queens new york places to visit

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Queens, NY

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

These days, Queens is New York City's fastest-growing borough. As a resident of Queens for more than a decade, I could not understand why it took so long for the world to find out about Queens. It is the largest and most diverse borough in New York, with one of the largest presences of international neighborhoods, languages, and cuisines in the world. In my opinion, it is Queens that has helped to keep New York City one of the biggest melting pots on the planet.

Spreading 108 square miles east of Manhattan, Queens has 91 distinct neighborhoods and borders the western end of Long Island. It has a wealth of entertaining museums, world-class sports venues, and more. The borough gained worldwide attention for hosting the 1964 New York's World Fair ; those visiting Flushing Meadows Corona Park can still see the Unisphere and Observation Towers of the New York State Pavilion that were built for the fair.

These days it could not be easier to visit Queens. Many of the city's most popular subway lines run across the borough. You can even take the NYC Ferry System across the East River, which offers fantastic skyline views and a unique way to tour around.

Visitors venturing out to Queens have many choices: Marvel at massive art at the Socrates Sculpture Park and learn about the history of film-making at the Museum of Moving Image in Astoria; indulge in Indian, Thai, Chinese, Nepalese, or Dominican food in some of the bustling melting pots, like Jackson Heights and Flushing; take in a baseball game at Citi Field ; and end your stay with a beach day in the Rockaways.

Explore the many places to visit in Queens on a day trip or a multi-day outing during your visit to New York City . Plan the most exciting trip possible with our list of the top things to do in Queens.

1. Citi Field

2. museum of the moving image, 3. gantry plaza state park, 4. flushing meadows corona park, 5. usta national tennis center, 6. rockaway beach, 7. louis armstrong house museum and armstrong center, 8. moma ps1, 9. socrates sculpture park & noguchi museum, 10. new york hall of science, 11. queens botanical garden, 12. queens museum, 13. alley pond park, 14. astoria park, 15. queens night market, 16. forest hills stadium, where to stay in queens, ny for sightseeing, queens, ny - climate chart.

First thing's first: baseball. Queens residents are die-hard sports fans and they are rooting for none other than the Mets. (If you want Yankees fans, you'll have to head to Manhattan or the Bronx.)

For years, Shea Stadium was the home of the Mets until the city built the now-legendary Citi Field. Located in the Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the iconic Citi Field baseball park is the home base for the New York Mets.

The Mets are part of the National League division of Major League Baseball and can be seen competing against the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Colorado Rockies. They occasionally play against their rival NYC team, the Yankees (who are in the American League) during the Subway Series.

The Bark At The Park events throughout the year attract sports fans and their pooches to the Coca-Cola Corner for a fun-filled day out at the ball game.

Those looking to learn about the history of the Mets can visit the Mets Hall of Fame & Museum , located next to the Jackie Robinson Rotunda, for highlight videos, interactive kiosks, and trophies from the 1969 and 1986 World Series wins. The museum remains open during game days. During non-game days, visitors can take a tour of the ballpark and have access to some of the restricted areas.

The Museum of the Moving Image is a high-tech space in the hip Astoria neighborhood. It is an absolute must-visit for cinephiles and pop culture fans. It brings to life the history of movies and television through interactive exhibits. One of my favorite museums in New York City, this museum allows visitors to get up close with costumes like Freddy Krueger's striped shirt and artifacts like the Yoda puppet. Try your skills with sound and film editing in private booths.

Spoil your inner child and come face-to-face with your favorite muppets in the permanent Jim Henson Exhibition . There's something for everyone at this all-ages educational experience. The museum wouldn't be complete without the gorgeous Sumner M. Redstone Theater , featuring exclusive screenings and conversations with celebrity guests - not to mention, it's arguably the cleanest movie theater in New York City.

Address: 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria, New York

One of the best places to visit to watch the sunset among the skyscrapers of midtown Manhattan is the Gantry Plaza State Park , located across the East River in Long Island City. On a clear day, you'll have unfettered views of the United Nations and the Chrysler and the Empire State buildings from the 12-acre park.

Today Long Island City has become one of the hottest neighborhoods in New York, home to great restaurants, cafes, high-rise luxury apartments, and, of course, spectacular Manhattan views.

Walk along the riverfront with your leashed dog, take a selfie in front of the landmark 1936 red neon Pepsi-Cola sign, or take in the beautiful gardens and mist fountain. The park boasts basketball and handball courts, playgrounds, and a fishing pier. It can be reached via the 7 train or the East River Ferry.

Address: 4-09 47th Road, New York, New York

Flushing Meadows Corona Park took center stage during the 1964 World's Fair. The largest park in Queens features several top tourist attractions and cultural institutions in the borough, including the Queens Botanical Garden , New York Hall of Science , Queens Museum , Queens Theater , and Citi Field .

Also here are large open spaces; a zoo; and other things to do like boating, biking, and hiking. It also plays host to the U.S. Open Grand Slam tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center .

The park's main attraction – the iconic Unisphere – a 140-feet-high steel representation of our planet, popularized by the 1997 film, Men in Black, remains a central place for pictures, along with the Observation Towers of the New York State Pavilion, also built for the World's Fair.

Tennis fans will no doubt know the borough of Queens, as it is home to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center . This tennis complex is one of the largest public tennis facilities in the world and is home to the US Open. At its heart is the Arthur Ashe Stadium , a nearly 24,000-seat-arena, and the largest tennis stadium in the world .

The US Open is held at the end of the summer every year, but if you're visiting when the games aren't in play, you can still take a tour of the stadium, which gives tennis fans an unbelievable perspective of the stadium from the players' areas.

Address: 124-02 Roosevelt Ave, Flushing, New York

Home to two popular New York City beaches , the Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk and Jacob Riis Park Beach, the Rockaways in the Rockaway Peninsula, are made up of nine neighborhoods. Among them are Far Rockaway, Breezy Point, Belle Harbor, and others.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the beaches of these seaside towns come alive with sunbathers and surfers from near and far. The Rockaway Beach and Broadway, located in its namesake neighborhood, is the largest urban beach in the country; however, it sees far fewer crowds than Brooklyn's Coney Island.

During the height of summer, you can see sun worshippers enjoying this six-mile-long stretch of sand. The beach has playgrounds and surf schools. The Rockaway Beach Surf Club, located on the boardwalk, serves tacos from its popular food stand, Tacoway Beach, among other delicious foods.

A 10-minute ride from Rockaway Beach brings you to Jacob Riis Park for a less crowded beach-going experience. At this stretch, nicknamed the "People's Beach," you'll find a Bazaar, with some of the best and most diverse food in the city, and several Art Deco structures. The Bazaar hosts live shows, sporting and film events, and fun games. The beach also has a golf center, ball courts, concession stands, and vendors.

Some of the most iconic legends in the world called Queens home over the decades. Among them is Louis Armstrong, the legendary trumpet player who won the world over with his raw talent and charm.

Visitors to Queens can walk in his footsteps with a visit to the Louis Armstrong House Museum . While he was born in New Orleans, in 1943 he decided to make the neighborhood of Corona, Queens his home with his wife, Lucille.

Today their home is a historic site and museum, featuring archives of 1,600 recordings, tapes, scrapbooks, photographs, letters, manuscripts, and even some of his trumpets.

In July 2023, the new Armstrong Center opened featuring its permanent exhibit, Here to Stay , which houses the 60,000-piece archive of Louis and Lucille, as well as a 75-seat venue for performances, lectures, films, and educational programming.

Founded in 1971, PS1's main purpose was to organize art shows. A few years later, a permanent gallery opened in Long Island City. Now, a collaboration with MoMa in 2001 established MoMA PS1 as a creative space fostering innovative contemporary art incorporating photography, technology, and performance.

If you are visiting on a Saturday in the summer, be ready to tap your feet to live music in the museum's courtyard during the Warm Up music series. In its 20-year run, the summer series had a lineup of top artists like Black Dice, Lizzo, and Cardi B perform.

Address: 22-25 Jackson Avenue, Queens, New York

Socrates Sculpture Park in Astoria is a testament to the beauty of repurposing land. American sculptor Mark di Suvero created the sculpture Park on a five-acre abandoned landfill and transformed it into an outdoor museum.

The museum, overlooking the East River and the Manhattan skyline, has been showcasing large-scale works of art from famous artists since 1986. It remains the only one of its kind to exhibit art in an outdoor space in New York City. The sculptures are built on-site, and visitors can leisurely take them in for free.

A block away from the park is the Noguchi Museum , exhibiting a wide collection of Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi's work. The museum comes with its own outdoor sculpture garden.

Address: 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, New York

The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI), also built for the 1964 World's Fair, makes science accessible and fun for kids and adults. This family-friendly museum, located in the Flushing Meadows Corona Park, offers 450 interactive exhibits, workshops, and programs in 100,000 square feet of indoor space.

Make your own experiment at the Design Lab, learn about evolution on Earth through a series of exhibits, search for life in the solar system, or catch a nature or animal-centric 3D movie in the theater on-site.

Address: 47-01 111th Street, Corona, New York

The 39-acre oasis in the middle of Queens presents visitors with 25 wonderful gardens to experience. The Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing first came into being during the 1939-1940 World's Fair as the "Gardens on Parade" exhibit and has expanded to now contain several gardens worth exploring on your outing to Queens.

Take a nice stroll in the warmer weather and admire the Oak Allee, annual and perennial beds, arboretum, herb garden, bee garden, and ornamental grass garden, among others. The essence of the flowers and shrubs in the Fragrance Garden provides a beautiful olfactory experience, for kids and adults alike.

The Wedding Garden, featuring a white picket fence and a lovely gazebo, makes for a nice background for engagement and wedding photos. The Garden is within a short distance of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and other attractions in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

Address: 43-50 Main Street, Flushing, New York

Built for the 1964 World's Fair, the Queens Museum (formerly Queens Museum of Art) is housed in a sleek, modern building in the Flushing Meadows Corona park, and showcases exhibits related to architecture, art, and design. The permanent collection includes 10,000 items, with a majority of them related to the World's Fair.

Visitors will also get a chance to marvel at the Neustadt Collection of Tiffany glass windows, lamps, and objects that are on long-term display from Tiffany Studios, which was shuttered in the 30s.

Don't miss the museum's highlight, " Panorama of New York ," a massive room-sized scale model of the five boroughs as seen during the 60s, with buildings that have never even been built.

Address: New York City Building, Corona, New York

Alley Pond Park, the second largest park in Queens, is home to the oldest and tallest tree in the city. Nicknamed the Queens Giant, the 133.8-foot tulip poplar tree is estimated to be more than 300 or 450 years old and was gifted to the Walloon Belgian Protestant families (who were among the first to settle Manhattan) from the Dutch West India Company in the 17th century. Don't miss a chance to see this flowering beauty on your visit to the park on an Urban Park Ranger Tour.

For adrenaline junkies and those looking for an exciting team-building exercise, the high ropes adventure course promises to provide thrills. The park's many trails allow visitors a chance to experience New York the way it used to be, with meadows, forests, tidal flats, and wetlands. The park has BBQ areas, playgrounds, courts, and fields.

Astoria residents are fiercely proud of their neighborhood, especially on a warm summer day on the rolling grassy fields of Astoria Park. Located underneath the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, overlooking the East River, Astoria Park is the largest park in the neighborhood, and the heart of so much community activity.

The 60-acre park is a veritable playground for people of all ages. Here, you'll find outdoor tennis courts, a track, a bandstand, walking trails, basketball courts, and actual playgrounds. But one of the main draws to Astoria Park in the summertime is its outdoor public pool – the oldest and largest in New York City.

On warm afternoons and evenings, you'll find residents sprawled out on blankets looking out toward the Manhattan and Bronx skylines. Outdoor events are common from spring to fall, like concerts, movie nights, and more.

Address: 19 19th Street, Astoria, New York

Queens holds the Guinness World Record for being the most ethnically diverse city on the planet. It's true! At least 138 languages are spoken in the borough of Queens, so you can imagine the kinds of delicious foods that are waiting to be discovered here.

One way to start the adventure is to visit the legendary Queens Night Market . This massive, family-friendly, outdoor night market hosts approximately 100 vendors selling everything from international cuisine to art. The market also features nightly cultural performances and live music, all of which pay homage to the diverse cultures that call Queens home.

Vendors represent a broad range of exciting ethnicities in Queens, from Taiwanese and Korean to Sudanese, Tibetan, Jamaican, Malaysian, Vietnamese, Italian, Ecuadorian – and more.

Address: 4701 111th Street, Queens, New York

Manhattan may have Madison Square Garden, and Brooklyn may have the Barclay's Center, but Queens has its own live event venue that is beloved by residents. Forest Hills Stadium is an outdoor music venue located in the neighborhood of Forest Hills. With a capacity of 13,000 spectators, it is one of the best spots in the city to catch a live show.

The venue has been open in Queens for almost a century and was designed with visuals and audio in mind. It has fantastic acoustics, and no seat is obstructed, making it one of the only outdoor venues of its quality and size in the city.

Some of the biggest names in history have performed here, from Frank Sinatra and The Rolling Stones to Mumford and Sons and Ed Sheeran. What's great about Forest Hills Stadium is that it isn't as massive as Madison Square Garden, which means fans are able to see their favorite acts on a much more intimate level.

Address: 1 Tennis Place, Forest Hills, New York

Luxury Hotels :

• Boro Hotel is a trendy 4-star property in Long Island City and is within walking distance from some of its top attractions, including the Fisher Landau Center. Choose from urban contemporary rooms and suites with comfy beds and stand-alone, deep soaking tubs. The hotel is pet-friendly if you're traveling with a dog. Other amenities include a coffee shop, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace.
• If you are planning to stay for a few weeks - although you can also book for a single night - check out The Collective Paper Factory in Long Island City. The contemporary luxe property has an industrial chic vibe throughout and doubles as a co-living space. Rooms and suites are private, but there are a lot of communal spaces designed for connecting with like-minded digital nomads and travelers.
• For a boutique upscale property, the Ravel Hotel Trademark Collection is a good choice. Rooms and suites have wide wood-planked floors and other wood-focused accents. There are city and river views from large windows, and some rooms have furnished balconies. Amenities include a fitness center, restaurant, and rooftop terrace.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Aloft Long Island City - Manhattan View is a top choice in this price range. The boutique hotel has loft-style rooms and suites that come with fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline located just across the East River from the hotel. The property is just a block from two subway stations offering easy access to the city. Amenities include a lobby with a pool table, a 24-hour grab-and-go café, and a fitness center.
• For an extended stay option check out Home2 Suites by Hilton New York Long Island City/Manhattan View . This is a popular choice with travelers who have business in Manhattan but don't want to pay downtown city prices. The location in Long Island City, just across the East River, makes it easy to get into Manhattan quickly. The all-suite property features rooms with work desks, kitchenettes, and blackout kitchens. The hotel is pet-friendly, and a free breakfast is served daily.
• Hyatt Place Flushing/La Guardia Airport is a perfect choice if you have an early or late flight from La Guardia Airport. The hotel has free airport transportation. It is located atop a shopping center with numerous shops and restaurants. Amenities include a rooftop garden and a restaurant with fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline.

Budget Hotels :

• Travelers looking for budget accommodation have a number of options in Queens. Try the Quality Inn Long Island City - Astoria . Rooms are tidy and comfortable. There is a 24-hour front desk and a complimentary breakfast.
• The Feather Factory Hotel is another budget-friendly option. Rooms have desks and small sitting areas. There is also free breakfast and a convenience store on-site. If you're traveling with kids, the hotel is family-friendly.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Long Island: While you are venturing east to Queens, head farther out to see Long Island and its many attractions , from Gold Coast mansions to world-class beaches. Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) trains connecting from Woodside or Jamaica (two major hubs) can bring you to various points on the island, as well as take you to the Hamptons.

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The 19 best things to do in Queens

Check out these wonderful things to do in Queens, from historical museums to sprawling parks to trendy restaurants

Don’t let all the buzz around Brooklyn fool you—these things to do in Queens are worth your undivided attention. The borough has some of the best NYC parks , art museums , bars and so much more. Whether you’re looking to spend your day frolicking in a massive green space, visit the best Queens restaurants or have you mind blown by a totally unique museum exhibit, Queens county is the place to be. Here are the best things to do there.

RECOMMENDED: Full Queens, NY , borough guide

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Best things to do in Queens

• Art and design
• Long Island City

The contemporary wing of the Museum of Modern Art housed in Long Island City is the premier location for seeing groundbreaking work. Whether you’re hoping for a bind-bending piece of performance art, photography that incorporates the latest technologies or installations that make you rethink what constitutes art, this collection has it all. And best of all, on Saturdays during the summer, the space hosts outdoor dance parties that make the museum one of the most happening places to be. 

Queens Museum

Mina's at MoMA PS1

After a day of wandering the museum exhibitions, head to their new cafe Mina's for Greek-leaning dishes, such as strapatsada (scrambled-egg toast with tomatoes and feta) and peinirli (boat-shaped cheese bread) and a babka tahini french toast.

Brooklyn Boulders Queensbridge

• Things to do

Museum of the Moving Image

• Movies and TV

Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

• Parks and gardens

Fifth Hammer Brewing Co.

Brickhouse ceramic art center.

• Birthday parties
• Midtown West

Queens Botanical Garden

• Restaurants
• price 1 of 4

Socrates Sculpture Park

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

• Zoo and aquariums

Gantry Plaza State Park

Looking for more things to do.

The best New York tourist attractions that locals love

From historical sites to lush gardens and art museums, these are the New York tourist attractions that locals also adore

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Simply Queens

Explore Queens NY: Your Ultimate Guide to New York’s Coolest Borough

Welcome to your go-to resource for all things related to Queens NY. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this comprehensive guide is designed to help you explore Queens New York and discover the hidden …

Welcome to your go-to resource for all things related to Queens NY . Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this comprehensive guide is designed to help you explore Queens New York and discover the hidden gems in the city’s largest and most diverse borough. With its rich cultural tapestry, world-class cuisine, and iconic landmarks, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Queens NY . So let’s dive in and uncover everything this vibrant borough has to offer!

Key Takeaways

• Queens is New York City’s largest and most culturally diverse borough, offering a wealth of experiences for residents and visitors.
• Explore iconic neighborhoods like Flushing , Astoria, and Jackson Heights to fully appreciate the cultural mosaic that lends Queens its unique charm.
• Discover must-visit attractions such as the Unisphere, Museum of the Moving Image, and the Queens Museum.
• Savor the diverse cuisine found in Queens’ top restaurants, offering a culinary journey around the globe.
• Take advantage of the borough’s extensive transportation network to navigate Queens efficiently and see all that it has to offer.
• Participate in annual events and festivals that celebrate Queens’ multicultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.
• Get to know the borough’s real estate market, neighborhoods, and amenities to find your perfect home in Queens.

Welcome to Queens: An Introduction to NYC’s Largest Borough

Step into the heart of Queens , New York and embark on a journey through the most geographically expansive borough of New York City. In this introduction, we’ll highlight the unique fabric that weaves Queens communities together—from the bustling business districts to serene residential neighborhoods. Learn about the history, depth, and significance of this essential part of the Big Apple as we set the stage for a thrilling exploration of Queens, NY.

Located to the east of Manhattan , Queens is NYC’s largest borough , covering an impressive 108 square miles. Known for its rich cultural diversity, Queens truly encapsulates the essence of the American melting pot, with residents representing various nationalities, languages, and traditions. As you venture through this captivating borough, you are sure to encounter a remarkable spectrum of sights, sounds, and flavors that speak to the vibrant, multicultural nature of Queens.

Notable features and landmarks within Queens include the renowned Flushing Meadows Corona Park , LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International Airports, stunning beaches, and iconic sports venues like Citi Field and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. As you explore each unique corner of this fascinating borough, expect to uncover an array of historic, contemporary, and unexpected experiences that await your discovery.

“Queens has more languages spoken than anywhere on earth.” – Helen Marshall, former Queens Borough President

In order to better understand the multi-faceted nature of Queens, it’s essential to delve into its rich history:

• First settled by Native American tribes over 2,000 years ago, before Dutch and English settlers arrived in the 1600s.
• Incorporated in 1683 as one of the original 12 counties in New York Province.
• In 1898, it became part of Greater New York City during the consolidation of what are now the five boroughs.
• Hosted the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, showcasing technological innovations, art, and culture to millions of international visitors.

Today, Queens is not only a symbol of America’s dynamic cultural landscape, but also an emblem of its ambition and dreams. By weaving together various communities, each with their own distinctive charm, the borough creates a captivating quilt of cultures and experiences that both enchants and inspires. So, whether you are visiting for the first time or rediscovering this incredible place, be prepared to fall in love with Queens—the most diverse borough of New York City.

Discovering the Cultural Mosaic: Queens Neighborhoods and Demographics

Queens is a striking example of a diverse and vibrant community that reflects the very essence of New York City, with various cultures and traditions brought together in an incredible melting pot. Home to several unique neighborhoods, this borough has something to offer everyone, from cultural aficionados to food lovers. Delve into Flushing’s cultural mix , discover Astoria’s Greek influence, and experience the global unity found in Jackson Heights.

Flushing’s Cultural Mix

Renowned for its vibrant Asian community and bustling commercial streets, Flushing is a living testament to the ethnic diversity of Queens. This neighborhood is a haven for those who appreciate an intimate glance into varied cultures, traditions, and cuisines blending harmoniously in one dynamic space. Dive into the world of authentic Chinese , Korean, and Indian cuisines, shop at the unique Asian markets, and immerse yourself in time-honored festivals and events, all within Flushing, NY.

“Flushing is a true melting pot of cultures and traditions, where diverse communities share the same space and enrich one another’s existence.”

Astoria and Its Greek Influence

Astoria , once best known for its strong Greek influence, has emerged as a vibrant and evolving neighborhood that caters to a multitude of cultures and interests. Nevertheless, the Greek heritage remains alive and well, with a plethora of traditional eateries, shops, and cultural institutions celebrating the neighborhood’s Hellenic roots. Venture beyond Greek culture to encounter gourmet cafes, classic Italian pizzerias, and enclaves of Brazilian, Middle Eastern, and Egyptian communities that only accentuate the diverse essence of Queens demographics .

Jackson Heights: The Melting Pot

Jackson Heights epitomizes the melting pot that is Queens. From Little India to the Colombian cafes, this neighborhood pulsates with international flavors, languages, and traditions, offering a microcosm of global unity. The streets of this diverse neighborhood offer countless opportunities for culinary exploration, cultural immersion, and a sense of community that transcends boundaries.

• Embark on a culinary tour of India at one of the numerous restaurants serving samosas, chaats, and thalis.
• Discover Arab hospitality and feast on savory Middle Eastern dishes at local cafes and eateries.
• Treat yourself to a cup of rich Colombian coffee accompanied by a piping hot arepa, a traditional cornmeal patty.
• Take part in colorful cultural festivals and events, representing the myriad communities that call Jackson Heights home.

Uncover the unique tapestry of cultures, tastes, and experiences found across the remarkable Queens neighborhoods and embrace the diversity that defines this thriving borough.

The Heart of Queens: Essential Attractions and Landmarks

Queens brims with must-see attractions and landmarks that encapsulate its spirit and charm. This section will guide you through the borough’s iconic sights, including the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows Corona Park , the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, and the historic diversity of the Queens Museum. Each landmark tells a story; together, they form the narrative of Queens.

From breathtaking parks to world-class museums and historical sites, Queens offers a variety of attractions and memorable experiences. To help you navigate the borough’s essential landmarks, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit destinations and their distinct offerings.

• Flushing Meadows Corona Park : Home to the Unisphere, a 12-story, stainless steel globe that symbolizes peace through understanding, this park is a true testament to the World’s Fair legacy. In addition to the Unisphere, the park also boasts the Queens Botanical Garden, the New York Hall of Science, and various recreational facilities.
• Museum of the Moving Image : Located in Astoria, this museum is devoted to the art, history, and technology of film, television, and digital media. From interactive exhibits to captivating screenings, it offers a unique insight into the past, present, and future of visual storytelling.
• Queens Museum : Showcasing the borough’s rich history, culture, and art, the Queens Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to delve into the diverse tapestry that is Queens. Notable exhibits include the Panorama of the City of New York, a 9,335-square-foot architectural model of the entire city.

Queens’ rich culture and history can be explored in various other landmarks and attractions. Some of these include:

• The Noguchi Museum: This serene museum is dedicated to the life and work of Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi and features a tranquil sculpture garden, perfect for contemplative walks.
• MoMA PS1: As one of the largest and oldest nonprofit contemporary art institutions in the United States, MoMA PS1 is an essential destination for art lovers, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions and championing experimental art.
• Fisher Landau Center for Art: Nestled in Long Island City , this contemporary art museum showcases the private collection of Emily Fisher Landau, encompassing pieces from the likes of Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly, and many more.

These essential landmarks in Queens reveal the vibrancy, history, and creative spirit of the borough. As you explore its many attractions, you’ll come to understand why Queens is regarded as one of New York’s most fascinating and diverse destinations.

Savor the Flavor: A Guide to Queens’ Best Restaurants

Queens is a culinary haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of scrumptious cuisines from around the globe. This section focuses on the Flushing food scene and the culinary journeys awaiting visitors in Astoria , showcasing some of the Queens’ best restaurants that you must try.

Top Picks in Flushing’s Food Scene

Flushing, known for its vibrant Asian community, has become a prime destination for foodies in Queens. The neighborhood offers a dizzying array of choices, from street-side dumpling stalls to sophisticated seafood restaurants. Here are some top picks to savor the flavor in Flushing’s food scene:

• White Bear: This small eatery is a local favorite for their flavorful wontons in chili oil and sesame sauce.
• Biang!: A popular destination for hand-pulled noodles, offering a variety of dishes made from the delicious, chewy noodles paired with well-seasoned meats and vegetables.
• Yumpling: This street-side food vendor serves outstanding pork and chive dumplings that are both crispy and juicy.
• Canton Gourmet: Renowned for their Cantonese-style roast meats, this restaurant’s roast duck and pork truly stand out.

