Long Island City, often called LIC, offers an ideal mix of convenience, access, and modern living. Located just across the East River from Midtown Manhattan, this Queens neighborhood has become a destination in its own right. High-rises, converted warehouses, and curated amenities give it a unique identity. If you’re moving to Long Island City, it helps to know how to settle in, connect with the area, and make full use of what it offers.

The neighborhood has grown steadily over the past decade, and its options continue to expand. Each section below walks through a specific part of life in LIC — from transportation and housing to dining and recreation — so you can settle in confidently and enjoy your surroundings immediately.

One of the first things you should do after arriving in LIC is walk the waterfront parks. Gantry Plaza State Park is a central feature of the neighborhood, with open space, piers, and uninterrupted views of Manhattan. The park includes paths, seating areas, and sports courts that stay active year-round.

The waterfront makes LIC stand out compared to other dense neighborhoods. Walking along the waterfront is a good way to get a feel for the area's layout and atmosphere. A short walk south brings you to Hunter’s Point South Park, which has a modern design and expansive lawns. Spending time here allows you to recharge without leaving the neighborhood.

One of the main benefits of living in LIC is how easy it is to get around. The 7, E, M, G, and N/W subway lines all serve the area, connecting you to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and other parts of Queens. Most stations are within walking distance of residential buildings, which makes commuting or weekend plans simple to coordinate.

NYC Ferry also offers ferry service, which offers a direct connection to Midtown, Wall Street, and Brooklyn neighborhoods. If you're moving to Long Island City and want flexibility, learning your transit routes early can make a big difference in how smoothly your routine develops.

LIC includes a strong network of coffee shops and cafes beyond basic grab-and-go options. Places like Sweetleaf, Partners Coffee, and Black Star Bakery offer spaces where you can sit and work, meet up with someone, or just take a quiet break. Many also serve small bites and have extended morning and weekend hours.

These local spots are helpful for their products and for getting a better feel for the community. You’ll notice that many people in LIC frequent these places as part of their daily routine. Trying a few early on can help you figure out your regular go-to and see how the neighborhood interacts throughout the day.

Long Island City has a growing number of food options, ranging from established restaurants to smaller food stalls and bakeries. The Jacx&Co food hall, located close to Court Square, includes several vendors in one space. There’s also a strong presence of neighborhood spots serving Korean, Japanese, Italian, and Latin American cuisine.

Because the food scene is still growing, new places continue to open and develop a following quickly. That makes LIC an interesting place to explore through dining. Start with well-reviewed places like Casa Enrique or Mu Ramen, then work through local favorites. Trying new restaurants is an easy way to get familiar with the neighborhood layout and meet people who live nearby.

When you’re settling in, it's important to know where to shop for food and essentials. LIC has several grocery options, including Trader Joe’s, Foodcellar, and Urban Market. Each one serves a slightly different need—some focus on organics and fresh produce, while others prioritize everyday basics or bulk items.

Specialty food shops and smaller produce stores also operate throughout the area, especially near Vernon Boulevard. If you prefer weekly shopping at one place or picking up things on smaller trips, LIC supports both styles. Taking a few minutes to explore each store in your first week can help you decide where you want to shop long-term.

Fitness centers are easy to find in Long Island City. National chains like Orangetheory and Planet Fitness have locations here, as well as independent studios offering yoga, pilates, boxing, and personal training. Many buildings also have in-house gyms, which add convenience to your schedule.

If you prefer outdoor activity, the waterfront parks include walking and biking trails and several public tennis and basketball courts. LIC also connects to more extensive cycling routes that run through Queens and into Brooklyn. Creating a consistent fitness plan early on can help structure your days as you adjust to your new surroundings.

Long Island City has a creative side that’s visible in its galleries, installations, and nonprofit art spaces. MoMA PS1 is the best-known destination, featuring contemporary exhibits, public programming, and weekend events. It’s located near Jackson Avenue and is easy to reach by foot or subway.

Smaller galleries and project spaces like The Local NY and Culture Lab LIC also host community shows and live music. These spaces create opportunities to learn about the creative side of the neighborhood while meeting people in a casual, open setting. Checking out events regularly is a good way to stay connected to what’s happening locally.

If you’re bringing a pet, you’ll find the area easy to navigate. LIC has dog runs at several parks, pet-friendly buildings, and multiple grooming and boarding services within walking distance. Gantry Plaza and Hunter’s Point South both include dedicated dog areas that are well-kept and used by other residents.

Several businesses in the area offer pet-focused services, including daycare and training. LIC is set up to accommodate pet owners without making it a chore. If you're moving to Long Island City with a pet, it's helpful to check out these spaces early to build them into your daily schedule.

If you plan to buy, sell, or invest in Long Island City, the Christina DeCurtis Team offers unmatched experience and results-driven service. With over $450 million in residential sales and 30 years of combined experience in the NYC real estate market, Christina and her team know how to navigate every step. They’ve worked with leading developers and understand the ins and outs of condos, co-ops, and resales across the city.

If you're ready to make a move, connect with the Christina DeCurtis Team and work with professionals who consistently deliver results and stay one step ahead.