Queens, Borough in New York City, United States
Queens is the largest borough of New York City by area, stretching from the East River to the border of Nassau County on Long Island. The area includes both densely built residential neighborhoods and quieter sections with lower buildings, small parks, and streets that feel more like suburban roads.
The borough received its name in 1683 to honor Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese queen consort of King Charles II of England. Until the 20th century, the area remained largely rural, but the construction of bridges and subway lines connecting it to Manhattan triggered rapid growth.
Residents come from more than 138 nations, and on any given day you hear over 170 languages spoken on the streets, in shops, and at markets. Each neighborhood develops its own atmosphere through the habits of its community, with restaurants, temples, shops, and festivals that reflect the origins of the people who live there.
The borough connects to Manhattan through several subway lines, with the 7 train running through neighborhoods like Long Island City, Sunnyside, and Flushing. Many areas are easiest to reach by car or bus, as public transit becomes less frequent farther from the main lines.
The borough holds two professional sports venues: Citi Field baseball stadium and the USTA National Tennis Center, where the US Open tournament takes place. John F. Kennedy Airport also sits within its boundaries, making it a major arrival point for international visitors to the city.
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