When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Bungalow at Brookfield Place
Why The Bungalow at Brookfield Place is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Bungalow at Brookfield Place offers a unique, beach-inspired urban oasis nestled at the waterfront of Lower Manhattan. This vibrant venue is designed to evoke the relaxing ambiance of Montauk's beachside retreats, making it an ideal destination for friends seeking a lively yet laid-back daycation without leaving the city. Open daily from July through September, it features stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River and New York Harbor, creating a picturesque backdrop for social gatherings. Guests can enjoy specialty cocktails and light bites curated by Brookfield Place’s renowned eateries, including Tartinery’s Shack, Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar, Olive's, and Umami Burger. The carefully designed outdoor space also hosts a variety of themed programming and live events such as bocce ball, music nights, ice cream socials, and creative workshops, fostering a communal and dynamic atmosphere. With a capacity to comfortably accommodate 250 guests, The Bungalow is free and open to the public, providing an accessible yet stylish venue for friends to connect, unwind, and celebrate summer together in the heart of NYC.
Here's what people think of The Bungalow at Brookfield Place
As of recent, The Bungalow at Brookfield Place holds a 4-star rating based on 4 reviews.
Feedback from visitors to The Bungalow at Brookfield Place generally highlights the pleasant atmosphere and scenic waterfront location as key draws. Many reviewers appreciate the creative cocktail selection and the variety of light bites available from nearby eateries, alongside the venue's engaging summer programming and events. Positive reviews often praise the venue’s stylish, beach-inspired design and the opportunity it offers to socialize in an expansive outdoor setting with views that enhance the overall experience. However, some guests express disappointment with certain aspects, such as the size and alcohol content of cocktails relative to their price point, describing them as small and weak for the high cost. Others mention occasional service delays or seating challenges, particularly during busy evening hours, though some note accommodating managerial responses in these instances. While a few feel the venue can be overhyped and not worth returning to for some patrons, the majority endorse it as a refreshing city escape, especially for casual meet-ups or enjoying summer activities by the water. Ultimately, the reviews suggest The Bungalow is valued for its ambience and location more than as a traditional dining destination, making it a desirable spot for friends looking to gather outdoors with scenic views and creative cocktails.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris Maliwat
Nice outdoor bar and event space with great views of the water. We went after spending time at Brookfield Place and enjoyed a sunset there.
Disha Lakh
Awesome place! Nice view . Great service
Mutta Jaya Vardhan
Worst experience ever
Lisa Chau
I'm sad it's gone.
How to reach The Bungalow at Brookfield Place
None
Website: None
Why The Bungalow at Brookfield Place may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Bungalow at Brookfield Place with your friends?
If you’re planning a memorable get-together, The Bungalow at Brookfield Place offers an irresistible blend of relaxed waterfront vibes with urban sophistication, making it an exceptional spot to rally your friends. Nestled right on the picturesque waterfront in lower Manhattan, this venue breathtakingly captures the essence of a summer retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. The ambiance effortlessly conjures feelings of escape and conviviality, making it ideal for unwinding or celebrating special occasions. Whether you're looking to sip specialty cocktails while admiring a stunning sunset or engage in some friendly competition on the bocce courts, the vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere serves as the perfect backdrop for social bonding. This is not just about a place to eat or drink; it’s about creating shared experiences punctuated by great views, lively events, and casual fun. The Bungalow’s setup fosters easy conversation and group enjoyment, making it a prime choice for reunions, birthdays, or casual hangouts. Its unique combination of outdoor charm and city access ensures you and your friends will leave with memorable moments that feel a little like a vacation without leaving NYC.
What activities make The Bungalow perfect for a group meetup?
The Bungalow shines as a group destination primarily for its diverse offerings tailored to fostering social interaction and enjoyment. One of the standout features is the bocce ball courts, an ideal activity that encourages light-hearted competition among friends or family. Bocce ball, a classic outdoor game, is accessible to all skill levels and naturally promotes team play and laughter, making it a fantastic icebreaker and energizer for any group event. Beyond bocce, the venue hosts a variety of specialty cocktail experiences and light bites, allowing your party to indulge in sophisticated flavors in a casual setting. Unlike crowded bars with cramped seating, The Bungalow’s spacious waterfront layout assures that groups can gather around comfortably without feeling rushed or confined. Seasonal and daily events also add another layer of engagement, offering entertainment options that range from live music to curated social programming, which can transform your meetup into an unforgettable celebration. The scenic location overlooking the water not only enhances the mood but creates excellent photo opportunities, ensuring your group captures the spirit of the occasions spent here. In short, the blend of interactive games, curated drinks, good food, and striking views collectively ensures that The Bungalow offers much more than just a place to sit—it’s a dynamic environment made for connection and fun.
