At the turn of the 20th century, Ditmas Park was no more than a tract of farmland owned by the Ditmarsen family. But its proximity to Church Avenue’s commercial stretch and Prospect Park made it a smart bet for early real estate developers, who envisioned the area as city suburb. Today, Ditmas Park’s spacious old homes, inviting front porches, and manicured lawns are in high demand among those looking for a slower pace and higher quality of life within New York City limits. The neighborhood is conveniently serviced by the Q express train, which will get commuters to Midtown in 40 minutes or less. Driveways and private garages are also not-infrequent features of the housing stock here. Although the area is best known for the spacious homes of its historic district, prewar co-ops and apartment buildings abound east of Ocean Avenue. Over on Cortelyou Road, Tibetan cafes share space with train stations, and flower shops turn into hip bars after dark.
The Mood
Ditmas Park is full of renters and homeowners who stick around, hang out on their porches, and get to know their neighbors.
Heart of the Neighborhood
The Flatbush Food Co-op is both a conscientious local grocery and the neighborhood's de facto community center.
Neighborhood Quirk
The neighborhood's hallmark colonial homes may look distinctive, but they were actually all built by the same developer in the early 1900s.
Best Perk
Ditmas Park is like a breath of fresh air in the big city, with peaceful streets and carefully tended lawns.
Biggest Downside
Although Prospect Park is nearby, there is little here in the way of parks, playgrounds or gyms.
