The Noguchi Museum has been on my New York list for a weekend activity for quite some time.  And one rainy Sunday afternoon, I finally made it happen.

Located in Long Island City, next to the East River, the museum does take a little effort to get there but the the traveler will be happily rewarded.  I boarded the M60 bus from Harlem over to Queens and then walked a mile along Astoria Blvd.  This is part of the reason for the hour long excursion but I really got a feel for the neighborhood (and it paid dividends when I was heading home – more on that later.)

The entry fee for adults is $10.  The museum isn’t huge but architecturally has large open rooms that feed into each other.  The outdoor courtyard is also an extension of the museum and seamlessly blends with the space.  

I would recommend a 1-2 hour tour including time for a green tea in the cafe.  After the museum, be sure to walk across the street to the Socrates Sculpture Garden for some additional art and great views of the Manhattan skyline. 

One the way back to the train, be sure to stop in the multiple Greek cafes, bakeries and grocery stores.  This is really what will put your afternoon adventure in Queens over the top.  Within a few blocks I had 3 different delicious (and sizable) food treats for just over $12.