Dyker Heights, sandwiched between Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst,
encompasses Dyker Beach Park on Gravesend Bay and the huge, public Dyker
Beach Golf Course. It may have been named for two Van Dykes who helped
to divide the land in 1719 or for the dikes used to drain and reclaim marshland
that once belonged to the area.
The area remained largely rural until the early 20th century, when
developers built a number of one- and two-family houses. Mansions along
11th Avenue afford magnificent views of the Narrows and Gravesend Bay.
A business district is located along 13th Avenue. Mostly residential, Dyker
Heights is a sight to behold around Christmas time. You can see some of
New York City's most elaborate holiday displays, including a mansion with
gargantuan wooden soldiers adorning its columns.
