Discover the Landmarks and Historical Sites of Long Island City, New York
Long Island City, New York, is a waterfront neighborhood in western Queens known for its rapid growth, rich industrial past, and flourishing arts scene. As one of the most diverse and dynamic areas in New York City, LIC is home to a variety of landmarks, historic sites, and cultural destinations that reflect its transformation over time. From iconic signs and public art installations to museums, parks, and historic buildings, Long Island City offers a mix of attractions that appeal to history buffs, art lovers, and curious visitors alike.
Things to Do and Points of Interest in Long Island City, NY
Gantry Plaza State Park
Located along the East River, Gantry Plaza State Park is one of Long Island City’s most recognized landmarks. This waterfront park features restored gantry cranes that once loaded rail cars onto barges, a nod to LIC’s industrial heritage. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, playgrounds, piers, and landscaped gardens in a setting that blends history with modern leisure.
Pepsi-Cola Sign
A beloved icon of LIC, the historic Pepsi-Cola sign sits on the waterfront within Gantry Plaza State Park. Originally installed in 1936 on top of the Pepsi bottling plant, the sign was preserved and landmarked in 2016. It remains a photogenic symbol of Long Island City’s commercial past and is visible from across the East River.
MoMA PS1
Housed in a former public school building, MoMA PS1 is one of the oldest and most influential contemporary art institutions in the United States. As an affiliate of the Museum of Modern Art, it showcases experimental, cutting-edge art and hosts seasonal events like the popular Warm Up music series. Its presence anchors LIC’s reputation as an arts and culture destination.
Socrates Sculpture Park
Located just north of LIC in Astoria but often associated with the greater Long Island City arts scene, Socrates Sculpture Park is a public outdoor museum and sculpture park. It features large-scale art installations and hosts cultural events, making it a unique open-air landmark along the East River.
Noguchi Museum
Dedicated to the life and work of Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, the Noguchi Museum offers a serene experience through its indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture garden. Located near Socrates Sculpture Park, this museum enhances the artistic legacy of the LIC area and attracts visitors from around the world.
Queensbridge Houses
As the largest public housing development in North America, the Queensbridge Houses are an important part of Long Island City’s social and architectural history. Built in 1939, the development has been home to generations of families and cultural figures, including several prominent hip-hop artists.
Court Square
A major commercial and transit hub in Long Island City, Court Square is home to multiple historic and modern buildings. It’s also where visitors will find the historic Long Island City Courthouse, a Beaux-Arts structure that dates back to 1874. The area is surrounded by cafes, businesses, and new developments, showcasing LIC’s blend of old and new.
Hunter’s Point South Park
This expansive waterfront park offers walking trails, a dog run, playgrounds, and sports courts. Built as part of LIC’s redevelopment plan, Hunter’s Point South Park provides beautiful green space and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, blending nature and city life.
Silvercup Studios
Silvercup Studios is a key piece of LIC’s entertainment history. Known for producing popular TV shows like The Sopranos and Sex and the City, the studio still operates today. Its rooftop sign is another iconic feature of the neighborhood’s skyline.
5Pointz (former site)
While the original 5Pointz graffiti mecca was controversially demolished in 2014, its legacy lives on in LIC’s identity as a street art capital. The site has since been redeveloped into residential towers, but local murals and installations around the area still honor its creative past.
LIC Waterfront Promenade
Stretching along the East River, the LIC waterfront promenade links several parks and public spaces, including Gantry Plaza and Hunter’s Point South. The walkway offers one of the best skyline views in New York City and provides access to outdoor art, playgrounds, and ferry landings.