With all the intriguing things available to experience in Astoria, it’s worthwhile making the brief trip to this part of Queens. It lies on the western side of the borough, along the East River, and offers a diverse variety of pursuits and attractions. Its location is also quite convenient if you plan on visiting two of NYC’s most popular boroughs: Manhattan and Queens.
It’s easy to feel somewhat removed from this part of the city, but after visiting the Big Apple on multiple occasions, I can say that Astoria should be incorporated into your itinerary. It represents one of the premier districts in New York City, offering the ideal mix of urban and residential surroundings. You can conveniently travel over the river via public transportation and spend the day enjoying all the entertaining options Astoria has to offer before heading back to Manhattan.
From cultural institutions to beautiful outdoor areas, there is a lot to explore here. Additionally, some of the finest cuisine is found in Astoria, thanks to the diverse community here. To assist you, I’m sharing details about the 10 best activities to engage in Astoria, Queens so you don’t miss anything.
Table of Contents
1. Museum of the Moving Image, one of the best museums in Astoria, Queens
The Museum of the Moving Image remains one of the most prestigious museums in NYC, hence it’s a must-see in Astoria. Evidently, it caters greatly to film aficionados, yet anyone can value the hands-on displays chronicling the history of filmmaking and digital media.
As a point of interest, the museum is housed inside the old Astoria Studios building, another notable attraction in Astoria. Inside, visitors will find the largest collection dedicated to film and the moving image, including galleries of cinematic equipment, animation storyboards, and video game hardware. There is also a special exhibit on Jim Henson, creator of The Muppets.
This is one of the most visited museums in Astoria, Queens, and it’s only accessible from Friday to Sunday, so I suggest reserving your ticket ahead of time here.
2. Astoria Park, a beautiful place to see in Astoria, Queens, NY
When weather conditions are pleasant, Astoria Park is one of the most agreeable places to visit. Commonly seen as one of the best parks in NYC, Astoria Park offers all types of recreational activities like a playground, a running track, and a skatepark.
The primary attraction here is the Astoria Pool, which has a long history and an old pool house. The pool was utilized by the U.S. team’s Olympic Trials in 1936, 1952, and 1964, and today, it’s free to swim here during the summer months.
The Astoria Play Center is also quite popular thanks to its various sports facilities for basketball, bocce, soccer, and tennis. So, whether you want to get some exercise or just enjoy the outdoors, Astoria Park in Queens is the perfect place to go.
3. Noguchi Museum, another excellent museum in Astoria, Queens
The Noguchi Museum is another museum in Astoria, Queens that I highly recommend. Not only is it one of the best attractions in Queens, but it’s also one of NYC’s top free museums, so you can enjoy a fun family activity without breaking the bank.
The museum is named after Isamu Noguchi, a Japanese-American craftsman and the museum’s creator, who focused his 60-year career on sculpture and landscape design. His creations explore the link between invisible and tangible forces, humans and nature, and underground surroundings, and over the years, he has developed an impressive collection of work.
Some of his favorite pieces are housed at the Noguchi Museum, so you have the opportunity to see them firsthand. The museum exhibits both indoor galleries and outdoor spaces showcasing sculptures, stage and furniture designs, drawings, architectural models, and more.
4. Walk through Socrates Sculpture Park, a free thing to do in Astoria
Just a block from the Noguchi Museum, there is the Socrates Sculpture Park, a beautifullocation to visit in Astoria during the day. Like the Noguchi Museum, the Socrates Sculpture Park has free admission, but it’s entirely outdoors, so keep that in mind.
Situated along the East River, this outdoor museum is full of plants, flowers, and trees coexisting harmoniously with contemporary sculptures. Interestingly, while it’s now a lovely artistic space, it was formerly an abandoned dumping ground.
As the biggest open-air display space dedicated to sculpture in NYC, Socrates Sculpture Park draws in artists from all over the globe, even though most of them are local to New York. In addition to the works and installations, there is a stage, an artist workshop, and a welcome kiosk. The park also provides access to the nearby Hallets Cove Beach.
5. Beer Garden at Bohemian Hall, a popular place to go in Astoria
You won’t go hungry in this neighborhood thanks to the huge selection of bars, restaurants, and cafes located here. Considered one of the top dining establishments in Astoria, Queens is the Beer Garden at Bohemian Hall, a family-friendly eatery and late-night gathering place.
