Long Island City, NY Hotels

Long Island City is a city within a city. Located in the borough of Queens in New York City, it enjoys close proximity to many famous landmarks and New York locations, but its unique history and development have given it a flavour all its own. The arts community in the Big Apple has flocked to this area, transforming it into a cultural and artistic haven, which hosts many contemporary and classical galleries and studios. Long Island City has become a favourite base for travellers wanting to escape the overcrowding of Manhattan.

A visit to MoMA PS1 is recommended for a touch of the avant garde, as this museum built on the site of a public school in Long Island City houses both works and workshops for contemporary art, and in sharp contrast, the 5Ptz graffiti gallery, which resides in a converted warehouse, contains a touch of the traditionally subversive. Those who appreciate some nightlife with their culture will feel right at home in some of the most popular wine and cocktail bars in the New York City area, and of course there’s always somewhere to find a bargain or a rare and precious item in the city that never sleeps.

When To Go

Long Island City’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, though it’s on the outer edge of this zone. New York experiences a moderately cooler climate than more southern cities, but is temperate most of the year round. The average temperature in Long Island City gets up to about 20°C (68°F) in the middle of the year, with some days hitting 25°C (77°F) in July. Winter sees the average drop to just 0.1°C (32°F). Sports fans should base themselves in Long Island City in September to follow the US Open as this most exciting tennis tournament unfolds. Choose your season and experience all that the Big Apple has to offer.

• Summer temperatures average around 20°C (68°F). In winter, the temperature drops to 0.1°C (32°F).

• Rainfall in Long Island City is high with a monthly average of around 100 mm (3.9 inches).

• Winter can see heavy snow in New York, so pack accordingly.

Getting There

Long Island City is easily accessible via La Guardia International Airport, which lies around 8 kilometres (5 miles) northeast. John F. Kennedy International Airport is located around 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) to the southeast, and both have various modes of transport available to the city. Taxis, buses and rail link Long Island City to the world. The extensive public transport system in New York City fans out to all surrounding areas. There are dozens of day tours available to suit any taste in Long Island City, from cruises on the Hudson River, to bus and guided tours of famous landmarks. For some exercise, spend an afternoon walking through the galleries and parks that abound in this part of Queens.

• Get to Long Island City via either La Guardia or John F. Kennedy International airports.

• Trains, buses and taxis are readily available.

• Interstate travel is available via rail, air and Greyhound Bus.

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