Long Island City

Once an industrial expanse of warehouses and taxi depots, Long Island City now offers waterfront parks, skyline views, shiny new apartments, converted lofts, and unbeatable access to Manhattan. The neighborhood has seen remarkable change in the last two decades, with its waterfront is now lined with upscale, glassy new developments ideal for those seeking luxury amenities and a quick commute to Midtown. Even before Amazon came close to moving into LIC in the late 2010s, new parks, restaurants, bars, and other amenities were already transforming the area into a comfortable and scenic place to live, work, and play. In addition to the many residential units, LIC is a growing commercial hotspot chock full of office space, from the 50-story One Court Square skyscraper to converted industrial lofts. So, you may not even need to leave the nabe to get to work — but if you do, Midtown is as little as one stop away on an express train.

The Mood

Though it's close to Manhattan, Long Island City has a feel all its own, of a new neighborhood sprung up out of an aging industrial area. With each new restaurant or bar, the vibrancy of its streets grows.

Heart of the Neighborhood

Long Island City has a robust art scene, with galleries and even some TV and movie studios, but MoMA's contemporary-focused PS1 museum is the artistic center of this community.

Neighborhood Quirk

Long Island City was once home to many bakeries and factories, including a Pepsi bottling plant whose iconic sign can be seen from Gantry Plaza State Park.

Best Perk

The views from Gantry Plaza State Park are truly unparalleled. Residents relish its acres of manicured green space and sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.

Biggest Downside

As an industrial area converting into a residential one, Long Island City can still feel somewhat gritty. Many of its streets lack trees, and lifestyle amenities such as parks and grocery stores tend to be newer rather than well-established.