Inspired by the beer gardens of the Czech Republic, this place serves up a variety of Czech and Slovak beers as well as a full menu with kid-friendly options. In fact, the hall is owned by the Bohemian Citizens’ Benevolent Society of Astoria, Inc., a group of Czech and Slovak descendants in New York City.
Indulge in potato pancakes, pierogies, schnitzel, and grilled bratwurst while watching significant games or tuning into live music on weekends. Bohemian Hall is among the oldest beer gardens in the city and an ideal location to connect with friends on a summer afternoon.
6. Listen to live music at The Bonnie, a fun thing to do in Astoria with friends
The Bonnie is another one of the top bars in Astoria, Queens, particularly if you’re searching for something more upscale. This drinking establishment and gastropub has an elegant yet cozy feel, providing gourmet fare accompanied by live music.
No matter if you come here for weekend brunch, happy hour, or late-night snacks, The Bonnie is one of the best date spots in Astoria, so maintain it in mind if you’re traveling with your partner. It even has vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.
Another cool place to check out is The Let Love Inn, a more intimate and affordable option. This bar is known for its retro design aesthetic and hand-crafted cocktails, although they also serve draft beer and wine. Plus, it’s all paired with a side of live jazz music, creating the perfect vibe for a night out.
7. Taverna Kyclades, one of the best places to eat in Astoria, Queens
One of the largest demographic groups in this neighborhood is its Greek community, so it’s not surprising that one of the best restaurants in Astoria is a Greek establishment. Taverna Kyclades, named after the exquisite Kyclades islands in Greece, is a family-operated business serving authentic Greek meals and original recipes.
The specialties here range from fan favorites like spanakopita and grilled seafood to less commonly known dishes and first courses. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its freshly caught seafood, including bivalves, oysters, shrimp, and delectable fish soup.
If that’s not your preference, try the chicken skewers, Greek salad, or lemon potatoes. The service is great, as are the prices, although it does get super busy. To avoid waiting in line, it’s best to call ahead and reserve a table.
8. Browse the best shops in Astoria, Queens
If you enjoy shopping while in the Astoria neighborhood, there are numerous cool choices to explore. One of the most popular stores here is Lockwood Style, which carries fashionable clothing in a wide range of sizes. They also offer home items, beauty products, and gifts, so it’s worth checking out.
The Brass Owl is another respected retailer. This boutique features some of the cutest handbags, shoes, and accessories found locally. Their handcrafted jewelry collection stands out notably, therefore keep an eye out for a good price.
On the off chance that you favor something more affordable, check out HaNGER, which offers chic clothing at a lower value focuses. You can likewise discover vintage garments and things at Loveday31. Whatever you’re searching for, there is a shop in Astoria for you. A portion of the specialization shops you may appreciate incorporate The Little Soap Shop,HiFi Records, and Astoria Bookshop, which I’ll discuss following.
9. Astoria Bookshop, a quaint attraction in Astoria, Queens, NY
Astoria Bookshop is one of the most fascinating places in Astoria and fundamental for locals. This woman-operated bookstore run by members of the LGBTQ+ community stocks a diverse variety of authors and genres, ensuring something for all. Ranging from local writers to LGBTQ+ fiction and banned books, you`ll find something amid the shelves.
Additionally, the shop features a nice selection of jigsaw puzzles and board games as well as stationery supplies, all at competitive prices. The shop is open daily, so be sure to visit this small neighborhood bookstore and see what all the buzz is about.
10. Visit Q.E.D., the best thing to do in Astoria at night
Finally, Q.E.D. is one of the most novel places to visit in Astoria thanks to its multi-art approach and multi-operational area. It’s part performance hall, part comedy club, but also has a café and bar, and a little storefront for books.
On any given day, one may find a dance troupe performing here or a comedian conversing with the crowd. Q.E.D. also hosts meet-ups and community activities like storytelling hours, poetry readings, and improv nights. This independent venue is woman-owned and a popular place among locals, so if you’re looking for things to do in Astoria at night, pop in here and see what’s going on.
Map of Astoria, Queens, NYC
That’s it from me, but before I go, here is a visual with all the attractions I mentioned in this article in Astoria.
Of course, don’t hesitate to leave me any questions you have below. I’d also love to know if you’ve been to any of these places in Astoria or if you have any recommendations you’d like to share. Let me know, and I’ll see you next time!
