Queens, New York City Travel Guide

Explore Queens, NYC's largest borough, where diversity thrives in vibrant neighborhoods, rich history, and culinary adventures that captivate every traveler's heart.

Queens, the largest of New York City's five boroughs, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and communities. It is often celebrated for its rich diversity, with over 138 languages spoken and a melting pot of ethnic neighborhoods. From the historic charm of Jackson Heights to the bustling streets of Flushing, Queens offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every traveler's taste. Begin your journey in Astoria, where you can savor delectable Greek cuisine and explore the Museum of the Moving Image. A short subway ride brings you to Long Island City, home to contemporary art galleries and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline from Gantry Plaza State Park. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Unisphere in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, a relic from the 1964 World's Fair, and enjoy the lush greenery and cultural festivals held throughout the year. Food enthusiasts will find a paradise in Queens. Dive into the culinary delights of Flushing's Chinatown, indulge in authentic Indian dishes in Jackson Heights, or enjoy a taste of Latin America in Corona. The borough's food scene is as diverse as its population, offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure. For sports fans, a visit to Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, or the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the US Open is held, is a must. Queens also boasts an array of shopping options, from the eclectic boutiques in Astoria to the sprawling Queens Center Mall. With its rich history, cultural diversity, and endless attractions, Queens is a destination that promises a memorable experience for every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Queens.

Visit the Queens Night Market on Saturdays for a diverse array of street food and live entertainment.
Take the 7 train, known as the 'International Express,' for a scenic route through some of Queens' most vibrant neighborhoods.
Check out the local festivals, such as the Queens International Night Market and various cultural parades, for a taste of the borough's diversity.
Plan your visit to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park around the US Open to experience world-class tennis.
Explore the waterfront parks in Long Island City for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Explore Queens: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Queens

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Gantry Plaza State Park

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens, featuring stunning skyline views and lush green spaces for relaxation.

4.8

New York Hall of Science

Explore hands-on science exhibits, engaging activities, and family-friendly fun at the New York Hall of Science in Queens, New York.

4.5

Museum of the Moving Image

Explore the fascinating world of film, television, and digital media at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens.

4.6

Unisphere

Discover the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, a stunning symbol of unity and exploration that captures the essence of New York City.

4.7

Best landmarks in Queens

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Unisphere

Explore the Unisphere: New York's monumental symbol of peace, unity, and cultural celebration in the heart of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

4.7

Bowne House

Explore the Bowne House in Flushing, NY, a historical landmark that reveals the rich heritage and stories of early American settlers.

4.6

New York State Pavilion Observation Towers

Explore the iconic New York State Pavilion Observation Towers in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, a historical landmark with breathtaking views of the skyline.

4.6

Station Square

Discover the historical charm of Station Square in Queens, NY, a vibrant landmark showcasing the cultural heritage and community spirit of the area.

4.7

Best restaurants in Queens

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Park Side Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian dining at Park Side Restaurant in Queens—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.6

Sugar Freak

Experience the vibrant flavors of Creole cuisine at Sugar Freak in Astoria - where Southern hospitality meets culinary excellence.

4.4

Mojo

Experience vibrant Latin American cuisine at Mojo in Forest Hills – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

4.4

Queens Bully

Discover mouthwatering barbecue delights at Queens Bully in Forest Hills - where smoky flavors meet vibrant pub vibes.

4.1

Best bars in Queens

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Dutch Kills

Experience the best of New York's cocktail culture at Dutch Kills, a charming speakeasy in Long Island City known for unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

The Beast Next Door

Discover The Beast Next Door in Long Island City, a vibrant cocktail bar and café perfect for unwinding with craft drinks and delicious bites.

4.6

Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill

Discover the lively Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill in Astoria, where delicious grilled dishes meet entertaining comedy and karaoke nights.

4.5

The Last Word

Discover The Last Word in Astoria, where exquisite cocktails, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere create an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Queens

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

La Boom

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Queens at La Boom, a top-rated night club known for its electrifying atmosphere and diverse music selection.

3.7

Doha Bar Lounge- Brunch, Nightclub & Restaurant

Discover the lively Doha Bar Lounge in Queens, where vibrant brunches and thrilling nightlife meet Latin American flavors in a stylish setting.

4.2

Elevate Sky Lounge

Experience nightlife at its finest at Elevate Sky Lounge, where stunning views and vibrant energy create an unforgettable atmosphere in South Richmond Hill.

4.0

Kiss Entertainment

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kiss Entertainment, a must-visit night club in Richmond Hill, Queens, offering a pulsating atmosphere and great music.

