We can’t quite explain it, but there’s just something about Flushing. Located just across the East River, the neighborhood is home to some of the most exciting activities and attractions in the city. Whether you’re looking to check out the interesting historical landmarks, taste some incredible Chinese food, or have your mind blown by an entirely unique museum exhibit, you’ll find countless reasons to love the area. Boredom is something you won’t experience here for sure.
So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to do in the area and then see how The New York Pass® can make your experience even better! Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed!
Explore the Area
Recognized for its vibrancy and diversity in culture, New York is home to the biggest Chinese population outside of Asia. Though many tourists flock to Manhattan Chinatown, the city has nine whole iterations within its state boundaries! We love Flushing’s version of this high-energy ethnic enclave for its lower price points and an endless array of enticing restaurants. Seriously, as the largest Chinatown in New York, this place is the prime dining destination in the area. You’ll find everything from Peking duck puns, lychee bubble tea, and mooncakes in every flavor right here. Don’t mind if we do!
Originally created as part of the 1939 New York World’s Fair, the garden continues to inspire and delight visitors with its colorful dazzling displays. Open all year round, this stunning urban oasis offers 39 acres of greenery to be discovered – we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny New York afternoon! Whether you’re a nature lover, or just simply a lover of pretty things, this is the place to be. Before planning your visit, we recommend checking the website for any traditional festivities, special events, or interesting programs being held.
If you’re looking for artistry and culture in Flushing, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Adapted from the New York State Pavilion, Queens Theatre has been quenching the community’s thirst for the performed arts for quite some time. These days, you can catch everything from classic plays and side-splitting comedians to musical and dance performances, all under the same roof. With so much choice, you could go every night if you wanted to!
Learn Something New
Those looking to learn more about the background of the area should appreciate the next item on our list. Situated at 137th Street, the Lewis Latimer House Museum once served as a home to the African-American inventor until the very time of his passing. Today, the site is open to all visitors, presenting exhibitions about his greatest achievements and fascinating life and ancestry. A total delight for history buffs and science geeks alike, this place presents a great educational experience for those of all ages. Don’t miss out!
Looking for a great day out that’s both fun and educational? Well, look no further. Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the New York Hall of Science seeks to cultivate curiosity and wonder in the world around us. Breaking away from the typical museum experience, the institute presents more than 450 immersive displays which work to bring visitors into the learning process. Fan favorites include Rocket Park mini golf, the Design Lab, and the award-winning 60, 000 square-foot Science playground. Perfect for those traveling with family, this place makes for the ultimate day trip.
Another one of our favorite things to do in Flushing is visiting the Queens Museum of Art. Founded in 1972, the gallery offers an interesting cultural experience to remember. Though it isn’t quite a household name, this place is well worth the visit for its iconic Panorama of the City - a scale model of New York that was built for the 1964 World’s Fair, and is continuously updated since then. Other Highlights include its huge map of the city's water supply system and a collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass. Hey, whilst you’re there, why not try to place yourself on the Panorama?
Visit Some Interesting Landmarks
You don’t have to travel to India to be captivated by beautiful Hindu temples. In fact, the Hindu Temple Society of North America is recognized as one of the very formations of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Thankfully for us, this unique historical gem welcomes visitors to view its intricately carved stone columns and religious shrines. Whilst you’re there, we also suggest checking out its canteen basement, which is known for serving delicious South Indian cuisine. This place feeds a whopping 4, 000 people a week – and who are we to question that many people?
Flushing is dotted with historic structures dating way back to the 17th and 18th centuries – you just need to know where to look. One of our favorite hidden gems in the area is the Flushing Quaker Meeting House for its long, storied history. Built in 1694, the building is recognized as the oldest house of worship in NYC, and a rare remaining example of ecclesiastical architecture. Visitors can take tours to view its timeworn floorboards, wooden benches and handcrafted ceiling beams. Since the Meeting House still serves as a house of worship, we recommend modest dress. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new!
Ready to explore? Enjoy the best of NYC with the The New York Pass®. You’ll also be able to visit attractions all over New York for one low price.