Top 10 Things To Do And See In LIC, Queens's Mini City
Long Island City, nestled at the edge of Queens and a short bike ride from Brooklyn, has been expanding, with amazing food, art, and culture. Here are some of the best things to do to get the most out of LIC.
Right next to Kaufman Studios, the Museum of the Moving Image explores the history of cinema. With new exhibits about Mad Men and Jim Henson, this establishment has pieces for all fans of cinema. Many of the exhibits are very interactive, offering visitors a hands-on approach to learning how a film is made. The Museum of Moving Image doubles as a cinema and shows a wide range of films, from cult classics to modern day documentaries.
Noguchi Musuem | Image courtesy of The Noguchi Museum
Tucked away in Long Island City is Beija Flor, a restaurant that exclusively prepares Brazilian cuisine for all who walk through its doors. Open since 2012, Beija Flor has become a neighborhood favorite, serving dishes such as feijoada and the popular caipirinha cocktail. Drop by Saturday evenings and enjoy some live music with your meal.
The Noguchi Museum is a breathtaking establishment filled with works by artist Isamu Noguchi. Since opening in 1985, the museum has been an international center for the study of Noguchi’s work. The museum comprises two floors and an outdoor sculpture garden. It is a must see for art lovers and casual visitors alike.
Gantry State Park | Image courtesy of NYC Parks Dept
Unlike its famous counterpart in Midtown, PS1 has flown under many people’s radars. Erected in an old public school, the museum features breathtaking pieces in each room and even has a cafeteria. If you’re in LIC for the summer, be sure to check out PS1’s Warm Up Saturdays, a summer party concert series featuring performers from all over the world.
NYC has no shortage of parks, and Gantry Plaza State Park features stunning views you can’t find anywhere else. Located at the edge of Queens, the park boasts a view of the New York City skyline, the 59th Street Bridge, and the Williamsburg Bridge. It is easily accessible by train or ferry and is the perfect place for a stroll or even a picnic.
Street view of storefront | Image courtesy of Long Island City Kleaners
LIC Flea and Food has become a tradition, occurring each summer for the past three years. Local businesses contribute amazing food and snacks from a wide array of cultures. Many LIC restaurants have booths at the market, from Butcher Bar to The Bao Shoppe. This is a necessary event for every foodie.
Espresso Drip | Image courtesy of Sweetleaf Coffee & Espresso Bar
Long Island City Kleaners is a menswear boutique that sells hard-to-find apparel and accessories. Using the theme of a 1990s laundromat, the store revives Queens in the 90s, from the lines it carries to the music it plays.
Boulder Area and Lead Cave | Image courtesy of The Cliffs at LIC
The mouth of the Pulaski Bridge leads to a coffee shop like no other. Sweetleaf is completely serious about its coffee; the baristas have mastered espressos and roasting and will always make you the perfect cup of whatever caffeinated beverage you desire. Stop by for a coffee, and stay for the atmosphere.
If you’re feeling a bit athletic, The Cliffs is a good choice for your adventurous side. The Cliffs is a rock climbing gym that offers day-by day rentals and memberships. If you want to give your entire body an adrenaline-pumping workout, The Cliffs is the place to go.
Hosting events every day and night, from comedy shows to film screenings, The Creek and The Cave always has something going on. This comedy bar also has a kitchen upstairs, where cooks will dazzle you with amazing Mexican food. Be sure to check out the secret bar downstairs for some bacchanalian times.
