Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Queens, New York, United States
1. Queens Museum
Housed in a former World's Fair pavilion, this museum showcases the diverse culture of Queens with a huge model of New York City.
- Architectural Interest: Unique structure designed by Aeolus R. Cockerall
- Cultural Representation: Represents the diversity of Queens through various exhibitions
- Educational Value: Offers programs for children and adults to learn about art, history, and culture
2. Silvercup Studios
Tour a working television studio where popular shows like Sex and the City and Gossip Girl were filmed.
- Behind-the-scenes Experience: Get an inside look at TV production
- Iconic Set Visits: Opportunity to see sets from famous shows
- Guided Tours: Expert guides provide insights into the television industry
3. Louis Armstrong House Museum
Visit the former home of jazz legend Louis Armstrong.
- Historical Significance: Preserved as it was during Armstrong's lifetime
- Jazz Appreciation: Learn about the life and music of Louis Armstrong
- Garden Tours: Stroll through Armstrong's beautiful gardens
4. Queens Zoo
A small urban zoo featuring animals native to North America and Australia.
- Urban Setting: Uncommon to find a zoo in an urban area
- Compact Design: Easy to explore the entire zoo in a short visit
- Interactive Exhibits: Opportunities for close encounters with animals
5. Queens Botanical Garden
Explore a tranquil oasis showcasing gardens from around the world.
- Cultural Gardens: Represents diverse ethnic groups in Queens
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, classes, and events for all ages
- Nature Preservation: Protects native plants and wildlife
6. The Noguchi Museum
Explore the sculptures of Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi in a beautiful garden setting.
- Artistic Masterpieces: Features over 200 works by Noguchi
- Tranquil Garden: Relaxing outdoor space designed by Noguchi himself
- Architectural Landmark: Modernist building designed by Philip Johnson
7. Museum of the Moving Image
Explore the history and technology behind film, TV, and digital media.
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on experiences with production equipment
- Film Screenings: View classic and contemporary films
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, classes, and events for all ages
8. Queens Theatre
Watch a Broadway-quality show in an intimate setting.
- Broadway-caliber Performances: Hosts touring productions of hit Broadway shows
- Intimate Setting: Smaller theater with great views from every seat
- Community Engagement: Offers programs for local artists and communities
9. Rikers Island Tours
Take a guided tour of the infamous Rikers Island correctional facility.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the history and impact of Rikers Island
- Incarceration System Insight: Gain understanding of the American prison system
- Exclusive Access: Rare opportunity to visit a working correctional facility
10. Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden
Experience a traditional Czech beer garden in the heart of Queens.
- Cultural Immersion: Authentic Czech food, music, and atmosphere
- Historic Venue: Oldest continuous operating beer garden in the USA
- Community Gathering Place: Central meeting place for Czech community in Queens
11. Gantry Plaza State Park
Relax by the water at this riverside park with stunning views of Manhattan.
- Scenic Views: Breathtaking vistas of the Manhattan skyline
- Outdoor Activities: Offers picnicking, biking, and dog-walking areas
- Historical Significance: Former site of the 1939 and 1964 World's Fairs
12. Flushing Meadows Corona Park Observatory
Stargaze through powerful telescopes at this urban observatory.
- Urban Astronomy: Rare opportunity for city dwellers to observe the night sky
- Powerful Telescopes: Access to state-of-the-art telescopes for clear views
- Knowledgeable Guides: Expert astronomers lead stargazing sessions
13. Onderdonk House Museum
Step back in time at this historic Dutch Colonial farmhouse built in 1704.
- Historical Preservation: One of the oldest buildings in Queens
- Colonial Era Experience: Learn about life during the Colonial period
- Garden Tours: Beautifully restored gardens featuring heirloom plants
14. New York Hall of Science
Explore interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, and math.
- Educational Value: Encourages STEM learning for all ages
- Hands-on Exhibits: Engaging and interactive exhibitions
- Planetarium Shows: Astrovisions Planetarium offers night sky shows
15. The Unisphere
Stand beneath this iconic 140-foot globe, a symbol of the 1964 World's Fair.
- Iconic Symbol: Recognizable landmark in Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Historical Significance: Built for the 1964 World's Fair to represent unity among nations
- Nighttime Illumination: Beautifully lit up at night, creating a striking display