“Flushing’s food scene offers a dizzying array of choices for foodies. From street-side dumpling stalls to sophisticated seafood restaurants, each culinary establishment is a doorway to the delectable tastes of Asia and beyond.”

Culinary Journeys in Astoria

Astoria’s rich food culture presents a variety of culinary adventures, from traditional Greek tavernas to Italian trattorias, as well as modern fusion restaurants. Here are some must-visit spots for an authentic culinary journey in Astoria:

Queens’ bustling food landscape lets you explore delicious delicacies from various regions and enjoy memorable dining experiences. So, get ready to savor the flavor!

Queens Nightlife: From Cozy Pubs to Bustling Clubs

When the sun sets, Queens transforms into a hive of nightlife activities. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back evening in a traditional Irish pub, a night of salsa dancing at a Latin club, or a cutting-edge DJ set in a trendy lounge, there’s a nocturnal venue to match every preference in Queens County.

While there are countless spots to enjoy Queens nightlife , we have compiled a list of six excellent establishments across the borough for a diverse taste of Queens after dark. These venues cater to various interests and styles, ensuring that there’s something for everyone looking for exciting things to do in Queens NY :

• Cozy pubs in Queens
• Bustling clubs in Queens
• Alternative nightlife spots in Queens

No matter your preferred style of nightlife, Queens offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every taste. With its vibrant mix of cozy pubs, bustling clubs, and alternative spots, Queens invites you to explore the after-dark activities that make this borough unique.

The Great Outdoors: Parks and Recreation Areas in Queens

Queens offers an abundance of parks and recreation areas for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. With a mix of lush green spaces, sports facilities, and playgrounds, the borough has something to suit everyone’s preferences. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from various activities such as picnicking, hiking, biking, or simply taking a relaxing walk amidst verdant surroundings. In this section, we will focus on the largest park in Queens, Flushing Meadows Corona Park , and explore everything it has to offer.

Unwinding at Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is a sprawling oasis in the bustling borough of Queens. Covering over 897 acres, the park serves as an essential recreation area for both locals and visitors. From the historic World’s Fair landmarks, such as the Unisphere and the New York State Pavilion, to its well-maintained sports facilities, Flushing Meadows offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy.

The park features various attractions and amenities, including:

• Playgrounds
• Baseball and soccer fields
• Cricket pitches
• A large public swimming pool
• A golf center and mini-golf course
• An indoor ice-skating rink
• A boathouse and lake for kayaking and peddle boating
• Several art installations

For those interested in exploring the park’s natural beauty, Flushing Meadows Corona Park is also home to 9.5 miles of walking and biking paths bordered by lush trees and picturesque gardens.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature amidst the busy urban landscape of Queens, NY.

When planning a day at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, be sure to take time to visit the Queens Botanical Garden, which boasts a horticultural playground filled with stunning blooms, herbs, and water features, as well as the nearby Queens Zoo, home to over 75 species of animals.

In addition to Flushing Meadows, Queens offers several other parks and recreation areas for those seeking outdoor activities. Among them are Astoria Park, Alley Pond Park, Cunningham Park, and Gantry Plaza State Park, each providing unique experiences and picturesque views in Queens, NY .

So whether you’re an avid sports enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful getaway, Queens has a wealth of parks and recreation areas ready for exploration and enjoyment, making the great outdoors truly come alive in this vibrant borough.

Transportation in Queens: Getting Around New York’s Largest Borough

Queens offers multiple modes of transportation for its residents and visitors, enabling them to navigate the borough without hassle. As New York’s largest borough , Queens boasts excellent connectivity, with an extensive transportation network that spans trains, buses, and subways. This section delves into the key tips and insights for efficient travel within and beyond the borough, ensuring that you can fully explore the myriad delights that Queens has to offer.

Queens is served by the MTA New York City Subway , providing a fast and efficient mode of transportation throughout the borough. The subway lines catering to the different neighborhoods of Queens include the E, F, M, R, N, W, 7, J, Z, A, C, and G trains. Using a MetroCard, you can easily access and transfer between lines, making your commute hassle-free.

Aside from the subway, MTA also offers an extensive bus network , connecting major hubs such as Astoria, Flushing, and Jamaica. Some of the popular buses within Queens are the Q44, Q60, Q58, Q23, and Q88 routes. If you’re planning to explore attractions situated at a distance from the subway, this wide bus network is sure to make your travel smooth and convenient.

For those seeking travel options beyond the city limits, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is a fitting choice. LIRR is the busiest commuter railroad in North America, serving Queens, Long Island, and Manhattan. With key stations in Woodside, Flushing, Forest Hills , and Jamaica, this rail system offers a more comfortable and faster means of transport to and from Manhattan or Long Island.

Pro tip: Make use of real-time bus and subway apps like MTA Bus Time or MYmta for accurate and up-to-date schedules and live status updates for your travel.

Below is a table detailing the various transportation options in Queens:

With numerous transportation options at your disposal, getting around Queens and exploring the borough’s diverse offerings is a breeze. Whether you’re on a leisurely exploration or require a quick mode of transport for daily activities, the extensive transportation network in Queens ensures that Queens County connectivity is truly unmatched.

Queens Events: Festivals and Celebrations Throughout the Year

Queens’ calendar is dotted with a series of year-round festivals and events celebrating its cultural diversity. These gatherings foster community spirit and offer immersive experiences into the world’s cultures, right in the heart of Queens. In this section, we explore some of the most popular annual events Queens has to offer.

From the colorful Dragon Boat Festival to the summer-long Passport to Taiwan, there is always something happening in Queens. Whether you are a local or a visitor, attending these events will give you an authentic taste of the borough’s rich cultural tapestry.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals in Queens NY that take place throughout the year. Queens is a melting pot of cultures, and its events are a reflection of the borough’s dynamic spirit and embrace of diversity. Whether you want to experience the visual and performing arts, explore different culinary traditions, or simply enjoy the celebrations with friends and family, Queens has something for everyone.

“One belongs to New York instantly, one belongs to it as much in five minutes as in five years.” – Tom Wolfe

As an ever-evolving borough, Queens continually adds new events and festivals to its cultural calendar. Keep an eye out for announcements of upcoming Queens events , and embrace the opportunity to explore and experience the incredible cultural richness of Queens, New York’s most diverse borough.

Living in Queens NY: Insights on Real Estate and Neighborhoods

Queens, with its rich cultural tapestry and urban charm, can be both an exciting and welcoming place to call home. Living in Queens NY means being part of a diverse community that offers something for everyone, from bustling business districts to serene residential areas. In this section, we will delve into the various aspects of Queens real estate , including the diverse neighborhoods and amenities that make it an attractive option for potential residents.

One of the key factors drawing people to Queens real estate is the wide array of neighborhoods available. Astoria, known for its strong Greek influence and vibrant food scene, is a popular choice for young professionals and families alike. Jackson Heights, another neighborhood famous for its diversity, is a melting pot of global cultures and is perfect for those seeking to experience the essence of Queens. Additionally, waterfront communities like Long Island City and Rockaway offer a more peaceful escape from city life while still providing easy access to Manhattan.

When it comes to amenities, diverse neighborhoods in Queens offer a range of services to cater to their residents’ needs. Excellent schools, hospitals, and cultural institutions are dispersed across the borough, providing resources for every stage of life. Moreover, the numerous parks and scenic waterfront spots throughout Queens offer recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, while the borough’s thriving artistic scene ensures a steady lineup of cultural events for all to enjoy.

In conclusion, living in Queens NY means becoming part of a vibrant, diverse community with an unparalleled array of neighborhoods, amenities, and experiences. For those considering making this distinctive borough their home, this guide provides an extensive overview of the ins and outs of Queens real estate , equipping potential residents with the essential knowledge they need to find their perfect spot in New York’s coolest borough.

What are some must-visit attractions in Queens?

Some essential attractions in Queens include the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, and the Queens Museum. These landmarks showcase the unique culture and history of the borough.

What types of cuisine can I expect to find in Queens?

Queens is known for its diverse cuisine, with options ranging from authentic Asian dishes in Flushing to Greek tavernas in Astoria and beyond. You’ll find a vast array of global food choices to satisfy any palate.

What kind of nightlife is available in Queens?

Queens offers a vibrant nightlife scene with something to suit every preference. Whether you prefer a cozy Irish pub, a Latin club for salsa dancing, or a trendy lounge featuring cutting-edge DJs, Queens has it all.

What parks and recreation areas are there in Queens?

Queens is home to many parks and recreation areas, with Flushing Meadows Corona Park being the largest. This expansive park features sports facilities, art installations, and historic World’s Fair landmarks, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

How can I get around Queens and the rest of NYC?

Transportation in Queens is made easy with the well-connected subway system, buses, and the Long Island Rail Road. These options enable efficient travel within the borough and ensure that you can conveniently explore all that Queens has to offer.

What events and festivals take place in Queens throughout the year?

Queens hosts various events and festivals year-round that celebrate its cultural diversity. Examples include the Dragon Boat Festival and the Passport to Taiwan series of events. These gatherings provide opportunities to experience international cultures within the borough.

What should I know before moving to Queens NY?

Before moving to Queens, it’s important to research the diverse neighborhoods and real estate options. Consider factors such as community vibes, local amenities, and the type of environment you want to live in. Queens offers everything from bustling urban areas to peaceful waterfront communities, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

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17 Things To Do In Queens: The Complete Guide To NYC's Boroughs

New York City's boroughs are destinations all their own; explore this travel guide to Queens and find out what to do there on your next trip.

Read update

More Things To Do In Queens

Home to over 150 cultures, Queens is the largest and most diverse borough in New York City. While it's not as touristy as its neighbors, like Brooklyn, it is definitely one of the most wonderful destinations in New York.

Covering an area of 108 square miles, Queens boasts gorgeous cultural attractions, incredible museums, and some of the most impressive sports venues. It is surrounded by Long Island's western end, giving access to more magnificent sights to explore.

UPDATE: 2023/09/25 16:29 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Queens is a popular New York City borough with a rich mix of cultures, world-class attractions, and a vibrant overall atmosphere. There is never a dull time in this gorgeous locale and this refreshed article highlights extra things to do in Queens for tourists.

Related: These Are The 10 Cheapest Places To Visit In New York State

Things To Do

Exploring the many boroughs of New York City? There are plenty of things to do throughout each unique neighborhood, whether it's sightseeing, shopping, or heading to a museum. Keep reading because this is the ultimate guide to Queens and things to do there.

1 Explore The Museum Of The Moving Image

Located in the beautiful neighborhood of Astoria, the Museum of the Moving Image is one of the best things that vacationers can do in this borough.

Bringing the film and photography history to life, this museum offers amazing exhibits and is a perfect spot for visitors to pop culture. Vacationers can even test their skills in sound and film editing.

• Admission : $10-$20 (free of Thursdays (2-6 pm)
• Hours : Thur (2-6 pm), Fri (2-8 pm), Sat & Sun (12-6 pm)

After exploring the exhibits in the museum, stop by the shop to buy souvenirs like movie posters, DVDs, and video games.

2 Visit The Louis Armstrong House Museum

Another fun thing to do while in Queens, New York, is to visit the Louis Armstrong House Museum. Here, visitors can view a historic house museum at 34-56 107th Street in the Corona neighborhood of Queens and learn about the late Louis Armstrong and his upbringing/personal life.

This home hosted Louis and his wife, Lucille, from 1943 until his death in 1971.

• Admission : $13
• Hours : Thur to Sat, 11 am - 4 pm

Generally, going through this museum won't take more than an hour, and tickets are available via their official website .

3 Soak In The Sun At Queens Botanical Garden

Covering 39 acres of space, Queens Botanical Garden boasts 25 beautiful gardens that guarantee an incredible experience of the borough.

During the warm season, vacationers can explore Oak Allee, herb garden, bee garden, and more. All travelers, regardless of their ages, will have fun being here.

• Admission : Adults $6, Seniors $4, Students $4, Kids 4 thru 12) $2, Kids under 4 FREE
• Hours : Tue to Sat, 8 am - 6 pm

Visitors are advised to keep the garden clean and green by avoiding littering, smoking, and other activities that may harm/soil the environment. Also, picking flowers on the grounds is prohibited.

4 Witness Thought-Provoking Art At MoMA PS1

A must-see art museum in Queens is the MoMA PS1. Visitors can find experimental, thought-provoking art at the nation's first nonprofit arts center. This entire museum features underground work, as well as more known pieces from established creatives.

There is also an option for a guided tour through the museum, which may be better for those wanting a deeper dive into each exhibit.

• Admission : $25, discounted $18
• Hours : Sun, Mon, Thu, Fri, 12–6 p.m. Sat, 12–8 p.m.

Tourists holding a New York Pass can access the museum freely. However, they must make an online reservation in advance and present the email upon arrival at the venue.

5 Spend The Afternoon At Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Considering this is one of the city's most iconic parks, visiting Flushing Meadows Corona Park is a must. Notably, this park was the site of two twentieth-century World's Fairs, adding to its rich historical impact.

Additionally, Flushing Meadows Corona Park is now the largest in Queens—after it was reverted to the city and fully landscaped/re-imagined.

• Hours : 6 am - 9 pm

Flushing Meadows Corona Park offers numerous recreational opportunities that visitors should take advantage of, such as scenic trails, various sports activities, kayaking, and an indoor pool.

6 Stop By The Queens Museum

Initially known as the Queens Museum of Art, this is one of the top-rated attractions and the best things to do in Queens, New York. Located in the famous Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the museum offers fascinating exhibits related to art and design.

There are over 10,000 pieces of art to explore, including the Neustadt Collection of Tiffany lamps and glass windows.

• Admission : Adults $8, Seniors $4, groups pay $6 per person
• Hours : Wed to Fri (12 - 5 pm). Sat & Sun (11 am - 5 pm)

To get the most out of the visit, guests can book a private tour and enjoy an immersive experience.

7 Enjoy Nature At The Rockaways

Home to two of the most popular beaches in NYC; Rockaway Beach and Jacob Riis Park Beach. Located in Rockaway Peninsula, the Rockaways includes the Belle Harbor, Breezy Point, and seven other neighborhoods. Its beaches are a popular destination among sunbathers and surfers.

The Rockaways are a perfect New York summer destination. Pack enough sunscreen and a wetsuit to soak in the sun, or dip in the toasty waters.

Related: 10 Quirky Roadside Attractions In New York Worth A Road Trip

8 Enjoy A Laid Back Day In Astoria

Brimming with fun adventures, businesses, and trendy spots, Astoria is an amazing neighborhood to stay in. It has plenty of shops, restaurants, parks, and beautiful attractions.

Plus, some of the most beautiful tourist attractions in the borough are located here, including Astoria Park and the Museum of the Moving Image.

Astoria is a melting point of cultures with a delightful cosmopolitan flair. Remember to sample the scrumptious Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines while exploring the neighborhood.

9 Meet The Animals Queens Zoo & Aquarium

Queens Zoo & Aquarium is another top point of interest in the attraction-rich Flushing Meadows Park. The 18-acre facility was established in 1968 and houses at least 70 species of animals natively from America.

The zoo schedules helpful educational programs to benefit the public, and kids will have a great time learning interesting facts about animals and petting farm animals. This makes it an excellent visit for the whole family.

• Admission : Adult (13 & over). $9.95, Senior (65 & over). $7.95, Child (3 - 12). $6.95, Child (2 & under).
• Hours : 10 am - 5 pm, daily

Guests with an occasion to celebrate can book space at the zoo for weddings, birthday parties, and anniversaries.

10 Visit The King Manor House

At this historical landmark, tourists are introduced to the rich legacy of Founding Father Rufus Kings, credited with signing and framing the American Constitution. King Manor House will surely excite historians in the city with intimate exhibits of relics and artifacts from the Rufus Family.

The iconic figure lived on the homestead with his family, changing hands between three generations, and today serves as a museum. Its exhibits gradually walk guests through the renowned politician's storied career.

• Admission : Free
• Hours : 11 am - 3 pm

11 Catch A Live Game At Citi Field

Located on Roosevelt Avenue in the popular Flushing Meadows Park, Citi Field is the home stadium for the Major League Baseball outfit New York Mets. The almost 42,000-seater arena was constructed in 2009 to replace Shea Stadium and spots an overwhelming atmosphere whenever the home team plays.

The stadium’s design is a work of art, highlighted by the Jackie Robinson Rotunda on its facade. Besides watching a thrilling MLB game, spectators can pop into Taste of the City for a quick bite and take advantage of FanFest, a nice family entertainment section.

Visit the official website to check the event schedule, ticket prices, and time.

12 Learn Cool Facts At The New York Hall Of Science

Flushing Meadows Park houses this remarkable facility, where visitors who love the sciences can stop by for an exciting lesson. The New York Hall of Science was launched in 1964 during the World’s Fair but has undergone renovations through the years to be what it is today.

A great place to spark’s a child thirst for new knowledge, the center is home to about 400 interesting exhibits focusing on subjects like physics, biology, and chemistry. It also hosts hands-on educational programs and interactive experiences to introduce young enthusiasts to the magnificent world of science.

• Admission : $13-$16
• Hours : Wed to Sun, 10 am - 5 pm

13 Commune With Nature At The Alley Pond Environmental Center

The second-biggest public park in the city, Alley Pond Park, is a delightful green space spanning over 650 acres. In the sprawling park, tourists will find the Alley Pond Environmental Center , which opened in 1976 for preservation and educational purposes.

It is home to acres of salt marsh and wetlands that host various wildlife. The venue offers a vivid snapshot of the area’s rich ecosystem and guarantees a remarkable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Queens.

• Hours : Mon to Fri (9 am - 4:30 pm), Sat & Sun (10 am - 1 pm)

Carry binoculars when visiting the Alley Pond Environmental Center; there are almost 300 species of birds to stake out.

14 Long Island City: Incredible Arts Scene, Top-Notch Restaurants

Located on the western edge of Queens, Long Island City is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the borough and offers a great vacation experience. It's known for its thriving arts scene and incredible water parks. It is a quiet spot boasting friendly and welcoming locals. Visitors will find plenty of luxurious restaurants here.

While there are numerous sights to see in Long Island City, first-timers must plan to visit the Gantry Plaza State Park for awe-inspiring views.

15 Flushing: Incredibly Diverse Cultures

Home to multiple cultures, Flushing boasts NYC's largest Chinatown, plus numerous historic homes, colorful shops, restaurants, and gorgeous sidewalks.

Vacationers will find an incredible food scene, some of the best Chinese cuisine , Indian, Korean, and more delicious food cultures. Queens Zoo and Botanical Garden are located in this neighborhood.

Many small restaurants and stores in Flushing don't accept cash, so carry enough cash if planning to shop around.

16 Bayside: Plenty Of Outdoor Adventures

Bayside is known for its numerous green spaces, making it a great spot to spend time outdoors. Located in Queens' northeastern side, Bayside is brimming with restaurants, beautiful shops, parks, and top-notch bars.

Public transportation is easily accessible, and there are many things to see and do. Some top spots to explore are Fort Totten Park, Crocheron Park, Oakland Lake, and the Bayside Historical Society.

17 Rockaways Beach: A Perfect Destination For Sunbathers And Surfers

Rockaways Beach is a popular year-round destination for swimmers, surfers, the Ramones, and everyone else. It is most vibrant during summer, especially from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends, receiving millions of visitors.

Tourists will also find plenty of playgrounds and outdoor opportunities to explore. Think of this as the perfect way to spend a day out in the sun while in the city.

Rockaways Beach is among the best outdoor spots in Queens and the city's only legal surfing area, so prepare for a remarkable time on the water.

Related: 12 Best Foodie Neighborhoods In NYC

18 Best Time To Visit Queens, New York

The best to explore Queens depends on what one is looking to explore. But April through June and September to early November are amazing times to see Queens since the crowds are thinner and the weather is at its most splendid.

Vacationers planning to explore the borough on a budget should target winter or summer. The cheapest months are January and February. During this time, one can save lots of money and obtain the best deals on accommodation and flights.

Summer is the best season for families with kids because there are a lot of fun activities for everyone. However, with Labor Day and Memorial Day being the high season, travelers planning a summer vacation in Queens must plan and book flights, hotels, and restaurant reservations in advance.

• Best time overall : April through June, September to early November
• Best time for families : Summer
• Best time for budget travelers : winter and summer
• Cheapest months to visit : January and February

19 Best Ways To Get Around Queens, New York

The New York City Subway is one of the most efficient transportation systems in the United States and serves all five boroughs. It is also the busiest in the country and the seventh busiest in the world. Queens boasts 81 New York City Subway stations, 10 of which are express-local stations.

The subway gets travelers wherever they want, making it one of the best ways to get around.

• Cost: $2.75 per ride

Many Queens' neighborhoods, especially the most touristy ones, like Astoria, are walkable. So, visitors on a budget can enjoy one of the best ways to get around, which won't cost anything, and allows them to have a wonderful experience of the borough.

Uber/Lyft is a great choice for those who prefer getting around in a private car. However, cabs are way cheaper and easily accessible. Most of the main streets are full of cabs.

One can also rent a car, especially if exploring the furthermost areas of the borough or planning to visit other spots, like Brooklyn and Manhattan.

• The cheapest way to get around Queens: The subway system, but there are some things to know before riding .

20 Where To Eat In Queens, New York

• Court Square Diner : This is one of the oldest restaurants in Queens since it’s been there since 1946. An amazing dining experience is guaranteed here, thanks to quality service and a delicious menu. It is one of the best breakfast restaurants and boasts items like oatmeal, eggs benedict, Canadian bacon, Turkey bacon, and beef sausage on the menu.
• Bruno's Restaurant : This is a perfect spot to eat Italian food, making it a great restaurant to grab some eats for lunch. It boasts a delightful selection of daily specials, ranging from pasta dishes to fresh seafood.
• Trattoria L'incontro : Also an Italian restaurant, vacationers will have the best dining experience in this spot. Their food is cooked using fresh ingredients and ranges from modern to traditional dishes.

10 Best Things to Do in Queens, New York

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There are many interesting things to do in Queens , so if you haven’t yet explored this New York City borough , I highly recommend you do so. Queens is full of parks, museums, sports venues, and other attractions where you can learn more about the history of NYC and its most diverse neighborhoods.

In addition to being quieter than Manhattan and Brooklyn, Queens is more walkable and closer to JFK and LaGuardia Airports, which are also in Queens. So, if you’re flying into New York City, Queens will probably be your first introduction to the city. Besides, it is on Long Island , so you will have some wonderful beaches close by.

Take advantage of your time here by visiting some of the best places in Queens , like Flushing Meadows – Corona Park and Rockaway Beach. While Queens may be less crowded than other boroughs, it still has great nightclubs and bars, as well as accommodation options.

In this guide, I’ll share the top 10 places to go in Queens so you can plan a fun day out with your partner or as a family. Also, if you need another day here, I’ll share some of the best hotels where you can spend the night.

1. Museum of the Moving Image, a fun place in Queens, New York

The Museum of the Moving Image is one of the best museums in NYC , and it’s right in Queens. More specifically, it’s in Astoria Studios, a historic venue built in 1920 to accompany the nearby Theater District in Manhattan.

This museum is an awesome place to go if you’re a film or TV buff, or you’re interested in the technology and techniques behind different forms of digital media. The multimedia exhibits here explore audio-visual elements like stop-motion animation, TV and movie production, character design, and virtual reality. So, it’s a unique place to gain more insight into some of the most beloved masterpieces in cinematic history.

There are also two theaters where you can see a variety of productions and extended cuts of famous films. Also, if you’re a fan of The Muppets, you’ll love the museum’s Jim Henson exhibition. It’s a great thing to do in Astoria, Queens with kids, and the museum even has a vast collection of video games and related memorabilia.

If you’d like to visit, be aware that the museum is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Admission is $20 for adults and $12 for kids under 18, but it’s one of the best museums in Queens .

2. Walk through Queens Botanical Garden, a romantic thing to do in Queens

For something romantic to do in Queens , check out the Queens Botanical Garden . Created in 1939 for the New York World’s Fair, the 39-acre venue has become one of the most beautiful spots in the entire borough.

Here, you’ll find gorgeous blooms and plants throughout the different specialty gardens, which include a bee garden, an herb garden, and a rose garden. There is also a children’s garden for the little ones to learn about native flora and environmentalism. If you visit the perennial garden and meadow, you can see all kinds of plants, flowers, and trees that used to grow all over the New York City area.

Without a doubt, strolling through the botanical garden is one of the best things to do in Queens as a couple. The Fragrance Walk is a beautiful outdoor walkway bordered by blossoming flowers, and the Floral Border provides the perfect photo op for you and your partner. I also recommend going to the arboretum and browsing the art gallery, which is filled with botanical paintings, drawings, and photographs.

Queens Botanical Garden is closed on Mondays and is free from November to March. Otherwise, it’s $6 for adults and $2 for children ages 4-12.

3. Flushing Meadows – Corona Park, the best park in Queens

Queens is full of lovely outdoor spaces, but one of the best is Flushing Meadows – Corona Park . It’s one of the best parks in NYC and the fourth largest in the city, so you can’t miss it.

The park was built for the 1939 New York World’s Fair and is most recognized by the Unisphere , a 140-foot-tall steel globe that symbolizes unity and peace. You’ll also find the Queens Botanical Garden here, as well as the New York Hall of Science and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, two other famous places in Queens .

Get some fresh air and take a stroll around Meadow and Willow Lakes, then take a ride on the Flushing Meadows Carousel.

While Flushing Meadows – Corona Park is a must-see in Queens , I also recommend visiting Astoria Park , which has tennis courts, a soccer field, a playground, and a skatepark. It’s also home to the Astoria Pool and Bathhouse, which was used for the U.S. team’s Olympic Trials in 1936, 1952, and 1964. Today, the pool is free and open to the public, as is the Astoria Play Center, a rec center with various sports facilities.

Finally, Gantry Plaza State Park is another cool place in Queens along the East River in Long Island City. The park is part of a former dockyard where you can see old gantries and transfer bridges that were used to transport cars and vehicles across the river to Manhattan. There is also a playground and a waterfront promenade.

