The Many Museums of LIC
What this foodstroll is
Our guide to the museums and parks of Long Island City, and the best Brazilian food in Queens.
Why this foodstroll works
Long Island City, a once thriving industrial center turned wasteland in the 1950s, is now one of NYC’s fastest growing neighborhoods. Along with that growth, the product of a 2001 commercial and residential rezoning, has come the construction of two NYC ferry terminals, a multitude of bike paths, and the upgrade of several cultural institutions and parks. Amidst all the action, straddling the border between LIC and Astoria, is a small Brazilian enclave where you’ll find some of the best food in Queens. Everything is nearby and connected via Vernon Boulevard, and in theory you could ride the NYC Ferry, visit multiple museums, eat Brazilian food, and bike all afternoon long in a single day. But if you do only a few of these things, a visit to the area still makes for a great NYC day trip.
Strolling
LIC and Astoria are relatively large neighborhoods and the ideal way to explore them is by bike. There are excellent bike paths throughout the neighborhood and bike racks for locking up on every block. If on foot, you’ll probably want to Uber/Lyft from place to place.
Food Spots
1. Beija Flor
2. Rio Market
Transportation
Our favorite mode of transportation is the NYC Ferry. LIC is on the NYC Ferry Astoria route or the East River Route. Fares are $2.75, or $3.75 with a bike. Once you’re there, we recommend exploring by bike. Vernon Boulevard has an excellent bike path that runs from Gantry Plaza State Park all the way north to Astoria. You’ll be treated to waterfront views all along the way.
There are lots of subways that stop in LIC, including the 7, E, M, R, F, N, and W. Streetside parking in LIC and Astoria near the Brazilian places is fairly easy. Parking near Gantry Plaza State Park is more challenging.