Podcast Title: All Of It
Host: Alison Stewart
Episode: Summer In The City: What To Do In Queens
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host Station: WNYC
Description: ALL OF IT explores the rich cultural tapestry of Queens, New York, highlighting its diverse communities, unique attractions, and hidden gems through engaging discussions with local experts and listeners.

Introduction

In this episode of ALL OF IT, host Alison Stewart delves into the vibrant borough of Queens, New York City. Titled "Summer In The City: What To Do In Queens," the episode serves as a comprehensive guide to the myriad activities, cultural spots, and hidden treasures that Queens has to offer during the summer months.

Guest Introduction: Rob McKay

Joining Alison is Rob McKay, the Deputy Executive Director of the Queens Economic Development Corporation. With a deep-rooted passion for Queens, Rob has authored several books, including Historic Houses of Queens and Famous People of Queens, showcasing his extensive knowledge and love for the borough.

Rob McKay:
"I grew up in Brooklyn, but Queens has become my home since 1991. Teaching English to immigrants in Woodside sparked my love for Queens, leading me to live, work, and raise my family here." [02:26]

Major Highlights

1. Unique Sports and Recreation

Maspeth Squash Court:
One of the most unique attractions in Queens is the Maspeth Squash, home to the world's only outdoor stainless steel squash court. Built by Jeff Anschlauer during the COVID-19 pandemic, this court stands out both aesthetically and functionally.

Rob McKay:
"Maspeth Squash has to be the most unique thing in the world. It's an outdoor stainless steel squash court surrounded by industrial facilities." [04:37]

Moreover, the court offers amenities for players of all levels, from free lessons to international matches organized by Rob’s friend, Rob Gibraltar.

Casino Velodrome:
Another historical gem is the Casino Velodrome, an Olympic-style cycling track built in the 1960s by Robert Moses. Originally intended for car races, it hosted Olympic trials and professional races, and remains a popular spot for cyclists and sports enthusiasts today.

Rob McKay:
"The Casino Velodrome is a true Olympic racetrack where people train, hang out, or just have fun cycling around the massive track." [06:22]

2. Cultural and Artistic Venues

Louis Armstrong House and Museum:
Located in Corona, the museum celebrates the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and has recently expanded to include a new performing arts space managed by Jason Moran. It's a cornerstone of Queens' rich jazz heritage.

Rob McKay:
"The Louis Armstrong House and Museum is a jewel in Queens, serving as the locus of the jazz trail with activities for everyone in the family." [19:54]

Queens Night Market:
A vibrant showcase of global cuisines, the Queens Night Market offers over 60 food stands every Saturday night. Founded by John Wang, it brings diverse culinary experiences inspired by Taiwanese night markets to Queens.

Rob McKay:
"Queens Night Market features everything from Trinidadian shark to Taiwanese and Sichuan dishes, complemented by live music and a beer garden." [24:03]

3. Parks and Outdoor Activities

Forest Park Carousel:
Built in 2003 by Daniel Carl Muller, the Forest Park Carousel is a stunning work of art with 36 moving horses and 13 stationary ones, accompanied by a beautiful mural and an organ that plays during rides. It holds both city and national landmark status.

Rob McKay:
"The Forest Park Carousel is just absolutely beautiful, with intricate carvings and artwork. It's a fantastic place for both art lovers and families." [12:37]

Hunters Point South Park:
This expansive park features volleyball courts, soccer fields, yoga sessions, and community murals. Frank Ottomanelli's concession stand enhances the park experience by providing food and supporting local artists.

Rob McKay:
"Hunters Point South Park offers a great combination of sports, yoga, and art, with spectacular views of Midtown Manhattan from the East River." [16:12]

4. Historical Insights

Vanderbilt Parkway:
Originally built in 1908 for early car races by William Kissen Vanderbilt II, the Vanderbilt Parkway later became a hotspot for Prohibition-era activities. Today, it offers a serene path for biking, walking, and enjoying nature within the city.

Rob McKay:
"Vanderbilt Parkway is a wooded path perfect for biking or walking, with historical markers explaining the region's glacial history from 75,000 years ago." [10:05]

Listener Contributions

Throughout the episode, Alison invites listeners to share their favorite Queens spots, leading to a rich tapestry of recommendations:

Luke from Crown Heights:
Highlights the diverse dance scene in Queens, mentioning venues like Earthly Lights, Trans Pecos, TVI, Iconic Community Dancing, Basement, and Knockdown Center.

Asia from Astoria:
Shouts out The Deep End in Ridgewood, known for its community-building ethos and the monthly Yala Party project, a SWANA (South West Asian and North African) party featuring world music and global grooves.

Andrea from Hell's Kitchen:
Praises the Louis Armstrong House and Museum, emphasizing its role in the local jazz scene and its new performing arts space.

Howard from Forest Hills:
Recommends the Hall of Science and the Museum of the Moving Image, as well as dining options in Flushing, Queens.

Hidden Gems and Additional Recommendations

• Addesley Park in St. Albans: Once dubbed "Black Hollywood East," it's home to legendary figures like James Brown, Lena Horne, and Mercer Ellington. The neighborhood boasts Garden City-style architecture with spacious lawns and diverse architectural styles.

  Rob McKay:
  "Addesley Park was originally farmland until the Long Island Railroad stop in 1898 spurred development. It became an upper-middle-class African American neighborhood with beautiful houses and rich cultural history." [20:26]

• Culture Lab in Long Island City: A hub for live music and visual arts, Culture Lab is hosted by Plaxol and offers expansive outdoor spaces with stunning Manhattan views.

• Queens Museum and Socrates Sculpture Park: These institutions provide extensive cultural exhibitions and outdoor art installations, perfect for a full day of exploration.

Insights and Conclusions

Rob McKay passionately underscores Queens' unique blend of cultures, historical significance, and modern attractions. His comprehensive knowledge and personal anecdotes paint a vivid picture of why Queens is an indispensable part of New York City's cultural landscape.

Rob McKay:
"Queens is a marvel of diversity and history, where every corner offers something new to discover, from hidden sports courts to vibrant night markets." [Various Timestamps]

The episode effectively showcases Queens as a borough teeming with activities for all interests, emphasizing its role as a cultural melting pot and a community-centric area worth exploring.

Final Thoughts

Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to explore Queens and engage with its dynamic offerings. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Queens promises an enriching summer filled with diverse experiences and cultural discoveries.

Notable Quotes:

• Rob McKay on Maspeth Squash:
  "Maspeth Squash has to be the most unique thing in the world." [04:37]

• Rob McKay on Louis Armstrong House:
  "It's the locus of the jazz trail that so many jazz musicians lived in Queens." [19:54]

• Rob McKay on Queen's Night Market:
  "You could even get shark there from the Trinidadians. You could get Haitian food." [24:03]

• Rob McKay on Addesley Park:
  "Addesley Park was originally farmland until the Long Island Railroad stop in 1898 spurred development." [20:26]

Resources Mentioned:

• Maspeth Squash: maspathsquash.com
• Culture Lab: Visit Culture Lab Website (Assumed placeholder)
• Louis Armstrong House and Museum: Louis Armstrong House (Assumed placeholder)
• Queens Night Market: Queens Night Market (Assumed placeholder)

For more detailed information and additional recommendations, visit wnyc.org/allofit.