BACKROADS TO BROOKLYN

Today we were tourists in Brooklyn. Hopping aboard the Q line to Coney Island we emerged from the subway to discover a vibrant amusement park on the beach. Luna Park is part of the history of American seaside recreation (BB p. 492). There were times when Coney Island fell into a state of disrepair but there is a rejuvenation of the park ( http://www.thecidc.org/). It was so clean and fun that I recommended it to my teenage daughter and her friends. They were surprised to hear that the park was up and running. The vast expanse of beachfront with pristine sand makes this place a real treat. Friends enjoyed a Nathan's hot dog while we walked along the boardwalk. Of course, of great appeal is the fact that this beach side resort can be accessed by public transportation. Coney Island appeals to children of all ages. The place has a cheesy atmosphere that promotes relaxation and our group certainly escaped the ho-hum of daily chores by perusing the maze of rides while breathing in fresh sea air. It was fun to watch as sober adults subjected themselves to the terror of the famous roller coaster Cyclone! I do not have the constitution for such rides but enjoyed watching my friends let loose. For me it about the visuals. The garish, colorful decorations and playtime atmosphere was satisfying to view while walking along the boardwalk. Distance squeals from delighted children melted into the ocean air and I felt so warm taking in all that sunshine. This was a glorious adventure and one I shall remember.

Let's get back on the train and catch the F to Jay Street. What's down there? Gasp, it's another subway! No, well let's see. As we descend we are entering an actual station turned New York Transit Museum. What fun it was to relive the history of the subways. I remember riding on those tan and hunter green woven seats.How difficult it must have been for the workers who drilled persistently to reach bedrock. This was dangerous work and many did get hurt constructing the underground subway of New York. The vintage train cars were interesting. My favorites were the old advertisements that reflect changing culture in my lifetime.

While we are here let's go to the Greek Festival, good choice. How could the others go to KFC when an authentic Greek Festival is right in front of our eyes! It was a great choice, pastries galore! Salads and Greek specialties were amazing as were the Greek grandmas who prepared the authentic food. My favorite was a home made yogurt with black cherries. I have never had anything like this before and I doubt I ever will! This was FANTASTIC!!!! Please give me the recipe. Oh, boy that was heavenly. This festival is held yearly for one week. Are we in downtown Brooklyn?

Yes, this is the posh Brooklyn Heights. What lies ahead is a walking tour of Brooklyn brownstones! We are in for another treat! Yes, this is historical and beautiful. We wind up walking along the river to the BROOKLYN BRIDGE!!! First we go through artsy Dumbo. I am so happy the waterfront is being developed. It is a good use of space for so many to enjoy. Our city is undergoing beautification through gentrification. Pricey ice cream though. Everywhere we walked ice cream was being sold!

As we approach the Brooklyn Bridge I can see the Statue of Liberty in the distance. This is a magnificent day! It is sunny and we take a rest on the grass near the artistic carousel.  There is a going green thrust here and an increase in respect for the concept of environmental sustainability (http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/ ) What a pleasurable time we had on this walking tour of Brooklyn.

For our finale we literally walk across the bridge. At the time it was built it was the largest suspension bridge in existence (BB, p464). That was in the year 1883. This was an incredible engineering feat and many people died constructing it. This includes the genius inventor John A. Roebling, manufacturer and engineer who planned the bridge. He died from an accident during construction in which he contracted tetanus (BB, p 465).
Watch out for the mad cyclists. They are trying to prove something to the pedestrians as they mark their turf by whizzing past us in a terrifying manner. Oh well, that is the bike lane and we are in Brooklyn. Some things never change and we can't fault each other! Just don't get too close or we will get clipped.
After our group crossed the bridge was it true that we wound up at the South Street Seaport?
I can't remember. I
It's just that what goes on in SSS stays in SSS!!!
Ha Ha what a great day!!!
Thanks Gotham New York!!!
Cheers!