What to do in Astoria

Astoria is named after John Jacob Astor, the wealthiest man in the United States in the mid-1800s. It was originally called Hallet’s Cove after the first landowner who settled there in 1652, and was given its new moniker two hundred years later in an attempt to entice Astor to invest in the neighborhood. (Although he never once visited, he did contribute $500.) Shortly afterwards, wealthy New Yorkers began to build large homes between 12th and 14th Streets, an area now referred to as Old Astoria. Located in northwestern Queens along the East River, Astoria is bounded by Long Island City to the south, Sunnyside to the southeast and Woodside to the east. Many of the Greek-influenced mansions have been demolished, replaced by 2- to 3-family homes and 6-family apartment buildings that are of no particular architectural style and are rather bland-looking. Today, Astoria is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in New York City. It is known for its large Greek population, which accounts for 10% of current inhabitants. It is the second largest Greek community in the world outside of Greece. Originally a middle class enclave, new high rises and relatively cheap rents have attracted artists and hipsters, earning it the No. 8 spot on _Time Out_’s list of coolest neighborhoods. The vibe is not as hip as some parts of Brooklyn; rather, the area has a small-town but dense urban feel, sprinkled with bars, restaurants and parks.

When Astoria comes up as a destination, 3 places immediately come to mind. First, there’s the Isamu Noguchi Museum. It was founded in 1985 by Isamu Noguchi, and holds the largest collection of the artist’s works. The museum is located in a 1920s residential building with an outdoor sculpture garden and is open year-round. 9-01 33rd Road (at Vernon Boulevard).  Next, check out the Socrates Sculpture Park. Once an abandoned 5-acre landfill and illegal dumpsite located on the East River, in 1986, a coalition of artists transformed it into an open studio and exhibition space for artists. Today it enjoys the status of a New York City public park. 32-01 Vernon Boulevard.    Finally, plan a visit to the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) in the former Kaufman Astoria Studios building located at 36-01 35th Avenue.  Dedicated to advancing the understanding and enjoyment of the art, history and technology of film, television and digital media, it offers screenings and exhibits, and holds 130,000 objects.   We said three but there is a fourth place in Astoria to visit if you have the time. You might be thinking of a tour of the Steinway Piano factory, but we recommend taking a peek at the Steinway Mansion, the summer home of the famous piano-making family. An Italianate Villa-style home built in 1858 with 27 rooms, it is one of the last remaining country estates of 19th century Queens. Located at 18-33 41st Street. (Sorry, but you can’t take a tour.)

If you want to visit the oldest beer garden in New York City, grab an outdoor table at Bohemian Hall. Founded in 1910, it’s festive and fun, making a great summer hangout. In addition to food and beer, it features events such as movie screenings and Oktoberfest. 29-19 24th Avenue. If it’s an old-fashion jazz bar you’re looking for, head to the Letlove Inn at 27-20 23rd Avenue. It’s named after a Nick Cave song, and every Friday and Saturday you can catch a rotating DJ night. 

Q.E.D. isn’t just a comedy club. It bills itself as an “after-school space for grown-ups,” offering shows and events that include comedy, storytelling, poetry night, workshops and classes. 27-16 23rd Avenue. 

After dinner, check out one of the many Greek pastry shops for an espresso and baklava.