431 Columbia Street, 2

Quick Profile

Filled with quaint charm and picturesque views, Red Hook is a haven for those seeking a laid-back vibe. The community has weathered many storms both figurative and literal since its settlement in 1836 by Dutch colonists. From being one of the most bustling freight ports in the world in the 1920s to being named one of the worst neighborhoods in America for its crack epidemic in the 1990s, Red Hook has gone through many evolutions to become the dynamic neighborhood it is today. 

Rich with creativity, the area is home to many artists specializing in an array of crafts, ranging from furniture design to glassblowing to woodworking. With many art galleries and moderately priced studios and lofts, the neighborhood is teeming with talent attracted by the energy and live/work space concept. 

The overall sense of being among a close-knit community is further spurred on by annual events such as the Red Hook Waterfront Arts Festival, as well as a reading series co-hosted by BookCourt once a month at neighborhood staple Sunny’s Bar. The changing shape and infrastructure of Red Hook was thrown for a loop in 2012, with the damaging effects of Hurricane Sandy that left many buildings and businesses in need of repair during resulting closures. 

Since its post-Sandy revitalization, the neighborhood has continued to attract many visitors to its unique and eclectic ambience, with ferries from Pier 11 in Manhattan to IKEA that operate daily.