Astoria is a popular neighborhood, which has kept its long-time residents while attracting new ones. It's convenient to Manhattan, safe, urban but with some space and greenery, and decent real estate prices. Eating and cultural options have grown, ensuring its reputation as a gem of Queens. Once known as a hub of Greek life, Astoria is now home to immigrants from all over, and young people unwilling to pay the Manhattan and Brooklyn Premiums. (please see the New York Times 2003 article for more detail - as linked here - PDF document)

Cultural Attractions:

• Museum of the Moving Image (35th Avenue and 36th Street)
• Isamu Noguchi museum
• Kaufman Astoria Studios
• Steinway & Sons Factory Tour
• Astoria Performing Arts Center (Performances in various locations)
• more info on the Central Local Development Coalition site

Nightlife:

• Wine bars like Winegasm Eatery and Diwine (or search for places to Bring Your Own at GoBYO.com)
• Seasonal places like Harry's Water Taxi Beach
• New York City's last great Beergarden: Bohemian Hall (aka the Beer Garden)
• Irish pubs like Cronin & Phelan's
• Indoor/Outdoor Clubs like Cavo Cafe and Garden 

Recommended Restuarants:

• Michael's Restuarant — 33-17 Broadway, Astoria (718) 726-7474
• Rizzo's Fine Pizza — 30-13 Steinway Street, Astoria (718) 721-9862
• Mundo — 31-18E Broadway, Astoria (718) 777-2829
• Seva Indian Restaurant— 30-07 34th Street, Astoria (718) 626-4440
• Bartolino's Italian Ristorante — 34-15 Broadway, Astoria (718) 728-0430
• Uncle Louie G's italian ice — Broadway and 38th street location
• Lite Bites — 3191 Steinway St, Astoria (718) 728-1133

Transportation:

• 12 minutes to LaGuardia International Airport by taxi ($10-12 with tip)
• Very short 2 minute walk to the R/G/V subway lines
• 8-10 minute walk to the N/W subway lines
• More details available on the Transportation page (here)

In addition to the attractions in Astoria, neighboring Long Island City is packed with events, activities and well, life!

Cultural Attractions:

• The Chocolate Factory
• Fisher Landau Center for Art
• Flux Factory
• P.S. 1 Contemporary Art Center (22025 Jackson Avenue at 46th Street)
• Socrates Sculpture Park (32091 Vernon Blvd - neighoring CostCo)
• SculptureCenter (44-19 Purves Street)
• More information on the Long Island City Business Development Corporation

Accommodations in Long Island City (Trip Advisor)

• Verve Hotel — Boutique hotel very close to the transportation hub at Queensboro Plaza
• Quality Inn Long Island City — Very close to the transportation hub at Queensboro Plaza
• Holiday Inn Long Island City — Location close to Queensboro Plaza transportation hub with skyline views of Astoria/LIC and Manhattan (request a west-facing room for Manhattan views).
• Ravel Hotel — Luxury boutique hotel with views of manhattan skyline (great for walking, otherwise a car is recommended)
• The Watts Home — Vacation Apartment Rental

Other Queens related information and activities at DiscoverQueens.info and Power Up Queens.