How does the ambiance and setting of The Bungalow enhance social gatherings?
Ambiance is critical to how a group experiences any outing, and The Bungalow excels with its thoughtfully designed waterfront setting. Situated within Brookfield Place’s Waterfront Plaza, it provides a serene yet vibrant environment characterized by panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. This scenic backdrop lends itself perfectly to relaxation and conversation, making it easy for guests to disconnect from city stress and focus on enjoying each other’s company. The space is decorated with a summery, breezy aesthetic, featuring touches like lush greenery and casual, comfortable seating arrangements that encourage openness and mingling. Additionally, the natural light and sunset vistas elevate the environment as daytime shifts into evening, fostering a magical transition that can enhance the mood of any gathering. This fluid indoor-outdoor feel delivers both comfort and a sense of escape—which is especially meaningful for groups looking to celebrate milestones, catch up, or simply recharge together. The Bungalow’s fresh approach to urban hospitality, mixing city edge with natural elements, makes it not only visually appealing but emotionally inviting for groups seeking a special place to congregate.
What dining and beverage options does The Bungalow offer for groups?
The Bungalow’s culinary and cocktail offerings contribute significantly to its appeal as a meetup destination. It serves a variety of specialty cocktails crafted to refresh and delight the palate, fitting perfectly with the venue's relaxed, upscale vibe. The drink selection is designed to complement the scenic backdrop and social atmosphere, making sipping on expertly mixed drinks a pleasure rather than a rushed experience. Additionally, light bites or small plates are available to share among friends, promoting a communal dining style that encourages passing plates and lively discussion. This focus on shared dining aligns beautifully with group dynamics, as it inspires tasting a variety of dishes and keeping everyone involved. The food and beverage menu strikes a balance between approachable and distinctive—ideal for groups unsure of individual preferences but wanting something satisfying and flavorful. While the emphasis is not on extensive formal dining, the quality and presentation are crafted to elevate casual snacks and drinks into a more memorable social ritual. For gatherings where conversation and connection are key, this approach assures that the focus stays on enjoyment and interaction rather than formalities or interruptions.
How accessible and convenient is The Bungalow for hosting events with friends and family?
The Bungalow at Brookfield Place is highly accessible and convenient, enhancing its suitability as a group meetup destination. Located in lower Manhattan, it is reachable via multiple public transportation options including subways and ferries, making it easy for guests coming from various parts of New York City or beyond. The central location within the Brookfield Place complex also means that attendees can combine their visit with other nearby amenities, such as shopping or waterfront strolls, which expands options for an extended outing or multi-part day event. The venue’s mix of indoor and outdoor spaces adds flexibility in planning meetups regardless of weather conditions, while the scenic outdoor plaza offers ample space for larger gatherings without the constriction often felt in city venues. Additionally, The Bungalow operates with extended summer hours, providing an ideal window from late morning into the evening for maximum scheduling versatility. For event planners or group coordinators seeking a balance of atmosphere, accessibility, and thoughtful space design, The Bungalow ticks all the boxes, keeping logistics straightforward and the experience enjoyable for all participants.
Why is The Bungalow a unique and memorable venue compared to other NYC spots?
Unlike many New York City hotspots that focus heavily on either nightlife or fine dining, The Bungalow at Brookfield Place occupies a unique niche by combining waterfront leisure with urban vitality in a single welcoming space. It avoids the typical hustle and overwhelming crowds common to many city venues, offering instead a relaxed and sunlit environment that feels removed from the usual urban rush. This combination of a waterfront retreat within a vibrant city center affords visitors the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds—natural scenery and dynamic city culture—without compromise. The Bungalow’s offering of bocce ball and specialty cocktails, framed by the sweeping views of the Hudson, creates a social experience that is as engaging as it is picturesque. These elements together make get-togethers here distinctively fun and memorable, standing out from the usual bar, restaurant, or rooftop options. Also, by fostering a strong sense of community and togetherness through its accessible activities and comfortable ambiance, The Bungalow leaves a lasting impression on groups looking for more than just a place to eat or drink—it’s an experience that celebrates friendship and leisure in an authentically New York setting. This holistic blend of setting, amenities, and spirit is why The Bungalow remains a compelling choice for anyone looking to host an unforgettable meetup.