Flushing, beyond the well-known Main Street, is truly a wonder
to explore. Take an afternoon to walk around the neighborhood,
making stops in Murray Hill (aka K-Town) to try an array of
authentic Korean BBQ dishes at Hahm Ji Bach, or the Hindu
Temple Society of North America, whose Temple Canteen is
a well-kept secret for delicious dosas. In fact, Flushing has a rich
history of multicultural diversity. As the birthplace of religious
freedom, it is home to many houses of worship representing
almost every faith. When you emerge from the Main Street
station, marvel at the iconic St. George’s Episcopal Church with
more than 300 years of history. Close by is the Quaker Meeting
House — the oldest house of worship in New York City and
a National Historic Landmark. Break the other direction and
explore the magnificent Free Synagogue of Flushing with its
beautiful dome and stained glass windows. Across the street from
the Meeting House is Flushing Town Hall, once the center of
government for an independent town, now an important center
for the diversity and interweaving of immigrant arts.
History buffs will be pleased to discover seven historic
houses, many of which are within walking distance from one
another. Stop by the Bowne House, Kingsland Homestead
(the headquarters for the Queens Historical Society) and the
Voelker Orth Museum, which has a beautiful Victorian garden
and bird sanctuary. Another beloved landmark, the Lewis H.
Latimer House Museum, celebrates the legacy of the African-
American inventor who worked with Alexander Graham Bell
on the telephone and Thomas A. Edison on the lightbulb. Come
in December and celebrate the festive season with an annual
holiday historic house tour where each historic house offers
tours, activities, crafts, seasonal displays and decorations.
Apart from fascinating historic architecture and cultural
programming, visitors come from around the region to shop for
unique products and services. Roosevelt Avenue is well-known
for beauty shops.
For more recommendations and hidden gems, check out
www.flushingfantastic.nyc.
Editor’s note: The neighborhood’s fantastic restaurants, hotels,
performance arts venues, and historic houses are in other
sections.
68 QUEENS IN YOUR POCKET • www.its inqueens .com
/www.flushingfantastic.nyc
/www.its
/www.flushingfantastic.nyc
/www.its