4. MoMA PS1, one of the best museums in Queens

Another museum in Queens I highly recommend is MoMA PS1 . It’s affiliated with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), so if you don’t have time to get over to Manhattan, MoMA PS1 is a great alternative.

This huge contemporary art center is full of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs, not to mention a rotating roster of temporary exhibits. You’ll also find multimedia installations ranging from murals and textiles to architectural projects from artists around the world.

The themes of these pieces vary, touching on things like city life, politics, social issues, different cultures, nature, science, and more. The museum holds regular panel discussions with the artists, as well as a weekly performance series called Sunday Sessions. If you visit from June to August, you can catch the summer music series.

So, if you’re into art and you’re looking for a rainy day activity in Queens , a visit to MoMA PS1 is a great idea. Admission is $10 for adults, although it’s also included in the New York Pass , one of the best attraction passes in NYC . Just remember that the museum is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

5. Go to the Queens Museum, a free thing to do in Queens, NY

The Queens Museum may be the most famous museum in the borough, and for good reason. It’s one of the most interesting places in Queens , thanks to its vast collection of historical artifacts, art exhibits, and community events.

The museum is part of Flushing Meadows – Corona Park and contains thousands of relics from the 1939 and 1964 New York World’s Fairs. Looking through the collection is like finding a time capsule from decades gone by and provides insight into how life in the city was back then.

Another part of the permanent collection is the Panorama of the City of New York , a room-sized scale model of NYC’s five boroughs. You can also find intriguing paintings by Salvador Dalí, photographs from Robert Moses, and several Tiffany Glass objects.

The Queens Museum also hosts public film screenings, dance performances, and concerts, so there is always something to see here. For all these reasons, visiting the museum is considered to be one of the best free things to do in NYC . Plus, it’s close to other top attractions in Queens, New York , so you can make the most of your day.

While admission is free, the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

6. Visit the Noguchi Museum & Socrates Sculpture Park, something to do in Queens as a couple

If you’re looking for more free things to do in Queens , check out the Noguchi Museum . This is another free museum in NYC , specifically in Long Island City, and it’s named after its founder, Isamu Noguchi. Noguchi was a Japanese-American artist, sculptor, and landscape architect with a career that spanned six decades.

He created the Noguchi Museum to put some of his most prized pieces on full display for the public, including outdoor sculptures, stage and furniture designs, drawings, and architectural models. His work often explored subterranean landscapes, humans’ place in nature, and the relationship between visible and invisible forces, so they’re very thought-provoking.

Also, just a block from the museum, you’ll find the Socrates Sculpture Park , another cool place in Queens to visit. Located along the East River, the park is full of decorative plants and contemporary sculptures by Noguchi and other artists. Not only can you see beautiful works of art, but the views from the park are lovely.

Socrates Sculpture Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to dusk, and admission is free. The Noguchi Museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and general admission costs $12.

7. Rockaway Beach, a beautiful place in Queens, New York

You may be surprised to hear that you can go to the beach in NYC , but it’s true! Over on the Rockaway Peninsula, you can visit Rockaway Beach , one of the few surfing beaches in the city.

In addition to surfing and swimming, Rockaway Beach offers other activities in Queens , including basketball, handball, and roller hockey. There is also a skatepark and a boardwalk, as well as several parks and playgrounds, so this is a fun thing to do in Queens with family .

Don’t forget to check out the Rockaway Beach Surf Shop, the oldest surf shop in the country. It sells all kinds of surfing gear, and you can even book a lesson if you’re new to the sport.

For something more laid-back, go to Jacob Riis Park Beach on the southwestern edge of the Rockaway Peninsula. This beautiful place in Queens boasts a delightful swimming beach as well as a boardwalk, restrooms, and outdoor showers. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, and there are playgrounds, sports fields, and mini-golf for the kiddos.

Another cool part of Jacob Riis Park is its historic bathhouse, which was built in 1932. It features Moorish and Art Deco-style elements, making it a unique landmark along the coastline.

8. Go to the Alley Pond Environmental Center, an outdoorsy thing to do in Queens

While you’re sightseeing around Queens , consider veering off the beaten path and checking out the Alley Pond Environmental Center . It’s open daily and offers free admission to kids and adults who want to learn more about the native flora and fauna and conservation efforts.

The Center educates visitors about the different plant and animal species in the area as well as how to identify and care for them. You can take a walk along one of the paved or unpaved trails or sign up for a guided forest walk. The Center also holds craft workshops and tutorials for all ages, so you can go here as a family. Among the forests and marshlands, you’ll find a playground, ballfield, and adventure course.

An alternative to the Alley Pond Environmental Center is the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge . This attraction in Queens, New York is a seven-minute drive from Rockaway Beach, on Broad Channel island in Jamaica Bay.

Surrounded by open water and intertidal salt marshes, the wildlife refuge is a great spot for boating and birdwatching. In fact, a large migratory bird population passes through the area every year, including snow geese, peregrine falcons, and cooper’s hawks. Horseshoe crabs, terrapin turtles, and ospreys are also common in this area.

In addition, the refuge has a Visitors Center and several hiking and walking paths, so it’s a great place in Queens to get away from the crowds and connect with nature. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is free and open daily.

9. New York Hall of Science, a place to go in Queens with kids

Back at Flushing Meadows – Corona Park, the New York Hall of Science is another fun place to go in Queens as a family. This museum has all kinds of hands-on exhibits designed to teach children about technology, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

In addition to its permanent collection, the institute has temporary exhibitions that touch on a variety of subjects like microbes, electricity, and health. The interactive elements encourage kids to engage with the sciences and have fun while retaining information. It’s an excellent thing to do in Queens on a rainy day , and adults may learn a thing or two as well!

Along with its indoor displays, the New York Hall of Science has an outdoor Science Playground where the kids can burn off some energy. There is also Rocket Park, an outdoor attraction inspired by the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Its space-age design and interactive activities provide even more fun, so you can make a day of it.

The New York Hall of Science costs $16 for adults and $13 for kids, although it’s included in the New York Pass . Be aware that it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

10. Visit the USTA National Tennis Center, another interesting thing to do in Queens

The last attraction in Queens, New York that I recommend is the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center . This huge complex consists of three stadiums, 22 indoor tennis courts, and 12 outdoor courts. Also, if you’re a big fan of tennis, you’ll know that the USTA National Tennis Center hosts the US Open Grand Slam tournament, which Serena Williams won six times.

The US Open is held every year in late August and early September, so you can get tickets to see the tournament. During the rest of the year, the Tennis Center is open for rentals and lessons for children and adults. Guided tours are also available and cost $30 for adults and $15 for kids ages 5-15.

The USTA National Tennis Center is in Flushing Meadows – Corona Park, so if you needed another excuse to visit this Queens landmark , this is it.

Where to stay in Queens

Finally, if you want to experience all the best things to do in Queens , consider staying overnight. This way, you can make the most of your time and get to all the attractions you want to see. Below are three of the best places in Queens to stay:

• The Collective Paper Factory – This cozy boutique hotel in Long Island City has a fitness center, family rooms, and a convenient location near the Museum of the Moving Image. It’s also one of the cheapest hotels in Queens .
• Ravel Hotel – Located along the East River, this hotel offers free transportation to the New York City subway , an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
• LIC Hotel – This accommodation has the perfect location since it’s 20 minutes from Central Park and 30 minutes from LaGuardia Airport by public transit.

You can find more ideas and recommendations in our guide on where to stay in NYC .

Map of Queens, NY

I hope you enjoyed discovering all the fun things to do in Queens, NY . Before I go, here is a map of all the attractions and hotels I mentioned so you can see how close they are to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and anywhere else you want to visit.

If you have any questions or want to share your favorite places to visit in Queens , feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you. Until then, have an amazing time in Queens!

Ascen Aynat

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Things To Do in Queens

Queens, New York is one of the most diverse places in the whole world and it’s also the biggest borough in the city. There are so many people with different backgrounds that live in this beautiful and unique borough. With so much culture, people will be exposed to different types of traditions and ways of life that it opens the mind.

You may also like:

Nyc neighborhoods.

• Things to do in New York City
• Things to Do in Astoria

In turn, because of the diversity in this New York City borough, there are many things to do in Queens NYC. From food, museums to events, we’ll give you the rundown and our recommendations. If you’re looking for the best things to do in New York City , or are curious about the best NYC neighborhoods you need to have Queens on your list.

Table of Contents

Getting to Queens NYC

There are numerous ways to get to this huge borough. The N W lines take you to Astoria while the 7 train can take you all the way to Flushing. Additionally, the F M   R and A trains run through the borough as well. Certain trains will take to you different parts of NYC neighborhoods. The latter takes you to JFK airport .

What are the top attractions in Queens?

Like we mentioned earlier, Queens is the biggest and most diverse borough in NYC. Here you can find museums and parks, just like Manhattan. Also, we believe the food scene is often overlooked in Queens, but we think it’s the best out of all the boroughs in NYC. For example, the oldest beer garden in New York City is in this borough. Here are our top 5 favorite things to do in Queens.

Top 5 Things to do in Queens New York

Flushing meadows corona park.

Take New York City’s fourth largest park, a globe and a good pinch of Queens and you get probably the most beautiful park outside of Central Park. That park is  Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Corona, Queens. With about 504 hectares, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is as huge as Central Park and is also the largest park in the borough. The park is known for the huge globe sculpture and is home to the New York Hall of Science.

Astoria Park

One of the most beautiful spots in Astoria, Queens is Astoria Park. This popular park on the East River is a popular retreat for New Yorkers, especially in the summer. On hot summer days, they jump into New York’s oldest public pool to cool off. This is a rare sight, by the way, because you hardly find any outdoor pools in New York. Astoria Park just recently went under renovation as well and has revamped its track and field. 

Not only do you have a beautiful view of Manhattan, but you’re also right under the RFK Bridge and have a direct view of Hells Gate Bridge.

New York Hall of Science

The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens. It’s the perfect place for families with kids to visit! There are many interactive multimedia displays and the museum offers many ways to teach kids about biology, chemistry and physics.

The Museum was founded during the 1964-1965 World’s Fair and now serves more than half a million teachers, students and families each year. NYSCI provides the community with a hands-on learning experience through products and services.

Queens Museum

The museum was built for the World’s Fair in 1939 and exhibits “The Panaroma” which is a large scale model of New York City and its five neighborhoods. Many of the exhibits are documents related to the World’s Fair. Over the years, Queens Museum has housed some of the most supreme exhibitions in all of New York.

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden

The Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden has existed since 1910 and is located in Astoria, Queens. Especially in the summer, the spacious beer garden has a wonderful atmosphere. Live bands come out to play and rock the whole neighborhood. The food is cheap and the beer is super good. It’s always a good time especially in the summer.

Map of Queens New York

Queens is located to the east of Manhattan and to the north of Brooklyn. It’s also the biggest borough in all of NYC and connects directly to Long Island. The two major airports are also located in this borough. They are LaGuardia which is closer to Manhattan and JFK which borders Brooklyn and Queens. Below is a general map of Queens, New York just to give you an idea of where it is located.

Where are the best places to shop in Queens?

There are some good options when it comes to shopping in Queens. The borough is so diverse that there are many different shops to check out. From malls to independent boutiques there’s something for everyone. In Queens, you’ll find more independent stores and if you venture out into Flushing, their shopping scene is geared towards the community. We’ll go into more detail with our favorites below. One of my favorite things to do in Astoria is simply strolling around looking for small shops and local stores.

Our Favorite Places to Shop in Queens

Hifi records and cafe.

If you’re a fan of old music records, then HiFi Records in Astoria, Queens is the place to go.  Here you’ll find vintage vinyl records that cover all genres of music from different decades. The shop will also double as a cafe so you can enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing the store. The owner, Javier Velazquez is an avid music lover and has done a wonderful job curating for the store.

Belief NYC in Astoria, Queens is a well-known lifestyle and skateboard brand in the area. Located right next to the Astoria Boulevard train station, Belief NYC offers premium cut garments, accessories, and apparel. There are now two locations with Astoria New York being the founding location. The other spot is located in Brooklyn, New York.

The Astoria Bookshop

The Astoria Bookshop is perfect for the people that love books. The bookshop offers a diverse selection of titles from fiction to non-fiction. The space offers events from time to time and hosts book clubs for bookworms. It’s a great place to check out when you’re in Queens. 

New World Mall

New World Mall is one of the malls in New York. It’s located in Flushing, Queens which caters mostly to the Asian demographic in the area. Inside the New World Mall in Flushing, the mall offers a variety of Asian and non-Asian retail stores. It includes apparel, electronics, accessories, and many other things that tie into the culture.

You can also find high-end jewelry, electronics and an amazing food court that offers an array of Asian cuisines.

Are there museums in Queens?

The borough is home to some prominent museums in New York City . The museums in Queens are often overlooked because they aren’t located in Manhattan. However, these museums are still very beneficial and provide great experiences for kids with families. These are just some of the museums we like.

Our Favorite Museums in Queens

Queens Museum is located in the beautiful Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. It was formerly called the Queens Museum of Art. The museum presents high-quality visual arts and educational programming for the people of New York and visitors.

New York Hall of Science is located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, just like the museum above mentioned. NYSCI serves the community in the NYC area. The museum does a great job of educating the community in science, technology, engineer and math (STEM).

MoMa PS1 is an extension to the popular MoMa in Manhattan. Located in Long Island City in Queens, MoMa PS1 offers it’s visitors collections of contemporary art. As a matter of fact, it’s the largest institution in the U.S. that houses contemporary art.

Museum of the Moving Image

In Astoria you should definitely check out the Kaufman Astoria Film Studios, which was declared a National Historic Landmark in the late 1970s due to their importance to New York City. This complex also includes the Museum of the Moving Image and the Astor Room restaurant.

The Museum of the Moving Image opened in 1988 and is the only museum in the United States that is dedicated to exploring media art, history and technology. It’s recognized as a major internationally known institution as well.

Tours in Queens

With so many things to do in New York City, it’s pretty easy to get overwhelmed. NYC is really big so there is always something for everyone. The hard part is, choosing what would best suit your visit to the Big Apple. When it comes to Queens, these are our favorite tours that will let you explore the area and culture.

Our favorite restaurants in Queens New York

Queens restaurants have some of the most diverse food in the world. Queens itself is a melting pot filled with different cultures which makes the area a hotspot for go-to eats.

• Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao – If you want to experience exceptional Shanghainese breakfast, NXXLB is the place to go. It’s no-frills, but the food here is great. (38-12 Prince St, Flushing, NY 11354)
• Xi’an Famous Foods  – This restaurant has become a hit and has numerous locations in New York City. They serve noodles, soups, and sandwiches. (41-10 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355)
• Tortilleria Nixtamal  – This Mexican restaurant in Corona makes its own tortillas. Furthermore, the ingredients used at this restaurant are non-GMO. It means there are no preservatives and additives. (Address: 104-05 47th Avenue, Corona I)
• HinoMaru Ramen – Astoria is home to some really great eats as well which includes HinoMaru Ramen . This Michelin Star rated restaurant is a popular choice among the locals. It’s located at the very last stop on the N, W line, Astoria-Ditmars Blvd. (33-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105)
• Black Star Bakery  – It’s located right next to Gantry Plaza State Park and offers a great selection of pastries and breakfast items. It’s a great place to take a quick break and regroup. (Address: 2-10 50th Ave, Long Island City , NY 11101)

What are the best hotels in Queens?

If you want to be super close to the city, but don’t want to pay Manhattan prices, then your best bet is to try and book a hotel in Queens New York. Long Island City and Astoria are literally about a 20-minute train ride to the city. Flushing and Corona are a little further out, but if you don’t mind the long commute to grab better prices, then it’s definitely an option to explore. Here are our favorite hotels in the borough.

• LIC Hotel  (Address: 44-04 21st St, Long Island City, NY 11101)
• Paper Factory Hotel  (37-06 36th St, Long Island City, NY 11101)
• The One Boutique Hotel  (Address: 137-72 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY 11354)
• Asiatic Hotel  (Address: 135-21 37th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354)

More Things to do in Queens

Gantry plaza state park.

It’s arguably the most popular park in Queens. You’ll find great views of the Manhattan skyline and the 59th Street Bridge. There’s a dog park, a green space, cafes that run along the park and different courts for sports.

The Cliffs LIC

For the people that want to do something active, The Cliffs are the place to be. If you’re looking for a place to rock climb in the city, make sure to check this place out. Go and sweat out that jet lag (if applicable).

Take a Walk on the Queensboro Bridge (59th Street Bridge)

A lot of things to do in Long Island City do require money, just like anywhere else in NYC. If you don’t feel like spending any then we suggest taking a walk or bike on the Queensboro Bridge. It’s that beautiful bridge you can see from Gantry Plaza State Park and it’s the one that connects Manhattan to Queens. There’s no better way to burn calories and it’s free!

Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens Zoo  opened in 1968. There are about 75 species of animals from America, such as mountain lions, coyotes, owls, sea lions, alligators and white-tailed eagles. The Queens Zoo is perfect for families with kids and is a nice change of pace from the hectic lifestyle that you experience in Manhattan.

Go on a food adventure in Flushing

As a whole, Flushing is the perfect place to find amazing food. People consider Flushing to be a better Chinatown than the one in Manhattan. In addition to authentic Chinese cuisine, you’ll also find great Korean BBQ spots in Flushing. Also, the prices are friendly to the wallet.

How safe is Queens New York?

Queens, in general, is a safe place. Of course, please use common sense and always be aware of your surroundings and belongings. Just like any other metropolis, there are certain areas where you should be cautious.

More about the NYC boroughs

Things To Do in The Bronx

Things to do in Brooklyn

Things to Do in Staten Island

Things To Do

Things to do in astoria.

Being a photographer and creative in general, New York City, I think is the perfect place to be. I moved to NYC from Boston in 2013 and never looked back. Loving New York has given me the opportunity to do what I love and share those images with you all.

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Top Queens Attractions and Landmarks

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media 

When it comes to tourism, Queens is not Manhattan. It's not even Brooklyn. But more and more people are visiting our borough and realizing what a great destination it is. There's history, culture, views, and food without the crowds or prices of Manhattan. Here are my top favorite places in Queens to bring visitors.

The Unisphere and the Panorama of NYC

The symbol of Queens, the Unisphere is a giant globe in Flushing Meadows Park . It's a great spot to hang out and catch Queens at play: walking, biking, skating, running, barbecuing, and playing soccer. Next door is the Queens Museum of Art with its Panorama of New York City, an incredibly detailed scale model of the entire city. It is so well composed that you can pinpoint specific houses, even find your own home. The Panorama has been delighting visitors since the World's Fair in 1964.

Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden

The Bohemian Hall is a wonderful beer garden in Astoria, Queens. Turn off a crazy urban street--the subway overhead--and escape into this huge beer garden with its shady trees, picnic tables, pitchers of icy beer, and platters of hearty Czech food and barbecue. This place is a must on summer weekends. Many an afternoon there's stein-thumping folk music. You just have to love the Bohemia Beer Garden: a true urban oasis that's fun for families, visitors, and a cast of NYC neighborhood regulars.

Museum of the Moving Image

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media 

The Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens, celebrates the history, technology, and art of movies. It is a great museum with a balance of hands-on activities and information that will interest youngsters and adults. Dub your voice in the Wizard of Oz, see how short Robert De Niro is, and create your own animations. On the weekends, enjoy a screening of a classic or foreign movie in the Rilkis Theater. This museum will delight anyone who loves movies.

Jackson Heights, an Indian and South Asian Neighborhood

The streets of Jackson Heights are lined with gold! Well, not exactly. A row of 22k gold jewelry shops light up 74th Street. It's the main drag of an Indian/South Asian enclave and has some of the best eating in all of NYC (delicious curries, tandoori, nan, dosas, kebabs, Indian sweets, and more). There's lots of cool shopping -- saris, bhangra music, Bollywood DVDs -- and even a Bollywood movie theater. This fascinating Little India is a great place to experience Queens' famed diversity.

P.S. 1 Contemporary Art Center

In Long Island City, P.S. 1 is an internationally renowned museum devoted to contemporary art. Housed in a former public high school, P.S. 1 has managed to keep cutting the cutting edge even as it has matured as an institution. This is one of the best major art spaces in NYC.

Downtown Flushing, NYC's Other Chinatown

Downtown Flushing is New York's second largest Chinatown. It is worth a visit for an afternoon of strolling, peeking into herbalist shops, sipping up boba tea, and munching on great Chinese and other Asian eats. Don't miss the celebration of Lunar or Chinese New Year in Flushing every winter. You won't see the tourist crowds who go to New Year in Manhattan, but you will get an earful of firecrackers and an eyeful of dragon dancers.

Museum and Gallery Hopping in Long Island City

Long Island City has emerged as a major cultural destination with the second highest concentration of museums and galleries in NYC. Come over for P.S. 1 and stay the day touring Noguchi's modern sculpture, contemporary African art, and even a landmark to graffiti art called 5 Pointz .

Lemon Ice King of Corona

The Lemon Ice King of Corona is hands down a summer classic for fruit-flavored and chocolate ices. The ambiance is strictly NYC "take it or leave it" (only a few years ago did they start offering napkins), which is part of its charm. It is close to Shea Stadium and the Louis Armstrong Museum. The Lemon Ice King is at 52-02 108th St. (at the corner of Corona Ave.). Take the 7 subway to 111th Street and walk south 1/2 mile. By car, take the LIE to the 108th Street Exit and go north eight blocks.

The Mets at Citi Field

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

What's better than an afternoon at the ball game, eating peanuts, and watching the Mets pull off a miracle? No doubt, there will be another miracle, if not this year, then next. Seats at Shea are less expensive than at Yankee Stadium . Plus, there's plenty of parking and plenty of tailgating to get you ready for the ball game.

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Queens Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Queens travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Queens is one of the most diverse and interesting boroughs in New York City. There are many things to do in Queens that will suit every traveler. Whether you’re looking for museums, culture, sports, food, or offbeat activities, Queens has you covered.

Are you wondering what to do in Queens and where to go in Queens to have the best time?

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Queens in New York City .

Note: This ultimate Queens guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Queens tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible destination!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Things To Do In Queens

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Best Queens Tours

Explore local culture with a Queens tour guide through these unique NYC excursions :

• Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx Private Tour with a Driver-Guide
• Asia In Queens: Exploring NYC’s Largest Chinatown
• Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island
• NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Contrasts, Color and Character

Click here for a full list of NYC travel tours!

Getting Around Queens

Most of the neighborhoods in Queens typically visited by tourists, like Astoria and Long Island City , are very walkable. This is one of the best ways to get around as it’s free and allows you to feel the beat of the borough!

Love cycling? Citi Bike stations are all over Queens, and offer a budget-friendly way to get around in an eco-friendly fashion that also allows you to see the sights.

In terms of public transportation, the best way to get around Queens is via subway, which gets you anywhere you may need to go for just $2.75 — no need to wait in traffic.

Additionally, Queens (and the rest of NYC) is connected via other public transportation options like buses and even ferries. While buses are operated by the MTA, just like the subway, you’ll want to download the NYC Ferry app to see schedules and buy tickets for the ferry.

Prefer a private car service? Uber and Lyft are plentiful in Queens, though do note that cabs tend to be much cheaper. You can hail a cab on many main streets, which is typically your cheapest option, or use an app like Arro or Curb to order one.

Driving? It’s much easier to find parking in Queens than it is in Manhattan, though you can always use the SpotHero website and app to snag super discounted parking spots. This is especially recommended if you end up driving into Manhattan, where finding parking is a nightmare.

Renting A Car In Queens

Need a rental car for your Queens trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Hotels In Queens

Click here to browse the best hotels in Queens!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use the map below to search for local stays. It’s set to Long Island City, but you can easily change the location to your specific destination:

Queens Travel Insurance

When visiting Queens — or anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Queens travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Queens Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Queens in NYC .

Q: What are some fun facts about Queens?

Queens has a fascinating history. Here are some interesting facts you may not know about Queens:

1. The borough of Queens was actually named after a Queen. It got its name in honor of Queen Catherine of Braganza, the wife of King Charles II in England.

2. Steinway pianos have been produced in Astoria, Queens since 1853.

3. Both of New York City’s major airports, LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport, are located in Queens.

4. The first European settlers in Queens were the Dutch, who colonized the area now known as Flushing. Speaking of Flushing, the neighborhood got its name from its former Dutch name “Vlissingen” which was shortened to “Vlishing” and eventually anglicized to “Flushing.”

5. Queens is home to Citi Field, where the New York Mets play.

Q: How should I spend one day in Queens?

If you have one day in Queens, start off the morning at one of the borough’s world-class museums, like MoMA PS1, Museum of the Moving Image, or the Noguchi Museum. Keep in mind, too, that museums tend to have excellent gift shops, especially if you’re looking for the best souvenirs from New York .

Next, there are many more activities in Queens you can do. Spend some time outdoors and check out the Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, or Rockaway Beach. Or hit another museum like the New York Hall of Science.

One of the best places to visit in Queens in the evening is Gantry Plaza State Park, where you can watch the sun set over Manhattan. This is truly one of the best places to view the Manhattan skyline from Queens .

Then head to one of Long Island City ‘s many restaurants for dinner, or take the subway to Flushing for their famous night market.

Q: Is Queens safe to visit?

Like the rest of New York City, Queens is very safe to visit. In fact, it is ranked above Manhattan , Brooklyn , and The Bronx in terms of safety.

However, you should always exercise basic safety precautions and be vigilant of your surroundings.

For example, avoid walking around unfamiliar areas or isolated streets alone at night. When taking the subway, choose a subway car with more passengers in it instead of an empty one.

Q: What are the top attractions in Queens, New York?

Why is NYC so popular ? For one, the many things to do!

Queens is home to some of the best (and most under-rated) attractions in New York City.

For museum lovers, check out the world-class Queens Museum, an art museum located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, which was home to the 1964 World’s Fair.

Socrates Sculpture Park and the Noguchi Museum are two more art museums in Astoria that can be visited together.

And finally, the MoMA PS1, part of the Museum of Modern Art, should not be missed. This is also a great option for rainy days in New York City since it’s indoors.

For sports fans, you can catch a Mets game at Citi Field or tour the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the US Open is held every year.

