Only 15 minutes from midtown, the Museum of the Moving Image is one of the city’s most dynamic institutions. Rubbing elbows with Kaufman Astoria Studios, it includes a three-story extension that features a state-of-the-art 267-seat cinema and expanded gallery spaces. Meanwhile, the museum’s “Behind the Screen” exhibit examines every step of the filmmaking process, with artifacts from more than 1,000 different productions, and 14 classic (playable!) video games, including Asteroids, Ms. Pac-Man and Space Invaders. Muppet fans should check out the new and permanent Jim Henson exhibit, too.
Looking for fun things to do in Astoria, just named one of the top 10 coolest neighborhoods in the world right now? Chock-full of cultural diversity, the home of actor Christopher Walken offers plenty of pride at its local businesses and eateries. The nabe thrives with budget-friendly restaurants, new tiki bars as well as independent boutiques and record stores that make shopping small worth it. Ride the Queens-bound N/W train to discover hidden gems such as some of the best jazz in NYC, as well as one of the best Greek restaurants in all of New York.
RECOMMENDED: Full Astoria, Queens neighborhood guide