Best Things to Do In Queens

The world’s borough is a place you cannot miss on your trip to NYC. So many times, people stay in Manhattan, and as nice as that is, with all of the hidden gems that show you the REAL NYC, you need to add at least one of these spots to your list. Astoria, only being a 30-minute train ride from Central Park, leaves you no excuse. Let this be your ultimate guide to uncover the beauty of the world’s borough with the best things to do in Queens.

The Best Food in Queens 

1. Bad Habits: If you like Latin music, delicious Hispanic/Asian fusion food, a DJ that takes requests, hookah, sports games, happy hour, a vibe & a fun night out. Bad Habits is the place for you. There are so many reasons why it’s my all-time favorite spot. Once you arrive, you automatically feel this welcoming presence. Tip: Get there early for happy hour so you can secure a seat at the bar since it gets crowded quickly. If you get a table in the restaurant area, you’ll need to order food, so keep that in mind.
2. Astoria Seafood: I hope this doesn’t come off the wrong way, but after going to Greece, I could not find a restaurant that topped this one. It’s because Astoria, Queens, has one of the largest Greek populations in the world besides Greece, of course. Astoria Seafood made the list of the best places to eat in New York City due to its exceptional quality. You pick the Fish Fresh order within seconds, it’s BYOB, and perfect for any celebration. Like any popular spot, this has grasped the attention of locals, and because of that, there’s usually a line out the door, and some people wait hours just to eat here. That’s how good it is. I’d recommend getting the lemon potatoes and the grilled shrimp, which are delicious. Add this spot to your list and plan a whole day in Astoria, Queens.
3. Super Pollo: The way this food quite literally brings you back to life, it’s truly an unmatched feeling. Super Pollo is a traditional Peruvian-style chicken with the Latin comfort food you have back home. They offer takeout, and their pico sauce is heavenly. My fridge is usually stacked with at least 2. A true hidden gem and local favorite is Super Pollo, and number 4 on the best places to eat in NYC.
4. Chongqing Lao Zao: This hot pot spot right in Flushing, Queens, is one of those moments you’re surprised you’re not in a different country. A traditional Chinese dish dating back to the late Ming and early Qing dynasties has successfully been passed on to the 21st century with the meticulous precision of Chongqing Lao Zao’s master chefs. They carefully prepare the spices, beef fat, and other flavors to create a consistently mouthwatering taste. The menu can look extremely confusing, and the waiters are helpful, navigating it with you and recommending the best options for you. Its interactive nature makes it immersive and fun for groups and dates if you’re tired of boring dinners. This, for sure, isn’t one of them.
5. UMA’s. I still think about this restaurant, and it truly hits the spot when you need it most. This dish is probably the most flavorful meal I have had. Their national dish, the plov, tastes so delicious and perfectly pairs with their manti (similar to meat dumplings). Definitely don’t miss this spot if you’re in the Rockaway area. For the full list, check it out here: Best Restaurants in Rockaway

Top Things To Do In Queens

1. Astoria Park: If you like picnics and lounging, then this is the spot to go to. All of the locals come here and spend the day hanging around, relaxing, and taking in all the sun! A day of rest is well-deserved after sightseeing and running non-stop. Thank yourself later!
2. Nogochu Museum: 
3. Mets Game, Citi Field: The Mets are making big waves and putting on an incredible game with the visiting. Baseball culture in NYC is huge and a perfect way to see a more local crowd, as lots of Queens residents and Long Islanders flock to watch them in action. See your favorites play their heart out, and hey, you might even catch a foul ball! 
4. Surf at Rockaway: Rockaway is the only legal place to surf in NYC, and for good reason. Whether it’s Summer or Winter, Rockaway’s surfing is elite. Even if you aren’t a pro, have no equipment, or might even be a little scared, there are a few programs and surf schools to look into to get out of your comfort zone! Check out the Surf Report to check in on surfing conditions.
5. Best Surfing Beaches: Beach 90th Street,  Beach 92nd Street, Beach 67th Street, Beach 69th Street, Beach 110th Street, Beach 87th Street, and Beach 91st Street
6. Some Notable Surf Schools To Check Out: Local Surf School, Surfs Up NY, & SkudInSurf

Best Bars & Lounges in Queens

1. Hush Cafe Lounge & Garden: For a chill, intimate night, you’ll want to cozy up on the red lounges and enjoy a nice dinner, drinks & hookah at Hush Cafe. To this day, I am not sure why this place is not as popular, so let’s give it the love and attention it truly deserves.
2. Break Bar: Break Bar is the perfect bar for endless sports & game nights. Play some pool, Connect Four, this cool game called Shoot the Moon, table tennis & SO MUCH MORE! It’s a vibe & if you know me, the vibes are always immaculate. Pro tip: If you’re planning on playing a lot of the games, leave the sweats at home because you’re going to sweat a lot.
3. Lowkey Garden Lounge: Nearby in Forrest Hills is this great spot that has the perfect nightlife experience. They offer hookah and have great music. It’s along the main street of Forrest Hills, so find yourself already planning the post-game moves!

There You Have It

Navigating Queens like a local with some of my favorite spots is the way to go. Find yourself having a classic NYC bagel, a perfect night out on the town at either Bad Habits or along Northern Boulevard, and watching the most perfect sunsets at Astoria Park, to name a few bucket list experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your NYC trip, and do not forget about Queens!

Veronica

Hi everyone! My name is Veronica, but you can also call me Vee! I grew up in the iconic city of Brooklyn, NY, the cultural hub of the world, and hence learned about so many different cultures. It was those experiences that inspired me to travel and from then on, I had learned the power of travel. In return, I want to give others that same experience, to help inspire others to unleash their inner travel enthusiast no matter the trip.

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