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Ridgewood - Queens - NYC

On the border of Bushwick, Brooklyn is the timeless (and suddenly desirable) neighborhood of Ridgewood, Queens - home to row houses, tree-lined streets, and the all-important subway train into Manhattan.

Ridgewood slideshow:

The Neighborhood

Ridgewood is located on the border between Queens and Bushwick, Brooklyn. To its north is Metropolitan Avenue and the neighborhood of Maspeth. To its south and east lie the sleepy neighborhoods of Middle Village and Glendale, bordered (mostly) by the M-Train subway line and Cooper Avenue.

Traditionally an immigrant-based community, Ridgewood was once home to German immigrants. It has since seen an influx of people from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, as well as Poland, Serbia, and Croatia. Today, hipsters and younger people are attracted to Ridgewood's affordable housing and convenient location to the subway into Manhattan.

A mix of cultures and traditions can be found in Ridgewood, from the local Polish delis to the Latin-American restaurants and shops. The neighborhood boasts an impressive array of architecture, with classic pre-war buildings and historic row houses blending seamlessly with modern developments. Ridgewood offers a variety of community events, including outdoor festivals, concerts, and art exhibits. With its convenient location near public transit, Ridgewood provides easy access to the rest of the city, making it a great place to call home.

Ridgewood was founded in the mid-19th century by a group of developers who recognized the area's potential due to its elevated geography, which provided stunning views of Manhattan and the surrounding areas. The neighborhood was appropriately named Ridgewood based on its topography. Later on, the area metamorphosed from a rural landscape into a suburb, attracting several settlers looking for peaceful surroundings. Today, Ridgewood is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood, home to a plethora of small businesses, parks, and cultural destinations.

Originally settled by the Dutch in the late 17th century, Ridgewood was later incorporated into the town of Newtown. The area remained rural until the late 19th century when the population began to grow and it was transformed into a residential community mainly for German immigrants. In the mid-20th century, Ridgewood experienced a wave of immigration from Latin America and Eastern Europe. The neighborhood is known for its rows of brick and frame houses, many of which were built in the early 20th century. Today, Ridgewood is a thriving community with diverse cultures, shops, and restaurants, and is a popular destination for those seeking a small-town feel while still being within New York City.

One of the most iconic neighborhoods in Queens is Ridgewood. The area was originally settled by the Dutch in the early 17th century and was known as the village of Breuckelen. However, as the neighborhood grew, it was divided into distinct communities, including Ridgewood. The name `Ridgewood` is derived from the rolling terrain and high elevation which offer stunning views of the surrounding areas. The name first appeared in the 19th century, when it was officially adopted in 1910 as the name of the newly established neighborhood. Today, Ridgewood is known for its rich culture, diverse population, and thriving arts scene.

Ridgewood is a neighborhood in Queens that offers a diverse array of attractions and landmarks. One such landmark is the Ridgewood Reservoir, which features beautiful walking trails and is home to several endangered species. The neighborhood also boasts several historic buildings, including the landmarked Vander Ende-Onderdonk House, a Dutch Colonial-style house built in the early 18th century, and the Saint Aloysius Roman Catholic Church, which was built in the Gothic Revival style in the early 1900s. Visitors can also explore the bustling commercial area of Myrtle Avenue, which has a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. For those looking for a cultural experience, the Ridgewood Theatre, a former movie theater turned cultural center, hosts various events and performances throughout the year.

Ridgewood, Queens has produced its fair share of notable and accomplished individuals throughout the years. One of its most famous natives is singer and actress Barbara Stanwyck, who starred in over 80 films and won four Emmy Awards during her career. Another influential figure from the neighborhood is author and journalist Pete Hamill, who wrote for the New York Post and the Daily News, and authored several novels during his lifetime. And let's not forget actor Louis Cancelmi, who has appeared in a variety of popular television series such as "Boardwalk Empire" and "The Sopranos". These individuals have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and have helped put Ridgewood on the map.

Highlight Gallery

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters