Columbia St, Red Hook

There is actually a pretty good reason as to why someone would drive out of their way to visit Columbia Street in particular: and that is that the actual street extends pretty far out on one of the docks and into the Gowanus Bay. This is a highly commercial area, so don't expect pretty beachs - quite the opposite, really. This docking area is a place where big commercial shipping boats like to dock, and it at least makes for an interesting view of the Statue of Liberty.

Traveling north on this street, mostly what you'll find are the rowhouse residencies of the locals. This street is populated by a pretty young crowd - it seems like a lot of young couples move in here, but there is a definite hipster vibe to the place. As the neighborhood continues to get cooler, little shops and restaurants are continuing to move in, and rents continue to rise - even if there is still no decent method of public transport in all of Red Hook.

In this street that ends in the harbor you will not find a pirate ship of Captain Red Hook that you can show to your kids. Instead the area has activity for loading and unloading cargo vessels. This also makes great photo opportunities. Even trainspotters like us where having a great time in this remote harbor area. I would not want to live here but just passing through is enough.