Stroll Through Brooklyn History Virtually and in Person With the Municipal Art Society This Month

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, January 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, January 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, January 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.

Related Stories

• As Gowanus Rezoning Looms, City Designates Five Industrial Buildings as Historic Landmarks
• The Inside Story of Iconic Brooklyn Emporium Abraham & Straus at the Dawn of the 20th Century
• The Story Behind Bay Ridge’s Famous Gingerbread House and How It Came to Be

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