Brooklyn Heights, perched on a bluff overlooking the East River, is truly one of the most beautiful and fascinating communities in New York City. The architectural diversity alone is well worth the short subway trip across the river, as the neighborhood is renowned for its blocks of row houses, beautiful city mansions, several early 19th century Federal-style houses and, even, converted horse stables that have become some of the most desirable residences in the city.

From its start, it has always been the un-Manhattan – and this feeling remains prevalent to this day. This tour explores the history and roots of this neighborhood, illustrating just how and why Brooklyn is, well, different.

The tour begins at Brooklyn Borough Hall on Joralemon Street and Court Street near Cadman Plaza. It is accessible from Manhattan by subway (the 2 or the 3 from downtown or the west side; the 4 or the 5 from the east side). At the end of the tour, we'll show you how to walk back to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge (or you can just hop in the subway)

Stops include:

* The Promenade: enjoy spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline across the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, the Statue of Liberty

* The Former Brooklyn Trust Company: you will simply be amazed at the beauty and grandeur of this early 20th century bank; try to go during banking hours so you can walk inside.

* Grace Court Alley:a small street of beautiful and sought after homes (that were carriage houses and stables in a former life)

* Our Lady of Lebanon: a church with some of the oddest doors you will ever see on a church

Brooklyn Heights: It Ain't Manhattan consists of about 30 minutes of material and will take about 90 minutes to complete, though you may want to allow for some additional time to sit on a park bench or take an extra little stroll on the Promenade.