Queens, New York

The 7 train, also known as the Flushing Line, is one of the most iconic subway lines in New York City, running through the borough of Queens. It opened in 1915 as part of the Interborough Rapid Transit (IRT) system. Originally terminated at Times Square–42nd Street before being extended to Hudson Yards in 2015, it was nicknamed the “International Express” because it passes through some of NYC’s most diverse neighborhoods, including communities with large immigrant populations. File photo: Joseph Giardino, licensed.

Overview

Queens, the largest of New York City’s five boroughs by area, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, languages, and neighborhoods. Located on the western end of Long Island, it shares borders with Brooklyn to the west and Nassau County to the east. With a population exceeding 2.4 million, Queens is renowned as one of the most ethnically diverse urban areas globally, with nearly half of its residents being foreign-born

History

Established in 1683, Queens County was named in honor of Queen Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese wife of King Charles II of England . Originally encompassing a larger area, including what is now Nassau County, Queens became one of the five boroughs of New York City during the city’s consolidation in 1898.

Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, one of New York City’s most significant green spaces and cultural hubs. Spanning nearly 900 acres, the park is famous for hosting the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, which left behind landmarks such as the Unisphere, a 140-foot-tall stainless steel globe symbolizing global unity. Beyond its history, the park is home to Citi Field (home of the New York Mets), the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (site of the U.S. Open), the Queens Museum, and the New York Hall of Science. With lakes, trails, gardens, and recreational facilities, Flushing Meadows–Corona Park remains a popular destination for sports, festivals, and family outings in the heart of Queens.
Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, one of New York City’s most significant green spaces and cultural hubs. Spanning nearly 900 acres, the park is famous for hosting the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, which left behind landmarks such as the Unisphere, a 140-foot-tall stainless steel globe symbolizing global unity. Beyond its history, the park is home to Citi Field (home of the New York Mets), the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (site of the U.S. Open), the Queens Museum, and the New York Hall of Science. File photo: STELLA_JM, licensed.

Geography & Neighborhoods

Spanning approximately 178 square miles, Queens boasts a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its unique character:​

  • Astoria: Known for its rich Greek heritage, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to Manhattan.
  • Flushing: Home to one of the largest and fastest-growing Chinatowns outside Asia, offering a plethora of Asian cuisines and cultural experiences .
  • Long Island City (LIC): A rapidly developing area with a mix of modern high-rises, art institutions like MoMA PS1, and waterfront parks.
  • Jackson Heights: A melting pot of cultures, particularly South Asian and Latin American communities, reflected in its diverse culinary offerings.
  • Rockaway Beach: A coastal neighborhood offering sandy beaches, surfing spots, and a laid-back atmosphere.
The Queens Museum, originally established as the Queens Museum of Art, is one of the borough’s premier cultural institutions. Located in the historic New York City Building within Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, it was first constructed for the 1939 World’s Fair and later housed the United Nations General Assembly from 1946 to 1950. Today, the museum is renowned for its diverse exhibitions spanning contemporary art, history, and education.
The Queens Museum, originally established as the Queens Museum of Art, is one of the borough’s premier cultural institutions. Located in the historic New York City Building within Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, it was first constructed for the 1939 World’s Fair and later housed the United Nations General Assembly from 1946 to 1950. Today, the museum is renowned for its diverse exhibitions spanning contemporary art, history, and education. File photo: Sandra Foyt, licensed.

Attractions & Landmarks

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park: The city’s fourth-largest park, featuring the iconic Unisphere, Queens Museum, Queens Botanical Garden, and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, host of the US Open .

