Things to do in Flushing   

By Sarah Harris

New York, New York. A city with such strong cultural prowess and popularity, it was named twice – and with absolutely no explanation needed. Though people tend to fall in love with the city, they stay for everything that the state has to offer. Whilst the surrounding areas might receive less attention, they present a wide array of interesting things to see and do. Known for its fascinating history and diversity in culture, Flushing is one of our favorite places to visit outside of the city. Whether you’re looking to view the oldest house of worship in the country, try out some of the best Chinese cuisine in Flushing, or see an installation of the whole of New York, you’ll find many reasons to love the area. We’ve spent a lot of time in Flushing and are sharing some of our favorite attractions and points of exploration here.

So, grab a notebook and get ready to jot some things down! Whatever you choose to do, we promise that you won’t leave disappointed. And when you're done discovering why Flushing should be next on your NYC bucketlist, discover how Go City can help you discover the best of NYC and help you to save on your sightseeing!

Explore the Area

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Without a doubt, New York is widely recognized for its cosmopolitan nature and the great history, culture, and of course, food that comes along with it. In an area as sprawling and diverse as New York, many Chinatowns exist, but trust us – Flushing’s is the real deal! Standing out as the largest Chinese enclave in the state, this place has great shopping, spas, and an endless array of exciting restaurants to choose from. But the best part? The food here is beyond affordable. Dig into a generous plating of chow mein, try all-you-can eat dim sum, and after all is said and done, have a mooncake – the choice is yours!

Another one of our favorite things to do in Flushing is visiting the Lewis Latimer House Museum. A modest Victorian house with sweet brick red accents, this place once served as a home to the African-American inventor until his time of death. Today, you can visit to learn about Latimer’s life and greatest achievements, as well as other black scientists. Walking around the museum is a great privilege, and you can feel the history living well within the walls of this humble home, where some of the great influential discoveries and inventions of humanity were made. As fascinating as it is enjoyable, the museum provides a great educational experience for those of all ages.

Get Cultured

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There’s nothing quite like catching a play with friends or family after a long day of exploring. Luckily, Flushing presents no shortage of great performance spaces to satisfy all of your artsy needs! Adapted from the New York State Pavillion, the Queens Theatre has been recognized as the area’s primary playhouse for quite some time. Here, you’ll be able to see everything from classical plays and famous stand-ups to musical and dance performances all under the same roof. For lovers of the performed arts, this place is sure to deliver on all counts.

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New York is known for its fantastic cultural institutions, with Flushing being no exemption to the rule. Founded in 1972, the Queens Museum is home to a great collection of global contemporary art across a wide variety of styles. Upon entrance, you'll be immediately drawn in by artworks ranging from the ultra-modern and avant-garde right through to the totally bizarre. Still, the institution’s main draw is the Panorama of New York City, a room-size installation of the entirety of NYC in miniature, which is continuously updated. Other highlights include a massive map of the city's water supply system, a collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass, and memorabilia from the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs. Breaking away from the typical art gallery experience, the institute offers something a little quirkier and more fun for all of its visitors.

Check Out Some of the Landmarks

Those drawn to Flushing for history and culture will be in luck. Standing out for its fascinating background and undeniable beauty, the Hindu Temple Society is a total must-see for history lovers and architecture buffs alike. Built in the 1970s, this traditional house of worship is known as one of the first establishments of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors will no doubt be wowed by its impressive granite façade - but of course, that’s not all there is to see. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view intricately carved stone columns and religious shrines. Whilst you’re there, we strongly recommend grabbing a bite at the canteen basement, which is known for serving up some of the finest Indian cuisine in the area. If you’re planning to make the visit, we recommend wearing modest dress as a mark of respect.

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If you’re looking to explore the history of the area – don't worry, we’ve got you covered! Established way back in the 1600s, Flushing is home to many beautiful venerable structures. Still, one of our favorite cultural treasures to visit in the area is the Old Quaker Meeting House for its unique background and the fascinating story that it tells. Built in 1694, the building is known as the oldest establishment of its kind in New York, and remains a house of worship right up to this very day. Inside, you’ll notice that the handcrafted floorboards and dark wooden benches reflect the modest nature of Quaker culture. Though it might seem simple and unassuming, we love this place for the wonderful history that it speaks.

Explore further with Go City®.

Ready to explore Flushing and New York's other vibrant neighborhoods? Discover the best bits with Go City. Our passes give sightseers the freedom to do what they want, when they want, whilst making incredible savings.

