---
title: "What is Gowanus known for?"
description: "Gowanus is known as one of Brooklyn's most rapidly transforming neighborhoods - from polluted post-industrial canal district to thriving area with new luxury buildings on every corner. First settled..."
url: https://franzeseproperties.com/faq-items/what-is-gowanus-known-for/
date: 2026-05-16
modified: 2026-05-16
author: "The Franzese Group"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# What is Gowanus known for?

Gowanus is known as one of Brooklyn's most rapidly transforming neighborhoods - from polluted post-industrial canal district to thriving area with new luxury buildings on every corner. First settled by the Dutch in 1636, Gowanus became a prosperous industrial center after the Gowanus Canal was built. After WWII, industry abandoned the area, leaving behind a polluted canal and decrepit buildings. Investor interest revived the neighborhood, and the Canal decontamination initiative is producing extraordinary results. Today Gowanus offers world-class dining, unique art venues, and a character that mixes old industrial buildings with new luxury construction. To explore (/gowanus-real-estate/), call (718) 666-2696.