Great Escape! Explore Gowanus

This weekend’s weather will be nice, so take a stroll through Gowanus -- the waterway may be , but the neighborhood is a blast.

Start off with a stroll over the Carroll Street Bridge, which offers scenic views of the waterway and Manhattan. The bridge itself is a curiosity as well – it was constructed by the city in 1889 and is one of two retractile bridges left in New York. There are only four left in the entire United States.

A sign on the bridge still reads: "Any person driving over this bridge faster than a walk will be subject to a penalty of five dollars for each offense."

Then check out some of the cultural institutions Gowanus has to offer. At , and exhibit focuses on “paradise.” The – which was once Public Bath No. 7 – is worth a stop just to gaze at the ornate architecture.

Once your tummy starts rumbling, head to one of the neighborhoods many delicious eateries for a bite. Some of our favorites: Bar Tano and the pies, both and , at Four & Twenty Blackbirds.

Cap off the afternoon with a beer at the Draft Barn or the newly opened – you’ve earned it!