Ditmas Park
Experience the peace and quiet of the suburbs (with no risk of scratching your eyes out due to burbia boredom) by heading to this neighborhood, a haven of manicured lawns, white picket fences and grand Victorian abodes. Postwalk, ease your troubled mind at Sycamore, a charming flower-shop-cum-bar with a back garden frequented by arty types, including some little Brooklyn band called the National.
Most calming spot: On Rugby Road between Beverley and Cortelyou Roads, look for the bright yellow house with two wraparound porches. And then dream about living there. Sycamore: 118 Cortelyou Rd between Stratford and Westminster Rds (347-240-5850, sycamorebrooklyn.com)