Explore Grand Army Plaza: 7 Can’t-Miss Spots To Visit

Walking alongside Flatbush Avenue, you’d never guess you’re stepping back in time to the American Revolution. Grand Army Plaza served as a pass through for the Battle of Long Island, the biggest battle fought of the American Revolutionary War in 1776. That’s quite a legacy for what most adventurers might only see as a car roundabout.

Today, the public plaza still connects residents. But instead of soldiers, you’ll find museums, Prospect Park, cultural events, and locals enjoying the Brooklyn life. As we’re traveling Breuckelen (as the Dutch used to call it), we’re diving into Grand Army Plaza’s history and sharing can’t-miss and must-dos for your travel itinerary.

Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Arc

The historic centerpiece of Grand Army Plaza was built between 1889 and 1892 and commemorates veterans of the American Civil War. It features insignia of different Navy/Army corps, as well as military companies and regiments specifically based in Brooklyn.

Eagle eyes can spot Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant on horseback in the arch underside. You can actually go inside the monument and take a staircase to the upstairs room, which was used for veterans’ meetings and storage. On top of the arc, you’ll see a sculpture of Columbia (A.K.A. the female representation of the U.S.) on a chariot pulled by four horses.

If that’s not enough of a history lesson, here’s one more. Triumphal arches are an ancient tradition, dating back to as early as 190 BCE. The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is seen as the most recognizable modern one, but the Paris landmark (and the Washington Square Arch in Greenwich Village’s Washington Square Park) is based on Rome’s Arch of Titus. In a way, you’re really traveling through time and space while exploring Grand Army Plaza.

The Bailey Fountain

On the north side of Grand Army Plaza, you’ll find another unique landmark. The space was always home to a water spectacle, but back in the 1870’s it looked quite differently. The first fountain was made of numerous water jets coming together, and gas lamps illuminated the fountain at night. When electricity became all the rage, a replacement fountain made its entrance. But this one also ultimately met its end due to the subway construction below Grand Army Plaza.

Today’s fountain is relatively new to the scene — well, “new” is relative when you’re talking about history. Completed in 1932, the fountain features quite a merry group of sea travelers. In the center, a male sculpture depicting Wisdom and a female sculpture representing Felicity stand tall. Joining the party are the Greek god “old man of the sea” Nereus, a plump little boy with a cornucopia, and preoccupied sea nymphs.

The fountain was donated by Frank and Mary Louise Bailey, financier folks who loved the arts and helped fund museums. The fountain’s design was born from the mind of painter, sculptor, and muralist Eugene Savage. Enjoy all the details for yourself while sipping on a THC beverage from The Travel Agency.

Greenmarket open on Sundays

If there’s a public square in NYC, there’s a farmer’s market, and Grand Army Plaza has one of the, well, grandest ones. The second largest farmer’s market in the city, just behind Union Square’s famed farmer’s market, is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Just by the entrance of Prospect Park, you’ll find an HQ for fresh produce, baked goods, eggs, honey, cooking demos, and oh so much more.

Take in the art at the Brooklyn Museum

You’ll find the Brooklyn Museum mere steps from Grand Army Plaza. With over half a million masterpieces residing here, it’s NYC’s second largest art collection. Originally built as a library in 1823, the Brooklyn Museum now houses one-of-a-kinds from Egyptian antiques to Japanese art.

The museum showcases new exhibits often (like David Bowie’s personal collectibles) and presents various programs throughout the year. Sign up for Drink and Draw events, summer concerts, yoga on the museum’s iconic steps and so much more. Bookmark the Brooklyn Museum’s calendar.

Spot the spots in Prospect Park

Once home to glaciers, Prospect Park now has a long list of other cool hangout spots. You can visit Prospect Park Zoo, which has had its roots in the park since 1890. You can catch a live show at the Lena Horne Bandshell. For lounging and people-watching, spread out on the Long Meadow with a blanket and a cannabis edible. Or you can bring your four-pawed best friend to the dog park by a lake, aptly named Dog Beach. Even though it might seem touristy for locals, taking a spin on the iconic carousel still promises a good time.

Taste international flavors from local favorites

Brooklyn is home to every cuisine, and Grand Army Plaza serves as a culinary hub. You’ll find some of the best Japanese masterpieces at Ozakaya, the freshest, handmade pasta at Scottadito Osteria Toscana, or maybe you’re more in the mood for a singular tacos-meet-banh mi experience at 5ive Spice. But let’s be honest: there is simply not enough internet to count all the iconic eatery destinations around Grand Army Plaza.

Continue to travel abroad at Smorgasburg

On Sundays, we feast some more. From April to October, Smorgasburg’s food extravaganza comes to Prospect Park. Near the Lincoln Road entrance, Breeze Hill serves up Ethiopian stews, Hawaiian street food, Portuguese custard tarts, and more international delights. No passport required — just bring your appetite, and come back for seconds.

Prepare for adventure with The Travel Agency

Once you’ve followed your culinary cravings, artistic musings, and historic learnings, come back home to The Travel Agency. Located only 3 stops on the 2/3 from Grand Army Plaza in Downtown Brooklyn, you’ll find essentials for your trip around the rest of the city. A tip from the locals: it’s also a grand first stop before all your travels.