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Broad Channel - Queens - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Broad Channel. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

Broad Channel is primarily a nature preserve along the Cross Bay Boulevard, connecting the main section of Queens to the Rockaways.

Broad Channel slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

As you journey to the Rockaways along the Cross Bay Boulevard, you will traverse the Broad Channel neighborhood of Queens. Known for its nature preserve and scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, this is a hidden gem of New York City.

Broad Channel is a small, tight-knit neighborhood located in southern Queens. Known as the "Venice of New York," it is situated on a small island in Jamaica Bay and is only accessible by a single bridge or boat. Despite its isolation, Broad Channel offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Residents enjoy fishing, boating, and the wildlife that Jamaica Bay has to offer. It's a quiet community with a strong sense of community and a deep connection to the natural environment. With only a few hundred homes, Broad Channel is small, but it has a big heart.

The neighborhood of Broad Channel is located on an island that used to be called "Broad Channel Island." It was originally inhabited by Lenape Native Americans, and later, by European settlers. The name "Broad Channel" comes from a narrow body of water that separates the island from the mainland of Queens. This body of water, known as the Broad Channel, widens as it reaches Jamaica Bay. The name "Broad Channel" was officially adopted by the neighborhood in 1915, when it was incorporated into the city of New York. Today, the neighborhood of Broad Channel is known for its small town feel and its waterfront views, making it a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

Broad Channel is a small, picturesque neighborhood in Queens with a rich history. Originally inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe, Dutch settlers arrived in the 17th century to trade with the Lenape along the creek that runs through the neighborhood. By the mid-19th century, oyster harvesting dominated the area's economy. In the 1920s, the island was connected to the mainland by a bridge and the community quickly expanded with the addition of summer homes. However, the neighborhood was hit hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, with many homes being destroyed or heavily damaged. Today, Broad Channel remains a close-knit community of resilient residents who take pride in their unique history and natural surroundings.

Broad Channel, Queens is a small island community that offers a unique charm and a variety of outdoor landmarks and attractions. One of the most popular landmarks is Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, the largest bird sanctuary in New York City, which spans over 9,000 acres and provides a habitat for migratory birds, including ospreys, egrets, and herons. Another attraction worth visiting is the Broad Channel American Park, which provides access to a public beach, baseball fields, and a playground. The Channel Park and Beach club is another popular spot where visitors can enjoy a swim in the bay, sunbathe on the private beach, or participate in aquatic sports. For those interested in learning about the history of the area, the Broad Channel Historical Society is a must-visit destination, showcasing the town's past and its importance as a thriving fishing village. Overall, Broad Channel is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a unique experience outside the busy cityscape and connecting with nature.

Broad Channel, Queens, has been home to many influential and notable individuals. One of the most famous people to come from Broad Channel is former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Giuliani grew up in the area and even attended a Catholic school in nearby Rockaway Beach. Another notable figure is actress and singer Mae West, who spent her childhood in the neighborhood before venturing off to pursue a career in Hollywood. Additionally, Steve Buscemi, the well-known actor and director, spent time in Broad Channel as a child. These famous individuals have not only made a significant impact on the entertainment industry and politics but also helped put Broad Channel on the map.

Highlight Gallery (Coming Soon)

Click here for the full Broad Channel photo gallery:

All photography provided by Samuel Walters