3.5

Best shops in Queens

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

MyUnique Thrift

Explore MyUnique Thrift in Queens, NY for vintage clothing treasures and unique finds that reflect the charm of local culture.

3.9

Unique Bazaar

Discover the unique charm of Unique Bazaar in Queens, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse shops and delicious food options.

4.2

Old & New Shop

Explore a unique collection of antiques and jewelry at Old & New Shop in Glendale, Queens, a must-visit destination for treasure hunters and collectors.

4.7

Side B

Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Side B, the charming thrift store and gift shop in Astoria, Queens.

5.0

Explore Queens on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Queens, mapped for you.

Queens Essentials

Queens is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in New York City. The E, F, M, and R subway lines connect Queens to Manhattan, while the 7 train runs from Times Square to Flushing and beyond. Additionally, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) has several stations in Queens, including Jamaica and Forest Hills, providing quick access from Manhattan and Long Island. Buses also serve the area extensively, with connections to various subway lines and neighborhoods.
Queens has a robust public transportation system. The subway is the most efficient way to navigate the borough, with major lines such as the 7, E, F, and N serving various neighborhoods. Buses complement the subway, allowing access to areas not directly served by trains. Biking is also a popular option, with bike lanes available in many parts of Queens. Citi Bike, New York City’s bike-sharing program, has several stations throughout the borough, making it easy to rent a bike for short trips.
Queens is generally safe for tourists, though it’s wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Some neighborhoods, such as Jamaica and parts of Astoria, have experienced higher crime rates, particularly regarding theft and burglary. It's advisable to avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings in busy locations like Flushing and Jackson Heights.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Local hospitals such as Queens Hospital Center and New York-Presbyterian Queens are equipped to handle various medical situations. Familiarize yourself with the nearest hospital and pharmacy locations. It’s prudent to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies while abroad.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually; Queens is laid-back, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in religious or conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local religious customs; cover your shoulders and knees when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous, offer your seat to the elderly, and keep your voice down. Don’t eat or drink on subways or buses. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly smile and a nod; handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do explore diverse culinary offerings; don’t waste food or refuse hospitality, as it may come off as disrespectful.
To experience Queens like a local, visit the diverse neighborhoods that showcase the borough's multicultural heritage. Explore the vibrant food scene in neighborhoods like Astoria, Jackson Heights, and Flushing, where you can find authentic international cuisines. Attend local events and festivals, such as the Queens Night Market or the Queens County Farm Museum events, to immerse yourself in the community spirit. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations; they often have the best insights into hidden gems and local favorites.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Queens

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Queens. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [Hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [Lay-ter]
- YesYea
  [Yay]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [Pleez/No prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [Sor-ry]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [How you doin']
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Gud. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [You speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [Let me see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI need to pay
  [I need to pay]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveThat's mad pricey
  [That's mad pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you make it cheaper?
  [Can you make it cheaper?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [What's the addy?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Queens

Queens has a rich indigenous history, originally inhabited by the Lenape people. The area was first explored by Europeans in the early 17th century, with Dutch settlers establishing the first permanent settlement in 1624 at Nieuw Amsterdam, which included parts of present-day Queens. The name 'Queens' was later adopted in 1683, named after Catherine of Braganza, the wife of King Charles II of England.
In 1683, Queens County was officially formed as one of the original 12 counties of New York. The county played a crucial role during the American Revolution, with significant battles, such as the Battle of Long Island in 1776, occurring within its boundaries. This battle marked the largest military engagement of the war and resulted in a British victory, influencing the course of the conflict.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Queens became a melting pot of cultures due to waves of immigration. The establishment of the Long Island Rail Road in the 1860s facilitated this influx, making it easier for newcomers, particularly from Europe and later from Asia and Latin America, to settle in the borough. Today, Queens is known for its incredible ethnic diversity, with over 138 languages spoken, reflecting its status as one of the most culturally rich areas in NYC.
Queens gained international attention with the hosting of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The first fair showcased innovations and modernity, while the second emphasized space exploration and technology. These events not only highlighted the borough's potential but also spurred significant urban development, including the construction of iconic structures like the Unisphere, which remains a symbol of Queens.
In recent decades, Queens has emerged as a center for innovation and entrepreneurship, with a growing number of tech startups and cultural institutions. The development of the New York City Subway and the expansion of major airports, such as LaGuardia and JFK, have further integrated Queens into the fabric of New York City, facilitating both local and global connections. The borough continues to evolve, maintaining its rich heritage while embracing modernity.