On our 45th anniversary, cool spots thrive in Queens

The World’s Borough has a remarkable number of noteworthy locations — too many for one paper to cover them all. But for the Queens Chronicle’s 45th annual Anniversary edition, our staff narrowed it down to around 20 “cool spots” that we hope you’ll enjoy as much as we do.

We start off center stage in Flushing Meadows Corona Park at the Queens Theatre, which was originally known as “Theaterama” and built for the 1964 World’s Fair. Big names in theater, like Rita Moreno and Barbara Cook, performed there, solidifying it as a cultural monument of the borough.

Ridgewood is practically the definition of “cool,” with an influx of thrift stores and cafés. The area has understated favorites like Gottscheer Hall, which was founded in 1924 and hosts German cultural clubs and dances. Topos Bookstore, a newer business, has two locations to cater to demand.

An almost 100-year-old family business in Woodhaven, Schmidt’s Candy, offers a variety of treats in milk, dark and white chocolate varieties. Business starts booming around the holidays with aptly-themed confections. The owner may retire within the next few years, so get there while you can.

Next, we head to Rego Park for a look at the Lost Batallion Hall Recreation Center. A Rego Park historian explains ante- cedents of the location, which dates back to 1939, originally built as a home for the Queens Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. The gym is adorned with murals honoring soldiers that history buffs will appreciate.

Art lovers don’t have to travel far when they can see local masterpieces in Bayside instead. The Garage Art Center, an art gallery located in the garage of the founding director, touts free space for artists and free admission for visitors.

Forest Hills has it all — from old-fashioned ice cream sundaes at Eddie’s Sweet Shop, to films at prices that won’t hurt your wallet at Cinemart Cinemas. While those are time-tested, newer businesses, like Nick’s Bistro for Greek eats, and Wagging Tails, a supply store for furry friends, thrive along Metropolitan Avenue as well.

A hole-in-the-wall pizzeria in Woodhaven overcame adversity and came out stronger. Sal’s almost closed for good last year following the death of its owner, but still offers a classic New York slice worthy of attention.

Our next stop is Flushing’s Latimer House Museum, honoring its namesake, a self-taught mechanical drafter and engineer. The museum’s executive director walks us through the history of both Latimer and the house, which nearly faced demolition after his death.

Still in Flushing, the Ebnezer Baptist Church is oldest Baptist church in Queens at 153 years old. The current pastor walks us through the institution’s storied history.

Neir’s Tavern, Thomasina’s Catering Hall and Don Peppe, located in Woodhaven, St. Albans and South Ozone Park, are all ready to cater to you. With long histories and great menus, the restaurants are some of Queens’ best.

A 1970s and 1980s hot spot, the only Jahn’s location left is in Jackson Heights. The ice cream parlor and restaurant is known for its Kitchen Sink sundae — which serves eight. Whether you order it solo is your own volition.

A cool spot that’s literally cool, The Lemon Ice King of Corona offers up time-tested Italian ices in a variety of flavors. Spoiler: The lemon is the best.

Did you know that Flushing Meadows Corona Park has multiple historic monuments? There’s 21, to be exact. That’s definitely more than just the Unisphere, and an expert on the subject tells us as much.

These 13 “cool spots” only scratch the surface of Queens’ vibrancy. With history and charm, each locale reflects the diversity and enduring spirit of the borough.