Our passes include top attractions, as well as New Yorks hidden gems, all handpicked by our local experts.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Best Art Galleries in New York 

Ranking right alongside San Francisco and Los Angeles, New York is recognized as one of the leading art capitals of the United States. For many years, curious travellers have flocked to the city to visit the renowned cultural amenities housing some of the country’s most significant and expansive art collections. Whether you’re looking to view contemporary masterpieces in beautiful spaces or quirky smaller repositories, we’ve got you covered with the best that the area has to offer. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, have a read through our list of some of the top art galleries to check out whilst you’re there! We promise you won’t leave disappointed. See the Classics We couldn’t write an article about the best art museums in New York without mentioning the Guggenheim. Almost as famous for its structure as it is for its collection, the bold swirling building was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1959 and stands as an emblematic city landmark. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy special exhibits of impressionist, post-impressionist, modern and contemporary pieces by artists from across the globe. Presenting world-class artworks in a beautiful space, this internationally renowned institution provides a profound cultural experience for you and your loved ones. If modern art just isn’t your thing, then head over to the Cloisters to take a fascinating trip back in time. Part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this highly-revered a long-established institute seeks to display European medieval art and architecture in all its glory. Visitors can view beautiful carvings, awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, and intricate tapestries, all housed inside a medieval-inspired space overlooking the Hudson River. Come for the magnificent artworks and leave with a deeper sense of how the world around you came to be. Another one of our favorite art galleries in the city is El Museo del Barrio. Since its founding in 1969 in a public-school classroom in Spanish Harlem, the museum has grown to become one of the leading Latin Cultural Institutions of the United States. Standing out among other elite establishments in the city, the museum specializes in Latin American, Caribbean and Puerto Rican art. There’s no doubt you’ll be wowed by the institute’s impressive permanent collection, which features over 10, 000 paintings, sculptures and photographs and more. Through interpreting works across different cultures, the museum provides a unique educational and visual experience for those of all ages. Get Cultured New York owes its development and celebrated heritage to generations of influential creatives and distinctive social facets, all of which are displayed in the city’s top galleries. Combining art with culture, the Africa Center documents the contemporary African experience through a range of outstanding exhibitions, events and lectures. Upon entrance, visitors can view evocative paintings, and exhibitions on fashion, furniture, ceramics, and more. What we love most about this place is that it’s virtually impossible to leave without having learned something new. One of the coolest things about New York is that it presents such a fantastic array of things to see, no matter where your interests may lie. Situated on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the American Folk Art Museum seeks to preserve, present and interpret the artworks of contemporary self-taught artists from America and abroad. Walking around the institution, visitors can view a first-class collection of over 8,000 objects spanning over 300 years. It’s undoubtedly one of the more unique and interesting experiences that the city has to offer. The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art is one of the top places to visit in New York for creative types. Situated in Downtown Manhattan, the institute is dedicated to collecting, preserving and spotlighting art concerning LGBTQ+ themes, issues and people. Standing as the only museum of its kind in the world, the museum displays an outstanding collection of 22, 000 works. However, the establishment’s main draw is its fantastic permanent collection, featuring works by David Hockney, Andy Warhol and Berenice Abbott. The perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon, the repository delivers a unique visual experience like no other. Try Something New Whilst many of the city’s top museums focus on still pieces, the Museum of the Moving Image explores the art, history, technique and technology of digital media in all its facets. A total cinephile's dream, the institute presents a wide range of topics, from every stage of the development, promotion, and showing of moving images. Through interactive exhibitions, animation workstations, and a full schedule of screenings, visitors can learn more about the transformative impact of image and sound technologies on our lives. Featuring a broad collection of technical equipment, film prints, and costumes, this place will leave you mesmerized for hours. The city presents an impressive wealth of cultural institutions across all creative expressions. Since its founding in 1974, the International Center of Photography has become known as the world’s leading establishment for lovers of visual culture and captured light. Visitors are sure to be dazzled by the various styles of photography held at the museum, ranging from black and white pieces and vintage film stills to paparazzi snaps and social media uploads. In addition, the institute offers various classes and workshops for those who are interested in picking up a camera. As inspirational as it is fascinating, the institute provides a comprehensive look into the history and development of this particular artform. Those who are looking for something a little different might want to check out the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Museum. A constituent of the Upper East Side’s Museum Mile, the institute stands out as America’s only repository devoted solely to historic and contemporary design. The museum delivers a fun and fascinating experience with its extraordinary collection of over 210,000 design objects spanning over thirty centuries. With so much to see and learn, spending an entire day here certainly wouldn’t be out of the question. New York is well-recognized for its vibrant and inimitable creative scene. Whether you’re interested in viewing medieval carvings, contemporary sculpture, or vintage film stills, the city’s most revered cultural institutions and hidden gems should keep you busy for hours on end. Choose from a wide range of diverse spaces to maximize your sense of discovery and wonder. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) NYC
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MoMA Tips for Your NYC Vacation

With its impressive collection of over 200,000 works of art, MoMA is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in modern and contemporary art. From jaw-dropping sculptures to stunning abstract paintings, a visit to the MoMA captivates visitors from all around the world.
Lindsay Eagan
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New York in February

