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Things to Do in Queens

Things to Do in Queens

Queens New York, USA Travel Guide

Active Exploration

Queens offers options for leisurely strolls or active pursuits, connecting you with nature and unique views.

Trail Options

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Extensive paved paths suitable for easy walks, jogs, and casual cycling for all fitness levels.

Alley Pond Park

Walking trails, certain ones with moderate inclines, through diverse natural habitats including forests and wetlands.

Forest Park

Features trails suitable for hiking and even horseback riding, presenting a more challenging walk with a range of terrain.

Aquatic Fun

  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Seasonal programs on Newtown Creek, East River, or within Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
  • Surfing: Rockaway Beach is The Big Apple's only legal surfing beach, with lessons and rentals available.
  • Swimming: Public pools outside (Astoria Park), and ocean swimming at Rockaway Beach during warmer months.
  • Explore aquatic experiences and tours on GetYourGuide.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge: A major bird sanctuary with over 330 species recorded.
  • Observation blinds and walking trails.
  • Alley Pond Park: Opportunities to see local wildlife within its diverse ecosystems.
  • Environmental center provides educational programs.

Cycling Routes

  • Increasing network of dedicated bike lanes across Queens.
  • Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Alley Pond Park, and Forest Park: Extensive paved/unpaved trails.
  • Waterfront paths in Li City and Astoria for scenic rides.
  • Citi Bike stations provide convenient rentals.

Adventure Sports

  • No specific adventure sports or extreme adrenaline experiences are typically offered within Queens itself.
  • For such activities, you generally travel outside Nyc.
  • Queens focuses more on recreational and cultural pursuits within its urban and park settings.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local guidelines for outdoor activities. Check weather conditions before heading out, especially for aquatic activities.

Deep Dive into Culture

Queens offers rich opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing you to connect deeply with its diverse communities through workshops, performances, and local initiatives.

Learn & Create

  • Workshops & Classes: JCAL and Flushing Town Hall frequently host programs focusing on visual arts, crafts, music, and dance.
  • Certain private studios also offer artwork or craft classes, providing hands-on opportunities.
  • These encounters go beyond passive observation, inviting participation and understanding.
  • Explore traditional forms of art and connect with local artists.

Local Engagement

Community-Based Tourism

Engage in food tours that focus on specific ethnic enclaves like Astoria, Flushing, or Jackson Heights. These guided tours provide deep cultural insight, often directed by residents.

Language Learning

Some community centers or private language schools offer classes in various languages, reflecting the borough's linguistic diversity. Translation apps are practical for short visits.

Cultural Performances

Flushing City Hall hosts music, dance, and theater performances from cultures worldwide. Local community centers and religious institutions also host heritage performances during holidays.

Performing Arts

Flushing Town Hall, JCAL, and Forest Hills Stadium offer diverse performances and major concerts.

Cultural Festivals

Queens Night Market (seasonal) showcases global food and culture. Neighborhood festivals (e.g., Lunar New Year, Greek Easter) feature colorful displays.

National Celebrations

The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks, while centered in Manhattan, are often visible from Queens waterfronts, providing a spectacular national celebration.

Rest & Rejuvenate

Queens offers options for relaxation and wellness, ranging from serene parks to therapeutic spas, amidst your urban exploration.

Pamper Yourself

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: From local nail salons to comprehensive day spas in upscale areas like LIC or Forest Hills.
  • Korean Spas: Found in neighborhoods like Flushing, offering unique communal bathing and relaxation experiences with saunas, steam rooms, and pools.
  • These facilities provide services like massages, facials, and other beauty treatments.
  • A distinct cultural wellness journey awaits at Korean spas.

Mind & Body

Yoga & Meditation

Yoga studios are common in many Queens neighborhoods, offering drop-in classes for various styles. Individual meditation centers or workshops are available.

Retreats

Dedicated retreats for yoga or meditation are less common within Queens itself; these typically require travel to less urban or secluded locations outside the city.

Traditional Healing

Certain ethnic communities may have traditional healers or herbalists, but these are typically not tourist-oriented services.

Beach & Pool Access

Rockaway Beach

A public beach offering a vast stretch of sand and ocean for relaxation during warmer months, accessible by subway or ferry.

Astoria Park Pool

One of The Big Apple's largest public outdoor pools, operating seasonally, a popular spot for swimming and cooling off in the summer.

Natural Therapy

No natural hot springs exist within Queens; for such experiences, you travel to other regions of New York State.

After-Dark Delights

Whether you seek a quiet evening drink or a lively night out, Queens offers choices to match your mood.

Performances & Shows

  • Live Music Venues: Forest Hills Stadium hosts major concerts, while little local bars and pubs feature jazz and local bands.
  • Theater & Performance Spaces: The Secret Theatre (LIC), Flushing Town Hall, and Jamaica Central point for Arts & Learning host diverse performing arts events.
  • Check schedules for current offerings plus one-of-a-kind activities.
  • Book tickets in advance for popular shows.

Bars & Dancing

Nightclubs & Dance Venues

Nightlife options are concentrated in areas like Li City and Astoria, offering a mix of casual bars, lounges, and places with DJs.

Bar Districts

Astoria's Steinway Street and Ditmars Boulevard areas boast numerous bars, pubs, and dining establishments with lively nighttime ambiances. Long Island City's Vernon Boulevard also includes a strong concentration of bars and craft breweries.

Late-Night Options

Many bars and restaurants in popular Queens neighborhoods stay open late, especially on weekends. Numerous 24/7 diners also provide food and gathering spots at any hour.

Traditional Markets

  • Flushing is famous for its bustling street markets and numerous indoor food courts.
  • Jackson Heights offers diverse markets specializing in South Asian and Latin American goods.
  • These markets are excellent for exploring unique food items, clothing, plus cloth.
  • A truly authentic shopping experience.

Artisan Workshops

  • Small independent shops and galleries in Long Island City and Astoria feature local artisans.
  • These locations offer handmade crafts, unique jewelry, and original artworks.
  • Opportunities to purchase distinctive souvenirs directly from creators.
  • Support local talent and find unique gifts.

Shopping Malls

  • Queens Center Mall in Themhurst provides a mainstream retail experience.
  • Wide selection of national chain stores.
  • A destination for general shopping needs.
  • Includes popular fashion, electronics, and home goods.

Shopping Tips & Resources

Souvenir Recommendations
  • Museum gift shops (Queens Museum, Museum of the Moving Image) for unique items.
  • Local products like food products, spices, or textiles from ethnic markets.
  • Standard New York City-themed souvenirs are available throughout the borough.
Ethical Shopping & Shipping
  • Support local, independently owned businesses and fair trade certified products.
  • Inquire about international shipping for large purchases.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations and import duties.

Maximize Your Shopping Experience

Plan your shopping trips by neighborhood to efficiently explore specific market types or boutique offerings.

Planning Your Adventures

Must-Do's

  • Join a food tour in Astoria, Flushing, or Jackson Heights.
  • Visit the seasonal Queens Night Market for diverse street food and culture.
  • Explore the Museum of the Moving Image for film and media insights.
  • Relax in Gantry Plaza State Park for stunning Manhattan skyline views.

Practical Advice

  • Check seasonal access for outdoor activities and festivals.
  • Book tours and tickets in advance, especially during peak times.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, notably in diverse neighborhoods.
  • Utilize Queens' widespread public transit system for convenient travel.