If you’re spending time in New York City and want to recoup a little of your lost childhood, point yourself in the direction of the old Domino Sugar Factory in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. At the base of the historic building, nestled just north of the Williamsburg Bridge, is the Brooklyn Bike Park. For $15 (a little insider tip: they’re not strict on price, and are quick to offer up a discount). You can rent a bike, a helmet, and spend an hour tearing around a well-manicured dirt track. If you’re not one to launch off the sweet jumps, there’s a ring around the track for a tamer riding experience. The best time to visit is late afternoon, as the sun dips behind the factory. A warm halo accents the building and hearkens back to the area’s glory days as a resilient, working-class neighborhood. Even if you didn’t grow up in the area, or even the decade, you’re imbued with a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.
If you want to sustain the newfound innocence, follow Kent Avenue north to Odd Fellows Ice Cream Co. for a contemporary spin on the classic ice cream cone. With homemade flavors like “Sesame Kumquat Pumpernickel,” “Beet Pistachio Goat Cheese” and “Tobacco Leaf Smoked Chili Huckleberry,” you’ll be sure to find something you can brag to your friends about.
Once you have your cone, walk back towards the Domino Sugar factory. Along the way, take note of the ornate entryways that have been re-appropriated over the years. Magnificent craftsmanship can still be recognized through the layers of paint. To the north of Domino is a cute pocket park overlooking the East River, and is the perfect place to relax after an afternoon of bike riding. As the sun falls, I’m sure a flood of memories from your childhood will come rushing back–I know they did for me.
