New York Dearest
The guide, $35

By neighborhood · Queens · 2026

The best things to do in Long Island City.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 9 places.

New York City has a way of earning your devotion, not all at once, but in small, accumulating moments that eventually feel like home. This guide to Long Island City guide is a reflection of those moments. Each recommendation comes from personal experience, refined over years of exploring the city I chose to build my life in.

Long Island City is one of my favorite neighborhoods to explore when I need a little break from the fast pace of Manhattan. The area has transformed over the past decade into one of New York City’s most vibrant and creative neighborhoods! Thankfully, there’s no shortage of great things to do in Long Island City.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide
  1. Book Culture LICStore · Long Island CityBook Culture LIC is my go-to spot whenever I want to browse for something new to read or just spend a quiet hour flipping through pages.
  2. Casa EnriqueRestaurant · Long Island CityCasa Enrique is my top recommendation to anyone asking where to eat in Long Island City.
  3. Gantry Plaza State ParkPark · Long Island CityGantry Plaza State Park is one of my favorite places in New York to slow down and take in the skyline.
  4. JACX&CORestaurant · Long Island CityJACX&CO is a modern food hall right in the middle of Long Island City, and it’s become my go-to when I want good food without a big fuss.
  5. Lost in ParadiseBar · Long Island CityIf you’re looking for a rooftop in Long Island City that has good drinks and views, Lost in Paradise gets my vote.
  6. MoMA PS1's Warm UpsEvent · Long Island CityMoMA PS1’s Warm Up is one of the best things to do in Long Island City during the summer.
  7. NYC FerryOther · Long Island CityTaking the NYC Ferry to or from Long Island City never gets old.
  8. Queensbridge ParkPark · Long Island CityIn my opinion, Queensbridge Park has one of the most underrated sunset views in New York.
  9. Tour of the Neighborhood BreweriesBar · Long Island CityThe brewery scene in Long Island City has become one of my favorite things about the neighborhood.

Best things to do in Long Island City, 2026

The seal

Every place on this list can show it. It links back here, so a reader sees the whole list and how it was made. No fee.

Is one of these yours?

The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: Long Island City Guide (Local’s Guide & Unique Activities).