Forest Hills, Queens

Neighborhood in Queens, New York City

Forest Hills is a neighborhood in the central portion of the borough of Queens, New York City. It is bounded by Flushing Meadows–Corona Park to the north, Forest Park to the west, Grand Central Parkway to the south, and Kew Gardens to the east. Forest Hills is known for its historic architecture, vibrant community, and as a cultural hub within Queens.

History

Forest Hills was originally part of the land grant to Robert Coe in 1652. The area remained largely rural until the early 20th century when the Cord Meyer Development Company purchased 600 acres of land and began developing the area. The neighborhood was named "Forest Hills" in 1906, inspired by the nearby Forest Park.

In 1911, the West Side Tennis Club moved to Forest Hills, and the area became famous for hosting the U.S. Open tennis tournament until 1978. The presence of the tennis club contributed to the neighborhood's reputation as an affluent and desirable place to live.

Architecture

Forest Hills is renowned for its diverse architectural styles, including Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, and Art Deco. The Forest Hills Gardens section, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and Grosvenor Atterbury, is a planned community that features winding streets, lush greenery, and distinctive homes.

Demographics

Forest Hills is a diverse neighborhood with a population that includes a mix of ethnicities and cultures. The area has a significant Jewish community, as well as residents of Russian, Asian, and Hispanic descent. This diversity is reflected in the neighborhood's cultural institutions, restaurants, and community events.

Education

Forest Hills is served by the New York City Department of Education. The neighborhood is home to several public and private schools, including Forest Hills High School, known for its strong academic programs and notable alumni. The area also has access to higher education institutions in nearby parts of Queens and Manhattan.

Transportation

Forest Hills is well-connected to the rest of New York City through various modes of transportation. The New York City Subway's IND Queens Boulevard Line serves the area with the Forest Hills–71st Avenue station. The Long Island Rail Road's Forest Hills station provides commuter rail service to Manhattan and Long Island. Additionally, several MTA bus routes serve the neighborhood.

Culture and Recreation

Forest Hills offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities. The Forest Hills Stadium, a historic venue, hosts concerts and events, attracting visitors from across the city. The neighborhood's proximity to Flushing Meadows–Corona Park and Forest Park provides residents with access to outdoor activities and green spaces.

The area is also known for its vibrant dining scene, with a range of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. Shopping is centered around Austin Street, which features a mix of local boutiques and national retailers.

Notable Residents

Forest Hills has been home to many notable individuals, including musicians, actors, and public figures. Some of the most famous residents have included musicians from the band The Ramones, actor Ray Romano, and author Helen Keller.

Related pages

• Queens
• New York City
• Forest Hills Gardens
• U.S. Open (tennis)