Regarded as the most diverse neighborhood in the entire country, Jackson Heights combines a worldly population with a strong neighborhood vibe. Reflecting its diversity is 37th Avenue which is truly a Main Street to the world. Within a few short blocks, you can snack on fresh hot Colombian buñuelos with your Thai coffee, treat yourself to an Indian mehndi design and pick up local produce from upstate New York at the farmer’s market. When it comes time to celebrate one of the many cultural events that take place in Jackson Heights, like the Diwali festival or the Queens Pride Parade, you can bet the whole community comes out to represent and support each other. The neighborhood is the site of America’s first planned garden community built in the 1910s and 20s, designed to be green, airy and opulent, often surrounding private gardens. These pre-war apartments have since been landmarked and now form the Jackson Heights Historic District.
Mexican & Colombian bakery with great tacos!
Queen’s largest Farmer’s Market is in Jackson Heights every Sunday, year-round, from 8-3. It’s a busy, convivial scene and a good cross-section of the neighborhood. In addition to a great assortment of local vendors including Sawkill Farm, Hot Bread Kitchen, Ronnybrook, Consider Bardwell and Hudson Valley Duck, there is also textile recycling and composting services available. Located at Travers Park, this makes for a great family outing with kids. Oh and don’t leave without grabbing some fresh tamales from the vendors camped out at the entrance of 78th Street.
