Discover the Landmarks and Historical Sites of Flushing, New York
Flushing, New York, is more than just a bustling Queens neighborhood—it’s a destination full of historical significance, cultural landmarks, and iconic attractions. With roots dating back to the 1600s, Flushing blends its colonial heritage with a vibrant modern identity shaped by diverse immigrant communities. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about local landmarks, Flushing offers a rich array of sites that showcase its unique place in New York City’s landscape. Below is a list of must-visit historical sites, cultural institutions, and popular points of interest in Flushing, NY.
Things to Do and Points of Interest in Flushing, NY
Flushing Town Hall
A centerpiece of the neighborhood’s historic district, Flushing Town Hall dates back to 1862 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it serves as a cultural and performing arts center, offering concerts, exhibitions, and educational programs that reflect the area’s global diversity.
Bowne House
Built in 1661, the Bowne House is one of the oldest surviving homes in New York City. It was the residence of John Bowne, a key figure in the fight for religious freedom. The site is a designated New York City Landmark and operates as a museum, offering guided tours that explore early American life and Quaker history.
Kingsland Homestead
Located in Weeping Beech Park, this 18th-century home now houses the Queens Historical Society. Kingsland Homestead provides a glimpse into the architectural style and domestic life of the late 1700s and early 1800s, along with rotating exhibitions on Queens history.
Weeping Beech Tree Site
Although the original Weeping Beech tree—planted in 1847—is no longer standing, its historic significance lives on at the park named after it. The site commemorates the horticultural legacy of Samuel Parsons, a pioneer in American landscape design.
Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
As one of the largest parks in New York City, Flushing Meadows–Corona Park is a major recreational and historical area. Originally developed for the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, the park features landmarks such as the Unisphere, Queens Museum, and New York Hall of Science.
Unisphere
The Unisphere is an iconic steel globe structure located in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park. Built for the 1964 World’s Fair, it symbolizes global unity and stands as one of the most recognized landmarks in Queens.
Queens Botanical Garden
Located near the park, the Queens Botanical Garden spans 39 acres and features themed gardens, native plant exhibits, and eco-friendly landscapes. It’s a peaceful retreat within the city and reflects the area’s longstanding relationship with horticulture.
Queens Museum
Situated in the former New York City Building from the 1939 World’s Fair, the Queens Museum is home to the famous Panorama of the City of New York. It also hosts contemporary art exhibitions and programs that celebrate Queens' cultural diversity.
New York Hall of Science
Originally created for the 1964 World’s Fair, the New York Hall of Science is now a hands-on science and technology museum. It features over 450 interactive exhibits, making it a favorite for families and school groups.
Voelker Orth Museum
The Voelker Orth Museum preserves a 19th-century Victorian home and garden that showcases the life of a German immigrant family in Flushing. The museum also promotes urban wildlife conservation and local history through educational programs.
Flushing Cemetery
Founded in 1853, Flushing Cemetery is not only a final resting place but also a historic site featuring beautiful landscapes and notable burials. Jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie are buried here, adding to its cultural significance.
St. George’s Episcopal Church
One of the oldest religious institutions in Queens, St. George’s Episcopal Church was established in the 1700s and features stunning Gothic Revival architecture. It remains an active congregation and a prominent landmark in Downtown Flushing.
Main Street and Roosevelt Avenue Commercial Corridor
While not a traditional landmark, this vibrant corridor is a cultural destination in itself. With shops, restaurants, and markets representing dozens of ethnicities, this area captures the heart of Flushing’s multicultural identity.