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, head to the Queens Botanical Garden or Gantry Plaza State Park, which has incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.

During the summer months, Rockaway Beach is a popular local getaway and it’s the only beach in New York where you can go surfing!

Want to explore NYC after midnight ? Queens is home to a number of late-night clubs, parties, and event spaces — such as the Knockdown Center in Maspeth.

Q: What are some top Queens neighborhoods to visit?

Queens contains 91 distinct neighborhoods, the most of any borough! With limited time, it’s impossible to visit them all, but these are some of the top neighborhoods to check out.

Long Island City is just across the Queensboro Bridge from Manhattan, and has transformed from an industrial area to a hip neighborhood with tons of restaurants, high-rise apartments, art museums and galleries, and Gantry Plaza State Park with its great waterfront views.

Astoria is another neighborhood that is easily accessible from Manhattan. It has more of a family-friendly neighborhood feel and is also full of great restaurants and bars, like the Bohemian Hall beer garden. Along the waterfront, Astoria Park also offers Manhattan views and is a popular spot to hang out.

Bordering Brooklyn’s trendy Bushwick neighborhood, Ridgewood is a cool neighborhood in Queens that is home to over 30 breweries.

Flushing is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Queens, and is known for its large Chinatown. Don’t miss the Queens Night Market, where you can sample delicious street food.

Q: How far is Queens from New York City?

Queens is actually located within New York City! It’s one of NYC’s five boroughs along with Manhattan , Brooklyn , The Bronx , and Staten Island .

Q: How much spending money do you need for a week in New York?

The average traveler spends about $240 per day in New York City on accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

That being said, there are certainly ways to save money in the city — like staying in hostels, considering Couchsurfing, cooking your own meals, sticking to public transportation, and enjoying some  budget-friendly NYC activities .

Q: How long can a tourist stay in New York?

Most visitors from abroad who are allowed to enter the United States — the country New York State is located in — can stay for up to six months. Entry requirements and allowances vary depending on where you are from, so definitely check the US government website .

Q: Do I need a travel visa for New York?

Visa requirements vary depending on where you are from. You can visit the US government website to see if you need a visa and what type.

Q: Where is Queens, New York?

Queens is one of the five boroughs of  New York City , which is located in the southeastern part of New York, a state located in  the United States . Along with Brooklyn, it sits on Long Island’s western end.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in New York?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around New York City, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Queens?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Queens.

Q: What is the local currency in New York State?

The local currency in New York is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Queens travel guide?

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• Last Updated On
• November 4, 2023

17 Best Things to Do in Queens, NY — Top Activities & Places to Go!

As the largest borough in New York (and a county, to boot), there is tons of exciting stuff to do in Queens.

You can plan for relaxing outings at the parks and gardens or have lots of fun in stadiums and breweries.

History buffs, tech nerds, and film fans will also love going around the museums in this New York town.

Indeed, boredom is something you won’t experience while you’re vacationing here.

So get started on your vacation plans with this list of the best things to do in Queens, NY.

1. Museum of the Moving Image — Astoria

36-01 35th Avenue Astoria, NY 11106 (718) 777-6888

The Museum of the Moving Image is a museum dedicated to television and film arts founded in 1988.

It is housed in the former Astoria Studios.

Why You Should Go

Film enthusiasts are sure to enjoy going around the film-related exhibits found indoors in the former building of a historic local film studio.

It houses over 130,000 artifacts related to film, including vintage technical apparatus and old movie theater furnishings.

Explore the exhibits and visit back from time to time as exhibitions in the museum often change.

Some of the past displays were about Jim Henson and Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Williamsburg Hotel

2. Socrates Sculpture Park & Noguchi Museum — Long Island City

32-01 Vernon Boulevard Long Island City, NY 11106 (718) 956-1819

The Socrates Sculpture Park is a 5-acre public park filled with large-scale sculptures.

It is located a block away from the simple yet serene Noguchi Museum.

Art and nature lovers will adore the vast, open space in this park that showcases beautiful Queens and incredibly massive works of art.

Many of the top free things to do in Queens can be done here, such as relaxing on the green grass or completing a round to see all the sculptures in the park.

After walking around and taking your fill of the sculptures in Socrates, head on over to the garden museum that houses sculptures made by Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 1 Hotel Central Park

Related: Best Restaurants in Queens

Related: Best Restaurants in Long Island City

3. Flushing Meadows Corona Park — Flushing

Grand Central Parkway & Van Wyck Expressway Flushing, NY 11368 (718) 760-6565

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is an 897-acre public park located in northern Queens.

It was opened in 1939.

This park is considered the most iconic park in the city because it hosted two World Fairs and continues to delight visitors with the many cheap and enjoyable things to do here.

The park has historical walks, spaces for sports, and even scenic trails that will keep you entertained for the whole day.

Play a round of basketball or volleyball while you’re here.

Or you can even go kayaking on the park’s lake this weekend.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott

Also See: Long Island: Things to Do

4. MoMA PS1 — Long Island City

22-25 Jackson Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101 (718) 784-2084

MoMA PS1 is an art institution dedicated to showcasing contemporary art.

It was founded by Alanna Heiss in 1971.

This non-profit art museum is one of the attractions in Queens because it’s among the largest contemporary art museums in the country.

It showcases over 200,000 thought-provoking and experimental works of art.

Explore the different floors of the museum to discover its temporary and permanent installations.

Some of the works you’ll see are Richard Artschwager’s Blips and Sol Lewitt’s Crayola Square.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Evelyn

5. Gantry Plaza State Park — Long Island City

4-09 47th Road Long Island City, NY 11101 (718) 786-6385

Gantry Plaza State Park is a 12-acre park along the East River near Hunters Point in Long Island City.

Mixing industrial with natural, this park has incredibly unique vibes with its use of abandoned steel structures as park designs while being surrounded by manicured, green spaces.

Go to the edge of this waterfront park to enjoy fabulous panoramic views of the midtown Manhattan skyline.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SIXTY SoHo

6. Queens Botanical Garden — Flushing

43-50 Main Street Flushing, NY 11355 (718) 886-3800

Queens Botanical Garden is a 39-acre urban oasis located at the heart of Flushing, Queens.

It was established in 1939.

This botanical park has several gardens that plant lovers and people looking for a place to relax will adore.

Some of the gardens to visit are the Arboretum, Bee Garden, Cherry Circle, and Garden Roof.

Stroll along the grounds as part of your list of romantic things to do in Queens for couples .

The Floral Border, specifically, is a well-known garden for beautiful couple photos.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Flushing/LGA Airport

7. The Rockaways — Far Rockaway

8601 Shore Front Parkway Far Rockaway, NY 11693 (718) 318-4000

The Rockaways is a long peninsula with sandy beaches located on Long Island.

It became a popular summer destination starting in the 1830s.

For places to visit in Queens for a proper sun and sand day outing, this peninsula is the one to go to because of its lengthy shores.

Its waves are consistent which makes it a top surfing spot in New York.

Get the most out of your trip playing on the sand.

Novice swimmers are not advised to wade in the waters along this beach as they can be rough but seasoned surfers will totally enjoy this spot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The William Vale

8. Queens Museum — Corona

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Meridian Road Corona, NY 11368 (718) 592-9700

Queens Museum is an art museum located inside Flushing Meadows.

It was founded in 1972.

The museum’s art collection is vast and fascinating as it showcases both local and contemporary works.

A trip around the exhibits like the Neustadt Collection and the 1939-40 World’s Fair collection, especially when it’s raining or cold, will show you interesting artifacts that will keep you entertained.

See the miniature version of downtown and the entire city of New York when you check out this museum’s colossal diorama.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn New York – LaGuardia Airport

9. New York Hall of Science — Corona

47-01 111th Street Corona, New York 11368 (718) 699-0005

The New York Hall of Science is an interactive science museum located inside Flushing Meadows.

It was established in 1964.

Learning becomes more fun when participating in one of the 450+ interactive exhibits about biology, chemistry, and physics in this museum.

The hands-on nature of the activities makes a visit to this place a sure-win for the top things to do in Queens with kids .

Immerse yourself today in the animated display of Connected Worlds or create your own works of art in Design Lab.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott New York Queens/Fresh Meadows

Also See: NYC Things to Do Times Square, NY Things to Do What to Do in The Adirondacks

10. Alley Pond Park — Oakland Gardens

Union Turnpike Oakland Gardens, NY 11364 (212) 639-9675

Alley Pond Park is a 655-acre public park located near Douglaston and Bayside.

It was acquired by the city in 1939.

This large park is the perfect place for many outdoor activities that you want to do during your daycation because of its sprawling nature trails, lake, and massive grounds.

From fishing to simply running around, you can do it all here.

Ready for something more exciting?

Try out the park’s Adventure Course, which has rope courses, a zipline, climbing walls, swings, and nets.

Visitors ages 8 and above can participate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn at Great Neck; BW Premier Collection

11. Citi Field — Flushing

41 Seaver Way Flushing, NY 11368 (718) 507-8499

Citi Field is a baseball stadium located inside Flushing Meadows, known as the home field of the New York Mets.

It was opened in 1964.

This stadium isn’t just for baseball games.

They also have public tours that will take you around the New York Mets’ home, making it an instant hit with die-hard baseball fans.

Catch a Mets game in this ballpark as it is a must-have for your list of things to do in Queens tonight.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Asiatic Hotel – Flushing

Also See: Things to Do in Brooklyn Things to See in The Catskills Stuff to Do in Montauk

12. Finback Brewery — Glendale

78-01 77th Avenue Glendale, NY 11385 (718) 628-8600

Finback Brewery is a local brewery known for its freshly-made craft beers.It was founded in 2011.

Already considered a staple in New York culture, the complex flavors of this brewery’s craft beer is something that a visitor to the city must experience at least once.

From roasty and smoky to bright and fresh, these beers are definitely a one-of-a-kind New York special.

The brewery is known for serving fresh beer in its tasting room, so go over and discover which blends you get to taste.

Some of their past brews are the Crescent Fresh, Starchild, and Buddy System.

Drinking a pint or two of their unique blends is definitely one of the fun things to do in Queens, New York.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Equinox Hotel Hudson Yards New York City

13. Astoria Park — Astoria

19 19th Street Astoria, NY 11105 (212) 639-9675

Astoria Park is a 60-acre public park along Hell Gate, a part of the East River.

Besides the view of the sprawling New York metropolis, the spot just below Triborough Bridge offers lovely views of the park itself.

The massive bridge makes for a great backdrop in photos as well.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline when you have a picnic on the lush green spaces of this park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York

14. Long Island Rail Road — Jamaica

146-41 94th Avenue Jamaica, NY 11435 (718) 217-5477

Long Island Railroad is the busiest commuter metro system in the country.

It was founded in 1834.

This metro system is a great way to feel like a New Yorker as more than 300,000 people use it for their daily commutes.

Besides using it as transport, the jam-packed and rushed experience will give you the illusion that you live in the Concrete Jungle.

Experience the unique (and excitingly stressful) rush hour commute when you ride on this metro.

You’ll feel like a real local when you travel to any of the stations on this rail system.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Queens/Fresh Meadows

Also See: Top Nyack Activities Fun Things to Do in Port Chester, New York Huntington, New York Things to Do

15. Fort Totten — Bayside

Totten Avenue & 15th Road Bayside, NY 11359 (718) 352-4793

Fort Totten is a former army installation turned park located on Willets Point, a peninsula in Long Island.

Besides being a lovely spot for learning a few facts on army history, this park is also a well-known spot for bird-watching, swimming, and canoeing.

Visit the well-preserved historic buildings in the area like the castle-looking Officers’ Club and the Civil War fortress.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Adria Hotel and Conference Center

16. TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport — Jamaica

JFK Airport, One Idlewild Drive Jamaica, NY 11430 (212) 806-9000

The TWA Flight Center was an airport terminal turned luxury hotel.

It was opened in 1962 and became a designated New York City Landmark in 1994.

Fans of architecture will go gaga over this impressive Neo-futurist building designed by world-renowned architect Eero Saarinen.

Stay the night in this historic hotel, or make a stop to take pictures with the retro-futuristic vibes of its exterior.

A stop or stay here is among the unique best things to do in Queens, NY.

17. Surreal Elevator — Long Island City

The Factory, 30-30 47th Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101

The Surreal Elevator is an art installation in Long Island City housed in a nondescript office building.

Lovers of art and anything avant-garde will have the time of their lives riding this elevator that seemingly opens to a different, whimsical world.

It is the only installation left from the former building-wide art space.

Unfortunately, the elevator is now housed in a working office building, so access is not always guaranteed.

Try your luck and still check out this weird elevator when you’re in the area as it is one of the most unique things to see in Queens.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Marmara Park Avenue

Related: Best Hotels in Queens

Map of Things to Do in Queens, NY

Queens Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2024

• Museum of the Moving Image — Astoria
• Socrates Sculpture Park & Noguchi Museum — Long Island City
• Flushing Meadows Corona Park — Flushing
• MoMA PS1 — Long Island City
• Gantry Plaza State Park — Long Island City
• Queens Botanical Garden — Flushing
• The Rockaways — Far Rockaway
• Queens Museum — Corona
• New York Hall of Science — Corona
• Alley Pond Park — Oakland Gardens
• Citi Field — Flushing
• Finback Brewery — Glendale
• Astoria Park — Astoria
• Long Island Rail Road — Jamaica
• Fort Totten — Bayside
• TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport — Jamaica
• Surreal Elevator — Long Island City

The 15 Best Things to Do in Queens, NY

Queens has been lauded as the most diverse county in the nation. It’s not hard to see why when you consider the dozens of unique neighborhoods that make up the borough, each one with its own distinct character, cuisine, and history.

Much of Queens, especially along the Hudson waterfront, was once prime industrial space. Factories, unloading docks, and warehouses made up the bulk of the business, though the borough also hosted two World’s Fairs. Over the years, old industrial buildings were decommissioned and repurposed and began housing art galleries, boutique hotels, and other creative local businesses.

These days, Queens is going through a renaissance, not unlike Brooklyn to the south. Set along the East River, Long Island City is a vibrant arts district, while Astoria retains the charm of its boutique businesses, and Flushing is home to one of the most famous Chinatowns in the world and is undergoing major investment.

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Queens for you. Stick to these fun and unique Queens bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this up-and-coming part of NYC!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Queens, NY

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Queens, NY

1. eat the best dim sum in nyc.

It’s a bold statement, we know, but there’s a reason Asian Jewels always has a line out the door. Located in the heart of Flushing’s historic Chinatown, this restaurant is a must-visit for its authentic Cantonese dim sum!

Dim sum originated in Guangzhou, China, in the 10th century. As travel became more widespread, teahouses began serving small sweet and savory dishes meant to accompany tea drinking. The result was a culinary explosion that’s since spread around the world.

This massive banquet-style restaurant in Flushing does things the old-fashioned way: waiters shuttle steam-heated carts stacked with piping-hot dishes around the restaurant. If you want something, just grab it. This brings a new meaning to first come, first serve.

The steamed shrimp dumplings are a standout dish and are served fresh, with a thin and well-formed skin. Siu mai is a classic choice, and we’d also recommend the perfectly flaky egg tarts. For the adventurous, the chicken feet in black bean sauce is a Cantonese classic.

We’d recommend sticking mainly to the dim sum or specialty seafood options if you want to order a la carte. If you don’t want to wait in line, there are so many top-notch restaurants in Flushing for noodle and rice dishes that you don’t necessarily need to put all your buns in one steamer!

2. Sample local wines at Keuka Kafe Wine Bar & Kitchen

Upstate New York is famous for the New World wine-producing region around the Finger Lakes . If you’re looking for fun things to do in Queens, you can easily get a taste of it without ever leaving NYC at Keuka Kafe Wine Bar & Kitchen .

The vibe is cozy and unpretentious. This is a family-run neighborhood spot with tons of charm and great service. Locals and tourists alike mingle here because of the ambiance and friendliness – that and the inspired wine menu.

If you’re after the classics, look no further than the Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cab Franc options, which are all local. Keuka also specifically highlights unusual varietals and blends on its menu. These selections make for unique sips, so check them out!

For the full wine tasting experience, you can choose from a variety of cheese and meats to create your own custom charcuterie board. Selections include specialty New York produce alongside carefully chosen imports from across North America and Europe.

In case you get peckish, the sandwiches and burgers are standouts, but you really can’t go wrong. Finish everything off with a dessert wine, then get ready to come back the next day for everything you couldn’t try on your first visit!

3. Catch the waves at NYC’s only surfing beach

Queens is home to the only legal surfing beach in NYC: The Rockaways. Well-known to NYC natives, this beach is usually less crowded in comparison to hotspots like Coney Island and Orchard Beach. Plus, you’ll have over 120 acres of sandy shoreline to stretch out on here!

Getting to Rockaway Beach is easy. You can catch the NYC ferry or take the subway, but there are also dedicated coaches you can jump on that will take you directly to the shore, complete with AC and cold drinks – essentials during a New York summer.

The best surfing beaches are Beach 92nd Street, Beach 67th Street, and Beach 69th Street. Of the three, Beach 92nd gets bigger waves, but it’s also the busiest. You’ll get consistent waves up to three feet high usually.

As one of the top Queens attractions, this is a great place to pick up some lessons and check something off your Queens bucket list. Locals Surf School offers them all year long.

Sip on a seasonal sour beer after working hard out on the water. Rockaway Brewery has a location just a short skip and hop from the beach. It’s the first brewery to open right in Queens, and you’ll love the cool beachy vibes of the taproom.

4. Go behind the scenes at the Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image is one of the best museums in Queens. To start with, the building architecture is a perfect backdrop for your own moving images. The exhibits cover the craft, history, and techniques of filmmaking from its humble beginnings till now.

The MoMI goes deep into the tech of filmmaking alongside the art of it. We love the unique collection of vintage cinematography equipment on display in a detailed timeline that makes up the museum’s core exhibition. You won’t be able to think of movies the same way once you see how far the form has come!

Special exhibits here cover seminal films and series or important figures in the history of film. We love the range on display – everything from a deep dive into practical effects in Jim Henson’s work to the making of educational science films to the production of The Walking Dead !

If you want to make a day of it, you can catch special showings of movies here every weekend. Consider it a taste of film school. Think Golden Age, experimental animation, classics (and cult classics), and foreign cinema – all incredibly curated to a new theme every month.

5. Get contemporary at MoMA PS1

You know MoMA, but do you know MoMA PS1 ? This alternative museum is a cultural landmark, and it’s located right in Long Island City, Queens. Plus, it’s the best gallery space in the area for local, contemporary art and easily one of the coolest things to do in Queens.

This art institute had a past life as a public school. The school closed in the ‘60s but was reopened by a local non-profit as a studio and exhibition space. It’s now part of the MoMA family, but those original countercultural roots still remain in the museum’s curatorial focus on emerging artists and public engagement.

Keep an eye out for special events. Weekly programs like Sunday Sessions feature NYC art collectives, DIY spaces, and community organizations. The Courtyard Commission features interactive, year-round installations and frequently hosts outdoor shows.

Admission is always free for NYC residents and is affordable for everyone else passing through. Plus, if you buy a ticket to MoMA, you’ll also get admission to MoMA PS1. Expect to spend about an hour on the exhibits indoors, but do linger a while in the courtyard with a cup of tea and catch up on your reading.

Once you’ve gotten your art fix, just head down the street to check out some of Queens’ best restaurants and lounges.

6. Picnic in the Queens Botanical Garden

The Queens Botanical Garden is a welcome break from the bustling concrete jungle that is NYC. You might never want to leave this 39-acre urban oasis. It’s one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the area and one of the top Queens activities if you’re looking for a reprieve from the city.

This amazing garden started as an exhibit at the 1939 World’s Fair. Local residents lobbied to keep and expand it, and we’re so glad they did! The current garden still features historic plantings from the original exhibit, which, incredibly, moved from the old site to the current one on Main Street in Flushing. 

The garden features several areas inspired by the diverse communities in Queens. The Circle Garden contains plants significant in Korean cultures, an orchard of cherry blossoms erupts with color in the spring, and the Herb Garden features Native American and Asian flora.

We love the Fragrance Walk, which smells like the most floral of essential oils and is just divine. You can’t go wrong when choosing where to picnic, but we love the shade under the trees in the Arboretum. 

The Rose Garden is also picturesque and peaceful. Just pack some brie and seltzer and settle in! There’s a Children’s Garden for the little ones and a Bee Garden if you’re looking for some hands-on ecological exploration.

7. Question everything at the New York Hall of Science

A visit to The New York Hall of Science is one of the most fun things to do in Queens for those of all ages. It’s perfect for families, but you’ll also enjoy the respite from the city as a solo visitor or a couple. It’s located right by the Queens Botanical Garden, so you have a whole day’s agenda ready to go.

This delightful space in Queens was founded as part of the 1964 World’s Fair, and it has since grown into New York’s foremost science center. Over 500,000 people visit every year, making this a world-class attraction.

NYSCI features over 450 interactive art and science exhibits. There’s an awesome immersive experience called Connected World that’s a must-see, VR activities, a hands-on Design Lab, Maker Space, and live demos of scientific experiments.

Catch an animated feature film at the 3D Theater, or bring the kiddos (or your inner child) to the preschool section. Clamber around on a massive outdoor playground or go par for par in Rocket Minigolf. There’s enough to do that your trip could fill up the entire afternoon.

8. Try authentic Asian street food at New World Mall

Flushing’s historic Chinatown has so many restaurants it’s hard to choose just one. Instead, you can try a bunch of Asian street food at New World Mall . Trust us – this is not your typical food court.

With over 30 vendors, you can find pretty much anything you might have a craving for and many things you might never have heard of. Chinese and Korean foods make up the majority of options, but you’ll also find Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese selections too.

We’re talking hand-pulled noodles, dry hot pot, skewers, scallion pancakes, bao, and malatang, to name a few. The sheer variety will transport you from NYC to a Hong Kong market or Singaporean hawker center. Some of the menus are not translated, which is part of the experience that makes this food court a quintessential Queens bucket list activity!

Finding the food court can be tricky – just head to the basement level – but be warned as it can get very crowded.

There’s plenty to do in the mall and the area once you’ve packed in your fill of noodles, rolls, and dumplings. Belt tunes at a karaoke bar, do some shopping, or just stroll around Main Street and take in the sights, smells, and sounds of this unique part of Queens.

9. Get the perfect skyline view at Gantry Plaza State Park

That is, skyline and riverside views. Gantry Plaza State Park is a Queens institution, and it is hands down one of the coolest things to do in Queens if you want to get a view of Manhattan. This park offers 12 acres of green space right on the eastern bank of the Hudson River.

The most distinctive features, and the park’s namesake, are the restored gantries that serve as a monument to the park’s industrial past as a barge unloading station. The gantries now serve as stages for outdoor concerts during warmer months.

You can easily glimpse the Empire State Building and the United Nations Headquarters along with the rest of midtown from across the water. Stroll around the manicured gardens and the piers, then have a seat by the mist fountain.

If you’re feeling more active, you’ll find basketball courts, playgrounds, handball courts, and a fishing pier here. Pick up some 3-on-3 with the locals, or just people-watch. The park is popular but rarely crowded, and there are plenty of places to lounge and take in the view.

10. Catch a baseball game at Citi Field

Citi Field is the home field of the New York Mets, and it’s lauded as a perfect stadium for the sport, with modern amenities and elevated concessions. Even if you’re not familiar with the sport, spending an afternoon here for a game is easily one of the coolest things to do in Queens.

This baseball stadium contains a rotunda named after Dodgers legend Jackie Robinson to honor his contributions to the sport. The Mets Hall of Fame & Museum is a must-see if you’re a fan. It houses plaques and trophies honoring the team.

You might settle into the stands here with a Fuku chicken sandwich, a salmon belly roll, and some vegan nachos to round things out. There are some seriously fun selections here: you can even order a whole steak! And don’t forget the drinks. From craft beer and rosé to fresh lemonade, there’s something for everyone.

The park contains fun additions like the Home Run Apple, a massive sculptural apple that rises whenever the Mets score a home run. You’ll also be able to do some batting of your own at a cage in the stadium or check out the arcade when not attending a game.

11. Birdwatch at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Get a breath of fresh air away from the crowds and streets of the city. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge sits in the middle of the marshy tidelands near JFK. It’s the most peaceful place in Queens, and it’s open from sunrise to sunset

 This 12,600-acre wildlife refuge lies fully within city limits. You might see Brooklyn to the west and Queens to the east, depending on where you go. The NYC skyline is visible across the bay, and catching sunsets here is definitely one of the best things to do in Queens.

The refuge provides a habitat for the many birds, aquatic critters, and small mammals of the salt marshes. Keep an eye out for majestic falcons, herons, and osprey, among many others. During migration season, you could see hundreds, if not thousands, of birds! 

The West Pond is particularly gorgeous. You can hike around the pond’s loop trail, then head to the shorter trails on the east pond. Don’t forget the bug spray, and bring your binoculars if you have them.

12. Spice things up with authentic Szechuan hot pot

Shoo Loong Kan is a famous hot pot chain that originated in Chengdu, China. The location at Tangram in Flushing is the first to come stateside. It held its grand opening in July of 2022, and this is one of the must-do things in Queens if you’re a serious foodie.

The international acclaim is well deserved. This restaurant serves inspired ambiance alongside mouthwatering flavors. For the uninitiated, Szechuanese cuisine features the infamous Szechuan pepper. This spice creates a tingling sensation that enhances the taste of other chilies and flavors.

The tomato broth is a standout with milder spice, but you’ll want to go with the mala soup if you want that classic Szechuan heat. You can order dishes of fresh bluefin tuna and Kobe beef to cook right at your table paired with handmade noodles.

The stone walls and floors recall historic Chinese architecture, while the banquet tables take inspiration from designs dating back to the Han Dynasty. Colorful lanterns sway overhead, giving the restaurant a soft glow. 

The restaurant’s courtyard is designed in a traditional Sichuan style. All the custom architecture and furnishings were designed by a Flushing firm. The result is a fusion of the local style of Flushing with the deep history of Szechuanese cuisine and culture.

