Explore Astoria, Queens in New York City
Astoria, Queens, is known for its Greek cuisine, cultural institutions and role in cinema history. Located just across the East River from Manhattan, the neighbourhood has long been a Greek enclave—but it's popular with New Yorkers and visitors of all stripes in part because of its easy access to Midtown via multiple subway lines. If you go, you'll see why so many people have fallen in love with the area. To get you started, we put together this guide to exploring all that Astoria has to offer in just one day…and night.
Greek Coffee and American Culture
Start your morning by riding the N or W train to the last stop, Ditmars Boulevard, get off and walk south on 31st Street to Artopolis Bakery. There, you can get delicious treats like a peinirli (egg-and-gouda-filled bread) or baklava with honey and a dark Greek coffee.
After you've gotten your caffeine and carbs on, tune in to the history of movies and TV at the Museum of the Moving Image, known for its interactive exhibits where you can learn how to edit a short movie or add sound effects to a scene, plus troves of costumes and memorabilia. Next to the museum, Kaufman Astoria Studios has been the filming location for many silent movies in the 1920s and, more recently, popular TV shows and films like 'Orange Is the New Black' and 'The Greatest Showman'.
Lunch and A Stroll in Two Parks
After spending your morning at the museum, have lunch at a landmark. Sanfords is an upscale diner, open seven days a week, that's been serving up a wide range of comfort-food dishes since the 1920s. Then head down Broadway for a stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park. This combination park and outdoor museum features original works by artists-in-residence beside seasonal exhibits on five acres of land along the East River waterfront.
Notable Store-ias
Pick up souvenirs of your visit at Lockwood, which specializes in cute home items, Queens-themed tees and caps and hand-crafted goods. Or drop by Inside Astoria, where you can find Astoria-branded merch, gifts for kids, photos and posters.
Dinner Without Menus
Elias Corner offers one of the more memorable dining experiences you can have in the borough. There are no menus here: choose fresh seafood from the glass case and the staff will grill it for you.
Beers, Comedy and Cocktails
Spend your evening under the trees at the expansive, outdoor Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, a traditional Czech beer palace known for its inexpensive drafts and communal picnic tables.
Finally, if you want a fancy Astoria nightcap, consider The Last Word, a craft cocktail lounge on Ditmars Boulevard with vested bartenders who serve speakeasy-style drinks. This upscale but low-key lounge, with cozy banquettes and candlelit lighting, is the perfect spot to end your day and night in the neighbourhood.