  • Citi Field: Home to the New York Mets, offering baseball games and various events throughout the year.
  • Queens Night Market: A seasonal open-air market showcasing global cuisines, art, and performances, with affordable prices capped at $6 per item.
  • Museum of the Moving Image: Located in Astoria, this museum offers exhibits on film, television, and digital media.
  • Queens County Farm Museum: A historic 47-acre farm offering a glimpse into New York’s agricultural past, complete with livestock, crops, and seasonal events.​

Dining & Cuisine

Queens’ culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse population:​

  • Flushing: Renowned for its authentic Chinese, Korean, and other Asian cuisines. Highlights include dim sum at Asian Jewels Seafood Restaurant and various offerings at the New World Mall Food Court .
  • Jackson Heights: A haven for South Asian and Latin American foods, from Indian curries to Colombian arepas.
  • Astoria: Offers a mix of Greek tavernas, Middle Eastern eateries, and modern cafes.
New York City, New York, USA - September 24, 2024: Aerial view of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK Airport) on a cloudy afternoon
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), located in southeastern Queens. Opened in 1948 as New York International Airport (and later renamed in honor of President John F. Kennedy in 1963), JFK is a global gateway, handling tens of millions of passengers annually. The airport features multiple terminals, with flights from nearly every major airline connecting New York City to destinations worldwide. File photo: Nate Hovee, licensed.

Transportation

Queens is well-connected through various transportation options:​

  • Subways: Multiple lines, including the 7, E, F, M, N, R, and W trains, serve the borough.
  • Airports: Both of New York City’s major airports, JFK International and LaGuardia, are located in Queens.
  • Buses and LIRR: An extensive bus network and Long Island Rail Road lines provide additional connectivity.​
LaGuardia Airport (LGA), one of New York City’s primary air travel hubs located in Queens. The photo shows traffic congestion on the highway leading to the terminals, reflecting the airport’s vital role in handling millions of passengers each year. Rising prominently above the scene is the Air Traffic Control Tower, overseeing operations across the runways. In recent years, LaGuardia has undergone a major multibillion-dollar redevelopment, replacing outdated terminals with modern facilities designed to improve efficiency and passenger experience. Once criticized for its aging infrastructure, today’s new LGA stands as a state-of-the-art gateway for domestic travel and short-haul international flights serving the New York metropolitan area.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA), one of New York City’s primary air travel hubs located in Queens. In recent years, LaGuardia has undergone a major multibillion-dollar redevelopment, replacing outdated terminals with modern facilities designed to improve efficiency and passenger experience. Once criticized for its aging infrastructure, today’s “new LGA” stands as a state-of-the-art gateway for domestic travel and short-haul international flights serving the New York metropolitan area. File photo: Renata Ty, licensed.

Events & Festivals

  • US Open Tennis Championships: Held annually at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, attracting global tennis stars and fans.
  • Queens Night Market: Running from April to October, this market celebrates the borough’s diversity with food, art, and performances .
  • Cultural Festivals: Various neighborhoods host events celebrating their unique heritages, such as the Colombian Independence Day Parade in Jackson Heights and the Greek Festival in Astoria.​
This sweeping aerial shot highlights Rockaway Beach, a popular seaside destination located on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. Known as the city’s go-to surf beach, it offers miles of sandy shoreline, a lively boardwalk, and designated surf areas that attract both locals and visitors during the summer months. Rockaway Beach is unique as the only beach in New York City with consistent surf breaks, making it a hub for the city’s surf culture. Beyond the waves, the neighborhood features beachfront concessions, playgrounds, biking paths, and easy subway access, creating a true urban escape by the sea. The expansive coastline shown here illustrates why Rockaway Beach is not only a recreational hotspot but also a beloved part of New York’s coastal identity.
This sweeping aerial shot highlights Rockaway Beach, a popular seaside destination located on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. Known as the city’s go-to surf beach, it offers miles of sandy shoreline, a lively boardwalk, and designated surf areas that attract both locals and visitors during the summer months. Rockaway Beach is unique as the only beach in New York City with consistent surf breaks, making it a hub for the city’s surf culture. File photo: 6677media, licensed.

Living in Queens

Queens offers a blend of urban and suburban living, with diverse housing options ranging from high-rise apartments in LIC to single-family homes in neighborhoods like Forest Hills. The borough’s diversity, coupled with its amenities and relatively affordable housing (compared to Manhattan), makes it an attractive place to live.

Queens stands as a testament to New York City’s rich tapestry of cultures and communities. Whether you’re exploring its diverse neighborhoods, indulging in global cuisines, or attending world-class events, Queens offers an experience like no other.