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The city is filled with amazing views, but few can top the ones from this scenic third-of-a-mile stretch along the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Postcard-like views of lower Manhattan, South Street Seaport, the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge draw photographers, couples on romantic walks, and New Yorkers who want an inspiring place to sit and think. The sound of cars whizzing by directly below on the BQE provides an oddly soothing soundtrack. Sandwiched between pricey Brooklyn Heights properties, pretty tree-lined streets, and rows of conveniently placed benches, the Promenade is also a convenient place to start sightseeing in Brooklyn. On the northern end, you can venture off the path to the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge; to the south of the Promenade, you can explore the cobbled streets of the charming and historic Brooklyn Heights. Or, you can refuel at classic Brooklyn eateries, like the famous Grimaldi’s Pizzeria or the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory . — Chris Fichera