Things To Do
in Forest Hills

Forest Hills, located in the greater New York City area, is a charming suburban neighborhood known for its lush green parks and beautiful residential streets. With a rich history and diverse community, it offers a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby urban centers. The area boasts a mix of architectural styles, from Tudor Revival to modern homes, creating a picturesque environment.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy the neighborhood's tranquil atmosphere, vibrant local culture, and easy access to city amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Forest Hills
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Forest Park, enjoying the scenic walking trails and nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the Forest Hills Stadium for a tour and learn about its history as a concert venue.

evening
:

Dine at a local Italian restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby ice cream shop for dessert.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Relax at the Austin Street cafes, enjoying a leisurely breakfast and people-watching.

afternoon
:

Explore local shops along Austin Street, picking up unique gifts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Catch a local theater performance or movie screening at the historic Forest Hills Theater.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza Slice$3
Coffee$4
🍔Burger$10
🥗Salad$8
🥯Bagel with Cream Cheese$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and green spaces
  • Rich cultural history and community vibes
  • Easy access to New York City attractions
  • Limited nightlife options compared to NYC
  • Higher living costs than other suburban areas
  • Can get crowded during peak tourist seasons

Places to Visit in Forest Hills

Visit one of these nice places.

Forest Park

A beautiful park with scenic trails, lakes, and historic structures, perfect for capturing nature photography.

Forest Hills Stadium

This iconic venue is not only great for concerts but also a stunning backdrop for architectural photography.

Austin Street

The charming streets lined with shops and cafes offer great urban photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Forest Hills

Forest Hills offers a diverse culinary scene with flavors from around the world, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Forest Hills Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bagels

Bagels are a quintessential New York breakfast item, often enjoyed with cream cheese and smoked salmon.

Must-Try!

Pizza

New York-style pizza is thin-crusted and delicious, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Forest Hills Greenmarket

Held on Sundays, this market features fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Forest Hills experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures averaging around 30°F (-1°C), while summers are warm and humid, averaging around 80°F (27°C). Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is common, especially in late spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

New Yorkers value personal space; try to be mindful of this in crowded areas.

Queuing

Always respect the queue; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Noise Levels

Keep noise levels moderate in residential areas, especially during late hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Forest Hills is generally considered a safe neighborhood, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Emergency services are readily available, and the community is proactive about safety.

Tipping in Forest Hills

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers around 15-20% in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Summers can be warm and humid; it’s a perfect time for picnics in the parks and outdoor dining.

Fall

Autumn brings beautiful foliage, creating picturesque settings for photography and walks.

Winter

Winters can be cold with potential snowfall; enjoy cozy cafes and holiday decorations around the neighborhood.

Nightlife Guide

Forest Hills at Night

Forest Hills offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of local bars, cafes, and occasional live music. Enjoy a drink at one of the neighborhood bars or catch a show at the Forest Hills Stadium during the concert season. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize and meet locals.

Hiking in Forest Hills

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Highland Park Trail

This trail offers a peaceful walk through wooded areas and is great for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Kew Gardens Trail

A scenic trail that winds through Kew Gardens, featuring beautiful gardens and picnic spots.

Airports

How to reach Forest Hills by plane.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Located approximately 10 miles from Forest Hills, LaGuardia is the closest airport, offering domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Forest Hills is quite walkable, with many amenities such as shops, parks, and restaurants within easy reach. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and public transit options are available for those looking to explore further. The community encourages walking, making it a pleasant experience for residents and visitors alike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cultural Diversity

Forest Hills boasts a diverse population, with residents from various cultural backgrounds, contributing to a rich community fabric.

Family-Oriented Residents

Many families reside in the area, attracted by the good schools, parks, and safe environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Tennis

Tennis is popular in the area, with many local courts available for public use, and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is nearby.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following in Forest Hills, with local leagues and clubs promoting the sport among residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested in Forest Hills, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include the subway and buses, making it easy to navigate the city. The Long Island Rail Road also provides quick access to Manhattan and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Forest Hills.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that plant-based diets are well catered to.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals are available at various eateries, but it's advisable to ask about cross-contact.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Forest Hills are accessible, with several clinics and hospitals located within the area. The nearby NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital provides comprehensive services, and many local doctors' offices cater to various healthcare needs. Emergency services are prompt and efficient.

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