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Queens, New York, United States

Queens: New York's Global Borough Beckons You Forget the tired cliché of "just an airport." Queens, New York's largest borough, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, a foodie's paradise, and an art lover's dream, all rolled…

#Queens#New York#United States#Borough#Diverse

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Queens.

Top Hotels in Queens

Top Flights to Queens

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Queens.

Tours

Exploring Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

A large public park offering a variety of activities including sightseeing, walking, and visiting famous landmarks.

Cultural Experience in Jackson Heights

Explore one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Queens, known for its vibrant culture and cuisine.

Queens Museum Visit

Explore the Queens Museum, a major cultural institution with a wide variety of exhibitions and a renowned panorama of the city of New York.

Museum of the Moving Image

Visit the Museum of the Moving Image and explore exhibits about film, television, and digital imagery.

Shopping

Shopping in Long Island City

A dynamic neighborhood with a mixture of boutiques, galleries, and cafes.

Outdoor

Visiting Astoria Park

A riverside park known for its beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline.

Exploring the Rockaways

Enjoy the beach, boardwalk, and outdoor activities on the Rockaway Peninsula.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Queens.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

2.4 million

Languages

English, English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Tagalog

Average weather

Queens

Jan

4°-3°

Feb

5°-2°

Mar

10°1°

Apr

16°6°

May

22°12°

Jun

26°17°

Jul

29°21°

Aug

28°20°

Sep

24°16°

Oct

18°10°

Nov

12°4°

Dec

6°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Queens.

What people love

Queens, New York, is a diverse borough with a lot to offer travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Queens:

Cultural Diversity: Queens is known for its diverse population, with residents from all over the world. This diversity is reflected in the borough's vibrant neighborhoods, restaurants, and cultural events.
Food Scene: Queens is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of cuisines available from all corners of the globe. From authentic Asian dishes in Flushing to delicious Greek food in Astoria, you can find almost any type of cuisine in Queens.
Attractions: Queens is home to several popular attractions, including Citi Field (home of the New York Mets), Flushing Meadows Corona Park (site of the 1964 World's Fair), and the Queens Museum. You can also visit the beautiful gardens at the Queens Botanical Garden or take a stroll along the waterfront at Gantry Plaza State Park.
Access to Manhattan: Queens is conveniently located near Manhattan, making it easy to access all the attractions and activities that New York City has to offer. You can easily take the subway or bus into Manhattan for shopping, sightseeing, and entertainment.
Affordable Accommodations: Compared to Manhattan, Queens offers more affordable accommodation options for travelers. You can find a range of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals to suit your budget.

Overall, traveling to Queens can provide a unique and diverse experience, with plenty of attractions, food options, and cultural experiences to enjoy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Queens, New York, United States, include:

Traffic Congestion: Queens can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hours, which can lead to delays and frustration for travelers.
Limited Public Transportation Options: While Queens is well-connected by public transportation, some areas may have limited access to subway lines or buses, making it challenging to navigate the borough efficiently.
High Cost of Living: Queens, like much of New York City, has a relatively high cost of living, which can make accommodations, dining, and entertainment more expensive compared to other locations.
Noise and Crowds: Parts of Queens, particularly those close to major attractions or transportation hubs, can be noisy and crowded, which might not appeal to travelers seeking a quieter or more relaxed experience.
Crime Rates: While overall crime rates in Queens have decreased in recent years, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings to avoid becoming victims of petty crimes or scams.
Weather Extremes: New York City, including Queens, experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, from hot and humid summers to cold and snowy winters. Travelers should be prepared for these weather extremes when visiting.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Compared to Manhattan, Queens may have fewer tourist amenities and attractions, which could make it challenging for visitors looking for a more traditional tourist experience.

Please note that these cons are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler or every part of Queens. It's always a good idea to research specific neighborhoods and plan accordingly to make the most of your trip.

Queens, New York, is one of the five boroughs of New York City, located on Long Island, and is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and significant landmarks. Here is a detailed history of Queens:

Early History

Indigenous Peoples: Before European colonization, the area now known as Queens was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lenape.
Dutch and English Colonization: The Dutch were the first Europeans to settle in the area in the early 17th century. They established settlements such as Maspeth and Newtown. In 1664, the English took control and the area became part of the Province of New York.

18th and 19th Centuries

Revolutionary War: Queens played a role in the American Revolutionary War, with some residents supporting the British and others the American cause. The area was occupied by British troops for much of the war.
Development: In the 19th century, Queens began to grow with the establishment of various towns and villages, spurred by the development of transportation networks like the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

20th Century

Incorporation into New York City: Queens was officially incorporated into New York City in 1898, along with Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island, to form the city as we know it today.
World's Fairs: Queens hosted two World's Fairs: the 1939 New York World's Fair and the 1964 New York World's Fair, both held in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. These events showcased technological innovations and cultural exhibits.
JFK Airport: Originally called Idlewild Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport opened in 1948 and became one of the busiest international airports in the world.

Late 20th Century to Present

Immigration and Diversity: Queens has become known for its cultural diversity, with large communities of immigrants from Asia, Latin America, Europe, and other regions. This diversity is reflected in the borough's neighborhoods, businesses, and cultural institutions.
Economic Growth: The borough has seen significant economic growth, with the development of areas like Long Island City, which has become a center for arts, technology, and business.

Important Landmarks

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park: In addition to being the site of two World’s Fairs, it is home to the Unisphere, the Queens Museum, and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the US Open is held.
Queensboro Bridge: Also known as the 59th Street Bridge, it connects Queens to Manhattan and is an iconic piece of infrastructure.
Citi Field: Home of the New York Mets baseball team, located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
MoMA PS1: One of the largest art institutions in the United States dedicated solely to contemporary art, located in Long Island City.

Historical Figures

Donald Trump: Born in Queens, he became a prominent real estate developer and later the 45th President of the United States.
Nikki Haley: Former United States Ambassador to the United Nations, was born in Queens.
Louis Armstrong: The jazz legend lived in Corona, Queens, and his home is now a museum dedicated to his life and music.

Queens continues to thrive as a vibrant and diverse borough, playing a significant role in the cultural and economic life of New York City. Its blend of history, cultural landmarks, and dynamic neighborhoods make it a unique and integral part of the city.