Long Island City New York City
Long Island City offers unparalleled Manhattan skyline views, vibrant street art, and budget-friendly stays with excellent transit links.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Long Island City New York City
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Long Island City offers unparalleled Manhattan skyline views, vibrant street art, and budget-friendly stays with excellent transit links.
"LIC is a great spot with amazing views and easy access to the city, often at a better price!"
🚊 Subway is Your Friend
LIC is well-connected by subway. Prioritize hotels near stations for easy access to Manhattan and other boroughs.
🌅 Sunset Views are Priceless
Gantry Plaza State Park offers some of the most iconic sunset views of the Manhattan skyline.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roosevelt Island Tramway
Departs from 59th Street and 2nd Avenue
Glide over the East River for breathtaking Manhattan skyline views. A budget-friendly aerial adventure!

Gantry Plaza State Park
Waterfront, Long Island City
Iconic Pepsi-Cola sign, historic gantries, and unparalleled Manhattan skyline vistas. Perfect for sunset strolls.

Mural Art in Dutch Kills
Dutch Kills neighborhood
Discover vibrant street art, including a notable Mobb Deep mural, celebrating Queens' rich cultural tapestry.

Waterfront Dining & Views
Various waterfront restaurants
Enjoy a meal or drinks with stunning cityscapes. Blend on the Water offers a lively atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Mastering Your LIC Visit
Navigating LIC's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚊 Subway is Your Friend
LIC is well-connected by subway. Prioritize hotels near stations for easy access to Manhattan and other boroughs.
🌅 Sunset Views are Priceless
Gantry Plaza State Park offers some of the most iconic sunset views of the Manhattan skyline.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Hotels in LIC are often more affordable than in Manhattan, making it a great base for longer stays.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot (Select Areas)
While some areas are industrial, the waterfront and certain neighborhoods are great for walking and discovering art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚊 Subway is Your Friend
LIC is well-connected by subway. Prioritize hotels near stations for easy access to Manhattan and other boroughs.
🌅 Sunset Views are Priceless
Gantry Plaza State Park offers some of the most iconic sunset views of the Manhattan skyline.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Hotels in LIC are often more affordable than in Manhattan, making it a great base for longer stays.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot (Select Areas)
While some areas are industrial, the waterfront and certain neighborhoods are great for walking and discovering art.
🚠 Tram for a Thrill
The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers incredible skyline views for just the price of a subway ride.
🎨 Street Art Surprises
Keep an eye out for vibrant murals, like the Mobb Deep tribute in Dutch Kills.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Long Island City is praised for its incredible Manhattan skyline views, affordability compared to Manhattan hotels, and excellent subway connectivity. Visitors appreciate Gantry Plaza State Park and the Roosevelt Island Tramway. Some find certain areas industrial and less walkable, emphasizing the importance of hotel location near transit.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to get to Long Island City (LIC) from Manhattan is by subway. Several lines, including the E, M, G, 7, N, and W trains, have stops in LIC, making it a quick and convenient journey.
Many hotels are located near these subway stations, offering excellent connectivity.Yes, Long Island City is very well-served by multiple subway lines, making it a convenient base for exploring New York City.
This accessibility is a major advantage compared to areas further out like Flushing.Gantry Plaza State Park is best accessed via the subway. The 7 train to Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave or the G train to Court Square are good options, followed by a short walk to the waterfront.
Taxis and rideshares are readily available in Long Island City, offering a direct route to your destination. However, during peak hours, traffic can be heavy, making the subway a more predictable option for travel times.
Absolutely! Long Island City offers a great balance of affordability and accessibility. You get fantastic Manhattan views and easy subway access to major attractions, often at a lower cost than staying in Manhattan itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Gantry Plaza State Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. You can enjoy its piers, green spaces, and iconic views for free.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway costs the same as a single subway ride, which is currently $2.90 per person, per way. You can use your MetroCard or OMNY contactless payment.
Most public art installations and murals in Long Island City, like those found in Dutch Kills, are free to view as they are part of the urban landscape.
