Queens, New York, is essentially the most various borough in New York Metropolis, house to over 150 nationalities and greater than 160 languages spoken. Identified for its wealthy cultural heritage, it contains a particular mix of worldwide delicacies, thriving neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks like Flushing Meadows Corona Park and Citi Subject. Whether or not you’re seeking to purchase a home in Queens, NY, hire an house, or hire a house in Queens, you don’t need to miss out on these distinctive native experiences.
With mouthwatering meals spots on each nook, inexperienced areas galore, and loads of alternatives to be taught one thing new, it may be onerous to determine the place to begin. On this Redfin article, hear from Queens locals on distinctive issues to do whereas in Queens, NY.
1. Discover Queens’ food and drinks scene
One method to start getting acquainted with this borough is to take pleasure in a few of the greatest eating places in Queens. From steakhouses to nook cafes, Redfin’s native specialists will allow you to discover memorable meals throughout the borough.
Sanger Corridor
“Sanger Hall is more than a bar; we’re a music venue, community space, and home for creatives. We pride ourselves on being a place where everyone’s welcome, from families to artists to music lovers. We host live music, art shows, and unique events that celebrate diversity and creativity in Queens. On top of that, we have amazing neighborhood specials because we believe great food and drinks should be accessible to everyone. And of course, we’re known for our bomb cocktails that keep folks coming back!” – Alex Milachay, common supervisor of Sanger Corridor.
Belo
“A must-visit in the neighborhood is Belo, right down the street. Jonathan serves up incredible Brazilian dishes with family-style portions, fantastic specials, and killer cocktails. Like us, they’re all about community, great vibes, and bringing people together.” – Alex Milachay, common supervisor of Sanger Corridor.
Salvatoria Kitchen & Bar
“Salvatoria Kitchen & Bar is a cozy Salvadoran restaurant in Astoria serving some of the best pupusas and plantains in Queens. The warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and flavorful dishes make it a go-to spot for a comforting meal with a Latin American flair.” – Lisa Devine, proprietor of 2nd Likelihood Candles, an area candle retailer.
The Door Restaurant
“The Door Restaurant is an elegant Caribbean restaurant with an excellent menu. In business for over 20 years, there’s a bar area and a beautiful dining space with great service.” – the staff at Black Spectrum Theatre, an area community-based skilled theatre.
Figlia
“My fiancé and I are partial to quite a few restaurants here in our part of town, Astoria/Ditmars. First is Figlia where the owner, Ricardo, and his team make all of the pasta in-house. They also have amazing wood-fired pizza. Ricardo knows us by name, and probably most of his customers, and goes out of his way to introduce himself and make people feel at home.” – Paul Spataro of Astoria Headshots.
Jack Jones Gastropub
“One other restaurant we take pleasure in is Jack Jones Gastropub, which can be a heat place for each Irish and American fare. The proprietor, whose title I can not keep in mind, dreamt of getting a pub just like the one his dad went to in Eire, the place individuals would collect, eat, discuss, and soak up some music or a soccer recreation.
For those who go within the night or at brunch the hostess (and I imagine co-owner) Carol will greet you on the door, present you to your desk and take a second to ask you ways you’ve been. In addition they have a common retailer that sells sweet bars and snacks from Eire and Europe! It’s such an ideal place and we extremely advocate it!” – Paul Spataro of Astoria Headshots.
Rolo’s
“Rolo’s in Ridgewood is the new ‘must-go-to’ spot with ‘killer hamburgers’ that run out as soon as the first seating enters, so be prepared to be one of the first. The Chef/Co-Owner, Howard Kalachnikoff, formerly of Gramercy Tavern, continues preparing wood-fired dishes that amaze and delight.” – Salvatore Rizzo, proprietor & CEO of De Gustibus Cooking Faculty by Miele.
SriPraPhai Thai
“SriPraPhai Thai is an old school standard in Williston Park, preparing the most authentic Thai food this side of the world since the early ‘90s. Authentic, delicious and one of the best.” – Salvatore Rizzo, proprietor & CEO of De Gustibus Cooking Faculty by Miele.
M. Wells Steakhouse
“As a wedding photographer in NYC, I get to discover incredible places while capturing love stories. One unforgettable venue was M. Wells Steakhouse in Queens, where I shot a wedding and had one of the best meals of my life. It’s a perfect blend of industrial charm and fine dining. I took my husband for a meal after I stumbled upon this gem.” – Priyanca Rao Pictures, an area images service in Queens for weddings, company headshots, and extra.
Elias Nook for Fish
“Elias Corner for Fish is the best go-to Greek restaurant around, with a casual setting that feels like home. The price is great and the food is the best around.” – Williamsburg Cinemas, a movie show in Brooklyn.
2. Give a go to to the New York Corridor of Science
Take the chance to be taught one thing new throughout your time in Queens. “As a lifelong science enthusiast, the New York Hall of Science is one of my favorite places,” says Adnaan Wasey, Government Director of Rooftop Movies, an area nonprofit supporting rising filmmakers in outside areas.
Adnaan continues, “If you love New York City, I recommend their CityWorks exhibit that shows the elaborate invisible infrastructure that makes everything in the city go. And it’s also a great spot to watch a movie! The Queens Drive-In is a fun throwback theater we’ve created with them, but with new films — including The Wild Robot on May 30th. It all makes me feel like a kid again.”
3. Discover the Louis Armstrong Home Museum
Queens and NYC, by extension, had been key gamers in cultivating a few of the most influential jazz of the twentieth century. There’s no higher method to join with this wealthy historical past than visiting a museum celebrating certainly one of jazz’s most influential contributors. “The Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona is pure joy for me, as a jazz fan,” says Adnaan Wasey, Government Director of Rooftop Movies, an area nonprofit supporting rising filmmakers in outside areas.
“There’s a tour of the house where Satchmo lived for decades that makes you feel connected to music history, but it’s also a remarkable glimpse into everyday life in Queens in that era. The garden is also a great place to catch a performance honoring Armstrong’s legacy—or a film! We’ve been showcasing new films there for years, and we’re excited to be screening We Want the Funk! on June 11th, in this space where you can feel the community spirit that Armstrong cherished.”
4. Catch a recreation at Citi Subject
A singular factor to do in Queens is trying out a ball recreation at Citi Subject. “Yankee Stadium gets all the notoriety, but Citi Field is one of the best venues to catch a ball game in the entire US,” says Tim O’Reilly of Bespoke Cleaners, an area cleansing firm in Queens, NY. “There are amazing food options, including Shake Shack, and you can feel the energy of the city with every pitch. There’s no better place to spend a summer night.”
5. Say howdy to the animals on the Queens Zoo
Christopher Figueroa of Chris Fig Productions, a video manufacturing service in Queens, recommends a visit to the Queens Zoo to spherical out any journey.
“As a father of two babies, ages 1 and three, my favourite weekend exercise to do with them in Queens is to go to the Queens Zoo. Absolutely the coolest half is the Aviary, which is mainly one large chicken cage that you may stroll round and watch birds fly. I can’t consider every other place in Queens that has one of these exhibit.
As soon as we’re carried out with the birds, we stroll over to the petting zoo and feed the animals. My youngsters love when the goats eat out of their palms. Are my youngsters terrified? Completely! However they love the joy of all of it.
After visiting the zoo, we take a brief drive over to Empanada Cafe, which has arguably the very best Empanadas in Queens. Choose any empanadas from their intensive checklist, and also you’ll fall in love with every chew. All of it begins with the filling, which tastes like your grandmother cooked it. Each Queens native is aware of and loves Empanada Cafe.”
6. Store for native items at 2nd Likelihood Candles
For these seeking to discover some native artisans in Queens, think about a cease at 2nd Likelihood Candles. This store affords hands-on candle-making workshops the place visitors create their very own custom-scented soy candles. Paint pouring workshops or slime-making workshops are additionally obtainable. “All our workshops are available seven days a week and are great for adults and kids! Our space has a unique, chill vibe that makes everyone feel welcome the moment they walk in,” says Lisa Devine, proprietor of 2nd Likelihood Candles.
7. Take a one-of-a-kind cooking class with The League of Kitchens
Queens and New York basically are well-known for being culinary havens, however The League of Kitchens has taken it up a notch by way of a singular cooking class providing. Not solely will you be taught particular dishes to impress your pals, however you’ll be studying these recipes within the kitchens of native cooks in New York.
“We’re really excited to highlight our next class: Shandra’s Indonesian Summer Immersion Workshop in Astoria,” says Katie Kenny of The League of Kitchens. “Shandra’s home and backyard garden are a vibrant reflection of Indonesian culture, and her class offers an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.”
8. Be looking out for film stars
Though you might be able to catch celebrities strolling down the road in Manhattan, Queens is the place the actual magic occurs. “There are a lot of known actors who have apartments in Long Island City because it is close to the studios here,” says Paul Spataro of Astoria Headshots. “And there are quite a few studios where many favorite TV shows and movies have been shot: Silvercup Studios, Broadway Stages, Silvercup East, Kaufmann Studios, and Robert De Nero’s new Wildflower Studios!”
Paul continues, “Being that there are so many film studios in the area, on any given day you can see set trailers, crew, equipment, and of course, actors meandering the streets of Astoria and Long Island City. While Manhattan is beautiful and is usually considered more of the ‘movie scene,’ the studios are here in Queens.”
9. Make a memento on the Monster DIY Studio
For those who’d slightly make a memento than purchase one, go to Monster DIY Studio for a singular factor to do in Queens. “Our family loves Monster DIY Studio, where you can decorate mugs and phone cases with buttons and emojis. It’s creative, fun, and a sweet spot for making memories,” says Priyanca of Priyanca Rao Pictures.
10. Go on a scavenger hunt by way of the town
One method to get acquainted with the town shortly is thru a scavenger hunt. “A scavenger hunt is a great way to explore a new area,” says Ben Hoffman, proprietor of cityHUNT, a scavenger hunt firm in NYC. “Queen’s is no different, it’s filled with iconic landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems. If you strategically plan to end your hunt at The Alcove you won’t be disappointed. It offers up great cocktails and excellent burgers.”
11. See a present on the Black Spectrum Theatre
New York Metropolis is legendary for being a hub for creatives, so take a look at a present whilst you’re exploring the city. The Black Spectrum Theatre, positioned in Queens, is not any stranger to skilled productions. “We are a 55-year-old community-based professional theatre that produces award-winning theatre and top-shelf jazz concerts,” says the staff at Black Spectrum Theatre.
12. Breathe awhile in Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Presumably essentially the most lovely place in Queens is the Flushing Meadows Corona Park. There’s a lot to do right here for guests, and also you’ll get the very best ideas from Rob MacKay of It’s in Queens, an area weblog for residents and guests to maintain updated on all issues taking place in Queens.
“Manhattan has Museum Mile alongside Central Park, however Queens has Flushing Meadows Corona Park and its numerous cultural venues. Initially, FMCP is the fourth greatest public area in all of New York Metropolis. With 898 acres, it’s 55 acres bigger than the aforementioned Central Park and its distinctive city/suburban and salt/recent water location permits for a beautiful mixture of flora, fauna, waterways, paths, athletic services, statues, and cultural organizations. And similar to Hunter’s Level South Park in my different put up, it has the very best people-watching.
Meadow Lake, which is the Huge Apple’s largest physique of recent water, has rental services for rowboats and paddleboats. In the identical spot, the American Small Craft Affiliation retains greater than a dozen sloop-rigged sailboats, that are used for instructing and racing. It’s additionally the location of the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Pageant, a global occasion throughout which greater than 150 groups compete in about 80 rowing races over an extended weekend in August.
Landlubbers can take pleasure in strolling and bicycle paths, a few of which hook up with the Brooklyn-Queens Greenway, or they’ll play aggressive soccer, volleyball, and cricket video games. The Aquatic Middle boasts an Olympic-size indoor pool and an ice rink.
I examine FMCP to the Museum Mile as a result of it’s house to Queens Museum, Queens Theater, New York Corridor of Science, Queens Zoo, the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Middle, and Citi Subject. All these venues have ties to the 1939 and 1964 World’s Gala’s. Some are remnants. Some are renovated and relocated displays. Some grew up round pavilions. However all of them mix historical past with trendy perform.”
13. Absorb the fantastic thing about Hunter’s Level South Park
Regardless of being referred to as the “concrete jungle,” New York Metropolis has some breathtaking inexperienced areas to discover. Queens is not any exception. For Rob MacKay of It’s in Queens, exploring Hunter’s Level South Park is without doubt one of the most unusual issues to do in Queens.
“Hunter’s Level South Park is nice all yr spherical, however it’s one of the crucial particular locations on the earth throughout the warm-weather months.
Positioned alongside the East River in Lengthy Island Metropolis, this 10-acre open-air public area combines inspiring views of Midtown Manhattan with enormous inexperienced areas, sports activities services, clear loos, piers, a kayak launch, and a few of the greatest people-watching in New York Metropolis. After which there’s the huge neon Pepsi-Cola signal that dates to 1939 and has landmark standing.
Because it’s positioned close to a piece of Lengthy Island Metropolis that’s exploding with luxurious excessive rises, the park hosts nice group actions resembling group yoga, free outside film screenings, summer time camp, and silent discos.
Hunter’s Park is definitely accessible from Brooklyn and Manhattan by way of NYC Ferry, which operates a cease there. It’s a stunning, five-minute trip from the cease at thirty first Road in Manhattan. Landlubbers can take the 7 practice to Vernon Boulevard, which is the primary Queens cease after leaving Grand Central Station.
Frank Ottomanelli’s By The Water is the large concession stand. Frank is a member of the well-known Ottomanelli household that runs butcher outlets throughout New York and New Jersey. He serves his award-winning hamburgers together with rooster, scorching canine, chili, and different gadgets. He additionally operates an out of doors bar with a dancing space when the climate permits.
For those who’re nonetheless hungry, varied meals vans park close by and promote every little thing from tacos to arepas to ice cream.”
14. Discover the connection between wine and opera
This expertise is actually a singular factor to do in Queens. For those who like wine and opera, you’ll love Queens Opera Theatre’s Vino e’ Voce. “Vino e’ Voce is an immersion into the natural connection between wine and opera,” says Brian Gill, govt producer of Queens Opera Theatre.
“Join us as Sandra Zotti guides you through a curated wine journey, complemented by the stunning vocal talents of Sara Duchovnay and Matthew Stephens on the piano. Mark your calendars for June 12th and indulge in a night of sophisticated delight.”
In conclusion: go forth and discover distinctive issues to do in Queens!
From world-class delicacies and wealthy cultural establishments to serene parks and vibrant group occasions, Queens, NY, affords an unmatched mixture of native taste and international affect. This rings true for guests, too. “Even when you’re just visiting, you can feel the rhythm of a neighborhood, and Queens has a beat all its own,” says Chanda Strickland, CEO at Finest Property Administration in Chattanooga. “From hidden food gems to family-friendly parks, it’s the kind of place that surprises you – in the best way.”
Whether or not you’re a customer or a longtime resident, there’s all the time one thing new and significant to find on this various and dynamic borough.
