I recently had the chance to visit my friend Gia in her new neighborhood, ASTORIA! This was my first time really exploring Queens (besides ending up lost there on the wrong train). I jumped on the N train after work on Friday from Herald Square and made my way to her stop!
Astoria is a buzzing little neighborhood, only a few stops on the yellow line from Manhattan! It’s got great food, friendly people and feels like a cozier version of the big city. The locals in the area are definitely proud of their little nook of Queens, as is showcased on the amazing Instagram account “We Heart Astoria.”
We spent the evening at her flat, drinking wine and catching up– but went out to explore the next morning! We stopped at the Astoria branch of MOMS, a popular chain that we had recently eaten at in Hell’s Kitchen, for some mimosa’s and brunch.
We then explored the area, taking in bookstores, plant shops, stoop sales (and naturally doing a mini photo-shoot under the train tracks)!
We even attempted to check out the Astoria Public Pool, which was a HUGE mistake. But it definitely gave us a laugh. Fair warning, if you’re looking to check out this pool– be prepared for an intense shake down to get inside! There were multiple people in the locker rooms rudely making sure you didn’t take any possessions into the pool (no phones), ordering you to shower and making you shake your towels out to prove you weren’t hiding anything in them.
It did feel a bit like I was entering a prison instead of a pool. We were so flustered by the process to get in, that we only stayed for 15 minutes! It was the strangest experience, and needless to say– I will not be going to another public pool in the city. But hey, it’s a funny story now!
If you’re in Astoria and looking for some fun things to do/eat– I’ve listed out a few of my personal favorites, as well as some that I have yet to try but have been recommended!
- Sunday Brunch and Drag Bingo at Albatross Gay Bar
- Museum of the Moving Image
- The Let Love Inn– Jazz Bar
- Lounge around in Astoria Park– lovely views!
- The Strand Smokehouse– BBQ Spot
- The High-water Tropical Bar
- HiFi Records Shop
- Bohemian Bar and Beer Garden
- Q.E.D– For Comedy Events (I personally hate stand up, but if it’s your thing– CHECK IT OUT!)
- Sugar Freak– Cajun/Creole Restaurant
Positively Han 