Guide to Long Island City, New York
Long Island City: A Hip Queens Neighborhood That Has It AllLong Island City is a burgeoning Queens neighborhood that boasts a plethora of distinct museums, scenic waterfront parks, and exclusive recreational opportunities along the East River. For foodies, Long Island City offers an array of culinary options ranging from farm-to-table to classic Mexican cuisine.
Long Island City is a fast-growing residential and commercial neighborhood in the westernmost part of Queens. The East River bounds it to the west, Newtown Creek to the south, and the neighborhood of Astoria to the north. Long Island City is known for its waterfront parks and beautiful Manhattan skyline views. Visitors can also enjoy the diverse mix of restaurants, bars, art galleries, and museums that line its streets. Long Island City has a rich industrial history, and its fast-growing commercial area makes it one of the best places in the borough for new businesses. Some of the area's most prominent historic buildings are now home to many companies spanning technology, media, and the arts. Long Island City's economy was initially driven by manufacturing, and its waterfront location made it a prime transportation hub. Today, the neighborhood is a crucial gateway for those traveling to and from Manhattan, boasting convenient subway connections and ferry terminals. Its strategic location, trendy atmosphere, and growing economy make Long Island City an exciting destination for visitors and a beloved home for locals. Long Island City is a bustling urban center in the New York City borough of Queens. Known for its expansive waterfront views, diverse community, and thriving arts scene, Long Island City offers something for everyone. The neighborhood has some of the city's most innovative art galleries, museums, performance venues, and many trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. Long Island City also boasts easy access to the rest of the city via public transportation, making it an ideal location for residents and visitors.
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Getting to Long Island City
Try arriving in Long Island City via the NYC Ferry from either Manhattan or Brooklyn; you’ll experience unparalleled views of the city atop the ferry and be put right in the heart of the neighborhood just moments from the pier, all for the same price as a ride on the subway.
Long Island City is accessible via the 7, E, M, R, N, Q, and G subway lines, as well as the NYC Ferry, which has stops along the East River route at Hunters Point South and the Astoria route at Long Island City. You can also travel by car from Manhattan over the Queensboro Bridge.
MoMA PS1
An offshoot of the Museum of Modern Art in Midtown, MoMA PS1 is dedicated exclusively to contemporary art from around the world. Today, the center continues to showcase cutting-edge art in various forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, film, and performance art. The institution has hosted works by some of the most notable artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Yayoi Kusama.
Museum of the Moving Image
Originally opened in 1988, the museum houses exhibits on the history of cinema, animation, and video games. It also has an extensive collection of props from various films and TV shows, including everything from costumes to scripts.
LIC Beer Project
This warehouse-turned-brewery is a local favorite for its classic charm and laid-back atmosphere. The large taproom features a garage door entrance and plenty of seating for big and small groups and is even suitable for families. Enjoy a sunny day in LIC Beer Project’s tranquil beer garden and sample their selection of beers on tap. LIC Beer Project also features live music most nights and games for visitors.
The Cliffs at LIC
One of the more exciting gyms in the city, The Cliffs at LIC features over 30,000 square feet of climbing terrain, including bouldering, top-rope, and lead climbing, and is a great place to get a workout while improving your climbing skills. The gym also offers classes and workshops for climbers of all levels and hosts competitions and other events throughout the year.
Gantry Plaza State Park
When visiting Long Island City, be sure to check out the breathtaking views from Gantry Plaza State Park. Lounge chairs line the picturesque riverside walk - a great spot to relax - and enjoy the scenery, day or night.
Gantry Plaza State Park is a waterfront park along the East River offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The park has several piers perfect for fishing, picnicking, or just taking a stroll. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and playgrounds in the park. Be sure to check out the iconic neon Pepsi-Cola sign that illuminates the park at night, providing an excellent backdrop for photos.
Socrates Sculpture Park
The park was founded in 1986 by sculptor Mark di Suvero, who wanted to create a space where artists could create and display their work outdoors. Since then, the park has hosted hundreds of exhibitions and workshops and has become a beloved cultural institution in the neighborhood. The park hosts various events throughout the year, including outdoor film screenings, concerts, and art workshops. It is open 365 days a year, and admission is always free.
LIC Flea & Food
Enjoy a variety of curated vintage, handmade designs, and artisan food vendors, along with beer gardens offering delicious local craft beer at this market, also offering up views of the Manhattan skyline.
Where to Stay in Long Island City
Among some of the best hotels in the area, with easy access to Manhattan, are the Ravel Hotel, the Paper Factory Hotel, and the Boro Hotel.
The Ravel Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel with rooftop dining and an infinity pool with breathtaking skyline views. The Paper Factory Hotel, housed in a converted 100-year-old paper factory, offers a unique mix of vintage and modern amenities. The Boro Hotel offers a rooftop with a view of the skylines of Manhattan, Long Island City, and Downtown Brooklyn.
Who Should Stay in Long Island City
You want to explore an up-and-coming neighborhood full of contemporary art, beautiful waterfront parks with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and plenty of trendy bars and restaurants. If you want to stay in a neighborhood with easy access to Manhattan while also experiencing all that Queens offers, Long Island City is the perfect destination.