Top Things to Do in Queens

About the City

Welcome to Queens, New York's largest borough, a place where the world's flavors are just a subway ride away, and cultural diversity is the name of the game! With over 170 languages spoken, it's a polyglot's paradise. Imagine a culinary tour: from authentic Chinese dumplings in Flushing to sizzling Greek souvlaki in Astoria, and let’s not forget the tantalizing tacos in Jackson Heights. Foodies, rejoice! But Queens isn't just about the food. It's a treasure trove of art, with museums and galleries galore, not to mention the iconic Unisphere from the '64 World’s Fair. Sports fans can catch a Mets game at Citi Field or watch tennis stars at the U.S. Open. Green spaces abound, with Flushing Meadows-Corona Park providing an urban oasis. And let's not get started on the music scene - it's where jazz legends like Louis Armstrong once lived, after all. However, with great perks come some quirks. The bustling diversity means that sometimes navigating the streets can feel like an episode of 'Survivor', especially during rush hour. And finding parking? Let's just say it's easier to spot a unicorn. Plus, the cost of living might have you clutching your wallet in despair. But fear not, for the heart and soul of Queens is in its people - resilient, proud, and always ready to welcome you into the fold. It's a slice of the globe right here in New York!

Things to Do in Queens

Slurp a Satisfying Bowl of Korean Tteokbokki in Flushing

Food & Drink

This one's for those who like it fiery hot! Tteokbokki, Korea's beloved street food, is a bowl of chewy rice cakes swimming in a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce that will have you reaching for the water—a...

Take on the Trails for an Urban Hike

Outdoors

Put on those hiking boots and blaze the urban trails of Queens. Experience nature with a hint of city spice as you wander through forests, meadows, and maybe even spot some local wildlife!

Play Mini-Golf Amidst Flora and Fauna

The Unexpected

Putt-putt your way through mini-golf courses filled with the most unexpected twists and turns! Surrounded by plants and maybe some local critters, it's a hole-in-one for fun and laughs. Whether you're...

Discover the Vibrance of Queens Street Art

The Unexpected

Queens is brimming with incredible street art that'll have you whipping out your camera faster than you can say 'mural-icious'! Wander off the beaten path and hunt down some of Queens' most eye-poppin...

Swing Dance the Night Away

The Unexpected

Lace-up your dancing shoes and do the Lindy Hop till you drop in Queens! Whether you're a swing dance star or two-left-feet beginner, you'll find your groove at local spots where the dance floor's alw...

Dive into a Decadent Donut Delight

The Unexpected

Queens will have you in a sweet spin with some of the most delicious donuts this side of the East River! From classic sugar dustings to wild and wacky flavors, there's a ring-shaped treat for you. Ski...

Unleash Your Inner Botanist at Queens Botanical Garden

Outdoors

Get your nature vibes on with a stroll through the lush trails of Queens Botanical Garden. It's like a green oasis where the city's hustle fades away, and the only tweetin' you'll hear is from the act...

Paddle Around in an Urban Oasis

Outdoors

Hit the waters for a chill paddle session right in the mix of Queens. You don't need a beach vacay to enjoy some water adventures. Kayakers and canoers, get ready to float your boat in a serene escape...

Find Your Zen in a Community Garden

Outdoors

Mosey on down to one of Queens’ lovely community gardens and get those green thumbs twitchin'. Whether you’re a horticulture hobbyist or simply looking for a slice of serenity, these gardens are your ...

Engage in a Friendly Skatepark Throwdown

Outdoors

Grab your board and pop an ollie or simply slide on the rails! Whether you're a newbie or practically pro, Queens' skateparks are perfect for gravity-defying tricks and leisurely rolls alike.

Gobble Up Astoria's Greek-Style Grilled Octopus

Food & Drink

Ok, this one's a no-brainer for seafood fanatics. Tender, smoky, and charred to perfection, Greek-style grilled octopus is a hands-down superstar dish. Serve it with a splash of lemon juice and a good...

Explore the Universe at the New York Hall of Science

Sights

Get ready for a cosmic adventure right in the heart of Queens! The Hall of Science is not just for kids—adults, you'll be geeking out too with all the cool interactive exhibits and activities. From ro...

Bask in the Grit and Glamour of the 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center

Sights

Witness where the world’s best street artists left their mark. Although the original 5Pointz is gone, its spirit lingers on at the 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center, so sneak a peek at gnarly graffiti and do...

Stroll the Scenic Socrates Sculpture Park

Sights

Get your culture fix with a twist of fresh air! Socrates Sculpture Park is the spot where art installations meet skyline views. Wander among quirky, contemporary creations that will have you tilting y...

Snag a Snapshot of the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows

Sights

This giant globe ain’t your average classroom accessory! Originally built for the 1964 World's Fair, the Unisphere is a mammoth monument to man’s achievements on the ‘third rock from the sun’. Solid p...

Catch the Vibes at the Rockaway Beach Surf Scene

Sights

Surf's up, dudes and dudettes! Whether you're keen to catch some waves or just wanna chill on the sand, Rockaway Beach has the saltwater scene on lock. Remember, sunscreen is your friend!

Nibble on Some Nepali Momo Magic in Ridgewood

Food & Drink

Ever tried a momo? No, it's not a typo for 'more'. We're talking delectable dumplings from the Himalayas! Nestled in Ridgewood, you'll find these flavor-packed parcels waiting to dance on your taste b...

Tuck Into Traditional Tibetan Yak Cheese in Woodside

Food & Drink

Ever imagined chomping down on cheese made from yak milk? Well, here's your chance! This ain't your run-of-the-mill cheddar; it's a taste of the Himalayas, folks! Rich, a bit crumbly, and with a disti...

Relish the Real Deal Colombian Bandeja Paisa in Jackson Heights

Food & Drink

Get ready to loosen your belt for this one, amigo! Bandeja Paisa is a heaping plate of Colombian goodness that'll make you feel like you've been transported straight to the heart of Medellín. You've g...

Unearth Vintage Treasures at a Queens Thrift Shop

The Unexpected

Get ready to sift through racks, dig through bins, and discover pre-loved gems at a Queens thrift shop. Queens is a cultural mosaic, and its thrift shops are treasure troves showcasing the borough's e...

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