13. Shop unique boutiques in Astoria

Astoria is a quiet neighborhood in Queens with a lot of personality brimming beneath the surface. This comes out in the many small boutiques that line the borough’s streets. Come here if you’re looking for unique jewelry, stationary, beauty products, or other handmade and craft wares.

Lockwood stocks a little bit of everything. There are three locations in Astoria, including the flagship Home & Gift store, Lockwood Paper for stationary, and Lockwood Style for apparel. This is a fantastic lifestyle boutique to shop for yourself or anyone in your life. The selection is excellently curated and many items are made right in NYC.

For one-of-a-kind furnishings, make an appointment at StandOut Spaces . This homegrown enterprise stocks amazing antiques – hello, Napoleon daybeds and Bergère armchairs.

We love the vibe of Hellenic Aesthetic . This shop offers Greek-made fine jewelry and lifestyle products, and the apparel is gorgeous. This place is perfect if you’re looking for prints that really pop.

Side B specifically supports small batch makers, women-owned companies, and POC and LGBTQ+ businesses. You’ll find beautiful prints, unique board games, and candle scents like Steamed Rice and Melona Honeydew here. It’s the most unique shop in Astoria!

14. Meditate on Zen artwork at The Noguchi Museum

The beautiful Noguchi Museum is a must-see in Long Island City, Queens. It was designed by Isamu Noguchi himself to display his own work, and in that sense, it’s a building-scale installation featuring open-air and indoor galleries.

You won’t find blurbs on each piece in the collection. The space and artwork encourage individual connection and an experiential, rather than intellectual, connection to spaces and art objects.

Many of the works on display are large-scale sculptures, now arranged carefully within open-plan spaces that take advantage of the natural light and textures in their surroundings. Temporary exhibitions reflect on Noguchi’s body of work and his influence on contemporary artists.

The site itself is a repurposed 1920s factory building, and it also features an outdoor sculpture garden designed with Zen principles in mind. It’s a lovely place to relax and enjoy a quiet moment with your fellow travelers. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Queens, this place is a must!

15. Eat authentic Michelin-star Mexican cuisine

Start the day right with a seven Michelin-star brunch at Casa Enrique , a multiple award-winning restaurant in the heart of Long Island City. Casa Enrique’s menu honors the Mexican regions and cities of Chef Cosme Aguilar’s childhood. 

This is the most authentic Mexican food you’ll find in the city. Many of the recipes are traditional family recipes passed down through generations. These classics have made it all the way to Queens, where they’ve been given a refined twist.

From the outside, you wouldn’t think that this little neighborhood spot is so decorated – save for the line out the door. The atmosphere of the restaurant is casual and unpretentious, and prices have remained reasonable over the years. This means that the focus is all on good food and good company.

The outdoor seating is lovely, especially in the daytime. Consider trying the Sopecitos de Chorizo and Rajas Con Crema to start before digging into the Pastor Tacos, Chicken Enchiladas with Mole, or Hominy and Pork Pozole. 

And don’t skip the drinks. From the Fresh Fruit Margaritas to the Mezcal-infused cocktails, they make for a great accompaniment.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Queens, NY. What’s your favorite thing to do in Queens?

Planning a trip to New York? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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18 Fabulous Things To Do In Flushing, Queens

From places to get tasty egg waffles and fluffy soufflé pancakes to immersing yourself in nature at the Queens Botanical Garden, these are the best things to do in Flushing, Queens.

Table Of Contents

Coffee Shops/Cafés in Flushing

Best brunch/breakfast in flushing, best restaurants in flushing, best bars in flushing, best museums in flushing, best parks in flushing, unique experiences in flushing.

Queens’ Flushing neighborhood is a constantly evolving and diverse area . Home to one of NYC’s Chinatowns, this vibrant neighborhood has a different feel than other Queens neighborhoods. It was even frequently visited by Anthony Bourdain , so you know it’s a must-visit.

From the best places to grab a bite to eat to an insider’s look at the neighborhood’s best museums and parks, here’s our ultimate guide to Flushing, Queens.

No morning is complete without a nice, strong cup of joe–that’s why we’re thankful that New York City has no shortage of absolutely amazing coffee shops ! And, in our expert opinion, some of the best places to get coffee in Flushing include the following:

M Tea is a bubble tea spot in Flushing, Queens, and it might just be the most adorably-decorated café in all of NYC! The space is PINK on PINK , with pink cloud walls, pastel pink couches, and mini pink and white hot air balloons hanging from the ceiling. There’s even a giant hot air balloon couch! Not only is this spot super good, it’s totally Insta-worthy, and you can read more about it here .

📍 36-56 Main St.

2. Prince Tea House

Pretend you’re living the European dream at Prince Tea House, who serves fresh teas imported directly from France. From green and black tea to white and oolong, they literally have it all. And don’t forget to pair your tea with one of their delicious desserts, such as their green tea brûlée or strawberry shortcake parfait.

📍 36-39 Prince St.

3. Sweet Cats Cafe & Arcade

Sweet Cats Cafe is the triple threat bubble tea shop you didn’t know you needed, filled with cute photo-ops, tasty treats, and yes…arcade games! Their selection of Milk Tea is practically endless with favorites like Red Bean, Taro, Rose, Jasmine, Strawberry and more uncommon and delicious flavors like Almond, Banana, and Coconut, and once done sipping you can get to gaming! Read more here .

📍 35-21 Farrington St.

Whether it be a bagel , bacon, eggs, or anything in between, a great breakfast is (usually) enough to pull us out of bed in the morning–though much better when paired with bottomless drinks . And some of our favorite breakfast spots in Flushing include the following:

4. Eggcellent Pancake

Hong Kong egg waffles are a popular street food served crispy and hot, and Eggcellent Pancake definitely does it right. Beyond the egg waffles they also have the fluffiest, most melt-in-your-mouth soufflé pancakes , and we honestly

📍 135-15 40th Rd.

5. Uncle Bill’s Diner

For that classic no frills diner experience, Uncle Bill’s Diner is a must-stop. They have all the classics, from omelettes and french toast to their Big Breakfast, comprised of two eggs, two pancakes, two bacon slices, and two sausages served with potatoes and toast and, let’s face it, even with all of NYC’s tasty restaurants you can never go wrong with a simple diner .

📍 3017 Stratton St.

From all you can eat spots to places that make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to a Chinese village, Flushing is full of amazing spots to grab a bite to eat. Does the thought of Michelin-recommended Shanghainese food make your mouth water? Yeah, we thought so. Here’s where you should eat in Flushing:

America’s first all-you-can-eat topokki restaurant recently opened in Flushing, where they allow you to be the curator of your own meal! Topokki (also called tteokbokki) is a highly popular traditional Korean dish. These spicy rice cakes are considered “Korea’s national treasure,” and are a staple comfort food amongst Korean generations…so trying it for yourself is an actual must. Read more about Witch here .

📍 146-13 Northern Blvd.

7. Chongqing Lao Zao

For deliciously authentic hot pot, you need to head to Chongqing Lao Zao. This spot resembles an old Chinese village, and their hot pots have several compartments so you can keep all your ingredients separate. Menu highlights include sliced pig kidney, homemade black tofu, and duck gizzard skewers.

📍 37-04 Prince St.

8. Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao

Xiao Long Bao (also known as soup dumplings) originated from Nan Xiang County of Shanghai, China, and Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao opened its doors in Flushing back in 2006. They quickly gained popularity among food lovers, and have been selected as Michelin-recommended Shanghainese food for 9 consecutive years since 2007! Read more about them here .

📍 39-16 Prince St #104

From speakeasies to rooftop bars, there is some pretty great nightlife in Flushing–and when we’re looking to unwind with a cocktail in our hand, here’s where we head:

9. Below Shaku

This unassuming ramen shop Shaku Ramen may look like your ordinary spot to slurp down a steaming bowl of ramen, but below it likes Below Shaku, a hidden Shanghai-style speakeasy. Guests can sip on mix-your-own fresh fruit soju cocktails, sake, champagne, and traditional cocktails in the 25-seat speakeasy that exudes vintage Golden Age luxury. Read more about Below Shaku here .

📍 156-30 Northern Blvd.

10. The Attic Oyster & Cocktail Bar

The Attic is a speakeasy oyster and cocktail bar in the heart of downtown Flushing, Queens that specializes in craft cocktails–all of which almost look too good to drink! This classic speakeasy experience makes for the perfect intimate date night or just a chill and calm place to unwind after a long week.

📍 136-93 37th Ave Fl 2

11. Moon Bar Rooftop

Soak in stunning panoramic skyline views as you dance the night away to live DJs at Moon Bar Rooftop. Located on the 9th floor rooftop of The One Hotel, this stylish lounge is the perfect place to sip tasty signature cocktails while either soaking in the sun or gazing at the stars.

P.S. check out some of our other favorite rooftop bars .

📍 137-72 Northern Blvd Fl 9

There are quite a few museums in Queens–many of which make their home in Flushing! Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature or geek out on science, here are some museums in Flushing that you shouldn’t miss:

12. Queens Museum

Founded in 1972, the Queens Museum features modern and contemporary works, films, workshops, lectures, and performances. Here, they’re dedicated to presenting high quality arts and educational programming for New Yorkers, particularly residents of Queens, a uniquely diverse ethnic, cultural, and international community.

📍 New York City Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park

13. Voelker Orth Museum

Located inside an immigrant family’s 1890s home, the Voelker Orth Museum, Bird Sanctuary, and Victorian Garden, preserves the cultural and horticultural heritage of Flushing, Queens. Opened to the public in 2003, guests can wander through its rooms, rotating exhibitions, and garden, to indulge in stories and explore their connection to the local environment.

📍 149-19 38th Ave.

14. New York Hall of Science

Since being founded at the 1964–65 World’s Fair, the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) has evolved into New York’s center for interactive science, serving a half million students, teachers, and families each year. Welcoming 500,000 visitors annually, those who stop by are invited to learn to use science, technology, engineering, and math to tackle complex 21st century challenges.

📍 47-01 111th St.

NYC recently ranked in the top 10 for having the best parks in the U.S. , so you know you gotta visit every park you get the chance to! When it comes to galavanting around Flushing, here are some of our favorite parks and nature attractions to check out:

15. Flushing Meadows Corona Park

One of the city’s most iconic parks, Flushing Meadows Corona Park has scenic trails, lakes, places to play sports, a recreation center, and more. The park is home to several cultural institutions, including the Hall of Science, the Queens Wildlife Conservation Center, the Queens Zoo (part of the Wildlife Conservation Society), Queens Theatre, and Queens Museum. Each year it draws over nine million people from all over the world.

📍 Grand Central Parkway and Van Wyck Expy

16. Queens Botanical Garden

A trip to Flushing wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Queens Botanical Garden! This stunning urban oasis features seasonal plant walks, various events such as summer movie nights and community volunteer days, and is home to some of the most intriguing plants and botanics. Trust us, you could spend the entire day here and it still wouldn’t be enough!

📍 43-50 Main St.

17. Queens Zoo

Okay so the Queens Zoo isn’t exactly a park, but it’s located inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park, and with all the nature and wildlife you’ll find here we think it qualifies! The zoo has been open since 1968 and is spread out over 18 acres. From Southern pudu from Chile and Argentina and the American bison from the Great Plains to Andean bears–the only South American bear species–there’s so many animals to see here!

P.S. Check out some of our other favorite zoos in NYC .

📍 53-51 111th St.

What makes NYC so great is how unique each neighborhood is, and that certainly rings true when it comes to Flushing! Did you know they’re home to their own 24,000-square-foot food hall and hoi polloi?! Well, now you do! Check it out below.

18. Hoi Polloi

Much more than just your typical place to grab a bite to eat, this 24,000-square-foot f ood hall and hoi polloi recently opened at Queens’ Tangram and elicits the same energy and atmosphere as the open-air markets found in Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Taipei. The food hall features a wide array of delicious vendors, and the neighborhood’s first beer garden can even be found in the back! Learn more here .

📍 133-33 39th Ave.

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

Check out the 14 food destinations in Queens featured on New York Times ‘100 Best’ list 

Over a dozen Queens dining destinations made an appearance on this year’s New York Times list recognizing the best restaurants across the city. 

While the majority of the restaurants are located in Manhattan, fourteen of the hundred lauded establishments are spread across Queens. But what is most notable about the world’s borough’s presence on the list is the recognition of street vendors and food markets – not necessarily restaurants – that the other boroughs don’t have. 

The list was compiled by restaurant critic Pete Wells, who has been writing about food for the outlet since 2012. According to his bio, he makes an emphasis on highlighting establishments that may not have the funds to self promote. 

On last year’s inaugural list, Corona Plaza Vendors ranked 46 for a vast variety of Latin American street food that rivaled pricey restaurants with impossible to snag reservations.  But after the street vendors were forced out from the plaza by the city’s administration last summer, a fraction of them were able to resettle at another spot beneath the 7 train. This year, Vendors on Junction Boulevard was recognized as a top food destination. Wells recommends stopping at Tacos El Borrego and Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile for traditional Mexican and Ecuadorian bites. 

Also in Corona , Queens Night Market, which attracts 20,000 visitors every Saturday from April to October, is another unconventional food destination on the list. Despite the market dropping down in rank by 14 points this year, it remains incredibly popular for a variety of international stands reflecting the diversity of the borough. Now in its ninth season, the market is the most affordable stop on the list with everything $6 or less. 

Flushing had the most establishments to make the list in the borough. Wells says that ChongQing Lao Zao on Prince Street is an ideal destination for those who can handle their spice. But beware, the wait time for Sichuan style hot pots can be over two hours.

On the other side of Flushing is Temple Canteen , a South Indian eatery located in the basement of a Hindu temple on Holly Avenue. An impressive variety of dosas are served on paper plates and trays, cafeteria style, and everything on the menu is under $10. 

This year, the spot jumped 16 spots on the list and is ranked 80th across the city. A couple spots behind it on the list is Mapo Korean BBQ on 41st Avenue.  Wells refers to it as the “Peter Luger of Queens” and recommends ordering the galbi, short rib grilled over charcoal and sliced up at the table with wielding scissors. The longtime Flushing institution also serves seafood and pork ready to be made at your table. 

While Flushing may be a foodie paradise, the New York Times didn’t overlook South Ozone Park. Two restaurants on Lefferts Boulevard, one new to the area and another that’s been around for decades, made the list this year. 

Don Peppe , an old school Italian joint is known for its large serving of Italian classics that could feed a village. The spot wafts with garlic and is lined with old New York memorabilia.  Just a mile away is the highest ranking Queens establishment on the list the Trinciti Roti Shop , which offers a variety of Trinidadian cuisine.  The takeout only spot is a newcomer on the list, but Wells recommends ordering the “greatest fish sandwich in the five boroughs” along with chicken curry doubles and aloo pies. But due to its popularity, the Bake n Shark sandwich is only available on weekends. 

The Thai restaurant Zaab Zaab , which opened its first location on Woodside Avenue in Elmhurst , recently opened a new location in Williamsburg under the name Zaab Zaab Talay and also gained presence in several food halls in Manhattan. 

Birria Landia , a Mexican truck serving tacos for $3.50 each in Jackson Heights , also expanded in recent years with trucks into the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan. While the spot did drop 52 points on the list after ranking 18th in the city last year, Wells says that that the quality of the birria tacos and consomme to dip them in hasn’t changed. 

Some Queens spots went up in ranking from last year. AbuQir Seafood, an Egyptian restaurant on Steinway Street in Astoria , jumped up six spots. The ambience of the eatery evokes seafood stalls in Alexandria. Wells recommends ordering anything on the menu with eggplant, especially the baba ghanouj. But he says you can’t go wrong with any of the fresh seafood spread out to view on ice, and prepared in your choice. 

Close by in Long Island City , Quebecois bistro M. Wells also remained on the list this year, but dropped 33 spots. The restaurant is known for its avant-garde presentation and culinary experiences. The menu pays homage to traditional French-Canadian dishes, but with a modern twist like the duck tartare and liver mouse banh mi.  

Mariscos El Submarino , on Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, was referred to by Wells as a “shining contribution to the city” with a menu of memorable Mexican raw seafood. He recommends the aguachiles, which are similar to ceviche, but spend significantly less time “cooking” in the citric juices. 

On Jamaica Avenue in Richmond Hill, Caleta 111 also serves notable raw seafood like tiger’s milk ceviche. But the Peruvian restaurant also has traditional dishes like causas, mashed potatoes with various ingredients layered in. 

Last on the list is the longtime eatery Zum Stammtisch on Myrtle Avenue in Glendale. The restaurant has been serving house made wursts, cooked in the restaurant’s own smokehouse, since 1972. This year it moved up a couple spots on the list. 

Two  Queens restaurants featured last year didn’t make the cut this year – Papa Paplean, a Thai restaurant in Elmhurst, and Adda Indian Canteen in Long Island City. 

About the Author

Iryna Shkurhan

Iryna is a staff reporter primarily covering eastern Queens.

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How to Eat Your Way Through Queens, New York

The borough I’ve called home for decades is brimming with fascinating food finds, from Georgian khachapuri to Nepalese momos to Mexican tortas.

By Anya von Bremzen

Published on April 9, 2024

For most of my adult life I’ve lived in Queens, the largest of New York City’s five boroughs. Nicknamed “The World’s Borough,” with half of its 2.4 million residents being foreign-born, it’s one of America’s most diverse urban areas—and one of the most exciting places on the planet to eat. 

In my neighborhood of Jackson Heights, more than 160 languages are spoken, from Bengali to Thakali to Mixtec. Here I might spot a saffron-robed monk eating a Burmese tea leaf salad by the subway stairs or stumble on a church bazaar selling Salvadoran pupusas. 

As I worked on my cookbooks and National Dish , about cuisines and identities, food has always been my entry point into the polyglot social mosaic around me. In the part of Jackson Heights dubbed Little India, the air practically throbs with the scents of masalas from every South Asian region. To the west, along a vibrant pan-Latin thoroughfare under the elevated 7 train rumbling above, Quechua-speakers munch on chochos (lupini beans) and Colombian teens clutch plastic cups of Technicolor raspados (crushed ice). East of here is the Little Manila of Woodside. South lies Elmhurst, an ever-expanding Asia-zone with some of the most vibrant Thai food in the country. 

A far larger Asia-town awaits in Flushing where I can try noodles from Guangzhou or Chengdu or Lanzhou. Beyond it: Murray Hill’s massive Koreatown. And did I mention the Egyptian seafood and Balkan bureks and Greek pastries cheek by jowl with hip cocktail spots in fast-gentrifying Astoria? Or the post-Soviet mosaic that is Rego Park, where golden khachapuri (Georgian cheese pies) preen next to Uzbek samsa next to Slavic pirozhki at bakeries? Or—whew, I’m getting winded now—the indie modern-American restaurants in Ridgewood and Long Island City? In Queens, you can have it all. 

This borough of hyphenated cuisines and identities also challenges notions of what is “authentic.” Here Colombian yuca-dough empanadas might be made by Mexican ladies at a Chinese-run café chain, while a Latin cocktail place might double as a Moroccan hookah lounge. To eat here, as I have done for over three decades, is to develop an ever-deepening appreciation of food as a cultural force behind the vitality of our immigrant neighborhoods, a force that brings together communities even at a time when identity politics fracture the globe. 

Nepali Bhanchha Ghar

74-15 Roosevelt Ave. (917) 745-0533

The area around the Roosevelt Avenue-Jackson Heights subway station is dubbed Himalayan Heights for the Nepalis and Tibetans who continue to settle here, hooking the multicultural hood on their austere, pleasingly rugged cuisines. A Himalayan Heights eating adventure can quickly turn into a lesson in Nepal’s  many ethnicities (Sherpas, Thakkalis, and Mustangs, to name a few). And it will inevitably involve momos —the pleated dumplings that flourish hereabouts as something of an edible life force. For silky-skinned chicken or goat momos bobbing in jhol, a complex spicy broth pungent with Nepali masala, I love Bhancha Gar, winner multiple times of New York’s annual Momo Crawl competition. This homey spot also peddles crisp-golden sel roti (a skinny Nepali rice dough doughnut) served with spicy chutney for dipping. And yes, you’ll also want the sukuti, the chewy curried beef or goat jerky that Yamuna Shrestha, the petit, feisty co-owner, air-dries herself. 

Tortas Neza

104-58 Roosevelt Ave. (347) 666-1517

The stretch of Roosevelt Avenue from Jackson Heights east to Corona is the borough’s pan-Latin food corridor. Churros and chuzos, tamales and tacos, Colombian arepas and Ecuadorian mote (hominy) are hawked on its thronged sidewalks as cumbia, salsa, and ranchera blast from loudspeakers. Around 104 th Street under the elevated 7 train tracks, you’ll find the blue Tortas Neza truck, where larger-than-life fútbol (soccer) fanatic Galdino Molinero constructs epic Mexican tortas (sandwiches) named after Mexico’s soccer teams. There’s always a wait, as Molinero crumbles chorizo, sizzles bacon, flips eggs on his griddle, and meticulously slices avocados for one of his 19 made-to-order creations. The result is worth the wait, especially when it’s a Torta Pumas (chorizo, ham, bacon, head cheese, veggies, breaded chicken, stringy quesillo, and pickled jalapeños), named for his soccer team. Customers receive this jaw-challenging tour-de-force with understandable awe. 

76-04 Woodside Ave. (631) 526-1664

The three-block stretch of Elmhurst’s Woodside Avenue, officially named Little Thailand in 2022, is the place to experience intense Thai flavors undiluted for farangs (foreigners). For herbaceous, funky cuisine from the country’s northeastern Isaan region, head to Zaab Zaab, the city’s only Thai restaurant awarded three stars by the New York Times dining critic, Pete Wells. Owned by seasoned restaurateurs Bryan Chunton (from Bangkok) and Pei Wei (from Taiwan), this hip, cheerful space with ceiling paintings of roosters is your source for the now-famous duck larb, featuring minced duck meat, liver, and cracklings all shot through with charred galangal, makrut lime, and chiles. There’s also hor mok, catfish and sticky-rice-flour “pudding” inside a banana-leaf parcel, and a whole steamed branzino in an irresistible lime-garlic broth (you‘ll want some sticky rice to sponge that up). A newer star on the menu is the majestic gai yang vichean buri, a whole grilled baby chicken marinated for 24 hours in coriander, black and white pepper, and lemongrass—served family style with two fiery papaya salads. 

Mapo Korean BBQ

149-24 41st Ave. (718) 886-8292

Home to over 60,000 Koreans, Flushing’s Koreatown stretches for miles and can truly feel like a suburb of Seoul with spas, herbalists, neon-lit karaoke joints, fried chicken spots, and pochas (Korean bars) where English is seldom spoken. Craving the borough’s best classic tabletop BBQ? Emerge from the Murray Hill LIRR into a cluster of eating establishments dubbed Meokjagolmok (“Let’s Eat Alley”) and head to the resolutely old-school Mapo BBQ. Beautifully marbled Black Angus kalbi (short ribs) are the draw here, marinated in soy and Asian pear pulp and grilled over real hardwood coal, which the maternal waitresses pile into your tabletop pit--returning often to make sure everything is cooking to its succulent prime. The servers readily replenish the generous spread of banchan including (natch) exemplary kimchi. And I’m still daydreaming about the sizzling cast iron side of corn cheese that comes with the kalbi.

Rolo’s  

853 Onderdonk Ave. (718) 417-6567

Ridgewood, the formerly working-class neighborhood bordering Brooklyn, began attracting attention a few years ago as young New Yorkers moved in looking for affordable housing. Sparking the neighborhood’s current restaurant boomlet was Rolo’s, a sprawling corner neighborhood place with a green awning, opened during the pandemic by four Gramercy Tavern alums. What started out as an all-day café and grocery has evolved into a quietly ambitious restaurant with warm cozy looks, a cool bar program (try the signature white negroni and tonic), a wine list rich in quirky affordable finds, and wood-fired cuisine pushing all the zeitgeisty buttons. Don’t miss the house-made mortadella and the giant flame-licked polenta flatbread with Calabrian chili butter. The kitchen, eclectic but leaning Italian, also does a marvelous two-sheet green lasagna blistered in that oven; zingy crudos (fluke with salsa macha, for instance) and succulent dry-aged house-butchered steaks. Desserts from pastry chef Kelly Mancin might include a dreamy passionfruit crème caramel.

New World Mall Food Court

136-20 Roosevelt Ave. (718) 353-0551

Flushing, the last stop on the 7 train, is New York’s real Chinatown, so thick with regional eateries it’s hard to choose between Sichuan hotpot, Cantonese dim sum, or lamb chops from Donbei. Luckily the food court of the brash, glitzy New World Mall has 32 vendors specializing in different dishes and styles. The place can be a bit overwhelming, but definitely stop at stall #30 (Joon Hang Boon Sek) where unsmiling Korean-Chinese ladies from Shandong speed-pleat plump pork and chive dumplings . You’ll also want some lamb-filled samsa pastries from #5 (Tarim Uyghur Food), while # 28 (Xi’an Cuisine) is your source for flaky “Chinese burgers” and slippery cold liang pi (aka skin noodles) from China’s Northwest Shaanxi province. And don’t neglect the beef brisket soup at #15 (Lan Zhou Noodles) where nimble cooks flip and pull dough for the freshly made noodles. Still hungry? Consider a spicy Sichuan dry pot at #24 (Tian Fu Cuisine), and to finish, a Taiwanese sweet mung bean soup or intriguing herbal jelly concoction from #10 (3 Dessert).

Adda Indian Canteen

31-31 Thomson Ave. (718) 433-3888

Each new restaurant from Unapologetic Foods, the group behind Dhamaka and Semma, is a sensation, including their latest hit, Filipino-flavored Naks. Amid all the hype one can forget that Adda Canteen, opened in 2018 on a cinematically forlorn stretch of Long Island City, was the place that propelled chef Chintan Pandya and restaurateur Roni Mazumdar to fame—and made goat brains the talk of New York. The unapologetically bold Desi regional cooking is still uncompromising at Adda, and the space decorated with collages of Indian newspapers still feels both edgy and cozy. The kitchen continues to send out playful Indian street snacks like the pakoda of kale served with sweet-tangy chutneys; smoky tandoori hits (grab the pompano crusted with mustard seeds); and multilayered curries so fiery you’ll be gulping mango lassis to extinguish the heat. The signature Lucknow-style dum biryani is quite a show, with servers breaking the dough lid to stir up the steamed basmati rice loaded with curried goat and fried onions. As for the plush house-made paneer used here in several dishes, it’s good enough to inspire whole cults. Ditto those goat brains. 