Wondering what to do in New York this February? Don’t worry – we've got you covered with the most exciting events, activities and attractions to make memories that should last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to see the sites, attend a film festival, or go ice skating right in the center of Central Park, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. If you’re planning to make the trip, have a look through our comprehensive guide of all that the city has to offer. Make the best out of your travel experience with our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less. See the Sites Don’t let the cold weather keep you stuck inside! The city is home to some of the most revered cultural amenities in the world. Built into an authentic subway station that was shut down in 1936, the New York Transit Museum is the biggest repository in the United States dedicated to public transportation. A great stop for history buffs, the museum houses a unique collection of archival artefacts, old photographs and reading materials explaining how the city’s transit system has changed over the years. Fascinating and unique, the institute is a great educational experience for those of all ages. Why not warm up this wintertime by visiting some of the best museums that New York has to offer? Situated in Lower Manhattan, the Museum of Chinese in America seeks to present the living history, heritage, and diverse experiences of the city’s largest minority culture. Interesting yet not overwhelming, the museum houses a unique collection of ancient pottery, black and white photographs, and works by renowned fashion designers, all pertaining to Asian American history. Through immersive exhibitions, educational programs, and Chinatown walking tours, visitors can learn more about how Asian immigrants have contributed to the American narrative. One of the best things to do on a chilly New York afternoon is to go to visit a quintessential landmark up close. Situated in a district of the same name, the Flatiron Building is most certainly a sight to behold. Designed by Chicago architect Daniel Burnham and constructed in 1902, the building’s distinctive triangular shape originally served to allow it to properly fill the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway. Today, the dramatic structure stands as an iconic symbol of the city, drawing in millions of visitors each year. Get Cultured Since New York is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the United States, it's no surprise that the area presents many great festivals celebrating the area’s diversity in culture. A spectacular fiesta of fun and festivities, the Lunar New Year parade marches down Mott and Canal Street each year, eventually culminating at Sara D. Roosevelt Park. Lively and totally over-the-top, the event features stunning floats, traditional dancing, and delicious food. With its incredible atmosphere and so much to see, we couldn’t think of a better way to experience the city. If you’d like to experience the cultural prowess of New York City on your trip, we recommend looking into Off-Broadway Week. That’s right – in the wintertime, one of the city’s most famous creative amenities spreads its wings to offer theater fans something a little different. Running from the beginning of the month, visitors should be able to find a wide array of interesting performances taking place at intimate New York venues. From comedies and dramas to musicals and Cirque du Soleil performances, there’s a little something for everybody here. February is Black History Month, with many of the city’s best cultural institutes celebrating in style. Running for three weeks, the Lincoln Center hosts its New York African American Film Festival, recognizing the community’s finest creatives and resounding resilience through the arts. Showing a broad selection of classic fictional narratives, short films, and documentary pieces, there's more than enough to choose from. Those who are particularly interested in African American filmmaking can also attend workshops, public talks, and discussions with the filmmakers. Find Fun Activities Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of February in New York is attending Winter Jam NYC. Totally admission free and set against the urban wonderland that is Central Park, this annual snow sport extravaganza is the perfect family day out. As joyful as it is memorable, the extravagant pop-up includes ice-skating, sledging, snowboarding and more. In addition, eventgoers can enjoy live ice carving, a sculpture garden and bobsled and snowcat photo opportunities right in the city center. Hey, what’s not to love? New York is well-renowned for its delicious culinary offerings. To grab a slice of the action, check out New York Restaurant Week. Running from the start of the month, the event grants visitors with the opportunity to eat at favorite NYC restaurants at bargain prices. A total dream for any gastronome, the festival features a broad array of cuisines including French, Korean, Mexican and much, much more. Whether you’re looking to try out one of the city’s fine dining establishments or grab a bite at a unique Brooklyn bistro, you’ll be able to find some great deals. Amateur Night at the Apollo is the ultimate New York entertainment experience. Since its establishment in 1934, the classic talent competition has gained wide recognition for launching the careers of many world-renowned performers, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Lauryn Hill, and Machine Gun Kelly. Eclectic and serious in its intentions, the competition attracts performers from all around the globe working across a wide variety of art forms – meaning you never know what you might get. Here’s how it works: artists take to the stage and are subject to the harsh critique of the audience. If people applaud, they continue. However, if the public boos, they must leave the stage. Presenting an incredible atmosphere and a fun interactive experience, there’s no way you’ll want to miss out on this one! The air is brisk, the nights are long, and the crowds have thinned out – but that’s never stopped New York from having a good time. Sure, the colder months aren't exactly known for music festivals and hitting the shores, but February brings a whole host of interesting activities, exciting events, and world-class attractions for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to see a play, taste some of the finest cuisine in the area or crush the cold at one of the city’s famous museums, New York offers so much to do well beyond the holiday season. Make the most out of your travel experience and create unforgettable memories with our All-inclusive pass and Explorer pass. To find out more, check us out on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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