Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Long Island City
Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Long Island City
1. MoMA PS1 Store
Within the contemporary art hub, the MoMA PS1 Store is a sleek, design-forward boutique where you can pick up artist books, limited-run posters, and clever gifts tied to current exhibitions—perfect mementos from LIC’s creative core.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a one-stop for well-curated art and design objects you won’t find in big-box shops, ideal for shoppers who want culture with their cart.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays after lunch (around 2–4 p.m.) for lighter foot traffic; weekends just after opening also feel calm.
✓ Insider Tip:
Browse the book tables for small-press titles connected to the museum’s shows—staff can point you to signed editions and special prints.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers praise the smart curation and say it’s “small but mighty,” with finds that feel special and giftable.
2. Noguchi Museum Shop
Attached to Isamu Noguchi’s serene museum and garden, this airy shop showcases Akari light sculptures, design objects, and books that embody Noguchi’s minimalist ethos—catnip for design lovers.
✓ Why Go:
You can actually purchase Noguchi’s iconic Akari lamps and refined home pieces—timeless design directly from the source.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoons Wednesday–Friday when the museum is quieter; you may visit the shop without a timed ticket.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about shipping for larger Akari pieces, and check for rotating consignments from contemporary artisans that sell out fast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call the shop “peaceful and polished,” with attentive staff and heirloom-quality lighting.
3. SculptureCenter Bookshop
Tucked inside this experimental art space, the compact bookshop stocks thoughtful exhibition catalogs, artist monographs, and limited ephemera—perfect for collectors and the curious.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a low-key trove for art books and editions tied to emerging artists, reflecting LIC’s contemporary scene.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons on open days, especially Thursdays and Fridays, for the most leisurely browse.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff about back-stock catalogs and small-run artist multiples—they sometimes have gems not on the shelves.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate the “gallery-adjacent” feel and say the shop punches above its size for serious art readers.
4. Underpenny
Part museum, part antiques den, Underpenny fascinates with cast-iron banks, tools, and Americana arranged like a cabinet of curiosities—plus a for-sale selection of vintage trinkets and jewelry.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a singular LIC experience where browsing feels like discovery; you’ll leave with a story and a small treasure.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend afternoons; arrive early to sift through outdoor trays of rings and smalls before they’re picked over.
✓ Insider Tip:
It’s often cash-preferred; bring bills for the best prices and be ready to chat—knowledgeable owners love sharing provenance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals call it a “hidden gem” with fair prices and a charming, old-New-York vibe.
5. Just Things
A longtime Vernon Boulevard stalwart, Just Things is the neighborhood’s nostalgic trove—records, comics, glassware, toys, and oddities stacked floor-to-ceiling for true treasure hunters.
✓ Why Go:
If you love the hunt, this is classic LIC thrifting—quirky gifts and conversation pieces at wallet-friendly prices.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend opening hours (typically noon) for first dibs; late afternoons are quieter for unhurried browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Inventory turns quickly—if you spot a one-of-a-kind piece, snag it; it likely won’t be there tomorrow.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans call it “a time capsule” and a true neighborhood original with unpredictable, delightful finds.
6. Stillwell Vintage Goods
A quietly curated vintage and furniture spot on Vernon, Stillwell mixes mid-century accents, props, and decor—ideal for apartment refreshes and photo-friendly pieces.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a boutique-scale alternative to big vintage warehouses, with personable service and pieces that suit city spaces.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday on weekends when the full floor assortment is out; check sidewalk displays for surprises.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about local delivery or holds if you’re continuing to shop LIC—staff are flexible for nearby drop-offs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers like the fair pricing and say the selection feels “handpicked, not random.”
7. Trader Joe’s Long Island City
A neighborhood essential, this Trader Joe’s anchors Jackson Avenue with pantry standouts, fresh flowers, and value wines—great for stocking a short-stay kitchen or picnic along the waterfront.
✓ Why Go:
Budget-friendly, traveler-approved staples and snacks in walking distance of Court Square and the 7 train.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings before 10 a.m. or evenings after 8 p.m. to skip peak lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick up seasonal NYC-only items and ready-to-eat picnic fare for Gantry Plaza at sunset.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Residents love having a “Manhattan-priced alternative” close by and praise the efficient checkout.
8. Target LIC Court Square
The compact, urban-format Target brings apparel, home basics, and beauty to One Court Square—convenient for quick grabs or outfitting a new apartment in LIC.
✓ Why Go:
All-in-one convenience steps from multiple subways; perfect for last-minute needs while traveling or moving.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays before 11 a.m.; weekends are busiest right after brunch.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use Order Pickup to breeze in and out—handy if you’re hopping between LIC stops.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers appreciate the “small-but-useful” selection and reliable prices for city living.
9. Costco Wholesale Long Island City
Queens’ go-to warehouse on the Vernon Boulevard waterfront—bulk snacks, electronics, luggage, and travel-friendly coolers at strong value, with sweeping industrial LIC vibes en route.
✓ Why Go:
Stretch your budget on trip supplies or home goods; the on-site pharmacy and optical are useful, too.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings when aisles are easiest to navigate; avoid Sunday late afternoons.
✓ Insider Tip:
If you’re staying nearby with a kitchen, stock up and portion into reusable bags for riverside picnics.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars note solid selection and call it a “workhorse” stop for LIC households and visitors alike.
10. Hunters Point Wines & Spirits
A beloved Vernon Boulevard boutique focused on small producers and thoughtful bottles—perfect for gifts, park picnics, or a well-chosen nightcap back at the hotel.
✓ Why Go:
Staff are enthusiastic guides to lesser-known regions and styles, with regularly rotating tastings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening Thursday or Friday to catch tastings and personalized pairing advice.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a Queens- or New York–made bottle to sip something truly local during your stay.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Customers highlight friendly service and a “discoveries-first” selection that keeps them returning.
