If you’re looking to delve deep into a culturally rich community in an architecturally historic landscape, Jackson Heights is just the place for you.
Queens is widely known for being the most ethnically diverse part of New York City by far. Jackson Heights is no exception, but rather an exemplary community snugly located in the Northwestern portion of Queens. Here are five reasons we love the gem that is Jackson Heights.
The Diversity
While Queens is already one of the most ethnically diverse urban areas in the world, Jackson Heights is one of the most diverse neighborhoods within that urban area. The neighborhood has seen an influx of immigrants, especially from South Asia and Latin America, in recent years. Jackson Heights is also home to Little India, which is located along 74th street and begins at Roosevelt Avenue.
The Food
Indian food does not get any more authentic than this. Peruse the streets and find your favorite regional food from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and other Asian nations, or head to the Colombian or Mexican diners. Neighborhood favorites include Jackson Diner, which specializes in Indian cuisine, and La Pequeña Colombia.
The Shopping
Window shop or purchase your favorite Indian wares from the various bazaars, boutiques, and specialty shops. Sidewalk stands often carry intricate prayer rugs and beads, toys, DVDs, and CDs while the Butala Emporium houses Indian clothing, incense, prints, instruments, Bollywood films, and more. If you’ve still got food on the mind, pay a visit to Patel Brothers, a local Indian supermarket offering a wide array of spices, sauces, fruit, vegetables, and rice not easily found outside the neighborhood.
Travers Park
Located between 77th and 78th streets on the north side of 34th Avenue, Travers Park is a community epicenter. Founded in 1948 and heavily used since then, the park saw its last renovation in 2010. Plans to transform a multipurpose asphalt field into a great lawn are also in the works, according to The Jackson Heights Post. The park as it is now features leaf-and-vine shaped spray showers, benches, basketball courts, a playground, game tables, picnic areas, handball, tennis, roller hockey, and fitness equipment. If you’re looking for a venue for your outdoor family fun, this is the park for you.
The Architecture
Jackson Heights is a designated historic district and rightfully so. The neighborhood is well known for its characteristic garden apartments, which are apartment buildings built around private gardens for optimum sunlight and airflow. These apartments were built in the 1910s and 1920s as part of a planned community of cooperative apartments, making Jackson Heights the first garden city community built in the U.S.
Main image: Traditional Indian wedding attire on display at Perfection Bridal’s
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