Like other areas of Brooklyn, Bushwick has undergone many changes. It has transformed from an industrial setting into an eclectic and unique New York neighborhood that is today known for its distinct style. If you're looking for rooms for rent in Bushwick, then our guide will come in handy. Walking past former warehouses and garages, now converted into shops and restaurants, you can see how their exterior has become a canvas for street art.

How did Bushwick become part of New York?

The name Bushwick comes from the Dutch word "boswijck", which means "small town". Located in northern Brooklyn, Bushwick borders the East Williamsburg and Bed-Stuy neighborhoods, as well as the Queens neighborhood of Rosewood.

Originally settled by native Canarsies, Dutch settlers acquired this tract of land through a treaty with the Dutch West India Company. Governor Peter Stuyvesant chartered it in 1660, making it one of the six Dutch-owned towns in Brooklyn. When the British arrived, Bushwick was declared part of their Kings County.

After the American Revolutionary War in 1855, Bushwick was incorporated into the city of Brooklyn, which later became a borough. In 1898, it was incorporated into the City of Greater New York.

Bushwick as we know it today

Bushwick used to be agricultural land, but in the 19th century, it transformed into an industrial center. Over the years, these industrial structures have become urban canvases for street art or have been adapted into restaurants, studios, and other businesses.

In the 1840s, Bushwick saw a wave of German immigrants who brought their brewing skills, helping to develop the brewing industry. The area became known as "Brewers Row," where the Ulmer Brewery complex office building at 31 Belvidere Street, between Beaver Street and Broadway, remains.

In the 20th century, the financial success of property owners contributed to Bushwick's prosperity, but by the 1970s, the area began to struggle as factories closed. It was also seriously damaged during a blackout in 1977. However, by the early 2000s, it had undergone a transformation, attracting new businesses, residents, and tourists who understood why the area had become so popular.

Immigrants, including Irish, Italians, Jamaicans, and many African Americans, have moved to Bushwick. Today, the area is renowned for the diversity of its residents, including the Hispanic population, young urban professionals, and artists who call it home. Bushwick is a great choice if you're looking for a multicultural destination while visiting New York City.

Bushwick Murals and Art Scene

Walking the streets of Bushwick feels like being in an outdoor art gallery. The walls of former garages and warehouses, as well as shutters, sidewalks, fences, and more, are decorated with street murals. These works of art are not only impressive in their appearance and design but also provide an opportunity to recognize the name of the artist.

For example, artist Chris Stein created a mural in 2019 called "Boy on a Bicycle," which depicts a young man wearing a red hat and yellow T-shirt. Another popular piece is a piece by artist DFace called “Till Death Do Us Part.” This mural features the skeletal heads of a man and a woman facing each other and is said to be inspired by the graphics of American pop artist Roy Lichtenstein.

The Bushwick Collective

Founded by Joe Ficalora, a local resident of the area, in memory of his departed parents and with the goal of revitalizing the arts in the area, the Bushwick Collective collaborates with artists from Brooklyn and around the world to create unique murals scattered throughout Bushwick. A party is also held here every June, attracting locals and art lovers.

The area around Bushwick Collective, which stretches along Troutman Street, has been transformed with a variety of street art as well as a variety of eateries.

House of Yes

House of Yes is a cutting-edge performance venue and nightclub committed to highlighting creativity and promoting inclusivity through its events and activities. Attending their nightly dance parties will feel like you've crossed the threshold into an amazing wonderland.

From burlesque performances to mind-blowing aerial performances and dance parties, events at House of Yes promise visual and audio immersion in unique and exciting performances. Among the many talented artists attracted to the space are DJs such as David Morales and Eli Escobar, as well as the daring cabaret performer Suzanne Bartsch.