Forest Hills Historic Walking Tour
Forest Hills Gardens is a beautiful enclave which was the nation’s first planned community. It was fashioned after an English village reflecting the architectural diversity that defines New York City. It is truly one of the city’s hidden gems.
Some of its notable former residents include Helen Keller, Anne Sullivan, Branch Rickey (famed GM of the Brooklyn Dodgers) and well-known lecturer Dale Carnegie.
Meeting Location: in front of Ridgewood Savings Bank (Northwest corner of Queens Boulevard and 70th Road)
Nearest Subway: E,F,M or R trains to 71st and Continental Avenues
Estimated Duration: 2. 5 hours
Astoria Historic Walking Tour
Founded by Stephen Hasley and named after John Jacob Astor, Astoria is a prime example of the success of multiple groups settling in a culturally rich community. From the Steinway Family who created a community for incoming German immigrants and simultaneously built an empire with the creation of Steinway Pianos, to Abraham Ditmars who influenced Greek immigrants to settle in what is considered the largest Greek population in New York City, Astoria is rich with history and culture.
Sites on the tour will include both the Steinway and Ditmas historic districts as well as Kaufman Studios, a staple in the American film industry.
Meeting Location: Athens Square Park (in front of Greek statues)
Nearest Subway: N or W train to 30th Street
Estimated Duration: 2. 5 hours
Jackson Heights Historic Walking Tour
Jackson Heights was the first and still remains the largest garden-apartment community in the United States. In the late 1800’s poor living conditions in the city resulted in greater efforts planned for urban communities to be surrounded by nature. With the building of Linden and Laurel Courts and the completion of Queensboro Bridge, this neighborhood became a desired location.
It’s also the most culturally diverse neighborhood in the world. The area boasts a large community that overall represents more than 167 languages and 70 nationalities. Jackson Heights was also called home to Alfred Butts (the inventor of SCRABBLE) and Chester Carlson (the inventor of xerography).
Meeting Location: Manuel de Dios Unanue Triangle (83rd Street & Roosevelt Avenue)
Nearest Subway: 7 Train to 82nd Street
Estimated Duration: 2. 5 hours
More information to come on:
- Kew Gardens Historic Walking Tour
- Corona-Elmhurst Historic Walking Tour