How to Plan a Trip
What to Do in Long Island City, NY: A Travel Guide
December 28, 2019
Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.
For many people, even New Yorkers themselves, Long Island City (LIC) is a bit of a mystery. I can’t count the amount of times that people have thought that Long Island City is a far away town on Long Island, rather than the Queens neighborhood just minutes from Midtown Manhattan. LIC is a great option for individuals visiting NYC on a budget. Keep reading to find out what to do in Long Island City, NY.
Long Island City, NY can be easily reached from Manhattan or Brooklyn by public transportation. I recommend taking the E/M/G/7 to Court Square or the 7 to Vernon Blvd – Jackson Ave.
Where to Eat in Long Island City, NY
Black Star Bakery
The perfect way to start your day , or a midday pick-me-up, head to Black Star Bakery for a little something sweet. I recommend their oat mylk matcha lattes and extra large doughnuts.
LIC Market
Join the local Long Island City scene at LIC Market – a neighborhood favorite with fresh seasonal dishes and a rotating selection of natural wines. Arrive at 6pm to get the best of both worlds, with the dinner menu going into effect, and the happy hour menu lingers for another 30 minutes. I will admit that I’m a tad bit bias as I used to work here, but it is truly some of the best food you’ll find in area!
Levante
A classic Italian restaurant in the heart of Long Island City, NY. This spot is known for its pizza, but I recommend checking out the eggplant gnocchi for a phenomenal meal.
Adda Indian Canteen
A bit out of the way, but well worth it for some of the best Indian food you’ll find in NYC. With only a few tables, I recommend booking a table ahead to snag a spot.
What to Do in Long Island City, NY
Gantry Plaza
Most tourists flock to Brooklyn for Manhattan views, but Queens has got quite a lot to offer as well! There is so much to see in this park that perhaps I should be writing a guide to Gantry Plaza, rather than a guide to Long Island City, NY! Make your way to the water at Gantry Plaza where you can capture some of the best Manhattan skyline views. A little further down the path you’ll also find the famous Pepsi Cola sign.
The Yoga Room
What better way to get to know a city than to pop in for a local yoga class? The Yoga Room is one of the best places in Long Island City, with a sister location in Astoria as well. Whether you’re feeling a heated class, a slow yoga, or something a bit faster paced – you’re sure to find something that works for you at this welcoming studio.
Moma PS1
Moma PS1 is a great spot to fill the afternoon hours. This Museum of Modern Art affiliate aspires to bring contemporary art to a diverse group of individuals in Queens. During the summer months they host weekend daytime concerts as well, known as Warm Up. Be sure to book your tickets ahead if you plan on attending!
Visit the Breweries (or enjoy a handcrafted cocktail)
You’ve got two great drinking options in Long Island City, NY: a tour of the neighborhood’s local breweries or a hand-crafted cocktail in the dark confines of the local speakeasy. Whichever you choose, or perhaps a combination of the two, you are sure to be pleased.
A few favorite breweries in Long Island City, NY include LIC Beer Project, Rockaway Brewery, Big aLICe, and Fifth Hammer.
For those looking for a cocktail, head over to Dutch Kills on Jackson Ave. You’ll have to pay attention because this inconspicuous entrance can be hard to spot at LIC’s best speakeasy.
I recommend continuing your day by heading to Astoria for dinner. You can check out my guide on what to do in Astoria.
Where to Stay in Long Island City, NY
There are a number of great, affordable options in NYC for hotels and hostels. I recommend Z Hotel NYC or The Local NYC for anyone on a budget.
Like what you read on what to do in Long Island City, NY? Be sure to Pin it for later!
