Life in Woodside, Queens
Each New York City neighborhood exudes a different vibe and energy. Today, we’re taking a look at Woodside, Queens. Ever been? Besides being the birthplace of actor/writer/director, Ed Burns, and the former home of acclaimed screenwriter/producer/ director, Francis Ford Coppola, this slice of New York offers lower rents than Manhattan and many parts of Brooklyn. In fact, some one-bedroom apartments come in under $2,000 per month, resulting in spillover from pricier Astoria and Long Island City. Plus, residents have an easy commute to Midtown (Grand Central or Times Square) on the 7 train.
The area has long been home to a large Irish population as well as Italian and German immigrants. In more recent years, however, South Asians and Latinos have settled in Woodside, creating a melting pot of cultures and hub for diverse eats and drinks. You’ll hear a multitude of languages when you walk through Woodside, where an international feel dominates the streetscape.
About 15 percent of Woodside’s population is Filipino. What’s more –– a section of the neighborhood is largely dedicated to shops and businesses owned by Filipino residents. “Little Manila,” as it’s called, begins at 63rd Street on Roosevelt Avenue and extends to 71st.
Woodside hosts the “St. Pat’s for All Parade” welcoming members of the LGBTQ community to march every St. Patrick’s Day. This event is a great alternative to the larger and more crowded parade in Manhattan.
Unlike some other areas of NYC, Woodside has been able to hold on to its identity over the years, despite perpetual change. This neighborhood brings to light the small-town-in-the-big-city mindset perfectly, which defines the New York lifestyle and why New Yorkers choose to stay in a particular section of town for decades.
Take a trip through Woodside, Queens.
Have you been to Woodside, Queens?
Also, Life in Astoria, Queens, and there’s great pizza in Queens too.
Posted on
2015 Flashback: My New York Life in Pictures
So Long, New York. Hello, Cali!
My iTunes Playlists: Songs for a New York Commute
The City Is My Date: A Day Alone in Manhattan
Timmy Dy says
What a very nice post! Reading your blog and looking at those lovely photos made me want to visit New York very soon. Happy Holidays!
Tracy Kaler says
Hi Timmy! Glad you enjoyed the post. Happy New Year!
Used York City says
My in-laws live in Woodside, it’s such a great hood! I love visiting the local cafes on Skillman Ave–there’s also a few cute vintage stores there, too!
Tracy Kaler says
Hi Jess,
I agree! Super cute area with an easy commute.
Iván Torres says
Hi, those pictures brought tears to my eyes, Woodside (51st and 43rd Ave.) was my home until not so long ago; it is a wonderful neighborhood, though it´s getting very pricy. Saw the 7 train pictures and the Daniels Park and it was unavoidable to pass through every single day. I miss it so much!!!
Tracy Kaler says
Aw….Ivan. Thanks for your comment. I love how New York City neighborhoods imprint on us forever. Love riding the 7 train and feeling like I am taking a tour of the world! Long live Queens, and hopefully, the borough will not change!
Maki says
I am in love with New York City! I’ve been reading and watching a lot of videos about the city. I know it’s not the same as actually visiting the city, but I hope to one day live or visit NYC…preferably in Woodside or Sunnyside. Thank you for your post. I enjoyed it so much! It helped me a great deal. Will read more of your other posts. I want to learn more about New York.
Tracy Kaler says
Hi Maki!
Welcome. Thanks so much for reading!
John Tambini says
Great photos !!! I grew up in Woodside from 1964 to 1984. I lived on 55th street between Roosevelt Ave and Queens Blvd. I miss New York very much. Went to PS 11 then PS 125, and the onto Bryant HS. Miss hanging out in all the local pubs on Roosevelt Ave. Racing cars by Laurel Hill. Listening to classic rock on WPLJ while cruising around. Thanks for the photos.
Tracy Kaler says
Hi John! That is great. You lived in Woodside when it was cool. 🙂 Thanks for checking out this blog. Glad you enjoyed the photos. I hope you come back sometime soon!