Hamido Seafood

3308 Ditmars Blvd. (718) 545-2200

The section of Astoria dubbed “Little Egypt” is known for its “you pick it, they cook it” seafood establishments whose displays let diners pluck their dinner from a mound of crushed ice. Usually run by Egyptians from the coastal city of Alexandria (folks who know fish), these restaurants include old-school stalwarts like Sabry’s, as well as more recent newcomers like Hamido Seafood, my favorite. This busy spot, decked out with nautical paraphernalia, was opened in 2019 by Alexandria-born restaurateur Moghared (Rudy) Mansy, and his cousin Mohamed Abuker, who cooks like a dream. After choosing from the gleaming-fresh catch on the counter—red snapper, whiting, porgy, shrimp, clams, lobster—you decide if you want it fried or griddled in a coating of bran; roasted with garlic and olive oil; or oven-baked sengari-style, (butterflied and stuffed with tomatoes). While you wait at the table for your charred branzino or a daily special of tomatoey seafood tagine, select your side dishes--then listen to the server explain that Hamido is named after a ‘70s Egyptian comedy in which undercover cops pretended to be fishermen.  

Taste of Samarkand

62-16 Woodhaven Blvd. (718) 672-2121

After the Soviet Union went bust, Rego Park became the hub of a Central Asian (Bukharan) Jewish diaspora from Uzbekistan, with Muslim Uzbeks arriving more recently. The neighborhood’s Bukharan restaurants all have similar Silk Road fare: tandir-baked flatbreads and samsa (filled pasties); lagman soup loaded with hand-pulled Uyghur -style noodles; and pilafs and kebabs, plus a few Slavic dishes. On the neighborhood’s southern edge, Taste of Samarkand, named for the famed Silk Road city, stands out with its precise cooking and traditional carved-wood decor. Make sure to order the fist-sized manti  (dumplings) filled with hand-chopped lamb; the noni toki, a dramatically concave matzo-like bread; and the unusual nakhot garmack , nutty chickpeas braised forever with veal tails. The magnificent plov (pilaf) here comes spiced with Uzbek wild cumin, threaded with julienned carrots, and loaded with lamb chunks. 

43-15 Crescent St. (718) 786-9060

Over a decade ago, before the glossy residential skyscrapers of Long Island City came looming up all around, Canadian chef Hugue Dufour and his wife, Sarah Obraitis (a Queens girl), opened their quirky, loveable steakhouse in a former auto-body repair shop. With its glowing bar, open kitchen, cool cocktails and wines, deep pink walls, and silvery-leafy wallpapered ceiling softening the industrial look, M. Wells feels like a Brigadoon that’s delightfully stayed put. But its “tiny but mighty menu” Obraitis says, is always evolving, now leaning more soulful Québécois bistro than chophouse. Dufour’s playful approach shines in his mortadella mille-feuille and the much-feted wedge salad scattered with bacon and jagged red ketchup chips. In winter, go for the city’s cassoulet nonpareil, or a rosy venison loin, or the Montreal ravioli packed with smoked meat and punctuated with diced pickled green tomatoes. Summer might bring a bright crab-stuffed tomato with a dressing of purslane. Stoking the community spirit, M. Wells entices its neighbors with themed dinners, block parties, and screenings. And isn’t it heartening to see the place packed with real New Yorkers of all ages and walks of life, happy and laughing? 

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The 100 Best Restaurants in New York City in 2024

Our critic, Pete Wells, drops his annual ranking. See what’s new, what moved and what left the list.

By Pete Wells

I should have seen it coming last year when my editors put the following headline on my attempt to name the city’s greatest places to eat: “ The 100 Best Restaurants in New York City 2023 .”

That “2023” implies doing it again in 2024. Still, when they told me that’s exactly what they wanted, my first reaction was surprise. This was followed by the realization that I had a lot of eating to do.

Twenty-two places in this edition of “The 100 Best Restaurants in NYC” are new. I’ve eaten at all 100 in the past 12 months, except for La Piraña Lechonera and the Queens Night Market, both of which are currently closed for the season. (I don’t accept free meals from restaurants I write about.)

New York is a big city, and I tried to find 100 restaurants that represent its neighborhoods, its people and the rewards it has in store for hungry, curious eaters. The list is a tour. If you take it, you’ll see all five boroughs and a wide array of cooking and serving styles.

There are hushed counters where fewer than 10 people at a time enjoy the marvels a great sushi master can conjure, and open-air stalls where jerk chicken soaks up the smoke of hardwood charcoal. And quite a few restaurants in between.

Not many people will eat at all of them. But if you read about them, I hope you will start to see New York the way I see it whenever I look at my options and ask myself where I am going to eat next.

— Pete Wells

Showing all 100 restaurants.

Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi

Le Bernardin

La Piraña Lechonera

Superiority Burger

Una Pizza Napoletana

Jeju Noodle Bar

The Four Horsemen

Trinciti Roti Shop

Jean-Georges

Casa Mono and Bar Jamón

Queens Night Market

Café Carmellini

Shion 69 Leonard Street

Gramercy Tavern

Szechuan Mountain House

Forever Jerk

Clover Hill

Gage & Tollner

Shaw-naé’s House

Yoon Haeundae Galbi

Mercado Little Spain

Great N.Y. Noodletown

Village Cafe

Falafel Tanami

Barney Greengrass

Le Crocodile

Chongqing Lao Zao

AbuQir Seafood

Birria-Landia

Hainanese Chicken House

Mark’s Off Madison

S & P Lunch

Mariscos El Submarino

Temple Canteen

Foxface Natural

Hakka Cuisine

188 Bakery Cuchifritos

Hav & Mar

Hamburger America

Laghman Express

Mapo Korean BBQ

Cka Ka Qellu

Vendors at Junction Boulevard

Shopsin’s General Store

Hyderabadi Zaiqa

Zum Stammtisch

Ewe’s Delicious Treats

Randazzo’s Clam Bar

1. tatiana by kwame onwuachi.

Randy Smith for The New York Times

Go ahead, ask Resy to ping you when a table at Tatiana becomes available. You might as well learn Icelandic while you’re at it, because you’re going to be waiting a while. Deep into its second year, after much of the hype about Mr. Onwuachi’s spirited rundown of Black cooking styles in New York (Southern, Caribbean, West African, bodega-esque) has blown over, Tatiana remains among the very few places in town where reservations are truly hard to come by. It’s quickly becoming an institution. Is it maturing, too? The truffled chopped cheese is now a satisfying and rather lush steak sandwich, a more fully realized recipe even though it may no longer quite qualify as a chopped cheese. Service can still register as under-rehearsed. Yet the people working at Tatiana, many of them newcomers in the restaurant trade, convey genuine warmth and enthusiasm, which I’ll gladly take over the chilly formalities that prevail in other restaurants that charge this much or more for dinner. Mr. Onwuachi clearly wants you to have fun at Tatiana, but I suspect he also wants you to ask why there aren’t more places like it.

When the tasting counter in Roberta’s backyard finally reopened in January, it had something to show for its unusually long pandemic break: a new chef, Victoria Blamey. She works with Carlo Mirarchi, Blanca’s owner, within the nominally Italian outlines he established in its first decade: the esoteric raw seafood plates, the unexpected vegetable courses, the spare and thrilling bowls of pasta, the remarkable cuts of meat aged on site and painstakingly cooked over Japanese charcoal. But she builds on that structure, adding the intense flavors she loves (often from fermentation, as in the yuzu sauerkraut draped over raw surf clams) and some dishes drawn from the Chilean cuisine she grew up with (like tortilla de rescoldo, a flat and nearly black bread traditionally baked in ashes). Her far-reaching and forward-looking menu is served to a soundtrack provided by an open turntable and a stack of LPs. This has to be the only restaurant in the world where you can play side B of “Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves” while you wait for the pheasant course.

3. Le Bernardin

Karsten Moran for The New York Times

You can drop in for a fairly quick lunch, not the whole multi-installment chef’s tasting megillah, just a simple three courses for $127, in and out, no big deal, and still the cooking will make you feel as if tectonic plates were shifting under your feet. In January, what did it for me was the fluke. Boring old fluke, served all over town, where’s the thrill in that, Eric Ripert? And then one of the servers fills the white space around the fish with a sauce the color of saffron. It smells like fennel and lobster. The inspiration is bouillabaisse, right, but (tremor) why is it so briny and (rumble) rich and hey, um, is that (people run for cover …) sea urchin?

Daniel Krieger for The New York Times

At this point Manhattan must have more Korean tasting counters than kosher delis. Atomix remains the one to beat, though, the leader in finding new ingredients (locally foraged pineapple weed and maple flower are on the spring menu), grounding its experiments in tradition and putting its meals into the larger context of Korean ceramics, fabrics and even chopstick design. The concrete dining room is more chilly than cuddly, but it has little of the pretension that afflicts some other tasting counters. Its earnestness is surprisingly appealing.

5. Via Carota

Nico Schinco for The New York Times

Maybe you waited two hours for a table, maybe you lucked into a bar stool, maybe you took a reservation at one of those in-between times that are the only ones that ever seem to be offered. (At 4:15 p.m., are you having lunch or dinner?) In any case, as you hold up the broadsheet menu with its drawings of artichokes and figs, the old favorites compete for your attention: the crisp olives stuffed with pork, bruschetta under mounds of butter with a folded silvery anchovy on each mound, the slick tangle of tonnarelli studded with explosively fragrant peppercorns, the spreadably soft garlic cloves with golden sections of fried rabbit. There may not be another restaurant in town where so many dishes are indisputable classics, where, just when you think you’ve made up your mind, your eye falls on the meatballs sweetened with raisins and pine nuts …

6. La Piraña Lechonera

Lanna Apisukh for The New York Times

Each winter, the rickety, boarded-up trailer on East 152nd Street looks as if it won’t survive the next strong breeze. And each spring, Angel Jimenez unlocks the door, heats the deep fryer, powers up the salsa music, sharpens the machete and brings the city’s greatest expression of Puerto Rican eating back to life for another season. The frituras, little shrimp-filled pastelillos and shiny golden bacalaitos, are superb. So is the cold octopus salad, crunchy with diced peppers and olives. But the reason we wait all winter for La Piraña’s return is the roast pork. Rubbed with garlic and pepper, splashed with milky garlic sauce and, if you like, some vinegar-and-chile solution swirled in an empty rum bottle, it is the closest a New Yorker can get to a plate of slow-cooked lechon up in the mountains outside San Juan.

Dish picture: Karsten Moran for The New York Times. Interior picture: Lisa Corson for The New York Times.

The city hasn’t quite caught up with Semma yet. To some extent we can blame the Unapologetic Foods group, which opens restaurants faster than Guided by Voices puts out albums. But the real issue is that we haven’t seen anything like Vijay Kumar’s interpretations of South Indian food before. Mr. Kumar doesn’t just toy with the distinction between refined and rustic; he obliterates it. The North Fork snails he sautées with tomatoes and tamarind would be cooked over a campfire in the rice paddies of Tamil Nadu, yet they get along with a glass of Pouilly-Fuissé from the Mâconnais as readily as any Burgundian escargot.

8. Superiority Burger

Diner, vegetarian hangout, greenmarket evangelist, laboratory, improv collective, museum of East Village ephemera — ever since it moved to Avenue A last year, Superiority Burger has been trying out new personas, without discarding any of the old ones. The exceptional, airy focaccia that is the focus of a sizable cult is now sold by the slice, but only at the bar on Monday and Tuesday. Grab-and-go veggie burgers, “hippy poutine” and fried tofu sandwiches that turn every preconception about bean curd on its head are available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday after 11 p.m. (During this “Night Shift,” you can also eat a pie from the celebrated Chrissy’s Pizza pop-up, as long as you ordered ahead.) There is no time of day when you can’t get gelato and sorbet in freethinking flavors like saffron-labneh or tahini with fudge swirl. Waffles and other breakfast foods now materialize on weekends. Is this any way to run a hamburger stand? Yes, it is.

Evan Sung for The New York Times

At his counter on the Bowery, Tadashi Yoshida can wow you into submission before he hands you the night’s first piece of sushi. Your omakase dinner might begin with a small cocktail of caviar and bigfin reef squid in sweet and tender strands. Mochi might follow, grilled over charcoal until crisp and chewy, then wrapped around sun-dried mullet roe, briny and intense. During certain weeks of the year there could be white sacs of cod milt. Or oysters and tilefish in a rich, breathtaking soup made from hairy crab. Mr. Yoshida’s appetizer repertoire seems to be endless. By the time he fills a brazier with live charcoal to sear the mackerel sushi that is his signature, showstopping dish, your surrender is complete.

10. Torrisi

Torrisi is now turning out the most dazzling and accomplished cooking of all the Major Food Group restaurants. (The distinction used to belong to the Grill, which this year slides to No. 55 in my ranking.) Who knows what the future holds? But Rich Torrisi, standing in one corner of the open kitchen, conducting a crew that is equally adept with Vietnamese octopus as with tortellini folded as gracefully as a silk pocket square, certainly looks like a chef who has found his forever home.

Interior picture: Ben Russell for The New York Times. Dish picture: Ed Lefkowicz for The New York Times.

The food seems slightly more familiar than it did when Ignacio Mattos brought Estela to Houston Street in 2013. One reason for this is that small-plates restaurants across the country have helped themselves to its unexpected flavor harmonies and unforced visual aesthetic. Some even lifted entire recipes. Never mind the imitators, though. An Estela dish can still knock you over with originality. Where else can you get orange segments under a floss of dried shrimp and Thai chile threads? Nowhere, yet.

12. Una Pizza Napoletana

Dish picture: Evan Sung for The New York Times. Interior picture: Daniel Krieger for The New York Times.

A couple of years ago, Una Pizza was half-empty so often that its owner, Anthony Mangieri, was thinking of pulling up stakes. Then he did an about-face — or maybe we did. Now, he and his pizza are acknowledged downtown institutions. Fans buy Una Pizza-branded apparel, extra-virgin olive oil and panettone; they begin lining up half an hour before the doors open; and they’ve made reservations among the city’s most scalpable. The source of this fevered loyalty is the five standard pies and a weekly special, all of them with a fat, tender, char-speckled Hula-Hoop of dough surrounding a low valley of tomatoes or cheese or both. There’s not much else on the menu, but the fire-roasted peppers are worthwhile and the sorbetto can be stunning.

13. Ci Siamo

I know people who refused to try Ci Siamo for a while because it’s located in Nowheresville — the concrete future-scape known as Manhattan West. Then they went, and they got lost. They complained about the schlep before, during and after the next visit. But when they found themselves planning a third meal, they were forced to admit that Hillary Sterling has put Nowheresville on the map. There are other chefs in town with a wood-burning hearth and a love of rustic Italian flavors, but Ms. Sterling’s menu may have the highest percentage of dishes that are flat-out fantastic.

Liz Barclay for The New York Times

It can be depressing when restaurants are cloned, but for Jean-Georges Vongerichten there were undeniable advantages to making a branch of ABCV out of his vegetarian hide-out, Seeds & Weeds, in the Tin Building. For one, an outright copy can be better than a halfhearted imitation. ABCV’s executive chef, Neal Harden, has spent years studying interesting ways to eat grains, roots, fungi and so on. His food is so much more advanced than it is at other, similar places that eating there can be like time-traveling and discovering that the post-livestock future turned out extremely well. If ABCV can be cloned successfully, we may not need to clone meat.

The cooking of Jiangnan, including Shanghai and the cities of the southern Yangtze Delta, gets the nuanced treatment it deserves at CheLi. Instead of, say, scorching chiles or other powerful seasonings, Jiangnan uses Shaoxing wine to provide subtle, invisible emphasis in many dishes, like chilled wine-soaked crab and stir-fried loofah. Dragonwell tea scents the soft curls of sweet Longjing shrimp, which come to the table enveloped in dry-ice fog. Delicate is probably not the best word for CheLi’s mao xue wang, a majestic stew of ham, beef, shrimp, intestines and congealed duck’s blood, all bobbing under a quarter-inch or so of chile oil. But it’s not wrong, either.

16. Jeju Noodle Bar

Cole Wilson for The New York Times

Getting a table is no easy feat, but apart from that, Jeju is one of the city’s most accessible modern Korean restaurants — a crowded category that has more than its share of tasting menus with triple-digit prices. The quietly marvelous mushroom ramen, with Parmesan foam and a squeeze of lime, is a meal in itself, and costs $27. For about the same price there are seafood appetizers, such as rosy cubes of raw kinmedai and clams in a dill- and chive-scented broth, so carefully considered they could be airlifted right into a 12-course degustation, although they’d probably have to be a tenth the size.

17. The Four Horsemen

John Kernick for The New York Times

Whatever picture floats through your mind when you think of a rock star’s restaurant, it probably doesn’t resemble the Four Horsemen, owned in part by James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem. There is no grandstanding, no concert memorabilia and very little debauchery unless you count the four-top of wine-business insiders in the back drinking magnums of organic, wild-fermented Champagne from Georges Laval. What the restaurant does have is a low-key obsession with excellence. You see it in the attention to brewing tea and coffee, in the basket-drained ricotta made daily in kitchen, in the unfussy seasonality of Nick Curtola’s menus, and in the way the servers seem to know all about the wines but aren’t in a rush to prove it. Like everything else at this serious little restaurant, it just seems to happen naturally.

18. Trinciti Roti Shop

Sometimes when I land at JFK, I am tempted to make the 10-minute drive to Trinciti so I can refresh myself with two or three Trini chicken curry doubles and a couple of aloo pies, slit open and filled with shrimp and tamarind chutney. But the sad truth is that I’m always too tired from traveling, and there’s no place to sit at Trinciti. Plus, you need your wits about you simply to order, particularly on the weekend, when there is one line for bake and shark, another for all the other food, and a third to pay. Friday, Saturday and Sunday are the only days you can get bake and shark — spicy, sweet, tangy and crunchy in about five different ways, it is the greatest fish sandwich in the five boroughs. So I treat Trinciti as a destination of its own, worth a separate trip.

19. Jean-Georges

By this point, Jean-Georges Vongerichten shouldn’t have any tricks left up his sleeve. But a six- or 10-course dinner at his urbane, understated restaurant on Columbus Circle is almost sure to deliver something you didn’t quite see coming. Wagyu tenderloin with braised endive might look like a simple steakhouse riff, but how can that sticky and intensely fruity hoisin sauce get along so well with a jus that carries the fragile perfume of bergamot? How can citrus segments, spicy Fresno chiles and shiso oil be piled on top of raw scallops without crushing their sweetness? Sean Considine, the pastry chef, makes sure the surprises start up again with dessert and continue through the final barrage of marshmallows, pâtes de fruits and chocolates.

Mam is still something of a rough draft, but it is looking more and more like a serious restaurant. True, the miniature kitchen, miniature dining room and miniature plastic furniture were part of what made Mam so charming in its early days on Forsyth Street, when Jerald and Nhung Dao Head were dishing out Hanoi-style bun dau mam tom to a small audience at what seemed to be a pop-up. The crowds grew as word got out about the housemade fried tofu, the blood sausage, the fish mint and other Vietnamese herbs, and the fermented shrimp sauce that made everything taste better. But crowds and small quarters are not made for each other. Last year, the Heads signed a lease on a space next door. Meanwhile, Mr. Head has been adding to his repertory, applying his obsessive, detail-oriented attention to, among other things, a pho bo that rivals his bun dau mam tom.

21. Casa Mono and Bar Jamón

According to the second law of thermodynamics, exciting young restaurants are doomed to become less exciting with age. At 20 years old, Casa Mono and its wine-bar annex next door, Bar Jamón, gracefully defy that law every day. Andy Nusser hasn’t lost his appreciation for the strong, elemental flavors of Spanish cuisine: smoky eggplant purée beneath fried baby squid; the paprika blast of the raw, spreadable pork sausage sobrasada, to be smeared on golden toast with waxy chunks of honeycomb. The nose-to-tail fad has come and gone, and Casa Mono sails on placidly, flying the flag of lambs’ tongues and pigs’ ears. The wine list has grown to about 600 Spanish bottles: serious Cava, aged Rioja and avant-gardists from all over.

Colin Clark for The New York Times

There are no bad seats at Kono, a dramatic, black-walled yakitori on an alley in Chinatown. The stools on either side of the grill, though, have the best view of the chef, Atsushi Kono. He never stops moving. All night he’s turning, poking, relocating and examining chicken skewers, placing one over searing heat, letting another rest above a cooler patch of charcoal. His hypervigilance produces degrees of tenderness and juiciness and crunchiness that can make you feel as if you’re eating chicken for the first time.

23. Queens Night Market

You sometimes hear that you can find every cuisine on earth somewhere in Queens. That’s not true yet, but the first place to check would be the lawn behind the New York Hall of Science, where the Queens Night Market runs every Saturday from April to October. Vendors this year will be making cassava leaf stew from Sierra Leone; Fujianese oyster fritters, popularly known as UFOs; ducana, the Antiguan mash of sweet potato and coconut wrapped in banana leaves; and a few dozen other local specialties. As usual, nothing will cost more than $6.

24. Café Carmellini

Rachel Vanni for The New York Times

At Locanda Verde, the Dutch, Lafayette and Carne Mare, Andrew Carmellini’s personal cooking style is buried so deep in the mix that you could eat at all of them and still not be able to say just what an Andrew Carmellini restaurant is. At Café Carmellini, you get to hear his voice. He’s cooking in an elaborate, technically adroit style that he hasn’t used much since his days working for Daniel Boulud. We tend to connect that style with dusty old recitations of haute cuisine, an association the silver domes and somewhat stilted service don’t quite dispel. But there’s nothing antiquated about Café Carmellini’s food. It’s fresh and sharp; he’s having fun showing off skills you don’t often see these days. Even when he blends French and Italian cuisines, not exactly an earth-shattering concept, he puts them together in his own way.

One appetizer at Sailor is a tribute to the chef Judy Rodgers, an antipasto plate of anchovies, celery slices, black olives and pieces of Parmesan that was a fixture on Ms. Rodgers’s menus at Zuni Café in San Francisco. It is as close to a manifesto as we are likely to get from April Bloomfield, the gifted and non-loquacious chef at Sailor. What it might be saying: Creativity is overrated, details are everything, the best cooking is invisible, and the best cooks know when to get out of the way. You might come to the same conclusions on your own when you eat her roasted potatoes stuck to crisp wafers of toasted cheese, her warm hunks of celery root basted with melted butter, her smoked pork shoulder collapsing in on itself and her mahogany-dark caramel sauce clinging to crisp puffs of profiteroles.

For years, Persian food aficionados dreamed of finding a respectable tahdig in the city, or even an acceptable khoresh fesenjan. Today Sofreh, in Prospect Heights, makes those and other dishes in a traditional, homestyle form, while Eyval, in Bushwick, reimagines them as modern restaurant dishes. You can eat well in both restaurants, but when the mood for black lime and saffron strikes me, I’m more likely to head for Eyval. I appreciate the way Ali Saboor uses his wood oven to pin down the smoky character of Iran’s street food. I like the way his boranis repurpose yogurt as a foil for seasonal vegetables. As for the tahdig, it’s been edited down to the crunchy, golden quarter-inch at the bottom of the pan, exactly the thing that makes tahdig worth dreaming about.

Sasha Arutyunova for The New York Times

Participles are all over the menus at King: “crushed celeriac,” “smashed borlotti beans,” “torn Taggiasca olives.” If it was your first time there, that menu would tell you the food is going to look handmade and a little messy, in an appealing way. You’d know, too, that the chefs, Jess Shadbolt and Clare de Boer, have noticed the way rough edges make things taste better. Much of the inspiration is southern French or northern Italian, but the, sensual allure of the food comes directly from cooks who know the value of crushing, smashing and tearing.

28. Le Coucou

Danny Ghitis for The New York Times

The slender white tapers, the soaring toques and the quenelles de brochet refer to New York’s historic Le and La restaurants more than they do to anything in the France of today. (Paris hot spots like Clamato just look like Brooklyn.) The menu brings the domed plates of haute cuisine into the modern world, paying more attention to vegetables and flavors that were unknown at Le Pavillon. The tart and slightly funky counterpoint to halibut in a satiny beurre blanc is provided by a bed of fermented daikon, and the roast venison loin comes with a side of cabbage, draped in smoked cream, that’s sort of astonishing.

29. Zaab Zaab

Portrait picture: Will Englemann. Dish picture: Adam Friedlander for The New York Times

In the two years since its sharply focused larb ped udon and other Isan dishes began drawing enthusiastic crowds to Elmhurst, Zaab Zaab has changed chefs and gone on an expansion tear. Today Zaab Zaabs can be found at the Essex Market in Manhattan; a new retail-residential development in Flushing, Queens; the James Beard Foundation’s food hall on a Hudson River pier; and in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, under the name Zaab Zaab Talay. Now led by Kannika Kittipinyovath, the kitchen of the Elmhurst original may have grown stingy with fresh herbs like holy basil, which once made Zaab Zaab’s kapow so thrilling. On the other hand, there’s no shortage of dill in the hor mok, bundles of catfish steamed in banana leaves. And the cooks still throw chiles around like there’s no tomorrow.

Seven years on, with Seoul Salon, Naro and Atomix in their portfolio, the first restaurant Ellia and Junghyun Park opened is still the best introduction to their vision of modern Korean dining. The prices are higher — instead of three courses for $36, you now get four for $75 — but there are rewards. The hard surfaces in the coolly minimalist shoe box of a dining room aren’t as noisy as they were, and the cooking is more self-assured and coherent. Atomix is the place to go if you want to blast off into orbit with the Parks, but Atoboy shows there is a lot of fun to be had back on earth.

