Queens (New York City) Travel Guide - Free

Explore Queens in New York City with Evendo's free guide. Find the best shops, historic streets, restaurants, and gems on web or mobile.

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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.

Explore Queens on the map

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

Queens essentials

Getting There

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.

Getting Around

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.

Safety

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.

Emergency Situations

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.

Do's and Don'ts

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.

Local Tips

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.

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics

English	Local	Say it
Hello	Hey	[Hey]
Goodbye	Later	[Lay-ter]
Yes	Yea	[Yay]
No	Nah	[Nah]
Please/You're welcome	Please/No problem	[Pleez/No prob-lem]
Thank you	Thanks	[Thanks]
Excuse me/Sorry	Sorry	[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 understand	I don't get it	[I don't get it]

Eating & Drinking

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to see the menu, please	Let me see the menu, please	[Let me see the menu, please]
I don't eat meat	I don't eat meat	[I don't eat meat]
Cheers!	Cheers!	[Cheers!]
I would like to pay, please	I need to pay	[I need to pay]

Emergencies

English	Local	Say it
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 lost	I'm lost	[I'm lost]
I'm ill	I'm sick	[I'm sick]

Shopping

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to buy...	I wanna buy...	[I wanna buy...]
I'm just looking	Just browsing	[Just browsing]
How much is it?	How much?	[How much?]
That's too expensive	That's mad pricey	[That's mad pricey]
Can you lower the price?	Can you make it cheaper?	[Can you make it cheaper?]

Time & Numbers

English	Local	Say it
What time is it?	What's the time?	[What's the time?]
It's one o'clock	It's one	[It's one]
Half past (10)	Half ten	[Half ten]
Morning	Morning	[Morning]
Afternoon	Afternoon	[Afternoon]
Evening	Evening	[Evening]
Yesterday	Yesterday	[Yesterday]
Today	Today	[Today]
Tomorrow	Tomorrow	[Tomorrow]
1	One	[One]
2	Two	[Two]
3	Three	[Three]
4	Four	[Four]
5	Five	[Five]
6	Six	[Six]
7	Seven	[Seven]
8	Eight	[Eight]
9	Nine	[Nine]
10	Ten	[Ten]

Transport & Directions

English	Local	Say it
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

Indigenous Heritage and Early Colonization

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.

The Formation of Queens County

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.

Immigration and Cultural Diversity

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.

The World's Fair and Urban Development

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.

Modern Queens: A Hub of Innovation

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.

Queens in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

Neighbourhoods near Queens

The closest neighbourhoods to Queens, if you have time for more than one stop.

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