Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Luxury Travelers in Long Island City
Top Things to Do in New York City for Luxury Travelers in Long Island City
1. MoMA PS1
A leading contemporary art institution in a sprawling former schoolhouse, MoMA PS1 anchors Long Island City’s creative scene with ambitious exhibitions and site-specific installations that reward unhurried, contemplative viewing.
✓ Why Go:
For culture-forward luxury travelers, it’s a world-class art hit minutes from Manhattan—ideal before a refined dinner along the waterfront.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late mornings or late afternoons for quieter galleries; spring–fall often brings outdoor works to explore between exhibits.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book timed entry and start on the top floor, working down to avoid bottlenecks; the bookshop is a smart stop for design-forward souvenirs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise boundary-pushing shows and the striking industrial setting, noting it feels intimate yet internationally important.
2. Gantry Plaza State Park
A beautifully landscaped riverside promenade with restored rail gantries, fishing piers, and lounge-like seating facing the Midtown skyline—LIC’s signature sunset stage.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the neighborhood’s most glamorous view, perfect for golden-hour photos before cocktails or a waterfront dinner.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Clear evenings at sunset; winter nights for crisp skyline clarity with fewer crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
For the classic Empire State Building alignment, head to the northern piers; bring a light wrap as river breezes pick up after dusk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers rave about the cinematic views and calm vibe, calling it a must for first-time LIC visits.
3. Hunters Point South Park
An award-winning waterfront park of wildflower meadows, cantilevered lookouts, and sweeping lawns that feel worlds away while keeping the skyline front and center.
✓ Why Go:
Design-minded visitors appreciate thoughtful landscaping and photo-perfect perspectives of Manhattan without Manhattan’s crowds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunrise for tranquil walks and soft light; late spring through early fall for lush greenery.
✓ Insider Tip:
The cantilevered platform near the Oval is a prime spot for portraits; nearby cafes on Center Blvd make effortless picnic upgrades.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests describe it as serene, immaculately kept, and unexpectedly romantic—especially at dusk.
4. Pepsi-Cola Sign
A landmark 1930s neon sculpture set against the East River, this towering sign is LIC’s vintage icon and a glamorous backdrop for evening strolls.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quick, quintessential LIC photo stop that pairs perfectly with a waterfront itinerary.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Blue hour into night, when the sign glows and the skyline lights up.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand just north of the sign along Center Blvd to frame both the sculpture and Midtown in one shot.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved as a nostalgic emblem; many note it’s brief but memorable—an essential check-in while exploring the parks.
5. Maiella
A polished Italian dining room with a terrace overlooking the river, known for handmade pastas, wood-fired mains, and a deep cellar tailored to celebratory evenings.
✓ Why Go:
For a dress-up dinner with skyline views without crossing into Manhattan—ideal for anniversaries or client entertaining.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset seatings on warm evenings; winter weekends for cozy, candlelit ambience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a terrace or window table when reserving; the tomahawk ribeye and truffle pastas are house favorites to share.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners highlight elegant service, generous portions, and romantic views; occasional waits at peak hours are worth it.
6. Casa Enrique
A refined, minimalist room serving elevated regional Mexican cuisine that’s earned Michelin recognition—precision cooking in a quietly chic setting.
✓ Why Go:
Serious food lovers can anchor a LIC night with destination-worthy dishes and an excellent tequila and mezcal selection.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weeknights or late lunches to sidestep peak demand.
✓ Insider Tip:
The cochinita pibil and mole dishes are signatures; finish with the tres leches and a top-shelf agave spirit.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise nuanced flavors and polished pacing, calling it a standout value for fine dining.
7. The Penthouse at Ravel Hotel
A glamorous rooftop lounge and restaurant with sweeping views of the Queensboro Bridge and Midtown—complete with plush seating and a party-ready soundtrack.
✓ Why Go:
For a high-energy nightcap or celebratory brunch in a setting that feels indulgent yet distinctly Queens.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Summer weekends for lively evenings; shoulder seasons for more relaxed sunset cocktails.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve a corner banquette or cabana for the best views; check dress code and door times on busy nights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Stylish crowd, attentive staff, and head-turning vistas; some note music levels are high later at night.
8. SculptureCenter
An adventurous nonprofit housed in a former trolley repair shop, presenting daring solo and group exhibitions in beautifully raw spaces.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an insider art stop that rewards curiosity—perfect paired with MoMA PS1 for a full LIC art circuit.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons midweek for unhurried viewing and conversation with staff.
✓ Insider Tip:
Don’t skip the lower-level galleries; programming changes frequently, so check what’s on before you go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars applaud the curatorial edge and intimate scale that encourages deeper engagement.
9. Hunters Point Library
Steven Holl’s sculptural library is a waterfront marvel—dramatic stairways, reading nooks, and panoramic windows that elevate quiet time into a design experience.
✓ Why Go:
Architecture lovers can savor contemplative moments with postcard views of the Chrysler and Empire State buildings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning on weekdays for soft light and minimal crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to upper floors for the grandest windows; be mindful of photography rules in reading areas.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors admire the building’s artistry and sense of calm, calling it a hidden-in-plain-sight gem.
10. Dutch Kills
A serious cocktail bar where classic recipes, hand-cut ice, and expert bartenders turn a nightcap into an art form—quietly luxurious without pretense.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for sipping a bespoke drink after a waterfront evening, with conversation-friendly tables and bar seats for purists.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening or late-night weekdays to snag a plush booth without a wait.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask the bartender for an off-menu classic based on your spirit preference; the ice program is part of the magic.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for meticulous cocktails, warm service, and timeless atmosphere; can fill up quickly on weekends.