31. Houseman

They are becoming hard to find, chefs who put their energy into a single restaurant the way Ned Baldwin does at Houseman. This used to be the goal of many cooks. It still is the dream for a certain kind of diner, those of us who wander Manhattan searching for a neighborhood joint where each detail has been considered, from the day’s weather to the temperature of the butter; where the roast chicken and the burger are prepared with the same care as, say, a slow-roasted short rib served with a casual Cognac-cream pan sauce and a Yorkshire pudding the size of a kitten; where, if you go back again, your next meal won’t be worse than your last — and might be a little better.

32. Shion 69 Leonard Street

Is there another sushi master in town who gets as excited about seafood as Shion Uino? “Forty-six pound grouper from my hometown,” he says, beaming, as he carves pieces of sashimi from the side of an enormous, alabaster-colored fish. A few appetizers later, he serves a tall, meaty hunk of broiled fish under a thin, crisp shell of golden skin. “White grouper, very rare!” He is a student of the Edo style, rarely adding anything to his nigiri. The appetizers are virtually unadorned, too, like the heap of chilled snow crab salad dressed, barely, with vinegar.

33. Gramercy Tavern

Interior picture: Francesco Sapienza for The New York Times. Dish picture: An Rong Xu for The New York Times.

A night at Gramercy Tavern is about as close to a sure thing as Manhattan provides. Michael Anthony’s platings always look colorful and playful. In due time, they reveal that nothing about the way they are put together is accidental. The kitchen always seems to get more out of the Union Square Greenmarket than anyone else in town. The servers never seem to be going through the motions. And, the most bankable of New York City certainties, if you eat in the dining room, you will be sent home with something for breakfast.

The restaurant’s move down the street and around the corner finally happened last summer, and none of the calamities the regulars feared came to pass. The woodwork, the Oxford-cloth shirts, the candles burning on top of the bar and the Negronis mixed at a rate that sometimes approaches one for each customer — all unchanged. There is the rabbit roasted inside a crisp sheath of pancetta, the Cornish hen grilled to a crackle, the lasagna with its sheets of pasta stacked like pages in a book. Give or take a couple of bar seats, the relocated I Sodi is exactly the same restaurant spread over two rooms instead of one, and going there is a little like seeing your favorite movie on the big screen for the first time.

The kitchen at Daniel looks far and wide, and won’t think twice about weaving ingredients like Sea Island peas, Minnesota wild rice and burrata into the menu. Still, the cuisine of France remains the through line of almost every meal you might have in the grand colonnaded dining room. Of his generation of French chefs in the United States, none illuminates the flavors of his home country more faithfully than Daniel Boulud. And nobody works harder to help you see the light, even if it takes a whole plate of the city’s best madeleines to make the bulb click on.

36. Szechuan Mountain House

Its most famous and photographed dish is called “swing pork belly,” steamed bacon strips and bands of shaved cucumber thrown over what appears to be a tabletop laundry rack. You twirl these up with your chopsticks and drag them through a dipping sauce of minced raw garlic in a bowl of chile oil. It may not be the best thing on the menu, but it is pretty great, and it illustrates the inventiveness and subtlety that sets this restaurant apart from legions of Sichuan competitors. Of course, you can get fiercely spicy versions of mapo tofu and Chongqing chicken, too, but meals at Szechuan Mountain House become more interesting when the standards appear side by side with what the menu calls, a little optimistically, “modernist cuisine.”

37. Koloman

The New York dining scene has what diplomats call a special relationship with Europe. The painstakingly high-church Mittel-European cooking of Koloman would seem absolutely bizarre in Miami. On West 29th Street, Emiko Chisholm’s domed cheese soufflé with intense mushroom jam and Markus Glocker’s teacup of duck liver parfait under a clear jelly of trockenbeerenauslese riesling from Alois Kracher are able to slip into the ground floor of an Ace Hotel and pass for casual dining, or something like it.

Interior picture: Daniel Krieger for The New York Times. Dish picture: Colin Clark for The New York Times.

A small, awkward East Village basement that couldn’t seem to get a permanent liquor license doesn’t sound like the place you’d want to plant a world-class wine bar with a powerfully technique-driven kitchen. But this is post-pandemic Manhattan, where our real-estate compromises are even crazier than before. Joshua Pinsky is one of those cooks who pours effort into making things taste better than you think they will. Then he covers up the signs of effort so the deliciousness takes you by surprise. The exception is the devil’s food cake. You can tell from the other side of the room that it’s going to be like shooting pure dopamine into your skull.

39. Rezdôra

There is a full menu, of course. You can order, say, an antipasto and a main course, and tack on a creamy housemade gelato before you go. But those other courses aren’t what you’ll remember later on. That will be the pasta. Which might be considered a reason to skip the other stuff and dive right into the pasta tasting, five in all, each one a specialty of Emilia-Romagna, starting with tiny tortellini in a 12-hour capon broth.

40. Okdongsik

Adam Friedlander for The New York Times

This 13-seat Korean counter on East 30th Street is as good an argument for one-dish restaurants as we’ll ever get, never mind that it actually serves two dishes. One of them is mandoo. They are stuffed with minced pork, tofu and glass noodles, and they are great — no afterthought. But the dish that makes Okdongsik one of the most valuable addresses in New York dining is its dweji gomtang, a clear pork broth. Each bowl, outfitted with almost-firm grains of white rice and very thin slices of simmered pork shoulder, gestures toward transcendence, or as near as you can come to it across the street from a Best Western.

An Rong Xu for The New York Times

If you spotted Misi’s floor-to-ceiling windows while cruising down Kent Avenue on a pedal-assist Citi Bike at the maximum speed of 18 miles an hour, you might mistake it for one of the generic minimalist trattorias that seem to have come out of some gentrification starter kit. But on a closer look you can see the intelligence that organizes Misi’s hard surfaces, including the glass room where cooks roll out ravioli and spaghetti alla chitarra as if they’re on display in a big pasta aquarium. There’s intelligence at work in Missy Robbins’s menu, too. It focuses almost solely on vegetables and pasta, yet the ingredients and seasonings are so appealing you never feel that anything’s missing.

42. Frenchette

West Broadway has two major brasseries, one for each side of our appetite. The Odeon, well lighted and reliable, gives us what we know we want. Frenchette, shadowy and mysterious, gives us things we may not have started to desire yet: a peculiar Loire red that will seem casual one minute and dead serious the next, meaty cod cheeks in red bread crumbs spiked with Espelette pepper, or calf’s liver pinned to a pink sheet of prosciutto and sautéed, like saltimbocca.

43. Ernesto’s

When Basque Country entered the travel plans of people who arrange their vacations around their dinner reservations, it was because of the efforts of Mugaritz, Arzak and a handful of other experimental restaurants. Their forward-thinking cuisine is not what you eat at Ernesto’s. You eat the burly, elemental food that for generations has been passed down, essentially unchanged, by taverns and asadores where sardines are cooked over an outdoor fire. This being New York, the grill on which Ryan Bartlow cooks early spring calçots, whole Montauk fish and juicy cutlets of Ibérico pork is inside the kitchen. But the brawny spirit is the same; even things like white asparagus and a tortilla española with caviar have a rustic touch.

44. Forever Jerk

Clay Williams for The New York Times

Jerk is outdoor food at heart, and the best jerk cooks around the city work on sidewalks or in the street, sometimes with the benefit of a tent or tarp, sometimes without. The king of New York jerk cooks is Oneil Reid, who designed Forever Jerk’s oversize charcoal-fueled rigs to pump smoke into chicken and pork without scorching them. His jerk is tender and juicy, a goal that eludes many chefs. The jerk sauce achieves a taut balance of sugar, sourness and spice, and even seems to have caught some of the smoke itself. The impressively large rig on the side of Flatlands Avenue in Brooklyn, also used to roast ears of corn and whole sweet potatoes, is the center of the Forever Jerk universe. The location on Guy Brewer Boulevard is an indoor restaurant, which is to say it’s not quite the same.

In the city’s Japanese restaurant scene, udon is the forgotten noodle. It isn’t as popular as ramen or as revered as soba, which can be made well only with a certain amount of practice. This may explain why the two Raku udon restaurants and their chef, Norihiro Ishizuka, aren’t more widely recognized. They do have a loyal following, though. Raku’s fans appreciate the tensile elasticity of the noodles, the sparkling lightness of the dashi, and the delicate and greaseless tempura. For such small restaurants, the menus range widely, swooping from kitsune udon, relatively easy to get here, to less commonly seen varieties like the Japanese adaptation of Chinese zhajiangmian, called ja ja.

46. Clover Hill

Many of Charlie Mitchell’s peers in the rarefied arena of multicourse, multi-hundred-dollar tastings (dinner at Clover Hill is $305 a person) think they’ve met their seasonal/local quota if they strew the petals of some wildflower picked last week around a fish dish they’ve been serving for months. In Mr. Mitchell’s kitchen, the seasons are central; this time of year, this week, is the subject of his menus. In high spring, he might lead off with a horseradish-dusted asparagus tart, the size of a communion wafer; then bring asparagus back a short while later in the company of Hokkaido scallops and puréed nettles; and surround a rich, oily piece of shark-skinned flounder with “a celebration of peas.” He’s as fond of Japanese seafood as he is of local greenery, which is a bit puzzling. But his belief in what he’s doing is total, and it comes through on every plate.

47. Aquavit

Sasha Maslov for The New York Times

Aquavit was gently pushing Swedish food and drink before anyone put the words “New Nordic cuisine” together, and has outlived several exponents of that style. Emma Bengtsson’s kitchen has kept its grip on the old ways — at lunch, the Swedish meatballs and the herring platter are still hard to equal. The rest of the menu is modern, although it avoids the avant-primitivism of Noma in favor of gentle harmonies like salmon with a saffron-tinted swirl of lobster bisque.

48. Gage & Tollner

Jeenah Moon for The New York Times

The 19th-century dining room had been out of commission for so long that when Gage & Tollner finally came back in 2021, almost everybody who came to eat was getting a first look at its marble, mahogany and converted gaslights. Now the place has a reputation again, and those who are lured by its oysters and Parker House rolls, fried chicken, crab cakes and baked alaska are likely to be return customers. That doesn’t mean heads have stopped swiveling.

49. Don Peppe

The jockey silks and other Aqueduct memorabilia on the walls don’t do much to dress up a bluntly monochromatic and overly bright dining room. If you want atmosphere, take a deep breath and smell the garlic. The kitchen must go through bales of it every day. There are no small plates at Don Peppe, where the minimum order of pasta is one pound (before cooking). So make room on the table for a sloshing platter or two of linguine with clams; shrimp Luciano with its own side of spaghetti; and anything on the menu with the name Don Peppe on it, including a salad the size of Cleveland. The food is overflowing not just with garlic, but with the aromas of Southern Italian cuisine in the deliriously intense form it took in the hands of New York City cooks.

50. Shaw-naé’s House

Show up at this Staten Island soul-food restaurant before your table is ready and you’ll be invited to sit in “the living room,” a pair of sofas facing a coffee table next to the orange glow of an electric fireplace. Will it feel like home? It may, if home is a place where a pitcher of rum punch appears at the drop of a hat, where two immersions in a deep fryer produce a whole red snapper that’s juicy down to the bone, and where everybody is eating “soul fries,” a bonkers remix of nachos in which mac and cheese, fried chicken and collard greens are piled over French fries.

51. Barbuto

It’s been 20 years since Jonathan Waxman opened Barbuto, dedicated to the idea of making it all look easy. Easy to make the one true kale salad in a world full of pretenders. Easy to blow people away by spooning salsa verde over a chicken roasted in a pizza oven. Easy to make chocolate budino that has the same relationship to regular pudding that espresso has to coffee at a Nebraska truck stop. But before you decide it must, in fact, be easy, just remember that this kind of accidentally perfect Italian food has been Mr. Waxman’s whole deal since the 1970s

52. Yoon Haeundae Galbi

Cole Saladino for The New York Times

It used to be possible to argue in a good-natured way about where to get the best Korean barbecue in K-town. Since Yoon’s short rib appeared, though, it has really been the only answer. The meat is scored in diagonal slashes, breaking down the connective tissue and carving a network of grooves for the marinade to travel in. The slashes also allow the helmet-shaped tabletop griddle to sear the meat in skinny, deeply browned ridges that are wonderful with Yoon’s ssamjang and seasoned salt

53. Foul Witch

What kind of name for an Italian restaurant is that? At least it lets Sam Pollheimer and his kitchen chase something a little more unusual than penne and tiramisù. You might want a rolled pasta called spaccatelli with braised pheasant that’s been dry-aged to a deep funk, followed by goat shoulder roasted in the wood oven with turnips. Bay leaf ice cream could be cool. But what about that black-pepper gelato with brûléed lardo?

54. Dhamaka

Exterior picture: Emon Hassan for The New York Times. Dish picture: Jenny Huang for The New York Times

A year ago, Dhamaka replaced most of its original menu with new dishes, not the move you’d expect from a place that is turning away diners every night. I’m sure some customers are still mourning their old favorites, and there were many things on the starting lineup that you simply couldn’t find anywhere else in Manhattan. But the truth is that in its first years Dhamaka focused very heavily on chile-laden meats, to the point of redundancy. It’s easier now to put together a meal that has a little rhythm and variety, and you can still arrange to finish with the Champaran meat, a mutton curry so fiery it could light a cigar.

55. The Grill

When the Grill was new, it reimagined midcentury American dining with a stylized sense of theater while managing to hit every single technical mark. The complete mess it made of an $85 chicken potpie, among other glitches at a recent meal, made last year’s top-10 ranking here impossible this year. But so much about this restaurant remains confidently excellent, starting with the cocktails and ending with the layer cakes stacked so tall they look as if they’re trying to fit in among the towers of Park Avenue.

56. Contento

If you get discouraged about the direction of the restaurant business, the fastest antidote is dinner at Contento. It can restore your faith to watch as the staff makes sincere efforts to welcome people in wheelchairs, or those who need specially designed flatware, or diners with visual impairments, or their guide dogs. But there are less obvious ways in which Contento overachieves. The wine list is longer and more interesting than most restaurants this small would attempt, and Oscar Lorenzzi’s cooking can convince you that you should be eating Peruvian food every night.

57. Mercado Little Spain

Ellen Silverman for The New York Times

One of many mysteries of José Andrés that scientists should study is the man’s ability to run New York’s most rewarding food hall when he doesn’t even live here. It is true that Mercado Little Spain is better for snacking than dining, but that’s true of almost all food halls, few of which cover as much ground. You can wander from kiosk to kiosk, grabbing a sugar-crusted xuixo for breakfast, a sack of churros with bittersweet chocolate sauce, a soft tortilla española right out of the skillet, gambas al ajillo sizzling in their fragrant oil, a glass of pretty much any kind of wine you’re in the mood for as long as it’s Spanish. The market’s newest stall, Mr. Lopez, makes the pressed sandwiches called bikinis along with chistorra dogs and smashburgers topped with jamón Ibérico.

58. Le Rock

Can anybody resist Le Rock’s snails, each in its own cup with its own hot bath of garlic butter and its own piece of toast? Or the tender leeks vinaigrette, which the servers unwrap from a cloak of dark outer leek greens as ceremoniously as if they were presenting poularde de Bresse demi-deuil? Or the baba carved tableside and then hit with a healthy glug of génèpy or Chartreuse? Well, occasionally I’ll hear from a reader who went to Le Rock with high hopes and felt ignored, lost in the shuffle, assaulted by the decibels. I’ll apologize about the service and say that in my experience the room does seem to be getting quieter. But, I tell them, any good homage to the French brasserie needs to be a little loud for verisimilitude.

59. Great N.Y. Noodletown

When the dining room is busy, which is just about always, it will be full of old Chinatown locals from Hong Kong, couples who think of Noodletown as their place, young social-media explorers ticking restaurants off their bucket list and older but equally clued-in tourists. These groups will overlap considerably with the soft-shell crab followers, the salt-and-pepper squid obsessives, the suckling pig appreciators, connoisseurs of Cantonese char siu, slurpers of wonton soup, and devotees of the restaurant’s much-imitated ginger-scallion sauce.

60. Village Cafe

The part of Brooklyn between Prospect Park and the Atlantic Ocean is a treasure land of food from the former Soviet republics. At Village Cafe, as with many other restaurants in the area, the kebabs are the backbone of the menu. But the Azerbaijani offerings extend well beyond meat on a stick: There are platters of plov, sweet with dried fruits; flatbreads stuffed with minced greens and fresh herbs; the daunting hash of livers, kidneys, hearts and testicles known as djiz-biz; and fat belts of pasta dressed with chopped lamb cooked in its own fat, a noodle dish that seems to stand exactly halfway between China and Italy.

Of all the restaurants washed up on the city’s shores by the first wave of enthusiasm over New Nordic cooking, the most original, thoughtful and lasting has been Aska. Fredrik Berselius, raised in Sweden, built his own kitchen vocabulary by combining Scandinavian flavors with ingredients farmed or foraged around New York. His intricate, gentle tasting menus show a poet’s feel for fleeting moments and the beauty lurking in nature. One long-running appetizer is a frond of fried bladderwrack daubed with drops of mussel emulsion that look like the plant’s natural balloon structures. A wavy cup assembled from shaved walnuts makes an edible shell for a walnut tart. Even his caviar dishes seem to have been discovered somewhere in Middle-earth.

62. Txikito

When Txikito struck out for Basque Country in 2008, a lot of New Yorkers were still fuzzy on the whole concept of Spanish regional cuisines. Instead of starting out slowly with an introductory Gildas for Dummies course, Alex Raij and Eder Montero immediately complicated the picture, inviting ingredients from China, Japan and beyond into the kitchen. Is there another Basque restaurant in the country where the Russian potato salad is augmented with bonito flakes and the boquerones are laid out over spearlike leaves of rau ram?

One downside of being widely imitated is that, years later, your original ideas can read like copies. This has been Craft’s fate, and if you are eating there for the first time, you probably won’t be bowled over by the dangling filament bulbs, the Chilewich place mats, and the copper pans in which meats and fish are carried to the table. But nobody has figured out how to mimic Craft’s ability to get maximal flavor with minimal means. The been-there-done-that feeling ends when you start eating.

It’s hard to know what to make of a restaurant that gets rid of its single best feature, as Lodi did by closing the bakery that produced destination-quality breads and a flauto al cioccolato so precisely made that its lamination might have been designed by an architect. True, Lodi gained a few tables. Now it is easier to stroll in for elegant cafe dishes like bison tartare and chestnut gnocchi. And yes, drinking a spritz or a sbagliato while sitting on or looking out at Rockefeller Plaza produces a distinctly pleasurable shiver of the kind that only the world’s great cities can provide. But we’re still going to need some time to forget about that flauto.

65. Falafel Tanami

The strange concrete bunker askew from the street grid looks even stranger now that a simple wooden porch has been hammered together. Yet this unprepossessing structure is a titan in Midwood’s highly competitive pita-sandwich scene. There is no shawarma here as at Olympic Pita, no schnitzel as at Corner Street Food. This leaves Tanami free to concentrate on its marvelous pita and its falafel, which have brittle fried shells protecting a hot interior that is bright green with herbs. The sheer number of bins of chopped vegetables and salads can induce panic attacks, and many customers just ask for everything. A screaming yellow streak of amba sauce is probably mandatory.

66. Barney Greengrass

Circle framed picture: Karsten Moran for The New York Times. Rectangle framed picture: Jose A. Alvarado Jr. for The New York Times

The place is a cyclone of smoked-fish commerce on weekends and before any major Jewish holiday. On certain other days, a diner at Barney Greengrass can achieve a state close to serenity. There are eternal questions to contemplate: Sour cream or apple sauce? Nova or sturgeon? Toasted or untoasted? There are minor rituals to be observed — the most sacred of all is laughing at the servers’ jokes. Staring at the faded antebellum scenes of the French Quarter on the wallpaper can lead to the sensation that time has stopped moving forward. By your third cup of coffee and second order of latkes, it should be clear that you are sitting at the spiritual center of the Upper West Side.

67. Le Crocodile

Gage & Tollner is where Brooklyn goes to observe birthdays and anniversaries. Le Crocodile is where it celebrates smaller milestones, like living to the end of another day when the whole damned world didn’t fly to pieces. The brasserie menu is full of standards lifted above the routine by little niceties of craft and imagination, with a few unexpectedly flourishes like a truly good vegetarian pâté and a Waldorf salad liberated from mayonnaise at last.

68. Chongqing Lao Zao

Lanna Apisukh

The many, many people loyal to this Flushing restaurant are happy to wait two hours and sometimes more for Sichuan hot pots in the fiery and numbing style of Chongqing. The spicy broth is ferociously hot; even the mild has been known to draw tears from brave women and men.

69. AbuQir Seafood

Stephen Speranza for The New York Times

Meals at AbuQir, a homage to the seafood stalls on the Mediterranean coast outside Alexandria, begin with a consultation over the whole fish and other seafood stretched out on ice in the back. You should probably walk in with a plan. But if the man who takes your order tells you the grilled scallops are excellent today, or if you were thinking baked porgy and he recommends the blackened branzino, you should throw your plan out the window. A sloshy, garlicky plate of baba ghanouj is a fine thing to dip bread into while your fish cooks; in fact, anything with eggplant is a good idea.

70. Birria-Landia

Jenny Huang for The New York Times

New York has never been a food-truck town. But the meteoric ascent of the Birria-Landia fleet, which now cruises the boulevards of the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan, points to a better and more delicious future. It comes as a relief to find that the beef is still as tender and deeply flavored as a fancy French chef’s short ribs, that the consomé hasn’t been watered down, and that the rich perfume of spices can still turn heads half a block away.

71. Shukette

Your first impulse as you take in Ayesha Nurdjaja’s menu, which bounds from dips to four or more kinds of bread straight from the oven, from salads and pickles to the table-dominating Fish in a Cage, may be to ask for one of everything. Reveling in the brighter, fresher side of the Levantine canon, Shukette takes advantage of the energizing effects of sumac, citrus, yogurt and green herbs.

72. Hainanese Chicken House

The poached chicken in the dish called Hainanese chicken rice tends to confuse people trying it for the first time. The ideal texture, which can strike novices as flabby and undercooked, is more important than the flavor, which is supposed to be mild verging on dull. The expectation is that the customer will go to town with the house sauces, which should not be dull at all, and that the chicken flavor that seems to be missing from the chicken itself will be supplied by the rice. The success of the dish, in other words, depends on a series of bank shots, which is one reason it’s exciting to find it prepared as well as it is at Hainan Chicken House. For all that, this is not a one-dish specialist but one of the most impressive Malaysian restaurants New York has seen in years. The name may sell the kitchen short.

73. Mark’s Off Madison

Portrait picture: Joshua Bright for The New York Times. Dish picture: Daniel Krieger for The New York Times.

Anybody who believes a restaurant needs to tell a simple, easily understood story clearly hasn’t been to Mark’s Off Madison. The only concept plausibly tying together the Italian American favorites and Jewish classics and diner staples on Mark Strausman’s menu is that Mr. Strausman knows a good recipe for all of them. You can eat matzo ball soup, or a tuna melt, or a block of lasagna. You can’t eat a story.

A mural in its original Bay Ridge site shows Palestinian children behind bars under the Aqsa Mosque, between the phrases “down with the occupation” and “live in peace.” As Ayat has multiplied locations, it has kept up its paired messages of peace and support for the people of Palestine. For some New Yorkers, Ayat’s family-dinner mainstays, like the lamb stew mansaf, soured with dried yogurt, and the carefully layered chicken and vegetable dish called maklouba, will open new windows into Palestinian culture. For others, obviously, they will taste like home.

75. Dirt Candy

The great thing about tasting menus is that they act as a blank page that a chef can write anything on. The tragedy is how many chefs have nothing to say. Amanda Cohen does, though. Her five-course meals are like a night of one-act plays, or even comedy sketches, on the theme of vegetables. The cooks work on each dish until it’s a self-contained routine. Crunchy Buffalo collard leaves are sprinkled with powdered hot sauce and served with celery and blue cheese dip, and a savory croissant with a mushroom mousse filling comes with a glass of cappuccino that turns out to be mushroom soup. It’s dinner disguised as a continental breakfast.

76. Llama Inn

Vincent Tullo for The New York Times

It may be easier to see Erik Ramirez’s creative streak at his other restaurant, Llama San in Greenwich Village, where he free-associates on the ways Japanese and Peruvian food do, or potentially might, intersect. At Llama Inn he mostly sticks with translating traditional dishes — beef-heart anticuchos, scallop ceviche — into modern restaurant terms. But he works well when he’s staying within the lines, and there’s no question that the space in Brooklyn is roomier and more comfortable, despite being a truncated triangle under the B.Q.E.

77. Oiji Mi

Oiji Mi summons the spirit of New York’s midcentury supper clubs more effectively than places where that’s the explicit aim, like Swoony’s or Monkey Bar. It has leather seats, velvet curtains, deeply curved banquettes and a swooping marble bar. All that’s missing is a cigarette girl. This is not exactly the expected setting for a modern Korean restaurant, but it helps bring out the plush and culture-spanning comforts of Brian Kim’s five-course, $145 menus.

78. S & P Lunch

I am not going to tell you that S & P’s tuna melt is one of the greatest sandwiches of all time, or that it will change your life, or that it is one of the 25 or 50 or 1,000 foods you have to eat before you die. But one day you might find that you must have a tuna melt and that nothing else will do. On that day, I hope you remember to go to S & P, where you will be served a version made with terrific respect, from creamy and soft tuna salad on substantial rye bread. It will be better than you hoped, without deviating in any particular from what you were picturing. And this is true of almost more things on S & P’s menu that you can count, including the Reuben, the meatloaf sandwich, the chopped liver, the pancakes and the egg and cheese on a roll with Taylor ham.

