According to recent news, the borough of Queens was voted #1 top travel destination in the United States by Lonely Planet, a very popular travel publisher (www.lonelyplanet.com). For those unfamiliar with NY State here's a quick breakdown...in very simple terms, there's Upstate NY (which takes up the majority of NY State) and there are the 5 boroughs. The 5 boroughs are also considered NYC to New York natives and nearby states. NYC's five boroughs are Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
Although I was raised in Brooklyn for my first few years, I consider myself a Queens Native because I was raised and spent a greater majority of my years living in this borough. New Yorker above everything but Queens native. I've mentioned in previous posts a few spots in Queens that are my favorites including shopping spots and views of the skyline, however I was recently shocked by the fact that Queens was voted #1 and honestly hoping that this borough remained a hidden gem.
So why is Queens so interesting all of a sudden?
Well with the cost of living getting increasingly high as the years go by, Manhattan is becoming almost in possible to live in, unless of course you are a celebrity, a millionaire, or are fortunate enough to have family that owned property there for years.
Queens is the perfect balance. It's right in the middle of everything. Your 20 minutes away from the city (Manhattan), your 20 minutes away from Long Island, depending on where you live, your 15-30 minute drive from parts of Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island (driving without traffic). Queens is also just very chill, because it's more residential, parking is easier and traffic within the borough it's self is usually manageable compared to Manhattan and Brookyln. The best part is if you want to go to the city or Brookyln you are really close by.
So what are the popular spots in Queens?
-Flushing Meadow Park: Flushing Meadow Park is located in Corona, Queens. Most people remember or identify it with the world globe. It is the largest park in Queens and although it is a nice park, it can get crowded and really deserves a lot more attention during summer months as far as cleaning and maintenance goes, but that's my opinion. It's still a beautiful park.
Nearby: Corona Lemon Ice King, featured on shows like the King of Queens. It's a popular spot in the summer for its' Italian ices. My favorite pizza spot it also nearby- Angelos Pizzeria.
-Long Island City: This area of Queens is know for its' water front stunning view of Manhattan's skyline. Whether you stop by during the day or at night, the view is breathtaking and unremarkable.When I was a teenager, this area of Queens was not well known. It was a little secret location only known by Queens natives. We'd go there to chill by the piers on a nice warm day or night. On the 4th of July we'd meet there to see the fireworks. It has changed completely. Now it's known for its' luxury condominiums and high rise buildings and restaurants. Definitely a perfect tourist spot if you want to chill, enjoy the view, and enjoy some good brunch!
Nearby: Spice (Thai Restaurant), Elaysi (Mexican Restaurant), Blend on the Water (Latin Fusion), Queensboro Bridge.
-Astoria: Astoria Queens is a busy town filled with nightlife, restaurants and additional city views. Parts of Astoria are waterfront. The Triboro AKA RFK Bridge is there and is one of the bridges that you are allowed to walk or bike.
Nearby: Don Coqui (Puerto Rican Cuisine/Latin Fusion) restaurant and nightlife, Steinway (shopping), Astoria Park, RFK Bridge.
Enjoy!
xoxo,
Miss_NYCity
