7 Things To Do In Flushing, New York

Flushing, located in the bustling borough of Queens, New York City, is often overlooked by visitors heading straight to Manhattan. However, those who take the time to explore this diverse and vibrant neighborhood are in for a treat. With its rich history, bustling streets, and a blend of cultural influences—especially from East Asia—Flushing is a destination in its own right. As a travel blogger, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, and Flushing is undoubtedly one of them. Whether you’re a food lover, history buff, or nature enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic neighborhood.

1.Explore Flushing’s Rich Cultural Diversity

One of the first things you’ll notice about Flushing is its diversity. The area is known for being a melting pot of cultures, with a heavy influence from Chinese, Korean, and Southeast Asian communities. This has resulted in a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and culinary delights. Walking down Main Street, the heart of Flushing, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to an international city where cultures converge.

Flushing is most famous for its Chinatown, which rivals Manhattan’s Chinatown in size and authenticity. The streets are lined with bustling markets, small eateries, and shops selling everything from traditional Chinese herbs to the latest Korean beauty products. But it’s not just about shopping—cultural immersion is key here. You’ll hear a mix of languages, see colorful signs in Mandarin and Korean, and experience a unique blend of American and Asian influences.

2.Visit the Historic Flushing Town Hall

For a peek into Flushing’s historical past, a visit to Flushing Town Hall is a must. Built in 1862, this landmark is a prime example of Romanesque Revival architecture. While it was originally used as a government building, it’s now a cultural center that hosts a wide variety of events and exhibitions.

Flushing Town Hall’s programming is diverse, reflecting the multicultural community it serves. From jazz performances to world music, theater productions, and art exhibits, there’s always something happening here. It’s the perfect place to learn about the artistic and cultural vibrancy of the neighborhood. Plus, many of the events held at the Town Hall are family-friendly, making it a great stop for travelers with children.

3.Discover Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Main Street is Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, one of the largest and most famous parks in New York City. This sprawling green space is best known for hosting two World’s Fairs—in 1939 and 1964—and is home to iconic landmarks such as the Unisphere, a massive globe that stands as a symbol of world peace and unity.

Take a stroll through the park and you’ll also find the Queens Museum, home to the famous Panorama of the City of New York, a detailed model of the entire city. It’s an excellent place to learn about the city’s history and see how it has evolved over time. Another must-see is the New York Hall of Science, a family-friendly museum where visitors can engage with interactive exhibits on science, technology, and engineering.

If you’re a sports fan, you’ll love visiting Citi Field, the home of the New York Mets, located right on the edge of the park. Whether or not there’s a game on, it’s worth stopping by the stadium to take a tour and learn about the history of the team and the stadium.

4.Savor the Flavors of Flushing’s Chinatown

Food is one of the main reasons travelers flock to Flushing, and for good reason. With such a large Asian population, the neighborhood is a mecca for authentic, affordable, and delicious food.

One of the highlights of visiting Flushing is exploring its vibrant food scene, particularly in Flushing Chinatown. The neighborhood offers a culinary journey through China, Taiwan, Korea, and beyond. From dim sum and hand-pulled noodles to Korean BBQ and bubble tea, there’s no shortage of incredible eats.

Start with New World Mall, located just off Main Street. Inside this unassuming shopping center is a bustling food court where you can sample a wide range of dishes from across Asia. Try the Taiwanese beef noodle soup, or go for a classic bowl of hand-pulled Lanzhou noodles. Don’t forget to order some dumplings from one of the many vendors—Tianjin Dumpling House is particularly popular for its juicy pork and chive dumplings.

For a sit-down meal, head to Joe’s Shanghai, one of the best spots in the city for soup dumplings. These delicate, flavorful dumplings filled with savory broth are a must-try. Another favorite is Xian Famous Foods, known for its spicy lamb noodles and flavorful dishes from the Xi’an region of China.

If you’re craving Korean food, Flushing also has you covered. Korean BBQ restaurants abound, and you can find everything from savory marinated meats to hearty stews. One of the best spots is Mapo BBQ, where you can grill your own meats at the table and enjoy an array of traditional side dishes.

5.Explore the Beautiful Queens Botanical Garden

Nature lovers will find a peaceful retreat at the Queens Botanical Garden, located right near Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The garden spans 39 acres and features a variety of themed gardens, including a bee garden, herb garden, and perennial garden. It’s a perfect escape from the urban chaos and an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

The Queens Botanical Garden is not only a place of beauty, but it also offers educational programs and workshops on sustainable gardening, plant care, and environmental stewardship. If you’re visiting during the spring or summer, you might catch one of their seasonal events, such as the annual Harvest Fest or Lunar New Year celebrations.

For families, the garden offers a number of interactive exhibits and children’s programs that make it a fun destination for kids as well. The Fragrance Walk is especially popular with visitors of all ages, allowing you to explore plants by their scent.

6.Shop at SkyView Center and Local Markets

Flushing offers a unique shopping experience that blends modernity with tradition. The SkyView Center, a multi-level shopping mall, is the perfect place to shop for well-known American brands like Nike, Target, and Uniqlo. It’s a great stop for those who need to grab a few essentials or want to browse a wide range of stores in a contemporary setting.

However, if you’re looking for something a bit more unique, head to Flushing’s many local markets and specialty shops. Golden Shopping Mall is a treasure trove of small food stalls and shops offering everything from spices and herbs to traditional Chinese medicine. It’s a fantastic place to pick up unique ingredients or simply wander and take in the sights and smells of Flushing’s vibrant food scene.

7.Get in Touch with Flushing’s Religious History

Flushing is home to a number of historically significant religious institutions that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. One of the most notable is the Flushing Quaker Meeting House, which dates back to 1694 and is one of the oldest houses of worship in the United States. The meeting house played a key role in the development of religious freedom in America, and visitors can learn about its history through guided tours.

Another notable site is the Buddhist Temple of Flushing, also known as the Flushing Chinese Buddhist Association. This beautiful temple is an active place of worship for the local Buddhist community, and it offers visitors a serene and peaceful environment to reflect and meditate.

For those interested in architecture and history, a visit to St. George’s Church is also worth your time. This Episcopal church, founded in 1702, is one of the oldest parishes in New York City. The building itself is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, and it remains an active house of worship today.

Conclusion

Flushing, New York, is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood that offers a unique mix of history, culture, and culinary adventures. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Chinatown, savoring dumplings at a local food court, or enjoying a peaceful moment at the Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing has something for everyone. The blend of old and new, local and international, makes it a dynamic neighborhood that’s well worth exploring. For travelers looking to experience an authentic slice of New York City beyond Manhattan, Flushing is a must-visit destination.