Gantry Plaza State Park is typically open daily from early morning until late evening. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's always a good idea to check the official New York State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
While many rooftop bars in LIC don't require advance ticket purchases, it's advisable to check their websites or call ahead, especially for popular spots or during peak times, to inquire about reservations or cover charges.
📸 📸 Photography
Gantry Plaza State Park is renowned for its postcard-perfect views of the Manhattan skyline, especially during sunset.
The waterfront piers offer unobstructed perspectives of iconic buildings. The Roosevelt Island Tramway also provides a unique aerial vantage point for photography.The iconic Pepsi Cola sign is located at Gantry Plaza State Park, right on the waterfront. It's a popular spot for photos with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop.
Absolutely! Sunset in Long Island City is spectacular. Gantry Plaza State Park is a prime location to capture the golden hour light hitting the Manhattan skyline.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline views. For evening shots, a tripod can help with stability and low-light photography. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps and social media!
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted in Long Island City parks. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations if you plan extensive shoots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
LIC offers a diverse culinary scene. For waterfront dining with a view, consider Blend on the Water.
There are also many trendy cafes and eateries, especially around the Court Square area.While LIC has upscale dining, you can find more affordable options, especially if you explore beyond the immediate waterfront. Food trucks and casual eateries offer budget-friendly choices. Consider exploring areas slightly away from the main tourist hubs.
LIC boasts a wide range of cuisines, from American and Italian to Latin American and Asian. The area's diverse population contributes to its rich food landscape.
Yes, LIC has several rooftop bars that offer light bites and full menus along with stunning city views. Lighthouse rooftop is a popular choice for aesthetically pleasing drinks and food.
Using apps like Google Maps, Yelp, or checking local blogs can help you discover restaurants in LIC based on cuisine, price, and reviews. Many TikTok and Instagram creators also share their favorite dining spots.
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
Popular hotel choices in LIC include the Hyatt Place Long Island City, Courtyard by Marriott Long Island City, and The Local hostel for budget travelers.
Location near a subway station is key for convenience.Long Island City is generally considered a safe neighborhood, especially the areas closer to the waterfront and major transit hubs.
As with any urban area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.Yes, hotels in Long Island City are typically more affordable than comparable accommodations in Manhattan, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
For easy access to Manhattan and attractions, staying near the Court Square or Queensboro Plaza subway stations is ideal. The waterfront area also offers great views and amenities.
Yes, The Local is a well-regarded hostel in Long Island City that offers private rooms and dorms, making it a good option for budget travelers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Skyline Views of LIC
Beyond Gantry Plaza, the Roosevelt Island Tramway provides a unique aerial perspective. For just the cost of a subway fare, you can glide over the East River, capturing stunning shots of the Queensboro Bridge and the Manhattan skyline from above. Many hotels in LIC also boast rooms with direct skyline views, allowing you to enjoy the city lights from the comfort of your accommodation.
Navigating Long Island City: Transit and Accessibility
When choosing accommodation, Redditors consistently advise prioritizing hotels located close to subway stations. This ensures you can quickly hop on a train to explore major attractions without lengthy commutes. While some parts of LIC can feel industrial, the areas around Court Square and the waterfront are generally well-connected and walkable. For those looking for a unique transit experience, the Roosevelt Island Tramway offers a scenic and affordable way to travel between LIC and Roosevelt Island.
The Artistic Soul of Long Island City
Beyond street art, LIC is home to various art institutions and studios. While not as densely packed as some Manhattan art districts, the area offers a more laid-back and accessible art experience. Many creators and visitors appreciate the raw, industrial aesthetic that serves as a canvas for contemporary artistic expression. Exploring these artistic pockets adds another layer to the LIC experience, showcasing its evolving identity beyond just its famous skyline views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit