Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City at Night in Queens
Top Things to Do in New York City at Night in Queens
1. Queens Night Market
A festive open-air night market that turns Flushing Meadows Corona Park into a global street-food carnival with rotating vendors and live performances.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the most flavorful snapshot of Queens’ diversity in one evening—perfect for grazing through dozens of cuisines under the park’s night skies.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Saturday nights in spring through fall, 7:30 pm–late; arrive after 8:30 pm for shorter lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small stack of cash for quicker purchases and scan the vendor list online before you go to target must-try bites.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Lively, family-friendly, and delicious—visitors love the variety and value without needing to leave the borough.
2. New World Mall Food Court
A sprawling underground food court in Flushing where steam, spice, and neon collide—think hand-pulled noodles, skewers, hot pot, and bubble tea until late.
✓ Why Go:
Ideal for a post-game or post-show feast with affordable, authentic Asian eats all in one place.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights after 8 pm for easier seating; weekends hum until closing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a buzzer from multiple stalls at once, then share dishes family-style when everything lands at the table.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Buzzing and delicious; travelers praise the value and breadth of regional options.
3. Museum of the Moving Image
Astoria’s beloved film museum hosts evening screenings, director Q&As, and galleries celebrating cinema, TV, and video games.
✓ Why Go:
A cultured night out with indie premieres and repertory classics—then a stroll to nearby bars on 30th Ave.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Friday and Saturday evening screenings; arrive 30 minutes early to browse exhibits.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the schedule for special series or guest talks—tickets can sell out for marquee events.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Smart and intimate—film lovers rave about the programming and friendly staff.
4. Gantry Plaza State Park
A waterfront promenade in Long Island City with restored gantries, piers, and knockout nighttime views of the Midtown skyline.
✓ Why Go:
For sunset-to-blue-hour photos, quiet wanders, and a romantic bench with Empire State Building views.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour through late evening; weekdays are peaceful and photogenic.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a tripod and walk south to adjacent Hunters Point South Park for more angles of the skyline.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Serene and stunning—visitors call it the best free skyline view in Queens.
5. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
One of NYC’s oldest beer gardens pours Czech and craft brews beneath string lights with a backyard stage on warm nights.
✓ Why Go:
Communal tables, live music, and easygoing Astoria vibes make it a classic night out.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring to early fall evenings; arrive by 7 pm for a prime outdoor table.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order grill favorites from the outdoor window and stake out a spot near the stage for bands or DJ sets.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fun and convivial—guests love the laid-back atmosphere and historic charm.
6. TWA Hotel
The swooping Saarinen-designed former TWA terminal now houses a retro-chic hotel with a rooftop bar overlooking JFK’s runways and a vintage Connie airplane lounge.
✓ Why Go:
Sip cocktails while watching night flights taxi and take off—there’s nothing else like it in NYC.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dusk through late night for runway lights and fewer daytime visitors.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve rooftop access ahead of time on weekends; explore the mid-century exhibits in the lobby between drinks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Stylish and cinematic—travelers gush over the design and aviation views.
7. Resorts World Casino New York City
Queens’ massive casino complex buzzes with slot machines, electronic table games, bars, and late-night entertainment.
✓ Why Go:
A high-energy, climate-controlled night that can run as late as you like—rain or shine.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late nights midweek for easier parking and shorter lines at bars.
✓ Insider Tip:
Join the rewards program upon arrival for discounts and quicker comps.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Exciting and convenient—guests appreciate the 24/7 vibe close to JFK.
8. Terraza
An intimate Elmhurst venue where Latin jazz, Andean folk, and global sounds fill a cozy, art-forward space late into the night.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quintessential Queens music experience with world-class musicians and a welcoming community feel.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Most nights 9 pm–midnight; weekends often feature two sets.
✓ Insider Tip:
Buy tickets online if a notable act is billed—seating is limited and prime spots go fast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Soulful and authentic—patrons love the intimacy and stellar musicianship.
9. Whitestone Lanes
A classic, neon-lit bowling alley in Flushing that keeps the pins falling late, with snacks, leagues, and occasional cosmic bowling.
✓ Why Go:
A relaxed, budget-friendly night with friends that doesn’t require planning ahead.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 10 pm on weeknights for open lanes and a chill crowd.
✓ Insider Tip:
Call ahead to confirm league schedules and snag an hourly lane rental.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Nostalgic and fun—visitors praise the no-frills, local feel.
10. The Rockaway Hotel Rooftop
A breezy rooftop lounge steps from the Atlantic with seasonal DJs, coastal cocktails, and ocean sunsets that stretch into starry nights.
✓ Why Go:
For a beach-meets-city evening that feels like a mini escape without leaving Queens.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Summer evenings for golden sunsets; off-season weekends for quieter vibes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a light layer—the ocean breeze can be cool even on warm nights; check the event lineup before you go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Chic yet relaxed—guests love the views and vacation energy at the edge of the city.
