Dyker Heights

The basics

Located between Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst, the neighborhood of Dyker Heights is best known as a winter destination. Come during the holiday season to see over-the-top Christmas light decorations adorning the neighborhood's historical homes. 

Consider booking a guided walking tour or bus tour of the neighborhood to see all of the most festive houses. Tours often provide transportation to and from Manhattan via one of Brooklyn's lovely bridges. They're a convenient option if you want to avoid spotty weekend subway service and simply enjoy the views.

Things to know before you go

• Dyker Heights is great for families with kids who want to get into the Christmas spirit. 

• Dyker Heights has only one subway line, so make sure service is running on schedule before you venture out.

• Winter in New York City can be very cold and windy, so wear warm layers.

• Bring a camera, since you'll want to snap photos of the festively decorated trees and homes around the holidays.

How to get there

To access Dyker Heights, take the subway's R train to 77th, 95th, or 86th Street station on Bay Ridge Avenue. From midtown Manhattan or Queens, take the Gowanus Expressway; from Long Island and eastern Brooklyn, take the Belt Parkway. Alternatively, consider booking a car-share service. There are many options available in Brooklyn offering reasonably priced rides around the borough.

When to get there

The best time to visit the tree-lined streets of Dyker Heights is during the holiday season. Expect to see Christmas light displays and holiday decorations every evening from mid-November and early January. For a round of golf—or a stroll to the shops and restaurants on 13th Avenue—plan to visit during the warmer months.

Golfing in Dyker Heights

In spring and summer, the Dyker Beach Golf Course is a great place to play a round. With views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, the course provides a unique vantage point on the city as you play 18 holes. After a day on the green, enjoy a drink and a burger at the course's full-service bar.

Can you visit Dyker Heights without a tour?

Yes, you can visit Dyker Heights without a tour. You can get near the Brooklyn neighborhood via the D, N, or R Subway lines. However, you may need to walk or take a bus depending on your final destination. Taxi, rideshare, or driving are options. Street parking is usuallly limited.

Can you just walk through Dyker Heights?

Yes, you can explore Dyker Heights on foot. The neighborhood is primarily residential, and you can safely explore it independently. Just expect crowds when visiting in the lead-up to Christmas. Note that most loops of the neighborhood involve at least 1–2 miles (1.6–3.2 kilometers) of walking.

Is Dyker Heights worth visiting?

Yes, Dyker Heights is worth visiting as one of New York City's kitschiest and most beloved Christmas traditions. Its holiday lights displays are magnificent. For many, seeing Christmas decorations is a good excuse to explore this lesser-known part of Brooklyn.

How long is a Dyker Heights tour?

That depends on the option that you choose, but most Dyker Heights tours range between two and five hours. Longer tours typically include round-trip transit from destinations in Manhattan. Shorter tours kick off directly in the neighborhood. Either way, expect to tour the lights for around two hours.

Can you drive through Dyker Heights to see Christmas lights?

Yes, you can drive through Dyker Heights to see the Christmas lights. Try to visit on a weekday evening in early December before the peak Christmas lights throngs arrive. Note that parking can be very limited, so you may not be able to stop for photos.

When is the best time to visit Dyker Heights?

Most homeowners put up their Christmas lights after Thanksgiving and they stay up through early January. Lights typically go on between dusk and 9pm or 10pm. Arrive early, and visit on a weekday to avoid the worst of the holiday crowds. Aim for early December, if you can.

Ways to explore

Celebrate the neighborhood’s Italian-American heritage over a panino at Lioni Italian Heroes. Don’t miss the ricotta-filled cannoli over at Mona Lisa Bakery. Walk it off during a stroll through Dyker Beach Park, or hit the links at the golf course.

If you’d prefer to explore as part of a tour, come during the winter holidays. That’s when the neighborhood is lit up with over-the-top displays of decorations (the gaudy marvels are nicknamed “Dyker Lights”). Choose between seasonal bus tours or private and shared walking tours; some include Christmas cookies and a cup of hot chocolate. (You can visit independently then, too.)

Accessibility

The 86th Street R train complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, tote bag for Italian goodies, thermos with hot chocolate (if not included in your tour)

What to wear

Gloves in winter, layers, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Peering in windows or trampling on lawns

Address

Dyker Heights is located in southwest Brooklyn, between the neighborhoods of Bensonhurst and Bay Ridge. It is reachable by car and public transportation; guided tours sometimes include transportation. If you’re coming independently, there are several ways to reach Dyker Heights.

Driving

From Manhattan, take I-478 from 7th Ave; follow it until I-278 W to Gatling Place, then get off at exit 19. Hourly street parking is available, although spots can be hard to snag around the holidays.

Public transportation

The R (86th and 77th street), N (Fort Hamilton Parkway), and D (79th Street) subway lines stop nearby, each around a 20–30 minute walk to the neighborhood’s heart. Take a taxi or rideshare to shorten your walk.

Best times to visit

Come at sunset to see the mansions at their stateliest, and stay for a plate of eggplant parmigiana at a local Italian restaurant.

Best days to visit

Dyker Heights is quiet year-round, except for the winter holidays. During that time, visit during the week to avoid the largest crowds.

Best months to visit

To see the neighborhood’s holiday lights displays, aim to visit anytime after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.

Special events

While Dyker Heights is pretty in any season, its festive light display in winter is the real standout.