79. Mariscos El Submarino

Last year, Alonso Guzman and Amy Hernandez followed the success of Mariscos El Submarino by opening a second restaurant, Mystica, in Greenpoint. It shows growth and ambition, with its careful plating and long-cooked pork shanks, and suggests these two restaurateurs could be around a while. But Mariscos El Submarino is still their shining contribution to the city, our most detailed and comprehensive tour of Sinaloa-style raw seafood. The aguachile negro, dark with soy sauce and undeniably spicy, has become something of a cult object, but the other aguachiles deliver jolts of their own, and there are equally good arguments for the ceviches, tostadas and tomato-red seafood cocktails in tall plastic cups.

80. Temple Canteen

Circle framed picture: Hilary Swift for The New York Times. Rectangle framed picture: Christopher Lee for The New York Times.

If we wanted to quibble about the South Indian cafeteria in the basement of a temple to the Hindu god Ganesha, we might say that having to listen as order numbers are called out endlessly can gnaw at the nerves. We might also ask whether the vegetable sambar isn’t a little watery. But then we’d remember that nothing on the menu costs more than $10, that the coconut chutney does seem to get better the more of it you eat and that the variety of dosas is sort of stunning, from chewy rava dosas to ice cream cone-shaped ghee roast dosas to paper dosas so long they sprawl from one end of a cafeteria tray to the other.

81. Foxface Natural

You have probably heard that Foxface Natural is a narrow, loud restaurant on Avenue A where deer heart or elk chops or kangaroo might be on the menu on any given night. But Foxface is not simply a purveyor of oddball species; the restaurant’s defining feature may be its pursuit of ingredients that Sysco doesn’t carry. So when the chef, David Santos, cooks octopus Bolognese, the octopus will have been trapped in a clay pot in a sustainable Spanish fishery. When he roasts a turnip, it will be the elusive Gilfeather turnip, which for decades was cultivated exclusively by a secretive Vermont farmer who refused to share its history or its seeds with anyone.

Maybe you got a little confused the last time you tried to remember the difference between gibanica and zeljanica. Perhaps you hesitated when somebody asked whether you prefer sopska or srpska. Or, at a recent wine tasting, you had trouble distinguishing between the Serbian tamjanika and the Slovenian malvazija. If you have experienced these or similar symptoms, it could be an indication that you are overdue for a meal at Kafana, Alphabet City’s rustic, majestic Serbian tavern.

83. M. Wells

Few restaurants take advantage of holidays and occasions as avidly as M. Wells. In the past few months it has served rabbit mole for Easter brunch, whipped up three kinds of fondue for a party in honor of Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day, and put on a Thanksgiving dinner that started with braised turkey legs and pig trotters, though of course it didn’t end there. Certainly it’s the only restaurant in Queens that celebrates the start of maple sap season by staging a hockey game on the dining room floor. If you happen to go on a day when nothing in particular is happening, you’ll still find dishes that seem to have been conceived for a feast like mortadella mille-feuille or half of a roasted piglet head on a plate.

84. Hakka Cuisine

It’s been a while since the arrival of a new dish in Chinatown caused as big as stir as the Hakka blossom chicken at Hakka Cuisine. It looks like a chicken that was flattened in some enormous panini press and then cut into squares. Those pieces have golden chicken skin on the top and bottom, but when you pop one in your mouth you discover that the soft and springy filling is made of taro and shrimp paste. Where did the rest of the chicken go? You can look for the solution to this mystery as you work your way through the other fine and elaborate Hakka specialties and Cantonese banquet dishes.

85. Wildair

The past year was a time of retrenchment for Jeremiah Stone and Fabián von Hauske Valtierra, who closed Contra, their statement restaurant, along with Peoples, their small wine bar in the food hall below Essex Market. Wildair, once a casual extension of Contra, has become their chief laboratory for ideas like an éclair with the flavors of a pissaladière inside and a series of Saturday collaborations called Donuts with Friends (exactly what it sounds like). Wildair was a little well-behaved early in life, but now it’s living up to its name.

86. 188 Bakery Cuchifritos

Tony Cenicola/The New York Times

Few sights in the Bronx, or anywhere else for that matter, can stir the gears of appetite quite like the exterior of 188 Cuchifritos. There is a smiling pig in a bow tie in the sign above the door. A partial list of Dominican and Puerto Rican specialties spelled out in half a dozen different colors of neon. In one window, trays stacked with fried pork skin, chicken and other fritters being kept warm by the heat of bare, greasy lightbulbs. There are approximately 1,000 other things on the menu, but this gives you some idea what you are in for.

87. Hav & Mar

Marcus Samuelsson’s latest project is not like the other seafood restaurants. There are Black mermaids everywhere, and the flavors can come from just about anywhere, with Ethiopia making especially frequent contributions. That’s Berbere spice blend in the cured salmon; the fluffy young fermented cheese ayib is in the beet salad, and injera crisps are provided with the tuna tartare. The combinations never feel superficial or confused, and the servers always seem as if they expect a party to break out at any moment.

88. Eulalie

Chip Smith and Tina Vaughn are immune to trends. He cooks in the regional-American style that flourished at the end of the last century. Nobody’s nostalgic for it yet, but Mr. Smith can make you wonder why not; he cooks it sensitively, and with conviction. Meanwhile Ms. Vaughn runs the dining room with the authority and familiarity only a proprietor can command. Her methods, which involve learning the names and preferences of all her customers, are long out of style, and nobody has written customer-database software that comes close to doing what she does with a pen, a hard-bound reservation book and her memory.

89. Hamburger America

Will George Motz, the hamburger historian and documentarian, want to spend the rest of his life behind a hot griddle, pressing on ground meat with a spatula until he judges the time is right to cover it with a yellow blanket of American cheese? It’s hard to imagine, but he does seem to be enjoying himself. For sure everybody else in the place is having a good time eating subtly but distinctly different burgers made with good beef and historical pedigree. It’s the geeked-out burger stand New York didn’t know it needed.

90. Laghman Express

The menu is not large and mostly focused on different ways of putting together lamb, onions, bell peppers, cumin and noodles made in open view of the dining room. Some noodles are strands so long that you will search and search for a beginning or an end, others are as wide as seatbelts, and the knife-cut pearl noodles are irregular stubs resembling diamonds, squares, pencil erasers — anything, it seems, except pearls. They’re all wonderfully tense and springy and fun to chew. The dark chile-garlic oil is especially good with noodles; it’s probably good with anything.

91. Mapo Korean BBQ

Dish picture: Evan Sung for The New York Times. Exterior picture: Karsten Moran for The New York Times.

This longtime institution across from the Murray Hill station on the Long Island Rail Road is the Peter Luger of Queens: gruff, brisk, straightforward and so thick with the aroma of sizzling beef that the air is almost solid. Pork and even seafood are available, but almost everybody orders galbi, which is grilled over tabletop baskets of charcoal by efficient women wielding sharp scissors.

92. Cka Ka Qellu

The city used to be full of small, amber-lighted, nostalgic restaurants where servers wore Old World costumes, melancholy folk tunes played in the background and everything on the menu evoked the country the owners had left behind. Cka Ka Qellu uses this method to summon Albania. Both locations look like roadside inns from another century, and after putting away platters of veal sausages, creamy dips, stewed beans, soft polenta and Albanian tres leches cake, you may be disappointed to find out there are no featherbeds and fireplaces waiting upstairs.

93. Vendors at Junction Boulevard

Ryan Christopher Jones for The New York Times

After the city evicted all but a small fraction of the Mexican and Ecuadorean vendors from Corona Plaza, the Junction Boulevard stop took its place as the most rewarding street-food destination under the No. 7 train. At the foot of a staircase descending from the tracks, Tacos El Borrego is an impressively well-equipped stand where the most compelling choice is the tacos al pastor, hacked from a spinning trompo the size of a young bluefin tuna. Just off the intersection is Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile, where eight tortillas at a time are softened in hot lard and splashed with red and green salsa, then stacked up like pancakes. There are vendors ladling out atole and cafe de olla, cooks pressing fresh masa, flashing and whirring toys for sale for a couple of dollars, and on the other side of Roosevelt, a Bitcoin A.T.M.

94. Shopsin’s General Store

There are a number of restaurants across Essex Street from the I.C.P. but Shopsin’s is the only one that points this out on its website with the helpful footnote “Stands for International Center of Photography (Not Insane Clown Posse).” This is a joke that happens to be true, which you could say about most of Shopsin’s menu. The macaroni-and-cheese pancakes are famous by now, as are the somewhat Mexican-ish eggs called Blisters on My Sisters. Then we come to the Do-Rag pancake, the Bastard and the Wiggly Pete, and this is just on the first of the menu’s two single-spaced pages. Every dish, no matter how weird it sounds, will turn out to be good, at a minimum, and a surprisingly large percentage of the goofiest ones have a stealthy sort of culinary intelligence. Shopsin’s takes nothing seriously and takes everything seriously, a philosophy to contemplate while slowly drinking a Nutella Fluff malted milkshake.

95. Hyderabadi Zaiqa

Here we have an anomaly: a new, tiny, fearless, overachieving Indian restaurant that doesn’t belong to the Unapologetic Foods group. Biryani is the pride of Hyderabadi cuisine and the point of Hyderabadi Zaiqa. More than a dozen are available, from a staunchly traditional and ferociously spiced dum biryani augmented with slow-roasted goat to the Chicken 65 biryani, featuring a spicy, lava-red chicken invented several years ago at a hotel in Chennai. There are curries as well, terrific fried okra and a fish dish that is a close cousin of Chicken 65. How all this is produced is a bit of a mystery. The kitchen can’t be much bigger than a rowboat, and the dining room gets crowded if more than five people decide to eat there at the same time.

96. Caleta 111

Kirsten Luce for The New York Times

Expanding into the space next door transformed Caleta 111 from a narrow ceviche counter to a full-fledged and cheerful Peruvian restaurant. Now you can sit at a table set inside a long narrow boat, nursing a plum-colored chicha morada and looking through the picture window into the kitchen, overseen by Luis Caballero. He makes Chinese Peruvian classics like lomo saltado and seafood fried rice; causas that turn mashed potatoes into an art form; and choritos a la chalaca, chilled mussels dressed with a relish of fresh peppers and tomatoes. But above all, Mr. Caballero is a master of the citric, spicy, cloudy, ginger-spiked liquid that is the base of all his ceviches. One sip of his leche de tigre and you know why you are here, even if you’re not quite sure why you’re sitting in a boat.

97. Zum Stammtisch

Queens lost another remnant of its German legacy in February when Morscher’s Pork Store in Ridgewood closed. You’d never know that the old ways are fading, though, when you’re inside the timbered Bavarian confines of Zum Stammtisch in Glendale. Pilsner is still poured into steins, the giant fresh pretzel comes with two kinds of mustard, and beef goulash over spaetzle is considered an appetizer. There is nothing wrong with the schnitzel, but why resist the wursts? They’re made in the restaurant’s own smokehouse.

98. Lakruwana

Circle framed picture: Dave Sanders for The New York Times. Rectangle framed picture: Tony Cenicola/The New York Times.

The cooking of Sri Lanka that emerges from Lakruwana’s kitchen is tropical, lush, saturated with coconut and chiles. But dinner or lunch there is not just a meal. It’s a cultural immersion. Over the years the Wijesinghe family, who own the restaurant and usually stand guard in the dining room, have filled the dining room with Buddha statues, carved furniture, clay pots, weapons and shields, and about a hundred other objects shipped from Sri Lanka.

99. Ewe’s Delicious Treats

The deeper I get into Ewe’s repertory of Nigerian dishes, the more impressed I am. The egusi and ogbono stews are deeply flavored and complex, and the fish pepper soup has a strong aromatic backbone that is the sign of a careful hunt for ingredients. Chile heat is an accent, but it’s not used timidly, and don’t go looking for relief in the jollof rice, which is an event in itself. The restaurant recently got its beer and wine license, and a bottle from the refrigerator can make a useful companion when the Scotch bonnets make their presence felt.

100. Randazzo’s Clam Bar

There is chowder to start, along with freshly shucked clams and oysters. You can get lobster fra diavolo or linguine with clam sauce, red or white, and a couple dozen other classics of Italian American seafood cookery. But Randazzo’s was put on this earth to serve fried calamari. If you don’t understand how such a pedestrian dish could be the organizing principle of an entire restaurant, you probably haven’t tasted the calamari at Randazzo’s, or dipped it into the hot tomato sauce that seems to have been bubbling on the back of the stove all day, or wondered how the hunk of friselle, a kind of crouton buried under the pile of squid, somehow manages to be dry and wet at the same time.

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The best places to see today's solar eclipse in NYC and across New York state

By Renee Anderson

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 4:55 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK --  The 2024 total solar eclipse  darkened the sky across the United States Monday, with Upstate New York right in the path of totality and NYC and New Jersey seeing a partial solar eclipse.

CBS News New York streamed live coverage of the event from 2 to 4 p.m. with Chief Weathercaster Lonnie Quinn in Lake Placid and CBS2 News at 5 Anchor Kristine Johnson in Niagara Falls, along with reporters across New York and New Jersey.

• What time does solar eclipse start, peak and end in New York?
• Solar eclipse 2024 live updates and scenes from the path of totality

Best places to watch in New York

New York is home to America's oldest state park, Niagara Falls. The 400-acre park and its rainbow skies will be right in the path of totality and has several events planned . The state's tourism site recommends watching from Prospect Point or Goat Island, or driving about 10 minutes north to Whirlpool State Park. 

The site also lists viewing spots in the Adirondacks -- from one of the Olympic Legacy sites in Lake Placid to the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory in Tupper Lake .

In the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, try Allegany State Park , the state's largest with beaches and camping available. Or explore Griffis Sculpture Park , featuring 450 acres of 250 sculptures.

By Thousand Islands-Seaway, the site recommends historic sites, like Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, Fort Ontario, Sackets Harbor Battlefield and Fort de La Présentation.

Finally, in the Finger Lakes, Rochester is hosting a weekend of events , with viewing locations at Rochester Museum and Science Center and the High Falls. Fair Haven Beach, Letchworth, Green Lakes and Seneca Lake state parks will all have waterfront views, too. 

Where does the eclipse path of totality cross New York state?

The path of totality spans 124 miles across 29 counties in New York, starting in the southwest and traveling northeast. It covers thousands of cities and smaller towns, including: 

• Seneca Falls
• Lake Placid

Niagara Falls and several other state parks fall within the path, and many opened their campgrounds ahead of schedule for the eclipse.

"The epicenter that the world will be watching will be in the great state of New York," Gov. Kathy Hochul said last month, as state officials prepared for the big event. "We have been preparing for this for many, many, many months, and getting people excited. This has been great for our tourism, it's going to bring in thousands, if not millions of people, to localities all along the trajectory of this." 

Things to know about traveling to New York's path of totality

New York state officials encouraged visitors to "Come for the Eclipse, Stay for New York" and book extended stays in the area to avoid pre-and-post-eclipse traffic.

"We want to really be prepared for this, take advantage of this exciting moment -- this is New York's chance to be in the sun and limelight -- and to make sure that we all do this in a smart, healthy way that people remember for generations to come," Hochul said during last month's briefing. "We saw from the last experience many years ago that there were a lot of traffic jams and people running out of gas. We're not going to let that happen in New York, because we're New Yorkers and we'll be prepared."

Drivers should make sure they have enough gas or electric charge, as well as water, snacks and emergency blankets. 

The state's Director of Operations Kathryn Garcia said agencies are treating this like a "weather event or mass gathering event," with a statewide public safety plan that deploys extra staff and equipment.

"If you are planning on traveling to one of these locations, we cannot stress enough: Leave lots of time. We anticipate that there will be hundreds of thousands of visitors, and there will be many large events planned," said Garcia. "Not only are we expecting all of these visitors, but the timing of the eclipse, obviously, in the late afternoon, overlaps with our everyday rush hour. This is a recipe for severe congestion."

Drivers are not allowed to pull onto the shoulder of two-lane roadways to watch the eclipse. Officials also warned cellphone service could be impacted, but 911 will continue to work even if the grid is overwhelmed.

What is the cloud cover forecast for New York on April 8?

The forecast is a little iffy for the path of totality in Upstate New York . Springtime brings an array of weather to the area, like a Nor'easter that just dumped snow in parts of the Adirondacks . 

Gray skies and cool temperatures are the norm, but no major systems are in the works. However, there is still about a 40 to 50 percent chance of clouds marring the view. 

The forecast looks brighter in New York City, where a high pressure system is expected to bring a dry, sunny day with highs around 64. 

What will the eclipse look like in NYC?

During the eclipse, the moon will cast a shadow on the Earth as it rotates, called the path of totality. Places within the path will see the moon fully cover the sun for approximately 2 to 4 minutes.

New York City is not in the path of totality, but will still experience a partial solar eclipse. The moon is expected to cover about 90 percent of the sun.

"If you're located along the path of totality, what you're going to see is the moon completely block out the sun, and that means you'll be left with views of what we call the corona, the upper atmosphere of the sun," NASA's Deputy Director of Paleo Physics Dr. Gina DiBraccio told CBS News New York . "If you're not within that path of totality and you're within the 48 continuous U.S. states, you'll still experience a partial eclipse, which means that you won't see the moon fully blocking the sun, but you'll get to experience part of that."  

The partial eclipse will peak at 3:25 p.m. across the five boroughs, lasting no more than a minute. Staten Island will get the first glimpse ,  with the peak starting around 3:25:11 p.m. in Tottenville. The eclipse will exit northeast through Queens, where the peak starts around 3:25:59 p.m. in Glen Oaks.

Where to watch the eclipse in NYC  

New York City's iconic landmarks are celebrating with s pecial events , like sky-high views from the  Empire State Building ,  One World Trade Center ,  The Edge  and Top of the Rock . 

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is  hosting a viewing onboard its flight deck , and the American Museum of Natural History will have  educational activities with astronomy experts . The New York Hall of Science is also throwing  a family-friendly educational event .

The Parks Department is holding  free watch parties across the five boroughs , and Shirley Chisholm State Park will have a hike up to its highest point . The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is also opening its lawns  for a free community viewing , and Green-Wood Cemetery will have telescopes fitted with solar filters .

When was the last eclipse that was visible in New York?

The last total solar eclipse that was visible from the U.S.  happened back in August 2017 , and it was the first to pass over the entire continent in nearly 100 years. The next total solar eclipse won't be  visible from the U.S. for more than 20 years . 

New York was not in the path of totality for the 2017 eclipse, and saw about 70 percent coverage . The state recorded its last total eclipse in 1925, and it is expected to be back in the path of totality in 2079 and 2144.

Another total eclipse will be visible from Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain on August 12, 2026.

• Niagara Falls

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14 Most Beautiful Places To See In New York City

• New York City offers a vibrant and diverse experience with its famous streets, iconic buildings, and beautiful parks and gardens.
• The High Line is a must-visit urban oasis with lush greenery, gardens, and stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Washington Square Park, and Central Park are some of the most beautiful and culturally significant places to see in New York City.

New York City is one of the most vibrant destinations on the East Coast. Whether walking down its famous streets, visiting its iconic buildings, or discovering the beauty of New York City's parks and gardens - the city will have anything but a dull moment. New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and people from all over the world visit to immerse themselves in all that it has to offer.

With some of the most delicious world cuisine ( including some authentic Italian restaurants ), museums, a raging art and music scene, shopping, entertainment, and more - New York is the epitome of city life. Experiencing the city's hustle and bustle will be a lifetime trip. This city is home to some of the most beautiful and historical places in the United States. Choosing which sites to add to one's bucket list may be challenging with all the options. Here are ten of the most beautiful places to see in New York City.

UPDATE: 2023/09/28 22:43 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

More Beautiful Places To Visit In New York

New York is one of the world's biggest cities, and there are countless beautiful places that locals and tourists should visit. Therefore, this list has been expanded to include places such as the High Line, the Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, the Washington Square Park, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Have fun!

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In The Bronx: Complete Guide To NYC's Northernmost Borough

The High Line

The High Line in New York City is an urban oasis suspended above the bustling streets of Manhattan, and its tranquil ambiance and architectural ingenuity make it a must-visit destination, providing both locals and tourists a respite in the heart of the metropolis.

This elevated linear park, repurposed from a historic railway track, offers a serene escape amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Lush greenery, vibrant gardens, and public art installations adorn the path, creating a harmonious blend of nature and urbanity. The High Line provides stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River, offering a unique perspective of New York.

• Address : New York, NY 10011, United States
• Open hours: From 9 am to 10 pm

DUMBO, Brooklyn

DUMBO, short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is a famous neighborhood in Brooklyn. Nestled along the East River, it boasts a distinctive blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy, thanks to its cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline characterize this waterfront enclave.

DUMBO is a hub for art, culture, and innovation, hosting numerous galleries, boutiques, and tech startups. Visitors can revel in the enchanting scenery of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, enjoy a scenic stroll along the waterfront, and savor culinary delights at trendy eateries. DUMBO encapsulates Brooklyn's dynamic spirit, making it a compelling destination to explore.

It's possible to reach DUMBO by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge walking or by bike

Washington Square Park

Locals and tourists looking for an urban oasis amidst America's most populous city can find it at Washington Square Park. The place is a cultural crossroads, offering a serene respite, captivating ambiance, and a front-row seat to the lively spirit of Greenwich Village.

Located in Manhattan, the Washington Square Park features the iconic Washington Arch, a historic landmark. Trees, gardens, and a central fountain surround visitors. The park's bohemian atmosphere, abuzz with musicians, artists, and locals, lends it a dynamic character. The stunning arch frames views of the surrounding cityscape, adding to its allure.

• Address : Washington Square, New York, NY 10012, United States

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is often referred to as "The Met" (Yes, the same place that hosts the famous Met Gala). The museum is an architectural and cultural masterpiece in New York City thanks to its grand Beaux-Arts façade.

Beyond its architecture, the Met features a worldwide collection representing 5,000 years of history. Visitors admire over two million works, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The museum's diverse exhibits, including European paintings, Egyptian antiquities, and Asian art, offer a global journey through artistic expression.

• Address : 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
• Admission fees: $30 for adults, $22 for seniors, $17 for students
• Open hours: From Sunday to Thursday - 10 am to 5 pm; Friday and Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm

Central Park

Central Park is one of New York's most iconic attractions. People from all over the world visit to admire its beauty, and the best part - is that Central Park is free, and there are many ways to spend time there . This park is famous for its landscape design and is one of the city's most beautiful places. The park offers many things to do and see, where visitors can spend hours discovering different areas with some of the most picturesque views.

• The Central Park has 843 acres

Old City Hall Subway Station

With some of the most beautiful places in New York - Old City Hall Subway Station is a must-see when visiting the city. Initially opening in 1904, this hidden subway station has a mesmerizing architectural build and is a beautiful way to see New York's historical public transportation system. It is located at the end of the six-train line, and tours are available for guests who want to visit the old subway station.

• Admission fees: Between $35 and $50

Related: New York City's Springtime Waterways: Exploring The City's Rivers & Harbors On Boat Tours

Statue Of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a historical attraction in the city - a neoclassical structure that offers some of the most beautiful views in the city. People worldwide visit to witness the statue and all its beauty. With some of the prettiest parts of New York one can explore , a trip to the Statue of Liberty will show visitors the rich history of New York City. This is one of the best locations to take amazing pictures!

• Ferry fees: $12 (Children), $24.50 (Adult), $18 (Senior)
• Pedestal access: $12.30 (Children), $24.80 (Adult), $18.30 (Senior)

Prospect Park

New York City has some of the most beautiful parks, not just Central Park. Prospect Park is in Brooklyn, New York, and is home to a breathtaking green space in the city. From excellent trails, a botanical garden, waterfalls, and a zoo - Prospect Park is a must-visit when discovering beautiful areas in New York City. Whether walking in the park or having a picnic with family and friends, it's a lovely way to spend some time in the city's gorgeous outdoors.

• Famous events: Evening Under the Sphere, FallFur Picnic, Harvest Moon Circle

Brooklyn Bridge

Take a trip to Brooklyn Bridge to see one of the most iconic bridges in New York. Visiting New York's beautiful and historic attractions is one of the best parts of traveling in the city. Brooklyn Bridge’s stunning architectural build shows the city's vast history. It's a beautiful way to walk along the bridge, with many opportunities to take pictures and view the city's skyline.

It's possible to cross the Brooklyn Bridge using the pedestrian walkway.

Edge Observation Deck

Edge Observation Deck is an attraction in New York City that offers some of the most mesmerizing views of the city. It is 100 stories high and is a beautiful way to immerse in the city's beauty. It is one of the best ways to see the city's beauty from a high point. A trip to the Edge will be the experience of a lifetime with its glass floors, breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, and a bar for enjoyment.

• Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States

Related: Flavors Of New York State: Discovering 10 Must-Try Cuisines In New York City

New York is home to some of the most iconic neighborhoods. SoHo is a neighborhood worth visiting for those who want to experience New York's beautiful streets and breathtaking buildings. From art galleries, shops, street vendors, restaurants, a nightlife scene, and so much more - there is much to see and discover in this beautiful neighborhood in New York City.

• Things to do: Museum of Ice Cream, The Museum of Modern Art, Housing Works Bookstore

Madison Square Park

Home to some of the most beautiful parks - Madison Square Park is high on the list of New York's mesmerizing outdoor spaces. It is a fantastic place to visit to walk and enjoy New York in the spring. For nature lovers, the park offers various greenery to escape the busy city life. Whether taking a small snack or enjoying time with family or friends, it will be a beautiful and relaxing experience in the city.

• Address : 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most popular destinations in New York City. People worldwide travel to see its iconic lights, billboards, buildings, and so much more. It is a must-visit when touring the city to see the town's beauty and all it is known for. Offering many shops and restaurants, the area has much to do and see, with many opportunities for pictures. Times Square is one of New York's most busy and thrilling areas and is worth experiencing for those traveling to the city!

The most common and convenient way to reach Times Square is by subway. Multiple subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, and S lines, serve the Times Square-42nd Street station.

Related: 10 Top-Rated Museums In New York City That Should Be On Your List

New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Visit the New York City Public Library to get views of its stunning architecture and immerse in the city's history. This extensive library is a charming destination to discover New York's diverse beauty and experience all the city's spaces. With a fantastic collection of books and areas to discover inside and outside the library, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New York City.

• Address: 476 Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street