Rediscover the Magic of Queens: A Journey Through the World’s Fair Legacy and Beyond

Queens is a borough bursting with diversity, culture, history, and of course St. John’s University whose basketball team I am hoping not only secures a spot in the NCAA tournament but also advances to the Sweet 16. It is also home to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, where the iconic Unisphere, a massive stainless-steel globe, greets you. This centerpiece of the 1964-65 World’s Fair symbolizes global unity and remains a beloved landmark of Queens. At 140 feet tall, it’s a stunning reminder of the fair’s futuristic vision. Stroll around its fountain-adorned base, and you’ll feel the energy of a time when the world came together to dream big.

Nearby, the New York State Pavilion adds another layer of intrigue. These towering, saucer-like structures—designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson—were once a hub of exhibits and a viewing platform for fairgoers. Today, they serve as striking reminders of mid-century optimism and are being gradually restored to their former glory.

While in the park, make your way to the Queens Museum, home to the Panorama of the City of New York, a scale model of NYC.

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is also home to the Queens Botanical Garden, a serene escape filled with themed gardens, or visit the Queens Zoo, where you can get up close with wildlife in an intimate, family-friendly setting. Sports fans can cheer on the Mets at Citi Field (Go Mets!) or catch a world-class tennis match at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open.

Queens isn’t just a borough—it’s a celebration of the world’s cultures, histories, and dreams. The spirit of the World’s Fairs lives on in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, where innovation meets recreation, and history mingles with the present. Whether you’re drawn by the futuristic allure of the Unisphere, the cultural treasures of the Queens Museum, or the global flavors of its food scene, Queens promises an unforgettable experience.