp outdoors? A satisfying meal, naturally. I advanced my quest for New York's best pizza at longtime-favorite L&B Spumoni Gardens in Bensonhurst. We stepped into old-school Brooklyn vibes straight out of The Sopranos—tacky in the best way, delighting eyes, ears, and taste buds. Essential stop for Sicilian-style slices and an authentic, off-the-tourist-trail Brooklyn experience.


Tourist Attraction
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