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Best Places To Visit In Queens

Queens, the second most populated borough after Brooklyn, is home to a diverse population. Dutch and English settlers were the first groups to populate Queens, and today individuals from every corner of the globe immigrate here. The historic landmarks listed below provide an insight into the history that shaped Queens into what it is today, a vast area buzzing with different cultures, languages and customs.

Related: Where To Eat, See And Play In Long Island City

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Forest Park Carousel
Where: Forest Park Dr, Woodhaven, NY 11421

Built in 1903, this historic merry-go-round didn't go round in Queens until 1972, when it was moved from its original site in Massachusetts to Forest Park. Today, both children and adults can catch a ride in this beautiful piece of art for just three dollars.

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Flushing Town Hall
Where: 137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY 11354

Built in 1862, this historic landmark was later transformed into a vibrant arts center during the 1990's. Today, this former town hall encourages the population to engage in theater, art and dance.

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Old Quaker Meeting House
Where: 137-16 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY 11354

More: Historic Military Sites In NYC

In 1967, the last standing meeting house constructed on Long Island by Quakers, was officially recognized as a landmark. From being used as a stop on the Underground Railroad to housing soldiers from the Royal Army during the American Revolution, this historical structure has left a notable mark on American history.

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Vander Ende-Onderdonk House
Where: 1820 Flushing Ave, Flushing, NY 11385

To preserve the oldest Dutch Colonial Stone House located in New York City, The Greater Ridgewood Historical Society raised money during the late seventies. They succeeded, and today the house functions as a museum, offering the community access to history lectures, craft classes and more.

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Unisphere
Where: Unisphere, Corona, NY 11368

An icon of the 1964 New York World's Fair, this spherical and symbolic landmark celebrated space exploration, the global community, and world peace. Today, anyone has the option of revisiting this beautiful and restored structure at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

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Voelker Orth Museum
Where: 14919 38th Ave, Flushing, NY 11354

More: NYC's Best Historical Sites

Celebrated for its beautiful, lush Victorian Garden and unique exhibitions, this historic 19th century home was transformed into a museum after the daughter of the homeowners requested in her will that the home be used as a source of education. The museum, which was occupied by a German immigrant family during the 19th century, was officially recognized as an historical landmark in 2007.

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Reformed Church of Newtown
Where: 8515 Broadway

The original structure of this reformed church was built in 1735 and later demolished and replaced in 1832 by the landmark structure that stands in Elmhurst, Queens today. Over time, the church and the communities that surround it have undergone many changes. Today, the church holds services for Taiwanese immigrants, Hispanics and other ethnic groups found within the community.

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Poppenhusen Institute
Where: 114-4 14th Rd, College Point, NY 11356

Home of the first free kindergarten in the country, the Poppenhusen Institute was constructed in 1868, and its purpose was to help locals find personal and professional success in their lives. Today, the institute continues to function as a "doorway to opportunity" for both children and adults by offering them access to performance workshops, musical lessons and more.

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Lewis H. Latimer House Museum
Where: 34-41 137th St, Flushing, NY 11354

Home to the African-American inventor Lewis H. Latimer, this historical landmark functions as a museum where attendees can learn about the contributions Latimer and other notable African-Americans made to science and technology.

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King Manor Museum
Where: 150-03 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432

Before this landmark functioned as a museum, it was home to Rufus King, an American politician and lawyer who served as a delegate during the signing of the U.S. Constitution. For just a small fee of five dollars, you can enter the world of King and other notable figures who played a role in the founding of our nation.

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Fort Totten Officers' Club
Where: 208 Totten Ave, Bayside, NY 11359

Home to the Bayside Historical Society since 1984, this cultural institute initially served as a clubhouse for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during the late 19th century. Today, the beautiful, Gothic style structure is open to the public as a source for research, learning, and a venue for entertainment.

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Louis Armstrong House Museum
Where: 34-56 107th St, Corona, NY 11368

More: Best Historic Walking Tours In NYC

The Louis Armstrong House Museum was home to the celebrated trumpeter and greatest influencer of jazz, Louis Armstrong, and his late wife from 1941 till 1971. For $10, you can attend a guided and informative tour of the home and serene garden of a musical legend.

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John Bowne House
Where: 37-01 Bowne St, Flushing, NY 11354

Having had an impact on the ideals embedded within the Constitution, this New York City landmark, constructed in 1661, continues to operate as an educational museum. Since 1947, local residents have been allowed to visit the museum once owned by a Quaker man, John Bowne,. Although the museums remains closed on most days due to restorations, you can still visit the celebrated landmark on Wednesday afternoons or by appointment.

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The Cornell Farmhouse
Where: 73-50 Little Neck Pkway, Floral Park, NY 11004

Also known as the Adriance Farmhouse, this historic site can be found on the grounds of the Queens County Farm. Operating as a working farm since 1697 and now a museum, the Queens County Farm is the perfect place to visit when you need a break from the bustling and hectic city.

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