The outer boroughs aren’t just a place to look for cheaper rent. They can also be a fun, less expensive spot for a date.

The Boy I’m Dating (TBID) and I, both Manhattanites, recently spent a weekend day in Queens. We met up in midtown to take the 7 train. On the way, we checked out 5 Pointz, a living collage of graffiti art in Long Island City at Jackson Avenue (at Crane and Davis Sts). You can view the graffiti from the elevated train or get
off at the 45 Rd/Court House Square stop. Either way, the street art is on display for free.

The Queens Museum of Art awaits at the Shea Stadium stop on the 7 train. I think it might be the most laid back museum in NYC. The suggested donation for admission is a mere $5, guards and ushers don’t breathe down your neck, and the exhibits are often
quirky and offbeat. The Panorama, a 9,335 square foot architectural model of the five boroughs built for the 1964 World’s Fair, is a sight to behold. Scan its 895,000 individual structures to find where you live and work.

Hungry after taking in our miniature metropolis and the Queens International 4 exhibition, TBID and I stopped by the museum snack bar. I was surprised to find inexpensive and diverse fare from local restaurants, including empanadas and Chinese
beef and chicken buns.

After leaving the museum, we walked around Flushing Meadows Corona Park. On a beautiful day, you can expect to see people flying kites, playing soccer and frisbee, and racing remote control cars. The men who do the latter draw crowds and even take YouTube videos of their cars in action. You can visit the nearby New York Hall of Science or Queens Zoo or wander the park grounds. I recommend renting a boat or bike to explore the area with your sweetie.

Stroll or take the 7 train to The Lemon Ice King of Corona at 52-02 108th Street at the corner of Corona Avenue and 52nd/Strong Avenue. The delicious fruity and chocolate flavors start at $1. If you want to finish the night with dinner, ask a
local where they like to eat. Queens is the most diverse borough of NYC, and thus, a great place for ethnic food. There are myriad restaurants and cafes whose dishes are authentic at a tasty price point.

Beautiful weekends abound this spring and summer. Why not head to Queens with the king or queen of your heart? There’s a lot to love.

Amanda, Central Park North in Harlem
Check out her blog at www.noisiestpassenger.com

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